Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025 – Complete Guide for MS, M.Phil., and Ph.D. Admission in Pakistan

The Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025 is an important test for students in Pakistan who want to study at the master’s (MS/M.Phil.) or Ph.D. level. This test is run by the Education Testing Council (ETC) under the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

Passing HAT 2025 is required for getting admission in many universities and for applying to HEC scholarships.

In this guide, you will learn about:

  • Who can apply for HAT 2025
  • Different test categories
  • How to apply
  • Important dates
  • Tips for preparing

Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025
Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025

    Basic Information

    DetailInformation
    Posted OnOctober 23, 2025
    CategoryGovernment Jobs
    OrganizationHEC
    NewspaperJang, Jang Jobs
    CityIslamabad
    ProvinceFederal, Pakistan
    EducationBachelor, Master
    Last DateNovember 10, 2025
    VacanciesMultiple
    CompanyHigher Education Commission (HEC)
    AddressHigher Education Commission (HEC), Sector H-9, Islamabad, Pakistan

    About the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT

    The Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) is made to check how ready a student is for higher studies in their chosen field. The test looks at the following skills:

    • Verbal Reasoning – Understanding and analyzing written information
    • Analytical Reasoning – Solving problems and thinking logically
    • Quantitative Reasoning – Working with numbers and basic math problems
    • English Language Skills – Understanding and using English correctly

    Many public and private universities in Pakistan accept HAT scores. These scores are also used to see if a student can get HEC scholarships.

    HAT makes sure that students have the thinking and analytical skills needed for MS/M.Phil. and Ph.D. program

    Available Positions

    DisciplinesQuantitative ReasoningTotal Marks
    Engineering & Technology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Management Sciences40%100
    Business, Education30%100
    Arts & Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Law25%100
    Agriculture, Veterinary Sciences, Biological & Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Education, Media & Mass Communication, Religious Studies30%100
    Madrasa Graduates30%100

    Eligibility Criteria

    o apply for the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025, candidates must follow these rules:

    1. Education Requirement:

    • Candidates must have 16 years of education or an equivalent degree recognized by HEC.
    • This includes students with Bachelor’s, Master’s, or equivalent degrees.

    2. Program Application:

    • Students who have applied for MS, M.Phil., or Ph.D. programs at Pakistani universities that accept HAT scores can apply.
    • Students who want to apply for HEC scholarships in the future can also register.

    3. Age Limit:

    • There is no age limit. All eligible students can apply.

    4. CNIC Requirement:

    • Candidates must have a valid CNIC or Passport.
    • Only the candidate’s own CNIC/Passport can be used. Using someone else’s CNIC, like parents or siblings, is not allowed.

    5. Field of Study (HAT Categories):

    • HAT-1: Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Management Sciences
    • HAT-2: Business, Education
    • HAT-3: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Law
    • HAT-4: Agriculture, Veterinary, Biological & Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Media & Communication
    • HAT-General: Madrasa Graduates

    6. Future Scholarship Applicants:

    • Students who want HEC scholarships must register for HAT because the HAT score is required.

    Important:

    • Only complete and submitted applications will be accepted.
    • Incomplete or saved applications will be rejected

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    How to Apply for HAT

    1. Online Registration:

    • Go to the ETC official website to register online.

    2. Complete Application Form:

    • Fill in all the required details carefully, including personal information, CNIC, and academic records.

    3. Submit Application:

    • Make sure to submit your application. Only submitted applications will be accepted.
    • Incomplete or saved applications will be rejected.

    4. Fee Payment:

    • Pay the HAT fee through 1Link/1Bill Invoice payment services using the consumer number given.
    • After payment, check and verify your payment online on the ETC dashboard.

    5. Roll Number Slip:

    • Once your registration and payment are complete, download your roll number slip from the ETC website.
    • A copy will also be sent to your registered email

    Contact Information for HAT 2025

    OrganizationContactHelplineWebsite
    Education Testing Council (ETC)Sector H-9, Islamabad051-111-119-432ETC Website
    Higher Education Commission (HEC)Islamabad0334-111-9432HEC Website

    Important Reminders

    • Check Your Information: Make sure all your personal information is correct before submitting the application.
    • Complete Applications Only: Only complete and verified applications will be accepted.
    • Fee Rules: The HAT fee cannot be refunded or transferred.
    • Roll Number Slip: Keep a printed copy of your roll number slip to bring on test day.
    • Follow Test Rules: Follow all rules and instructions during the test to avoid disqualification.

    FAQs About Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025

    1. What is HAT 2025?
    The Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) 2025 is a test by the Education Testing Council (ETC) under HEC. It is needed for admission in MS, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs in Pakistani universities and for HEC scholarships.

    2. Who can apply for HAT?

    • Students with 16 years of education or equivalent.
    • Students who have applied or plan to apply for MS, M.Phil., or Ph.D. programs.
    • Students who want to apply for HEC scholarships.

    3. What are the HAT categories?
    HAT has five categories based on the field of study:

    • HAT-1: Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Management Sciences
    • HAT-2: Business, Education
    • HAT-3: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Law
    • HAT-4: Agriculture, Veterinary, Biological & Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Media & Communication
    • HAT-General: Madrasa Graduates

    4. How can I apply for HAT 2025?

    • Go to the ETC website to register online.
    • Fill in all details carefully and submit the application.
    • Pay the test fee and download your roll number slip.

    5. What is the HAT test fee?

    • Pay the fee via 1Link/1Bill Invoice.
    • The fee is non-refundable and cannot be transferred.

    6. When is the last date to register?

    • Monday, November 10, 2025

    7. When will HAT 2025 be held?

    • Sunday, December 07, 2025

    8. What is the minimum passing score?

    • Candidates must score 50 out of 100 to pass.

    9. How long is the HAT score valid?

    • Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

    10. What documents are needed on test day?

    • Roll Number Slip
    • Original CNIC or Passport

    11. Can I change my test category after registration?

    • No, the selected category cannot be changed.

    12. Are mobile phones allowed in the test center?

    • No, mobile phones and electronic devices are not allowed.

    13. How can I contact ETC or HEC for help?

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