Islamabad: The Education Testing Council (ETC), an examination entity of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, has partnered with Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) to conduct the Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) for the Fall 2026 admissions. This collaboration aims to promote transparency and merit in the admission process through standardized testing.

According to Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at a ceremony held at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, attended by senior officials from both institutions. Under this agreement, the USAT will be the required admission test for students seeking to enroll in undergraduate programs at QAU. The test will be available in six categories, covering a range of academic streams and allowing students to compete for admission in their chosen fields.

To improve access for aspiring students, ETC HEC will conduct the USAT in 12 cities across Pakistan. This effort is intended to make it easier for candidates to take the test close to their hometowns, thereby reducing travel-related issues and encouraging broader participation in higher education.

Officials from both ETC HEC and QAU emphasized the partnership as a crucial step towards ensuring quality assurance and a transparent, merit-based admissions framework. They noted that this collaboration is expected to provide students with equal opportunities and a standardized path to pursue higher education at a leading university in Pakistan.

The signing of the MoU represents a shared commitment by ETC HEC and Quaid-i-Azam University to maintain academic excellence, institutional transparency, and student-centered admission practices for Fall 2026 and beyond.