HEC Announces New Rules For Recognition Of Foreign Degrees
• Degrees completed entirely online may not be recognized after Spring 2026
• Students advised to verify approved mode of study before enrollment
• New policy applies to both current and future students
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has issued a new advisory for students planning to pursue higher education abroad, warning them to carefully verify the approved mode of study before enrolling in foreign degree programs.
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According to the commission, students must ensure that their chosen academic programs are officially recognized and approved by the relevant regulatory or accrediting authorities in the country where the institution is located.
Under the updated policy, 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, the commission clarified that this restriction will apply only in cases where the online or blended arrangement has not been formally approved by the relevant regulatory authority in the host country.
The new guidelines apply not only to students planning to study abroad in the future but also to those who are currently enrolled in foreign universities.
HEC has urged students to confirm all academic and regulatory details directly with their institutions to avoid complications regarding degree recognition and equivalence in Pakistan later in their educational or professional careers.
The commission also emphasized that students must fulfill all physical residency requirements in accordance with the laws and regulations of the host country. It noted that compliance with officially approved academic structures remains essential for the validity and recognition of foreign qualifications.
Despite the revised requirements, HEC confirmed that applications for degree equivalence will continue to be processed through its online portal.
Officials said each equivalence case will be examined individually based on the relevant criteria, supporting documentation and applicable regulations before a final decision is made.
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