The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has advised students planning to study abroad to carefully confirm the approved mode of study before enrolling in foreign degree programs.
According to the advisory, students must ensure that their selected programs are officially recognized by the relevant regulatory or accrediting body in the host country.
HEC stated that degrees registered as on-campus or conventional programs but completed entirely through online or blended learning modes will not be recognized after Spring 2026.
However, this condition will apply only if such arrangements are not approved by the relevant regulatory authority in the country where the institution is based.
Policy applies to current and future students
The commission clarified that the updated policy applies not only to future applicants but also to students currently enrolled in foreign universities.
Students have been urged to verify all program details with their institutions to avoid recognition issues later in their academic or professional careers.
HEC emphasized that all physical residency requirements must be fulfilled in accordance with applicable regulations in the host country.
The advisory stresses that compliance with official academic structures is essential for degree validity in Pakistan.
Despite the new restrictions, HEC confirmed that degree equivalence applications will continue to be processed through its online system.
Each case will be assessed individually based on established criteria and documentation.
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