University admissions
How to apply to a university in Pakistan, check it is recognised by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), take the right entry test and apply for need-based scholarships.
Last reviewed 12 October 2026
Universities in Pakistan are regulated by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) (opens in new tab). Each university runs its own admissions, so read its prospectus for programmes, merit rules and deadlines.
Check the university is recognised
Only degrees from universities and campuses recognised by the HEC are valid. Before you apply, check:
- HEC recognised universities (opens in new tab)
- HEC recognised campuses (opens in new tab)
- HEC list of illegal institutions (opens in new tab)
A campus not listed by the HEC is treated as fake, even if the main university is recognised.
Entry tests
Most universities ask for an entry test result as well as your Matric and intermediate marks.
| Test | For | Run by |
|---|---|---|
| MDCAT | MBBS and BDS at medical and dental colleges | Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), through a university in each province |
| ECAT | Engineering at UET and other public engineering universities in Punjab | University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore |
| NAT | Undergraduate admission at universities that accept it | National Testing Service (NTS) |
| USAT | Undergraduate admission at universities that accept it | HEC Education Testing Council |
The MDCAT is required for all MBBS and BDS admissions. It is usually held once a year, in August to October. Many universities, such as NUST, LUMS, FAST and IBA, run their own tests.
Check which test your chosen university and programme accept before you register.
- Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (opens in new tab)
- National Testing Service (opens in new tab)
- HEC Education Testing Council (opens in new tab)
Apply
- Choose your programme and check the eligibility rules in the university's prospectus.
- Register for and take the entry test.
- Apply online on the university's website before the deadline.
- Check the merit lists and pay the fee to confirm your place.
Universities usually work out merit from your Matric, intermediate and entry test marks. Many have reserved seats, for example for students from less developed areas, disabled students and sportspeople. Medical colleges usually give places to students with a domicile from their province.
Scholarships
- HEC need-based scholarship: for students admitted on merit who cannot afford their studies. Apply through your university's financial aid office after you are admitted.
- Benazir Undergraduate Scholarship, previously the Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship: for students from low-income families at public universities.
Provinces also have their own scholarships. Ask your university's financial aid office which you can apply for.
Degree attestation
You may need your degree attested by the HEC to work abroad or for some jobs. Apply online through the HEC e-services portal (opens in new tab). The HEC checks your degree with the university and issues an electronic attestation.
Matric and intermediate certificates are attested by the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) (opens in new tab), not the HEC.
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