Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before You Apply
Q1. Who is eligible to apply through the NUST International Students Admission Portal?
The International Admission Portal is strictly intended for foreign nationals who require a student visa to study in Pakistan.
Q2. Who is NOT eligible to apply via the International Portal?
Applicants falling under any of the following categories must not apply through the international portal (and should instead apply through the standard national admissions stream):
- Students with one or both parents of Pakistani origin.
- Holders of a Pakistan Origin Card (POC).
- Holders of a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).
- Dual nationals holding Pakistani citizenship alongside foreign citizenship.
Q3. Can I apply to NUST if I have completed 12 years of education?
Yes. International applicants who have completed 12 years of schooling may apply for NUST UG programmes, subject to meeting the academic and subject-specific eligibility requirements of their selected programme.
Q4. Can international students apply to NUST?
Yes. NUST welcomes applications from eligible international students from around the world, subject to the admission requirements of the selected programme and applicable regulations.
Q5. What degree levels are available to international students?
International students can apply for eligible Undergraduate (UG), Master’s (MS), and PhD programmes offered by NUST.
Q6. What intakes does NUST offer?
NUST operates a rolling admissions policy, allowing you to apply online at any time via www.int-admission.nust.edu.pk.
- Undergraduate (UG) programs admit students for the Fall intake (September) only.
- Master’s (MS) programs admit students for both Fall (September) and Spring (January) intakes. (Note: In Spring, only select MS programs are offered)
- PhD students are admitted in both Fall and Spring intakes
Q7. How can I find the programmes available to international students?
NUST offers more than 30 UG, 60 MS and 30 PhD programmes, the list is available here: https://nio.nust.edu.pk/nust-academic-programs-for-international-students/
Q8. Does NUST offer a Foundation Year?
No. NUST does not currently offer a Foundation Year programme. Applicants should therefore meet the academic and subject requirements for their intended programme before applying.
Q9. Does NUST offer full degree programmes online?
International students enrolled in NUST degree programmes are required to study through the University’s on-campus academic arrangements.
Q10. What happens if my visa is issued after the semester has already started?
Students should always keep the NUST International Office updated regarding their visa application. Students whose visa and travel arrangements are finalized after commencement of classes can still join within 2 weeks of commencement of classes.
Q11. Can I bring my spouse or children to Pakistan?
International students planning to bring family members should review the applicable Pakistani immigration and visa requirements. NUST admission does not itself guarantee visas or accommodation for dependants.
Q12. Do international students need health insurance?
The students can get an appropriate health insurance, however it is not a requirement of NUST. Additionally NUST Medical Center provides basic healthcare facilities, any specialized treatments are to be borne by the student.
Choosing a Programme and Checking Eligibility
Q13. Can I apply to NUST if I completed my previous education outside Pakistan?
Yes. NUST accepts recognised international qualifications, subject to the academic requirements of the selected programme and the applicable equivalence requirements of IBCC or HEC.
Q14. What are the minimum academic requirements for undergraduate admission?
A minimum aggregate score of 60% (or equivalent) in both 10th Grade/SSC/O-Levels and 12th Grade/HSSC/A-Levels/High School qualifications as per IBCC equivalence. Subject wise criteria is available here: https://nust.edu.pk/admissions/undergraduates/eligibility-criteria-for-ug-programmes/
Q15. What are the academic eligibility criteria for MS programs?
Basic Requirement: A 4-year Bachelor’s degree (minimum 16 years of education or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
Minimum CGPA of 2.0 out of 4.0 (or 55% marks if CGPA is not stated on your transcript).
A minimum CGPA of 2.5 out of 4.0 (or 60% marks) is required for MBA, MS Human Resource Management, MS Logistics & Supply Chain Management, MS Marketing, MS Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and MS Career Counselling & Education
- Detailed Criteria: Specific subject-wise criteria are available at NUST Masters Eligibility Criteria.
Q16. What are the academic eligibility criteria for PhD programs?
Basic Requirement: An MS/MPhil degree (18 years of education equivalent) in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0.Interview: Shortlisted candidates must successfully pass an academic interview.
- Detailed Criteria: Specific subject-wise criteria are available at NUST PhD subject-wise eligibility criteria
Q17. Are there specific subject requirements for undergraduate programmes?
Yes. Subject requirements vary by programme. For example, Engineering and Computing programmes generally require Mathematics and relevant science subjects, while Business and Social Sciences programmes may accept students from a wider range of academic backgrounds.
Applicants should check the specific eligibility requirements of their intended programme before applying, available at: https://nust.edu.pk/admissions/undergraduates/eligibility-criteria-for-ug-programmes/
Starting Your Application
Q18. How do I apply to NUST as an international student?
International students should submit their applications through the NUST International Students Admission Portal at: https://intl-admission.nust.edu.pk/ and complete the required application, programme selection, document submission, testing and fee formalities.
Q19. When can I submit my application?
International applications are accepted throughout the year. Applicants should apply sufficiently in advance of their intended intake to allow time for admission processing, visa formalities and travel arrangements.
Q20. What documents do I need to submit with my application?
The required documents depend on the level and programme of study. Applicants should upload their academic certificates, transcripts, passport and other supporting documents specified on the International Admission Portal.
Q21. Can I apply if my final academic results have not yet been issued?
Applicants whose final results are pending can submit their application provided they submit their final result/transcript before the start of classes.
Q22. What if my documents are not in English?
All academic and supporting documents required for evaluation must be submitted in English. Documents issued in another language must be accompanied by official/certified English translations.
Q23. Is the admission processing fee refundable?
No. The admission processing fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. For details regarding the refund process, review the official NUST Fee Refund Policy.
Tests and English Language Requirements
Q24. Do international undergraduate applicants need SAT or ACT?
International undergraduate applicants are generally evaluated using SAT or ACT scores. Applicants may also be considered for provisional admission without SAT/ACT, subject to the applicable NUST policy.
Q25. Can international undergraduate students take a NUST Admission Test?
Yes, if you don’t have valid SAT/ACT scores, you can opt for provisional admission, in this case NUST will take the NUST Admission Test as per the following:
Timing: The internal NUST Admission Test is generally administered on campus 4 to 5 weeks after classes commence.
Test Format/Subjects: The examination questions are primarily drawn from Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge / Analytical Reasoning. In order to pass the test, candidates must attain 60% marks.
Q26. Is GRE required for MS and PhD admission?
Yes. GRE General conducted by ETS is required for MS and PhD applicants, subject to the applicable NUST admission requirements.
Q27. What are the minimum GRE scores required for MS admission?
The minimum GRE General scores are:
- Quantitative: 151/170
- Verbal: 146/170
- Analytical Writing: 3.5/6.0
Q28. What are the minimum GRE scores required for PhD admission?
The minimum GRE General scores are:
- Quantitative: 130/170
- Verbal: 130/170
- Analytical Writing: 3.0/6.0
Q29. Do international students need IELTS or TOEFL?
While an IELTS or TOEFL score is not mandatory, applicants must demonstrate sufficient English language competency. You can meet this requirement through either:
A valid IELTS (Minimum score 5.5) or TOEFL (Minimum score 500), OR
An official English Proficiency Certificate from your previous school/university confirming that English was the primary medium of instruction.
Q30. Can an English-medium certificate replace IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes. An official English Proficiency Certificate from the applicant’s previous school or university confirming English as the medium of instruction may be accepted.
Equivalence and Verification of Qualifications
Q31. Do undergraduate international students need an IBCC Equivalence Certificate?
Yes. Undergraduate applicants must obtain an IBCC Equivalence Certificate from the Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) in Pakistan for their 12th Grade / High School / A-Level (and O-Level) qualifications.
Q32. As an UG applicant, do I need an IBCC equivalence certificate before applying?
You can apply and receive provisional (conditional) admission using your original high school transcripts/certificates because IBCC Equivalence certificates can only be obtained from within Pakistan, you must submit your official IBCC Equivalence Certificate showing at least 60% marks after joining NUST in Pakistan, before the end of your 1st semester. Failure to submit it by the end of the first semester may lead to cancellation of admission.
Q33. Do MS and PhD students need HEC Equivalence?
International MS and PhD students are required to obtain HEC Equivalence Certificates for their foreign university qualifications.
Q34. What Equivalence Certificate do MS and PhD applicants need, and when must it be submitted?
You can apply and receive provisional (conditional) admission using your original university transcripts and degree certificates since HEC Equivalence certificates can only be obtained from within Pakistan, you must submit the HEC Equivalence before the end of your 1st semester. Failure to submit it by the end of the first semester may lead to cancellation of admission.
Fees and Scholarships
Q35. How much does it cost to study at NUST as an international student?
International student annual tuition fees are:
| Study Level | Annual Tuition |
| Undergraduate | USD 5,400 |
| MS | USD 3,050–4,750 |
| PhD | USD 3,050 |
Additional admission, security and other applicable charges may apply.
Q36. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. NUST offers scholarships and tuition fee remissions for eligible international students based on academic merit and profile evaluation.
How to Apply: To be considered for an international scholarship/bursary, you must submit a 300 to 400-word Statement of Purpose (SOP) directly within your online admission application.
PhD Fellowships: NUST also offers the NUST PhD Fellowship, which includes a full tuition fee waiver for selected PhD scholars.
Q37. How much can fee remission reduce my tuition fee?
Under the fee remission scheme, the international tuition fee may be reduced to approximately the level charged to Pakistani students. The applicable amount varies according to the programme and study level.
Q38. Is fee remission guaranteed for every international student?
No. Fee remission is not automatic or guaranteed. Awards are subject to eligibility, academic profile, SOP evaluation, availability and NUST’s applicable criteria.
Q39. Do scholarships cover hostel, food, visa and travel expenses?
Unless specifically stated otherwise for a particular scholarship, students are responsible for expenses including accommodation, food/messing, visa-related costs, airfare and personal living expenses.
After Receiving Your Admission Offer
Q40. What should I do after receiving my admission offer?
Students should carefully review their offer letter, complete the required fee and admission formalities, initiate the visa process where applicable, and follow NUST’s instructions regarding joining and registration.
Q41. When do I need to pay my fees?
Students should follow the payment schedule and instructions provided with their admission offer and fee challan/invoice.
Q42. What happens if I cannot join NUST because my visa is delayed?
Students should immediately inform the NUST International Office. Where applicable, admission may be deferred to a subsequent intake, subject to University policy and approval.
Q43. Can I get a refund if I cannot obtain my visa?
Refunds are subject to the applicable NUST fee refund policy. The admission processing fee is non-refundable, while any other refundable amounts will be dealt with according to the University’s applicable policy, available at: https://nust.edu.pk/admissions/fee-structure/refund-policy/
Visa and Travel to Pakistan
Q44. Do international students need a student visa to study at NUST?
Foreign nationals who require a visa to study in Pakistan must obtain the appropriate student visa before joining NUST, in accordance with Pakistani immigration requirements.
Q45. Does NUST assist with the student visa process?
Once you accept a provisional admission offer, NUST facilitates the administrative process to help you acquire the Higher Education Commission No Objection Certificate (NOC) which is a manadatory requirement for the study visa application. With this NOC, you will submit your Student Visa application via the Pakistan Online Visa System at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/student-visa/or at your nearest Pakistan Embassy/Consulate.
Q46. How long does the Pakistani student visa process take?
Please keep in mind that official visa clearance and issuance generally takes from 1 month up to 90 days, so plan your travel and application timeline accordingly.
Q47. What documents should I bring when travelling to Pakistan?
Students should bring their original academic documents, passport and visa, admission/offer documents, and any other documents specified by NUST for registration and verification.
Arriving at NUST
Q48. Does NUST provide hostel accommodation for international students?
Yes. International students may avail on-campus hostel accommodation, subject to availability and applicable NUST policies.
Q49. How much does NUST hostel accommodation cost?
The current (2026-27) hostel rent for international students is approximately USD 65 per month. Paid in advance for the full semester at the time of moving in.
Q50. How much does on-campus messing/food cost?
The current (2026-27) on-campus messing/food is available at a subsidized rate of approximately USD 75 per month, subject to the applicable messing arrangements and rates. Charged and paid on a monthly basis.
Q51. Does NUST provide orientation for international students?
Yes. NUST provides orientation and support activities to help international students understand the University’s academic environment, facilities, policies and student life.
Q52. Does NUST help international students settle into campus life?
Yes. The NUST International Office supports international students with admission-related matters, arrival and initial settlement, orientation and other issues during their transition to life at NUST.
Q53. Can international students participate in student clubs and societies?
Yes. International students can participate in a wide range of student clubs, societies, events and extracurricular activities at NUST, subject to the University’s applicable rules.
Q54. Is there a support network for international students at NUST?
Yes. International students can benefit from the NUST International Office and initiatives such as the NUST International Buddies and the wider international student community.
Q55. Can international students live off campus?
International students may explore off-campus accommodation options if they choose, as per the applicable Pakistani laws.
Living and Student Support
Q56. What is the approximate cost of living in Islamabad?
Living expenses vary depending on individual lifestyle and accommodation arrangements. Students should budget separately for personal expenses, transportation, communication, healthcare and other day-to-day costs in addition to tuition, hostel and messing charges.
Q57. Can international students open a bank account in Pakistan?
Yes, International students can open a Pakistani bank account subject to the requirements of the relevant bank and applicable documentation, including valid identification, student visa etc.
Q58. Who should I contact if I have questions about my international admission?
For questions relating to international admissions, eligibility, foreign qualifications, application processing, scholarships and related matters, students should contact the NUST International Office at: [email protected].
Q59. Does NUST provide orientation for international students?
Yes. NUST provides orientation and support activities to help international students understand the University’s academic environment, facilities, policies and student life.
Q60. Does NUST help international students settle into campus life?
Yes. The NUST International Office supports international students with admission-related matters, arrival and initial settlement, orientation and other issues during their transition to life at NUST.
Q61. Can international students participate in student clubs and societies?
Yes. International students can participate in a wide range of student clubs, societies, events and extracurricular activities at NUST, subject to the University’s applicable rules.
Q62. Is there a support network for international students at NUST?
Yes. International students can benefit from the NUST International Office and initiatives such as the NUST International Buddies and the wider international student community.
Q63. Can international students live off campus?
International students may explore off-campus accommodation options if they choose, as per the applicable Pakistani laws.