ISLAMABAD: Higher Education Commission has formally announced the launch of the National Skill Competency Test for IT graduates, a standardized assessment aimed at aligning university education with the demands of the global technology sector.

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Who is eligible and what students gain Impact on universities and national rankings Key dates

Developed under the prime minister’s directives, the initiative has been designed in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication, the Pakistan Software Export Board, and the Pakistan Software Houses Association. HEC said the test seeks to improve employability and industry readiness among Pakistan’s expanding IT workforce.

Who is eligible and what students gain

The test is open to students currently enrolled in the 7th or 8th semester of computing-related degree programmes, including Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science. Participation is free of charge.

According to HEC, high-performing candidates will receive a joint certificate issued by HEC, PSEB, and P@SHA, and will be included in a national talent pool accessible to both local and international employers. Successful students will also earn one academic credit from their institutions and receive priority access to internships, apprenticeships, and international certification pathways.

Impact on universities and national rankings

HEC has directed all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to ensure full student participation, stating that test results will be used for national benchmarking of universities. Institutions will be placed into performance tiers based on how well their students demonstrate industry-relevant competencies.

Universities that fail to facilitate student registration or nominate a focal person by the deadline will be placed below the lowest performance category in national rankings, the commission warned.