The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced a Special Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) for students seeking Commonwealth Scholarships, Chinese Government Scholarships and other HEC-funded study opportunities.
The Education Testing Council (ETC) will conduct the test for candidates planning to apply for postgraduate and doctoral programmes under local and international scholarship schemes.
Who Can Apply for the Special HAT?
The Special HAT is primarily intended for students seeking admission or scholarships for the following programmes:
- MS
- M.Phil.
- Ph.D.
- Other doctoral programmes
Candidates should carefully select the relevant HAT category according to their academic background and intended field of study while completing the online application.
Special HAT Registration Schedule
Online registration for the test will begin on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
The complete schedule is as follows:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration opens | July 19, 2026 |
| Application deadline | August 3, 2026 |
| Special HAT test | August 30, 2026 |
Applicants should submit their forms before the closing date, as late applications may not be accepted.
Scholarships Covered by the Test
According to HEC, the Special HAT will facilitate applicants interested in major scholarship programmes, including:
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Chinese Government Scholarships
- HEC local scholarship programmes
- Other international scholarship opportunities administered through HEC
A valid HAT result may be required as part of the shortlisting or eligibility process for relevant postgraduate scholarships.
How to Apply for HEC Special HAT
Candidates can apply through the official Education Testing Council portal at etc.hec.gov.pk.
Applicants must:
- Create an account or sign in to their existing ETC profile.
- Select the Special HAT registration option.
- Enter the required personal and academic information.
- Choose the appropriate test category.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit the application before August 3, 2026.
Candidates should review all information carefully before submitting the form.
Roll Number Slips and Test Centre Details
HEC will issue roll number slips and test-centre information through the ETC portal before the examination.
Applicants are advised to regularly check their ETC accounts for:
- Roll number slips
- Reporting time
- Test-centre address
- Candidate instructions
- Any changes to the examination schedule
The Special HAT is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 30, 2026. Candidates should begin preparing early and continue monitoring official HEC and ETC announcements for updates.
