Good news for students across Pakistan: laptop distribution is officially entering its next phase in January 2026. Both the CM Punjab Laptop Scheme and the Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme have moved from verification to on-ground distribution, with ceremonies already completed in several districts.
This article explains when laptops will be distributed, who qualifies on merit, how to check your selection status, and which documents are required for collection.
Laptop Distribution Timeline – January 2026
The rollout is happening in phases, starting with Punjab and Islamabad, followed by nationwide expansion.
| Scheme | Region | Distribution Status |
|---|---|---|
| CM Punjab Laptop Scheme | Multan & South Punjab | Ceremonies started (Dec 2025) |
| PM Youth Laptop Scheme | Islamabad & Punjab | Active (Nov–Dec 2025) |
| PM Youth Laptop Scheme | Sindh | Late December 2025 |
| PM Youth Laptop Scheme | KPK & Balochistan | January 2026 (Next Phase) |
📌 Key update: Most remaining districts will begin distribution from January 2026, based on verified merit lists.
Merit Criteria for Laptop Schemes (2025–2026)
Laptop allocation is 100% merit-based and fully automated. Only students meeting the minimum academic and attendance requirements remain eligible.
Updated Merit Requirements
-
University (Semester System):
Minimum 2.80 CGPA (≈ 70%) -
Annual System (BA/BSc, MA/MSc):
Minimum 60% marks -
Medical / Dental Students:
80% marks in Intermediate (Pre-Medical)
-
Intermediate Students (Punjab Only):
Minimum 65% marks in Matric / Inter -
Attendance Requirement:
At least 75% attendance, verified by the institution
Students failing to meet any condition are automatically excluded during final verification.
How to Check Laptop Scheme Selection Status (January 2026)
If you applied before the official deadlines (August–September 2025), you can now check your status online.
For PM Youth Laptop Scheme (Federal)
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Visit the PMYP official portal
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Enter your CNIC
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Check your application status
For CM Punjab Laptop Scheme
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Visit the Higher Education Department (HED) Punjab portal
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Select your university or college
-
View the published merit list
What Each Status Means
-
Verified: Data is correct, application under final review
-
Selected: 🎉 Laptop allocated; SMS will be sent with date & venue
-
Waiting List: Standby status if selected candidates fail verification
Required Documents for Laptop Collection
Once you receive an SMS or see your name on the final list, bring the following original documents to the distribution center:
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Original CNIC (or B-Form if under 18)
-
Student ID card
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Proof of current enrollment
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Original result card / transcript
-
Registered mobile SIM (same number used during application)
❗ Incomplete documents may result in delayed or cancelled handover.
Important Instructions for Students
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Attend only on the officially announced date
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Do not pay any agent or middleman
-
Laptops are distributed free of cost
-
Distribution is done on campus in most cases
-
SMS notifications are sent only from official government channels
Key Takeaway (Featured Snippet Friendly)
Laptop distribution for students will expand nationwide from January 2026 under the CM Punjab Laptop Scheme and Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme. Laptops are awarded strictly on merit, and selected students will be informed via SMS for collection.
Final Words
The January 2026 laptop distribution phase marks a major step toward digital empowerment of students across Pakistan. If you meet the merit criteria and your status shows Selected, prepare your documents and stay alert for SMS updates.
📌 Bookmark SmartAJK.pk for verified updates on student schemes, education news, laptops, scholarships, and government programs.
This article is published for informational and educational purposes only. nise.org.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official sources before taking any action.
