Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT)
For Admission in MS/M.Phil & Ph.D. Programmes in Pakistani Universities and Award of HEC Scholarships
Overview
The Education Testing Council (ETC) conducts the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) for students seeking admission into M.Phil, MS, and Ph.D. programmes in Pakistani universities.
Who Can Apply for HAT?
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Students interested in admission to MS/M.Phil & Ph.D. programmes at public and private universities in Pakistan that accept HAT scores.
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Those who have already applied for MS/M.Phil/Ph.D. admission or HEC scholarships through the E-portal.
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Candidates intending to apply for HEC scholarships in the future.
HAT Test Categories
HAT is conducted in five categories based on 16 years of education or its equivalent. Students should register in the category that aligns with their academic background and university admission requirements:
| Category | Disciplines | Verbal Reasoning | Analytical Reasoning | Quantitative Reasoning | Total Questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HAT 1 | Engineering & Technology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Management Sciences | 30% | 30% | 40% | 100 |
| HAT 2 | Business Education | 30% | 40% | 30% | 100 |
| HAT 3 | Arts & Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology (Clinical & Applied), Law, Agriculture & Veterinary Sciences | 40% | 35% | 25% | 100 |
| HAT 4 | Biological & Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Education, Media & Mass Communication | 40% | 30% | 30% | 100 |
| HAT-General | Religious Studies (Madrasa Graduates) | 40% | 30% | 30% | 100 |
Note: Choose the relevant category as per university admission requirements and your academic stream.
Qualifying Score and Validity
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A minimum score of 50 out of 100 is required to qualify.
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Test scores remain valid for two years.
Test Schedule
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Registration Deadline: Tuesday, September 9, 2025 (midnight)
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Test Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025
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Any changes to the test date will be announced on:
ETC conducts HAT quarterly in major cities across Pakistan. For future dates, please refer to the test calendar on the ETC website.
How to Apply
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Register online at etc.hec.gov.pk.
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For help during registration, visit onlinehelp.hec.gov.pk.
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Complete and submit your application. Only submitted applications will be processed.
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Resolve any queries before the registration portal closes. Complaints after the deadline will not be entertained.
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Verify all personal details carefully before submission; mismatches between CNIC and application data will disqualify candidates from sitting the test.
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Candidates who apply using someone else’s CNIC (parents, siblings, relatives) are not allowed to take the test.
Fee Payment
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Test fee can be paid through 1Link/1Bill Invoice payment services using the generated consumer number.
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After payment, click “Verify Online Payment” on the ETC dashboard.
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The test fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Roll Number Slip and Test Day Instructions
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Download your roll number slip from etc.hec.gov.pk or receive it via registered email approximately one week before the test.
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Provide valid email and mobile numbers during registration to receive updates.
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Bring a printout of the roll number slip and original CNIC or Passport on test day.
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The test will be held at major city centers. Applicants choose their preferred center during registration. Centers will not be changed unless fewer than 250 candidates select a center.
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Mobile phones, calculators, recording devices, or any electronic equipment are not allowed inside the test center.
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Taking, uploading, or sharing images of question papers is strictly prohibited and punishable as per ETC policy.
Contact Information
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Education Testing Council (ETC)
Sector H-9, Islamabad -
Helpline Numbers:
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051-111-119-432
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0334-111-9432
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Official Websites:
Summary
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Last Date for Registration: September 9, 2025
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HAT Test Date: September 28, 2025
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Qualify with a score of 50+
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Validity of scores: 2 years
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Test offered in 5 categories for MS/M.Phil and Ph.D. admission and scholarships