Faq

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We hope the answers below are helpful. If you still have questions, feel free to email us at info@friendsofpeb.org. We’re always happy to help.

The Presbyterian Education Board (PEB) was started in 1972 when all schools founded by Presbyterian missionaries in the mid-1800s were nationalized. The original purpose was to centralize the effort to get them returned. In 1998, when the schools were denationalized, PEB continued as the organization chosen to run the schools as a one school system. Today, they have 25 schools and 4 boarding houses in Pakistan, and carry on the same mission of offering quality education and safety to children from impoverished families.

Friends of PEB was started in 2008 as a USA based non-profit that supports Presbyterian Education Board (PEB) schools in Pakistan. Friends of PEB supports schools through providing funds for student scholarships, educational support and building projects.

Yes, we would love to meet you! If you would like to request a visit to your church, organization, or event please reach out to us at info@friendsofpeb.org. We also are able to meet over Zoom if that is more convenient.

No, while Friends of PEB is a Christian organization with Presbyterian roots, we gratefully welcome support from donors of any faith who believe in the power of education to change lives. PEB schools are open to students of all faiths and backgrounds. Because all faiths learn together and are respected, students learn the values of tolerance, respect, and love which lead to a more peaceful society. 

All 25 schools and 4 boarding houses are located in the Punjab region of Pakistan.

PEB has 25 schools and 4 boarding houses. Of the 25 schools, three are still in the process of being returned to PEB by the Pakistani government following nationalization.

Currently, there are approximately 5,500 students and over 500 staff. Many schools have waitlists and hope to grow by constructing new buildings to meet the rising demand.

No, Muslim and Christian students study side-by-side in PEB schools. Currently, about 58% of students are Muslim and 42% are Christian. PEB welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds. Our students study together in all of their classes except the religious studies classes required by law in Pakistan. Our Christian students take Christian Studies courses while the Muslim students take Islamic Studies. By learning together in an environment of mutual respect, students grow in values like tolerance, understanding, and love, helping to build a more peaceful and inclusive society

PEB schools maintain some of the highest academic standards in Pakistan. All students pass the national matriculation exams, and many excel beyond expectations. Each year, teams from the USA provide ongoing training to PEB teachers to support this excellence. Due to the high quality of education, many schools have a long waiting list. PEB’s Kinnaird Academy in Lahore is also the first of PEB schools to be approved as a candidate for the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, reflecting their commitment to high-quality, globally recognized education.

In Pakistan, education is not free or government-funded and schools rely on tuition fees to cover daily operating costs. Tuition helps pay for teachers’ salaries, classroom materials, and facility maintenance. At the same time, PEB is committed to making education accessible, with most students receiving scholarships to cover full or partial tuition based on need.

Questions? Ask Us!

"My life and my family's life transformed thanks to God, God's people, and the Presbyterian Education Board." PEB Alumni

What does my gift do?

Your gift helps provide life-changing education to students in Pakistan who would otherwise not have access. Every contribution, large or small, helps PEB offer hope, opportunity, and a brighter future to thousands of children.

A scholarship for a day student is $35 per month and a resident student is $70 per month. This covers tuition, books, uniforms, and school supplies. Resident students also receive room and board.

The Building Fund supports essential construction and renovation projects at PEB schools. It has been used to renovate buildings that were once in poor condition, add new wings to existing structures, and fund entirely new facilities as needed. Since 1998, PEB has transformed from 14 nearly unusable buildings to 25 high-quality educational facilities. Each year, a specific project is chosen to focus resources where they are most needed, continually improving the learning environment for students.

The Education Fund supports all aspects of operating PEB schools, including teacher salaries, classroom materials, electricity, and facility maintenance. It also helps cover the costs for students who need scholarships but don’t yet have a sponsor, ensuring every child can attend regardless of their financial situation.

50% of the funds to operate PEB schools come from student tuition payments. Because most students need scholarship support, outside help is crucial to keep the schools operating. The remaining support comes from generous individuals, foundations, and churches across the USA. This combined funding helps ensure the schools can provide quality education and maintain their facilities.

Yes! Friends of PEB gratefully accepts planned gifts, which help ensure long-term support for students and schools in Pakistan. You can include Friends of PEB in your will, trust, or estate plans, or designate us as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy. Planned giving is a meaningful way to leave a legacy of education, opportunity, and hope.

If you’re interested in learning more, we’d be happy to talk with you, just email us at info@friendsofpeb.org.

PEB is led by a highly trained team dedicated to academic excellence and financial accountability. Their work is audited annually and overseen by an elected board of directors. For more information, please visit the PEB website at www.peb.edu.pk.

Friends of PEB retains what is needed to cover operating expenses, and doesn’t retain any funds beyond the essential needs. This means around 20-25% of every contribution is retained to cover essential costs such as sharing PEB’s story, cultivating ongoing financial support, and managing the student scholarship program. The remaining funds go directly to supporting PEB’s schools and students. For more details, please visit our Financial Information page.

Give online: friendsofpeb.org/give

Give by check:
Friends of PEB
PO Box 72453
Thorndale, PA 19372

For questions about giving, please contact info@friendsofpeb.org.