Public Universities in Pakistan: Top 10 & Complete List

Public Universities in Pakistan play a major role in the country's higher education system, offering degree programmes across engineering, medicine, agriculture, business, technology, natural sciences and humanities. From established institutions such as the University of the Punjab to research-focused universities such as NUST and PIEAS, students can choose from a wide range of academic environments.

According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, Pakistan has 278 universities, including 163 public and 115 private institutions. These figures highlight the scale of the country's higher education network and the importance of government-supported institutions.

This guide explores the top 10 public universities in Pakistan using the QS World University Rankings 2027 as its primary ranking reference. It also explains their academic strengths, highlights other important public-sector institutions across the country and provides a province-wise directory to help students identify suitable universities.

How Many Public Universities Are There in Pakistan?

Pakistan has 163 public universities, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26. The country also has 115 private universities, bringing the reported national total to 278.

Public universities operate under government-established charters and public-sector governance arrangements. They offer undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral education across a wide range of disciplines.

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) plays an important role in recognising universities and degree-awarding institutions. It also maintains separate records for recognised campuses.

One distinction matters here. A university and its recognised campuses are not counted as separate universities simply because they operate in different cities.

For the national figures, consult the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26. The PASTIC University and Institute Directory also provides a sector-filtered record of public and private institutions.

What Are Public Universities in Pakistan?

Public universities in Pakistan are higher education institutions established or operated under public-sector authority. They generally receive government funding, operate under approved institutional charters and offer recognised academic qualifications.

Their academic responsibilities extend beyond classroom teaching. Many conduct scientific research, publish academic work, collaborate with international institutions and support professional development in their respective fields.

The HEC oversees institutional recognition and maintains information about recognised universities and degree-awarding institutions.

Students should distinguish between three types of institutions:

• Public universities: Government-chartered institutions offering recognised higher education qualifications.
• Public-sector degree-awarding institutions: Specialised institutions with authority to award degrees or qualifications under their respective legal arrangements.
• Recognised campuses: Approved additional locations belonging to an existing university or degree-awarding institution.

A campus does not automatically become a separate university simply because it operates in another city. For example, some campuses associated with Bahauddin Zakariya University and the University of Swat have subsequently been upgraded into separate universities.

Students can check institutional status through the HEC recognised universities and degree-awarding institutions directory and its recognised campus records.

Top 10 Public Universities in Pakistan

The following universities represent the ten highest-ranked Pakistani public-sector institutions appearing in the QS World University Rankings 2027.

The order follows their global QS positions, excluding private universities and considering public-sector degree-awarding institutions included in the ranking.

QS World University Rankings 2027: Top 10 Public Universities

The QS World University Rankings use nine performance indicators grouped into five major areas:

• Academic reputation
• Research impact and citations
• Employer reputation and employment outcomes
• Teaching capacity and international engagement
• Sustainability

The research and discovery category carries 50% of the overall weighting. This makes research performance particularly important, although it does not capture every aspect of a student's university experience.

For the detailed methodology, consult the QS World University Rankings methodology.

1. Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) holds the highest position among Pakistan's public universities in the QS World University Rankings 2027, at joint 381st globally.

Established in July 1967, QAU has developed into a leading federal public-sector research university. It attracts students from different parts of Pakistan and has an established academic reputation in natural sciences, biological sciences and social sciences.

Its academic structure includes four faculties and nine other teaching and research institutes, centres and schools. The university also maintains research activities across a range of interdisciplinary subjects.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Biological Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Computer Science
• Medicine-related academic studies
• Interdisciplinary research

Notable Features:

• Strong emphasis on academic research.
• Four faculties and nine other teaching and research institutes, centres and schools.
• International academic collaborations.
• A broad postgraduate and doctoral research environment.
• A diverse academic community.

Overall Details:

QAU is particularly notable for students interested in research-led education and advanced academic study.

Official Website: https://qau.edu.pk/

2. National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad

The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) is one of Pakistan's leading public universities, particularly recognised for engineering, technology, computing and applied sciences.

Established in March 1991 and granted its university charter in 1993, NUST has developed a multidisciplinary academic environment combining technical education, research and industry collaboration. Its main campus is located in Islamabad, with additional constituent institutions and academic facilities.

NUST offers undergraduate and postgraduate education across several academic areas. Its programmes attract students interested in scientific research, engineering innovation and professional development.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Science
• Business Studies
• Natural and Applied Sciences
• Architecture
• Social Sciences

Notable Features:

• Strong engineering and technology focus.
• Research and innovation facilities.
• Industry-academia partnerships.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives.
• International academic engagement.
• Multidisciplinary learning environment.

Overall Details:

Here's the thing: NUST's strength is not limited to engineering. Its multidisciplinary structure also makes it relevant to students interested in business, architecture and other scientific fields.

Official Website: https://nust.edu.pk/

3. Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad

Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) is a specialised public-sector degree-awarding institution known for engineering, nuclear science and applied research.

Its roots date back to 1967, when the Reactor School was established to provide specialised nuclear technology training. The institution adopted the PIEAS name in 1997 and received degree-awarding status in April 2000.

PIEAS has since expanded its academic activities into several engineering and scientific disciplines. It places particular emphasis on postgraduate education, scientific research and technical expertise.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Nuclear Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Engineering
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Medical and Radiation Physics

Notable Features:

• Specialised nuclear science and technology education.
• Advanced engineering and scientific research.
• Strong postgraduate and doctoral programmes.
• Research facilities supporting applied sciences.
• Focus on technically demanding academic disciplines.

Overall Details:

PIEAS is a particularly relevant option for students interested in specialised engineering, scientific research and advanced technical education.

Official Website: https://www.pieas.edu.pk/

4. University of the Punjab, Lahore

The University of the Punjab is one of the oldest and largest public universities in Pakistan. Established on 14 October 1882, it has played an important role in the development of higher education in the country.

Commonly known as Punjab University, it offers academic programmes across a wide range of disciplines. Its extensive academic structure includes faculties, departments, research centres and constituent colleges.

The university's long academic history and broad subject coverage attract students interested in both traditional and modern academic disciplines.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Business, Economics and Administrative Sciences
• Computing and Information Technology
• Electrical and Energy Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Arts and Humanities
• Law
• Social and Behavioural Sciences
• Agricultural Sciences
• Information and Media Studies

Notable Features:

• Long-standing academic reputation.
• Broad selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
• Extensive research and library facilities.
• Multiple campuses and constituent colleges.
• Established academic departments across diverse disciplines.

Overall Details:

The university is a strong option for students who want to explore different academic fields within one large public-sector institution.

Official Website: https://pu.edu.pk/

5. University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF)

The University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF) is one of Pakistan's most established institutions for agricultural education and research.

Its history traces back to 1906, when the Punjab Agricultural College and Research Institute was established in Lyallpur, now Faisalabad. The institution gained university status in 1961.

UAF has played an important role in agricultural development, food security, crop improvement and scientific farming. Its academic activities cover agriculture and several related scientific disciplines.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Faculty of Agriculture
• Agricultural Engineering and Technology
• Veterinary Sciences
• Food Science and Technology
• Plant Sciences
• Animal Sciences
• Agricultural Economics
• Environmental Sciences

Notable Features:

• Strong agricultural research background.
• Work in crop development and food security.
• Research activities involving livestock and farming.
• Agricultural technology and innovation.
• Collaboration with national and international institutions.

Overall Details:

For students interested in agriculture, veterinary science, food systems and sustainable farming, UAF deserves particular attention.

Official Website: https://web.uaf.edu.pk/

6. COMSATS University Islamabad

COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) is a public-sector multidisciplinary university with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering and computing.

The institution began its academic activities in Islamabad in 1998 as the COMSATS Institute of Information Technology. It later expanded into a multi-campus university offering programmes across several academic disciplines.

CUI has developed a national academic presence through its campuses in Islamabad, Abbottabad, Wah, Lahore, Attock, Sahiwal and Vehari, alongside its virtual campus.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Management Sciences
• Business Administration
• Architecture and Design
• Humanities and Social Sciences

Notable Features:

• Strong IT and computing programmes.
• Multiple campuses across Pakistan.
• Research and technology development.
• International academic engagement.
• Interdisciplinary academic programmes.
• English-medium academic provision.

Overall Details:

CUI is a relevant choice for students interested in computer science, software-related disciplines and modern technological education.

Official Website: https://www.comsats.edu.pk/

7. Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF)

Government College University Faisalabad is a multidisciplinary public university with a long educational history.

Its institutional journey began in 1897 as a primary school. It gradually developed into a college before receiving university status in October 2002.

GCUF offers education across numerous academic disciplines, including natural sciences, social sciences, management and life sciences. Its academic environment combines traditional education with research and industrial engagement.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Arts and Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Management and Administrative Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Pharmacy
• Computer Science
• Information Technology

Notable Features:

• Long institutional history.
• Broad academic programme selection.
• Research and innovation activities.
• Academic and industrial connections.
• Student societies and extracurricular activities.
• Development of new academic facilities.

Overall Details:

Its broad subject coverage makes GCUF an option for students who want to compare different academic pathways within a public university.

Official Website: https://gcuf.edu.pk/

8. University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore

The University of Engineering and Technology Lahore is one of Pakistan's established institutions for engineering and technical education.

Its history began in 1921 as Mughalpura Technical College. It later became Maclagan Engineering College before being transformed into the West Pakistan University of Engineering and Technology in 1962. The institution was renamed the University of Engineering and Technology in 1972.

UET Lahore has contributed significantly to engineering education in Pakistan. Its academic structure includes several engineering disciplines, architecture, computing and related technical subjects.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Architecture
• Petroleum and Gas Engineering
• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering

Notable Features:

• Established engineering education tradition.
• Engineering laboratories and workshops.
• Research and technical development.
• Industry-related academic activities.
• Multiple campuses and affiliated institutions.
• Undergraduate and postgraduate engineering programmes.

Overall Details:

Students interested in traditional engineering disciplines and technical research should consider UET Lahore alongside NUST and PIEAS.

Official Website: https://uet.edu.pk/

9. University of Peshawar

Established in 1950, the University of Peshawar is one of the established public-sector universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The university has developed a multidisciplinary academic environment covering arts, humanities, social sciences, management, physical sciences and environmental studies.

Its academic history and broad subject coverage make it an important higher education institution in north-western Pakistan.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Arts and Humanities
• Islamic and Oriental Languages
• Life and Environmental Sciences
• Management and Information Sciences
• Numerical and Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Computer Science
• Law

Notable Features:

• Established academic reputation in the region.
• Wide range of academic disciplines.
• Research centres and academic institutes.
• Teaching and research across humanities and sciences.
• Opportunities for postgraduate and doctoral study.

Overall Details:

The university offers a different academic profile from the engineering-focused institutions higher in the ranking, making it relevant for students with broader academic interests.

Official Website: https://www.uop.edu.pk/

10. Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), Multan

Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU) is a major public-sector university serving Multan and the wider South Punjab region.

Established in 1975, the university has expanded its academic activities across numerous disciplines. It offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes through its faculties and academic departments.

BZU is particularly notable for its broad academic coverage, which includes engineering, agriculture, business, natural sciences, social sciences and life sciences.

Key Departments and Academic Areas:

• Business and Management
• Engineering and Technology
• Arts and Humanities
• Natural Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Agriculture
• Social Sciences
• Pharmacy

Notable Features:

• Ten academic faculties.
• Eighty-one academic departments.
• More than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
• Two sub-campuses in Lodhran and Vehari.
• Doctoral research opportunities.
• More than 640 faculty members, including 495 PhD-qualified faculty members, according to the QS institutional profile.
• Academic facilities serving South Punjab.

Overall Details:

BZU is particularly relevant to students looking for a broad selection of academic disciplines in South Punjab.

Official Website: https://bzu.edu.pk/

Other Notable Public Universities in Pakistan

A global ranking does not tell the entire story of a university. Some public-sector institutions have a strong reputation in specific disciplines but are not included in this QS-based top 10.

For example, the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi is listed as a public-sector institution in the PASTIC directory. Its specialist focus on business and management makes it relevant to students interested in those fields.

Other notable institutions include:

• NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi: Engineering, technology and applied sciences.
• University of Karachi, Karachi: Natural sciences, social sciences, pharmacy and research.
• International Islamic University Islamabad: Islamic studies, law, languages and social sciences.
• King Edward Medical University, Lahore: Medical education and health sciences.
• Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi: Medical and health-related disciplines.
• Khyber Medical University, Peshawar: Medical education and health sciences.
• Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro: Engineering and technology.
• National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad: Languages, humanities and social sciences.
• Sukkur IBA University, Sukkur: Business, management, computing and engineering.

A university that ranks lower overall can still be a stronger match for a particular subject. That is why students should compare subject-specific strengths rather than relying entirely on a global ranking position.

All Public Universities in Pakistan: Complete Directory

The Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 reports 163 public universities. PASTIC's national university and institute directory also records 163 public-sector entries.

The following directory organises public-sector entries by province and administrative region. It retains specialised institutions and degree-awarding institutes listed in the public-sector directory rather than presenting every entry as a conventional multidisciplinary university.

The list also incorporates a current HEC-verified addition: The University of Mirpurkhas, a public-sector university established in 2023, which is not yet included in PASTIC's 163-entry public-sector directory. The former Punjab University of Technology, Rasul, is listed under its updated name, University of Rasul.

Public Universities and Institutions in Islamabad Capital Territory (18)

1. Air University
2. Allama Iqbal Open University
3. Bahria University
4. COMSATS University Islamabad
5. Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology
6. Health Services Academy
7. Institute of Space Technology
8. International Islamic University Islamabad
9. National Defence University
10. National Skills University
11. National University of Modern Languages
12. National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST)
13. National University of Technology (NUTECH)
14. Pakistan Institute of Development Economics
15. Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS)
16. Quaid-i-Azam University
17. Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University
18. Virtual University of Pakistan

Public Universities and Institutions in Punjab (56)

1. Baba Guru Nanak University, Nankana Sahib
2. Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan
3. Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur
4. Emerson University, Multan
5. Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad
6. Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore
7. Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi
8. Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan
9. Government College for Women University, Sialkot
10. Government College University Faisalabad
11. Government College University Lahore
12. Government College Women University Faisalabad
13. Government Sadiq College Women University, Bahawalpur
14. Information Technology University of the Punjab, Lahore
15. The Islamia University of Bahawalpur
16. King Edward Medical University, Lahore
17. Khawaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan
18. Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore
19. Kohsar University, Murree
20. Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
21. Mir Chakar Khan Rind University of Technology, Dera Ghazi Khan
22. Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan
23. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Engineering and Technology, Multan
24. National College of Arts, Lahore
25. National Textile University, Faisalabad
26. National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi
27. National University of Pakistan, Rawalpindi
28. NFC Institute of Engineering and Technology, Multan
29. Nishtar Medical University, Multan
30. Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design, Lahore
31. Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi
32. Punjab Tianjin University of Technology, Lahore
33. University of Rasul, Mandi Bahauddin (formerly Punjab University of Technology, Rasul)
34. Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi
35. Rawalpindi Women University, Rawalpindi
36. Thal University, Bhakkar
37. University of Agriculture, Faisalabad
38. University of Chakwal, Chakwal
39. University of Child Health Sciences, Lahore
40. University of Education, Lahore
41. University of Engineering and Technology Lahore
42. University of Engineering and Technology Taxila
43. University of Gujrat, Gujrat
44. University of Health Sciences, Lahore
45. University of Home Economics, Lahore
46. University of Jhang, Jhang
47. University of Kamalia, Kamalia
48. University of Layyah, Layyah
49. University of Mianwali, Mianwali
50. University of Narowal, Narowal
51. University of Okara, Okara
52. University of Sahiwal, Sahiwal
53. University of Sargodha, Sargodha
54. University of the Punjab, Lahore
55. University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore
56. The Women University, Multan

Public Universities and Institutions in Sindh (35)

1. Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage, Sukkur
2. Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur
3. Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari, Karachi
4. Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University of Technology and Skill Development, Khairpur Mirs
5. Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi
6. Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi
7. Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences, Gambat
8. Government College University Hyderabad, Hyderabad
9. Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences, Hyderabad
10. Institute of Business Administration, Karachi
11. Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi
12. Karachi Metropolitan University, Karachi
13. Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro
14. Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro
15. NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi
16. Pakistan Naval Academy, Karachi
17. PAF Air War College Institute, Karachi
18. Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women, Nawabshah
19. Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Sciences and Technology, Nawabshah
20. Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur
21. Shaheed Allah Buksh Soomro University of Arts, Design and Heritage, Jamshoro
22. Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand
23. Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Shaheed Benazirabad
24. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University, Larkana
25. Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto University of Law, Karachi
26. Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam
27. Sindh Madresatul Islam University, Karachi
28. Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Karachi
29. Sukkur IBA University, Sukkur
30. The Shaikh Ayaz University, Shikarpur
31. University of Karachi, Karachi
32. The University of Larkano, Larkana
33. University of Sindh, Jamshoro
34. University of Sufism and Modern Sciences, Bhit Shah
35. The University of Mirpurkhas, Mirpurkhas

Public Universities and Institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (36)

1. Abbottabad University of Science and Technology, Abbottabad
2. Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan
3. Bacha Khan University, Charsadda
4. Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan
5. Hazara University, Mansehra
6. Institute of Management Sciences, Peshawar
7. Islamia College Peshawar, Peshawar
8. Kalam Bibi International Women Institute, Bannu
9. Khushal Khan Khattak University, Karak
10. Khyber Medical University, Peshawar
11. The University of Agriculture, Peshawar
12. Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat
13. Pak-Austria Fachhochschule Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, Haripur
14. Pakistan Military Academy, Abbottabad
15. Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal
16. Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar
17. The University of Agriculture, Dera Ismail Khan
18. The University of Agriculture, Swat
19. University of Buner, Buner
20. University of Chitral, Chitral
21. University of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Swat
22. University of Engineering and Technology Mardan
23. University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar
24. University of FATA, Kohat
25. University of Haripur, Haripur
26. University of Lakki Marwat, Lakki Marwat
27. University of Malakand, Chakdara
28. University of Peshawar, Peshawar
29. University of Science and Technology, Bannu
30. University of Swabi, Swabi
31. University of Swat, Swat
32. Shuhada-e-Army Public School University of Technology, Nowshera
33. Women University, Swabi
34. Women University Mardan, Mardan
35. The University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Swat
36. University of Shangla, Shangla

Public Universities and Institutions in Balochistan (11)

1. Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology, Khuzdar
2. Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS), Quetta
3. The Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences, Quetta
4. Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal
5. Mir Chakar Khan Rind University, Sibi
6. Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, Quetta
7. University of Balochistan, Quetta
8. University of Gwadar, Gwadar
9. University of Loralai, Loralai
10. University of Makran, Panjgur
11. University of Turbat, Turbat

Public Universities and Institutions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (6)

1. University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad
2. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir University of Bhimber, Bhimber
3. Mirpur University of Science and Technology, Mirpur
4. University of Kotli, Kotli
5. University of Poonch, Rawalakot
6. Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh

Public Universities and Institutions in Gilgit-Baltistan (2)

1. Karakoram International University, Gilgit
2. University of Baltistan, Skardu

Directory Note: The PASTIC directory records 163 public-sector entries, including specialised institutions, degree-awarding institutes and academies. The University of Mirpurkhas is included separately because HEC identifies it as a recognised public-sector university, although it is not yet present in the current PASTIC public-sector list. Accordingly, the regional directory above contains 164 named entries, not a revised national university count. The University of Rasul is listed under its current name following its 2025 renaming. Students should verify each institution's current HEC recognition, exact campus and programme status before making an academic decision.

For verification, consult the PASTIC directory, the HEC recognised universities directory and the Sindh Higher Education Commission's public-sector university records.

Best Public Universities in Pakistan by Subject

The best university for a student depends on the intended subject. A strong engineering institution may not be the most suitable choice for someone interested in agriculture, medicine or business.

The following subject-based comparison offers a more practical starting point.

For example, someone interested in agricultural technology would have a different shortlist from a student aiming to study software engineering. UAF offers a specialised agricultural environment, while NUST and COMSATS have broader technology-oriented academic structures.

The same approach works when comparing public university systems internationally. Students can also explore government-funded higher education in Bangladesh, India, Germany, the UK and the United States.

Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities

Tuition fees at public universities in Pakistan vary according to the institution, degree level, academic discipline and student category. Engineering, medicine, business and specialised professional programmes may have different fee structures.

For an actual published fee example, NUST's undergraduate fee schedule for 2026-27 lists the following charges:

An additional Harvard Business School licensing fee of PKR 15,000 per year applies to eligible national undergraduate students in BBA, BS Accounting and Finance, and BS Tourism and Hospitality Management.

These are NUST-specific published figures, not average fees for all public universities. The university may revise its rates, so students should consult the official NUST undergraduate fee schedule before using these figures for academic planning.

Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students

One particularly relevant opportunity for international applicants is the Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship Programme under the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor.

Pakistan's Higher Education Commission describes a scheme offering 500 fully funded scholarships to eligible Bangladeshi students across fields such as medicine, engineering, computer science, business administration, media studies and social sciences.

The published scholarship package covers:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly maintenance allowance.
• Hostel and mess charges.
• Settlement allowance.
• Return air travel.
• Books and stationery.

The programme includes undergraduate, master's and PhD opportunities. Eligibility requirements vary by degree level. For example, undergraduate applicants generally need 12 years of education with at least 60% marks, while medicine, dentistry and pharmacy applicants require at least 65% in the relevant pre-medical qualification.

The HEC scholarship page lists 10 June 2026 as the application deadline for that published application round. As this date has passed, prospective applicants should check for a new announcement rather than assume that the previous application cycle remains open.

HEC's May 2026 education expo announcement also confirmed the availability of the 500 fully funded scholarships and reported that 74 Bangladeshi students had already commenced their studies at Pakistani universities.

For current eligibility, scholarship benefits and future application announcements, consult the official HEC Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship information.

HEC Need-Based Scholarship Programme

HEC also operates a Need-Based Scholarship Programme for eligible students at participating public-sector universities and degree-awarding institutions in Pakistan.

Its published eligibility criteria include tuition-fee support and a monthly stipend of PKR 6,000 for eligible undergraduate students. Selection depends on financial need, institutional assessment and available scholarship slots.

Students should contact the financial aid office of their intended university to confirm participation, eligibility and application arrangements.

For further details, visit the HEC Need-Based Scholarship eligibility page.

How to Check HEC Recognition of a Public University

Before selecting a university, students should confirm that the institution and the specific campus appear in the relevant HEC records.

Use these checks:

1. Search for the institution in HEC's recognised universities and degree-awarding institutions directory.
2. Confirm that the university belongs to the public sector.
3. Check whether the intended campus has HEC recognition.
4. Confirm that the university currently offers the intended degree programme.
5. For regulated subjects, check the relevant professional accreditation requirements.

This process matters because institutional recognition and programme-level approval are not always identical. A recognised university does not automatically mean that every programme or every campus has the same regulatory status.

Students can use the HEC recognised institutions directory and the recognised campus list to verify institutional information.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Public University

Choosing a university involves more than looking at its global ranking. Students should compare the academic environment with their own educational goals.

Academic Fit: Check whether the university offers the intended undergraduate or postgraduate programme and whether its curriculum matches the student's interests.

Department Reputation: A university may have a strong overall reputation but a less developed department in a particular subject. Compare the department, faculty and available research opportunities.

Research Environment: Students planning postgraduate study should examine research centres, laboratories, academic publications and supervisor expertise.

Programme Accreditation: Engineering, medicine, pharmacy and other regulated disciplines may require additional professional recognition.

Location and Campus Facilities: Consider the city, accommodation arrangements, transport, libraries, laboratories and student facilities.

Published Fees and Scholarships: Compare the actual programme fee, additional charges and applicable scholarship conditions rather than relying on a general claim that all public universities are inexpensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many public universities are there in Pakistan?

Pakistan has 163 public universities, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26. The same report records 115 private universities, bringing the national total to 278.

Which is the number one public university in Pakistan?

Quaid-i-Azam University is the highest-ranked public university in Pakistan in the QS World University Rankings 2027, where it holds joint 381st position globally.

Which public universities in Pakistan are best for engineering?

NUST, PIEAS, UET Lahore, NED University and Mehran University of Engineering and Technology are notable options for engineering and related technical disciplines. The best choice depends on the specific engineering specialisation.

Is NUST a public or private university?

NUST is a public-sector university established in 1991. Its main campus is located in Islamabad, and it offers programmes across engineering, computing, sciences, business and other disciplines.

Are public universities in Pakistan recognised by HEC?

Many public universities and degree-awarding institutions appear in HEC's recognised directory. However, students should check the specific institution, campus and programme rather than assume that every institution in a public-sector directory has identical recognition status.

Are scholarships available for Bangladeshi students at Pakistani public universities?

Yes. The Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship Programme under the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor offers fully funded opportunities for eligible Bangladeshi students to study at Pakistani universities. The previously published 10 June 2026 application deadline has passed, so applicants should check HEC for subsequent application announcements.

What is the oldest public university in Pakistan?

The University of the Punjab, established in 1882, is the oldest university in Pakistan. It was formally established with its first Senate meeting on 14 October 1882.

Which Pakistani public university is best for agriculture?

The University of Agriculture, Faisalabad is a leading choice for agriculture-related education and research. Other relevant institutions include PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, the University of Agriculture Peshawar and Sindh Agriculture University.

Conclusion

Public Universities in Pakistan offer a diverse range of academic opportunities, from research-intensive institutions such as Quaid-i-Azam University and NUST to specialised universities focusing on agriculture, medicine, engineering and technology.

The latest national figures identify 163 public universities, while the QS World University Rankings 2027 provide an international comparison of the country's leading institutions. However, a global ranking should only form part of the decision. Programme quality, departmental strengths, institutional recognition and academic facilities matter just as much when selecting a university.

By comparing these factors and checking the official information carefully, students can identify a public university in Pakistan that matches their subject interests and long-term educational goals.

For students comparing international study destinations, BHE UNI's study-abroad destinations provide further guidance. Those who need help understanding university options, course choices and admission requirements can also request a free consultation.