HEC Makes GRE and HAT Mandatory for MS, MPhil Admissions 2026

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has officially updated its admissions policy for graduate programs across Pakistan. Under the new regulations, the HEC makes GRE and HAT mandatory for all students seeking admission to MS and MPhil programs.

What are the new testing requirements?

Students applying for MS or MPhil degrees must now clear the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT). This requirement applies to both General and Subject-specific tests, depending on the academic discipline and university requirements.

Admission to PhD Programs

In a separate policy update, the HEC has removed the condition of holding an MS or MPhil degree for admission to a PhD program. Candidates who have completed 16 years of education or possess a BS degree may now be eligible for direct enrollment in a PhD, subject to specific university criteria.

Check Your University Status

Before submitting an application, the HEC strongly advises students and parents to confirm that the university has a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC) to offer the specific degree program. Enrolling in a program without a valid NOC may affect the recognition of your degree.

Last checked: October 30, 2026. Please verify these requirements on the official HEC website or your prospective university’s admission portal before applying.