The Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme (PM Laptop Scheme) has returned for Phase 5 in 2025. According to the official portal, this round is designed to support students and bridge the digital gap, the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 Phase 5 has been relaunched. The program aims to distribute 100,000 laptops to deserving students across Pakistan on merit.
The idea is to equip students with tools for online learning, digital work, research and freelancing, bridging the digital-divide especially during an era of remote education and digital jobs. This article provides a complete breakdown of eligibility, application procedure, expected deadlines, laptop specifications, and a comparison with the CM Punjab Laptop Scheme 2025.
Latest Updates – PM Laptop Scheme 2025
- Announcement: PM Shehbaz Sharif officially announced Phase 5 in October 2025, highlighting the importance of digital empowerment for students.
- Universities: Many public universities, including Fatima Jinnah Women University, have released provisional merit lists.
- Registration Portal: Currently closed, expected to reopen soon on pmyp.gov.pk.
- Expected Distribution: November–December 2025 (federal). CM Punjab scheme started distribution on 31 October 2025.
Quick Snapshot – PM Laptop Scheme 2025 Phase 5
| Feature | Details / Status |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme Phase 5 |
| Total Laptops | 100,000 |
| Year | 2025 |
| Supervising Body | HEC / PM Youth Programme (PMYP) |
| Target Group | Public sector university students |
| Application Mode | Online via PMYP / HEC portal |
| Official Portal | pmyp.gov.pk |
| Registration Status | Closed (Next phase pending) |
| Merit Lists | Expected November 2025 |
| Distribution Start | Expected December 2025 |
| Laptop Specs | Intel i3/i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows OS |
Background and Objectives
The PM Laptop Scheme started under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) in 2013 to promote:
- Digital inclusion and equal access to technology.
- Online learning, research, and freelancing opportunities.
- Development of digital skills aligned with global markets.
- Innovation and contribution to Pakistan’s digital economy.
Phase 5 is specifically designed to reduce the digital divide for students in underserved areas and empower youth to become digital creators rather than mere users.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Enrolled in an HEC-recognized public sector university.
- Achieve at least 65% marks (annual system) or CGPA 2.5+ (semester system).
- Must hold a valid CNIC.
- Should not have received a laptop in previous phases.
- Students from BS, BSc, MA, MSc, MBA, MPhil, and PhD programs are eligible.
- For CM Punjab Laptop Scheme, Punjab domicile is mandatory.
- Some reports suggest early-year students with 60% marks or CGPA 2.8 may qualify, but confirmation is required from the official portal.
Documents Required
Before applying, prepare clear digital copies of:
- CNIC (front and back)
- Latest academic transcript or mark sheet
- University ID card / proof of enrollment
- Recent passport-size photo
- Any additional documents requested by HEC or university
Tip: Avoid blurry or cropped images as they may cause disqualification.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Visit the PM Youth Programme official portal.
- Create an account or log in using your CNIC and university email.
- Fill in academic, personal, and contact information.
- Upload required documents (CNIC, transcript, student ID, photo).
- Review and submit the form carefully.
- Save or print the confirmation slip.
- Later, check your application status and merit list using CNIC or login credentials.
Expected Laptop Specifications – Phase 5 (2025)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i3/i5 (10th/11th Gen) |
| Memory | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Display | 14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) |
| Operating System | Windows 10/11 (Licensed) |
| Office Software | Microsoft Office Suite |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, USB ports |
Some laptops may be locally assembled to support Pakistan’s tech industry and reduce costs.
Selection & Merit List Process
- Applications are verified by HEC / PMYP and universities.
- Merit lists are prepared based on academic performance.
- Universities verify submitted documents.
- Provisional merit lists are published on university websites.
- Final selection notifications are sent via SMS or email.
PM Laptop Scheme vs CM Punjab Laptop Scheme
| Aspect | PM Laptop Scheme (Federal) | CM Punjab Laptop Scheme (Provincial) |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Nationwide | Punjab only |
| Domicile Requirement | Not required | Punjab mandatory |
| Distribution Start | Expected Dec 2025 | 31 Oct 2025 |
| Authority | HEC / PMYP | Punjab Government |
| Total Laptops | 100,000 | Varies by province |
Both programs aim to empower students digitally but differ in coverage and eligibility rules.
Benefits & Impact
- Equal access to modern technology nationwide.
- Enhances learning outcomes using digital tools.
- Opens opportunities for freelancing and online jobs.
- Encourages creativity, research, and collaboration.
- Strengthens Pakistan’s global digital presence.
Challenges & Government Measures
Potential Challenges:
- Delay in merit list announcements or laptop distribution.
- Complaints about biased selection.
- Hardware quality concerns.
Measures Taken:
- Public dashboards and merit tracking systems.
- Third-party audits and grievance redress mechanisms.
- Local assembly to ensure laptop quality.
Tips for Successful Application
- Maintain strong academic performance.
- Double-check all submitted data.
- Apply early to avoid portal traffic.
- Upload clear, properly sized documents.
- Monitor HEC, PMYP, and university websites regularly.
- Keep your confirmation slip safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Has Phase 5 been officially launched?
Yes, announced in October 2025 by PM Shehbaz Sharif. - What is the last date to apply?
Expected in November 2025 (official date pending). - Is the registration portal open?
Not currently; it will reopen soon. - How many laptops will be distributed?
100,000 under federal Phase 5. - Where can I check the merit list?
University websites or PMYP portal. - Who is eligible?
Students enrolled in public universities meeting minimum academic criteria. - What documents are required?
CNIC, transcripts, university ID, recent photo. - Can early-year students apply?
Some may qualify; confirm once the portal reopens. - Are laptops locally assembled?
Yes, some laptops are assembled locally to reduce costs. - Is there a difference between federal and Punjab schemes?
Yes, coverage, domicile requirement, and distribution dates vary.
Conclusion
The PM Laptop Scheme Phase 5 (2025) is one of Pakistan’s largest education-driven digital initiatives, offering 100,000 laptops to students nationwide. While certain dates remain unofficial, the selection process has started in many universities.
Students should stay connected to official portals, monitor merit lists, and apply promptly when registration reopens. A laptop under this scheme can be a gateway to education, freelancing, and global opportunities, empowering Pakistan’s youth for a digital future.
