The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has warned students against enrolling in Associate Degree Programs offered through annual examinations or private study arrangements in Pakistan.
In an official public alert, HEC clarified that it will not recognize associate degrees completed through these systems. Such qualifications will not be accepted for degree attestation or equivalence.
The commission also advised parents, students, colleges, and universities to follow the approved higher education policies. It warned institutions against offering or advertising unrecognized associate degree programs.
HEC Issues Warning About Associate Degree Programs
HEC has directed universities and colleges to stop offering Associate Degree Programs through annual examination systems or private modes. Institutions must follow the HEC Undergraduate Education Policy 2023, Version 1.1.
According to the commission, students must complete their associate degrees through the regular semester system. This requirement applies to institutions offering approved Associate Degree Programs.
The warning aims to ensure that students pursue qualifications recognized by the national higher education regulator. Students should carefully review a program’s recognition status before applying for admission.
Requirements for Recognized Associate Degree Programs
Under the approved framework, an Associate Degree Program must be completed over two years. The program consists of four regular semesters.
Students must complete between 64 and 72 credit hours to meet the stated academic requirements. These requirements form part of the approved structure for associate degrees.
HEC has clarified that the approved system does not permit two-year BA, BSc, or Associate Degree Programs through annual examinations. Private study arrangements are also not permitted under the stated framework.
Students considering these qualifications should confirm that their selected institution follows the applicable HEC policies. They should also verify the program’s study mode before paying admission fees.
Degrees Through Annual or Private Systems Will Not Be Accepted
The commission has specifically stated that associate degrees earned through annual or private examination systems will not qualify for attestation or equivalence.
This decision is important for students planning further education or seeking professional opportunities. An unrecognized qualification may create difficulties when official degree verification is required.
Students already enrolled in such programs should seek clarification from their institutions and review the applicable policies. They should not assume their qualifications will be accepted without confirmation from HEC.
Universities Directed to Stop New Admissions
HEC has instructed higher education institutions to immediately discontinue new admissions to Associate Degree Programs offered through annual or private systems.
Universities and colleges must ensure their academic offerings comply with the Undergraduate Education Policy 2023, Version 1.1. Institutions should also avoid promoting programs that do not meet the commission’s requirements.
The directive highlights the importance of checking degree recognition before making educational decisions. Students and parents should rely on official information when selecting a degree program.
How Students Can Check HEC Policies
Students can review degree recognition requirements and relevant higher education policies through the official HEC website.
The policy information is available at https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/policies.
In other related news also read HEC Revises University Faculty Salaries With Big Increase
Applicants should verify their institution, degree program, and study mode before enrolling. Checking these details can help students avoid problems related to degree attestation and equivalence in the future.
