The Higher Education Commission (HEC Announces USAT) of Pakistan, through its Education Testing Council (ETC), has officially announced the Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) 2025. This test is mandatory for students who wish to secure admission in undergraduate programs at both public and private universities across the country.
The registration process for USAT 2025 has started from October 24, 2025, and will remain open until Monday, November 10, 2025. The official test date is Sunday, December 7, 2025. Interested candidates are urged to apply early via the HEC ETC portal (etc.hec.gov.pk) before the deadline.
What is HEC USAT 2025?
The Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) is a national-level standardized exam organized by the Higher Education Commission to assess students’ abilities before entering university. It tests candidates on their quantitative reasoning, analytical skills, and subject knowledge based on their academic stream — such as pre-engineering, commerce, computer science, arts, or pre-medical.
The HEC has made the USAT an essential prerequisite to promote merit-based admissions and reduce the need for multiple entrance tests at different universities.
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Who Can Apply for USAT 2025?
HEC has made USAT open to a wide range of students. You are eligible if you:
Have passed your Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) or equivalent 12 years of education, OR
Have appeared in final exams of HSSC and are waiting for your results.
Both private and public sector students are welcome to apply. This initiative aims to ensure equal opportunity for students from all boards and provinces, including Punjab, Sindh, KP, Balochistan, AJK, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
HEC USAT 2025 Categories and Streams
The USAT exam is divided into six main categories, depending on a student’s academic background and field of interest.
| Test Category | Academic Stream / Discipline |
|---|---|
| USAT-A | Arts & Humanities |
| USAT-COM | Commerce |
| USAT-CS | Computer Science |
| USAT-E | Pre-Engineering |
| USAT-GS | General Science |
| USAT-M | Pre-Medical |
Candidates must select the correct category based on their desired degree program. For example, students applying for medical universities should choose USAT-M, while those aiming for engineering programs should select USAT-E.
HEC USAT 2025 Schedule – Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | Friday, October 24, 2025 |
| Last Date for Online Registration | Monday, November 10, 2025 |
| Test Date | Sunday, December 07, 2025 |
Students should regularly check the official ETC portal for any test schedule changes or updates. The test will be held in major cities of Pakistan including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and others.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for USAT 2025 Online
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official website of the Education Testing Council (ETC): https://etc.hec.gov.pk
Step 2: Create Your Account
Sign up or log in using your CNIC, email, and password. Complete your profile with accurate educational and personal information.
Step 3: Choose the Right USAT Category
Select the test category (A, COM, CS, E, GS, or M) that matches your academic field.
Step 4: Generate Fee Invoice
Generate a 1Link/1Bill invoice using your CNIC number and deposit the test fee through any ATM, internet banking, or mobile app that supports 1Link payments.
Step 5: Upload Fee Proof
After payment, upload the paid invoice image or receipt in your portal before submission.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Once all details are completed, submit your form. Make sure all attachments (photo, CNIC, and academic documents) are correctly uploaded before the deadline.
HEC USAT 2025 Test Fee & Payment Method
The test fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Pay the fee through 1Link/1Bill payment system only.
Upload the paid receipt before final submission.
Applications without proof of payment will be rejected automatically.
Students are advised not to wait for the last date to pay the fee to avoid network congestion or server delays.
Required Documents for Application
When applying for the HEC USAT 2025, students should have the following documents ready:
CNIC / B-Form
Recent passport-size photo
Matriculation certificate
Intermediate certificate or result card (if available)
Fee payment receipt
Incomplete forms or incorrect details may result in application cancellation.
Why HEC Introduced the USAT Test
HEC aims to bring transparency and uniformity to the admission process across Pakistani universities. Instead of appearing in multiple entrance tests for different institutions, students can now appear once in USAT, and their score can be used for multiple admissions.
Moreover, the USAT score is also valid for HEC undergraduate scholarships, making it an important test for all students aiming for financial aid or merit-based awards.
Weightage and University Admission
Universities across Pakistan are encouraged to give weightage to the USAT score while evaluating applicants. Each institution can combine the USAT score with Intermediate marks using their internal merit formula — typically 70 % HSSC and 30 % USAT.
This ensures that students are selected on merit and capability, not just board results.
Test Structure and Subjects
The test includes both objective (MCQs) and analytical writing components.
Sections usually include:
Quantitative reasoning
Verbal reasoning
Analytical writing essay
Each paper is scored out of 100 marks, and students need at least 50 marks to qualify.
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Exam Day Guidelines for USAT 2025
Candidates must follow all examination rules:
Bring your original CNIC or SSC certificate and the printed admit card.
Arrive one hour early at the test center.
Mobile phones, smart watches, and calculators are strictly prohibited.
Candidates without original documents will not be allowed to sit for the test.
Any cheating or misconduct will result in disqualification and possible HEC action.
Verification and Roll Number Slips
Only applicants whose data is verified by HEC will receive a roll number slip via their online ETC profile. Students are advised to log in regularly to check updates.
HEC will not accept any claims of missing slips due to incorrect information or late applications.
Benefits of Clearing USAT 2025
Valid for all HEC-recognized universities in Pakistan
Accepted for scholarship applications
Reduces the need for multiple entrance tests
Enhances admission transparency and fairness
Allows equal competition among students nationwide
Passing USAT not only strengthens your admission chances but also improves your eligibility for HEC grants and scholarships in future academic years.
People Also Ask about HEC Announces USAT 2025:
1. What is the last date to apply for USAT 2025?
The last date for online registration is Monday, November 10, 2025.
2. When will the test be conducted?
The test will take place on Sunday, December 7, 2025, in major cities across Pakistan.
3. Can I apply if I am waiting for my Intermediate results?
Yes, students awaiting HSSC results can apply provisionally.
4. How can I pay the USAT fee?
Through the 1Link/1Bill system available at bank ATMs and mobile apps.
5. What is the minimum passing score for USAT?
Students need at least 50 marks to qualify for university admissions.
Contact Details
| Contact | Information |
|---|---|
| HEC Helpline | 0334-111-9432 / 051-111-119-432 |
| Website | https://etc.hec.gov.pk |
| Organization | Education Testing Council (ETC), Higher Education Commission Pakistan |
HEC Announces USAT 2025:

