HEC Changes PhD Admission Process With National Mandatory Test
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) is introducing a new national standardised test that will be mandatory for admission to PhD … Read More The post HEC Changes PhD Admission Process With National Mandatory Test appeared first on ProPakistani .
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan is implementing a mandatory national standardized test called the Higher Education Aptitude and Achievement Test (HAAT) for admission to PhD programs. This initiative, led by the Education Testing Council (ETC), aims to establish a consistent evaluation system for candidates pursuing doctoral degrees.
During the initial phase of the HAAT Subject Committee Meeting, the ETC finalized assessment designs for 48 PhD disciplines. Over 250 academics, subject specialists, and university representatives from 81 public and private institutions participated in the meeting. HEC Chairman, Prof. Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, emphasized the importance of a transparent, merit-based, and uniform assessment process for graduate admissions nationwide.
Dr Muhammad Imtiaz Haider, CEO of the ETC, revealed that subject committees have been formed for 89 disciplines to develop HAAT assessments. The new test will be a requirement for PhD admissions across Pakistan. The HAAT development process commenced in May 2026, with subject committees approving test designs and Tables of Specifications for 48 disciplines based on their academic relevance and alignment with research requirements. Additional subjects are anticipated to be included as the national assessment framework progresses.
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