HEC Mandatory AI Course: New Requirement for Fall 2026

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has officially mandated a three-credit-hour course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for all undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. This directive is effective from the academic session 2026 and applies to every public and private sector higher education institution across the country.

How the AI Course Will Be Implemented

Universities have been instructed by the HEC to incorporate this requirement into their curricula without delay. According to the official notification, institutions have flexibility in how they offer the course to students. It may be integrated as:

• An elective subject
• An interdisciplinary course
• A supporting subject within the existing program structure

The HEC stated that integrating AI into academic curricula is a necessary step to align with global technological shifts. By requiring this course, the commission aims to ensure that students across all disciplines gain foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence.

Who Is Affected?

This policy covers all students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. Whether you are studying at a public university or a private institute in Pakistan, your degree plan must now include this three-credit-hour AI component as part of the updated curriculum requirements.

Last checked: October 29, 2026. Please verify the specific implementation timeline and course structure directly with your university’s registrar office or department portal to ensure you are compliant with the new degree requirements.