Applying to the Institute of Space Technology (IST) in 2026? This guide gives you the essentials at a glance: who’s eligible, the latest fee structure, and a clear step-by-step application flow. Skim the tables, follow the checklist, and you’ll know exactly what to do, and when.
IST begins classes in September 2026. Admission window for Fall 2026 is given below.
Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Avionics, Metallurgy & Materials)
- Matric (Science) ≥ 60%, FSc Pre-Engineering / ICS / DAE ≥ 60%, and ≥ 33% in an accepted entry test.
- Pre-Medical candidates can apply after completing an 8-week condensed Mathematics course (from any university).
- DAE fields accepted vary by program (e.g., Aerospace accepts Aerospace/Mechanical/Mechatronics, etc.).
- Seat bands: e.g., Aerospace 100, Avionics 80, Electrical 100, Mechanical 120, Materials 80.
Computer Engineering (NCEAC — non-engineering classification at IST)
- Matric + HSSC/DAE with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/CS; ≥ 60% overall.
- No entry test required.
- Seats ~50.
Related: Types of engineering in Pakistan
Computing programs (CS, AI, Data Science, Software Engineering)
- HSSC/DAE/equivalent with Mathematics≥ 50%or Pre-Medical ≥ 50% (admitted students take two additional Math courses in year-1).
- No entry test.
- Seats (CS 100, AI 50, DS 50).
Also read: software engineering vs computer engineering in Pakistan
Sciences (Space Science, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry–Nanotech, Biotechnology)
- Relevant HSSC/equivalent; most require Math & Physics (Space Science/Physics/Math), while Biotech accepts any science group with at least one of Biology/Chemistry/Physics/Math/CS.
- No entry test.
- Chemistry (Nanotech) requires two Chemistry deficiency courses if you didn’t study Chemistry earlier.
- Seats typically 40–50.
Related: top fields after ICS Physics in Pakistan
Follow the official online workflow (IST portal) below:
Exact fee tables (local students). One-time charges apply only in the first semester.
Note: IST may revise fees; taxes extra.
A) Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Avionics, Mechanical)
B) Metallurgy & Materials Engineering
C) Computing (CS / AI / DS)
D) Space Science / Remote Sensing & GIS
E) Mathematics / Mathematics with AI / Mathematics with DS and Physics / Chemistry (Nanotech)
F) Biotechnology
Optional & Other Charges
- Hostel (per semester): PKR 55,000; Locker: PKR 1,000
- Transport: as per route contract.
- After 8 semesters, continual enrollment fee applies (service charges + 3 credit hours + course fee).
- Student ID: PKR 1,000.
- Taxes extra; fees subject to change.
- Upload all required scans with the online form; later, bring originals on Registration Day as per Offer Letter (SSC/HSSC certificates & transcripts or IBCC equivalence, CNIC/B-Form, photos, affidavit, paid challans, etc.).
- IBCC equivalence is mandatory for O/A-Level applicants by the deadline(s).
- No late-fee option; missing the due date cancels the seat and future list consideration.
- Computing/Sciences: no test needed;
- Engineering: ensure an accepted test score before the 30 June 2026 deadline.
IST offers Merit Scholarships (by program/batch) and directs students to need-based/other schemes; see the official Financial Aid page for criteria and timelines.
Shortlist your program, confirm eligibility, and, if you’re aiming for engineering, book an accepted test within IST’s date window. Build your aggregate with strong academics, submit a clean application before the 30 June 2026 deadline (with timely fee payment), and keep an eye on merit list announcements in July. With the details above, you've got everything needed to move from 'interested' to admitted at IST this fall.
How much merit is required for IST?
There’s no fixed cutoff. Engineering seats are filled on aggregate (Matric + FSc-I/DAE + accepted entry test), while Computing/Sciences are marks-only. Closing merit varies by program each year.
What is the last date for IST admission?
For Fall 2026, admissions opened on 15 April and close on 30 June 2026. IST previously ran two phases — a second phase may still be announced later, so keep checking the IST portal for updates.
Is IST a good university?
Yes, IST is well regarded for aerospace/avionics, solid engineering labs, and growing computing & space sciences programs. It’s a strong pick if you want a focused tech environment.
Is IST public or private?
Public-sector university located in Islamabad.
What is the rank of IST University in Pakistan?
IST is frequently listed among notable engineering/science universities; exact positions vary by ranking body (QS/HEC/THE) each year.
Does IST offer scholarships?
Yes, merit awards and need-based/external schemes (e.g., HEC/Ehsaas/PEEF). Apply through Financial Aid after securing admission.
Does FAST accept ECAT?
Generally no. FAST-NU conducts its own admission test; some SAT-based options may exist for specific categories (confirm on FAST’s portal). Learn more about FAST university admissions here.
How to prepare for a university entry test?
Revise FSc/A-Level fundamentals, run timed MCQs, and solve past/sampled papers. For tests with negative marking (e.g., ECAT), prioritize accuracy; for no-penalty tests (e.g., NAT/HAT), attempt all.
What programs does IST offer?
BS in Aerospace, Avionics, Electrical, Mechanical, Metallurgy & Materials, plus CS, AI, Data Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Space Science, Physics, Math, Chemistry (Nanotech), Biotechnology. Explore all IST undergraduate programs here.
Does IST accept NET?
Yes, IST accepts NUST NET (among several accepted tests) for engineering admissions, provided your score falls within IST’s stated date window and meets the ≥33% minimum.
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