ECAT test in Pakistan is also often used as a blanket term to describe entry tests for any engineering university. This article will give details about the NET entry test. For more information on about other entry tests such as FUNGAT, read this.

The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) is one of Pakistan's top universities, known for its excellence in education and research. Founded to advance knowledge and technology, NUST offers a range of programs in engineering, business, social sciences, and more.

Related: Calculate your NUST Aggregate by clicking here.

Table of Contents

• NUST Admission Test (NET)
• Application Process for NUST Admissions 2025
• What is the NUST entry test fee?
• Test Venues and Format
• Key Points for Applicants
• Eligibility Requirements for Admission at NUST
• Applying to NUST on the Basis of SAT/ACT
• NUST Entry Test Syllabus
• NUST Entry Test Pattern
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

NUST Admission Test (NET)

The NUST Admission Test (NET) is a test required for admission to NUST. It tests your abilities in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and General Knowledge, depending on your chosen program. Doing well on this test is important to secure a spot at NUST. The NUST Entry Test (NET) is held four times a year and is conducted in multiple cities.

• Series 1:
  • Online Registration: October - December 2024
  • Test Schedule: December 2024 in Islamabad, no test in Quetta, Karachi or Gilgit.
• Series 2:
  • Online Registration: December 2024 - February 2025
  • Test Schedule: February 2025 in Islamabad, March 2025 in Karachi & Quetta; no test in Gilgit.
• Series 3:
  • Online Registration: February - March 2025
  • Test Schedule: March -  March - April 2025 in Islamabad, no test in Quetta, Karachi or Gilgit.
• Series 4:
  • Online Registration: April - June 2025
  • Test Schedule: June - July 2025 in Islamabad, July 2025 in Quetta, Karachi & Gilgit.

Application Process for NUST Admissions 2025

Step 1: Register for the NUST Entry Test

The first step in the application process is registering for the NUST Entry Test. Make sure you check the official NUST website for the latest nust admission test dates and registration deadlines.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Once you’ve registered for the test, the next step is to complete the online application form. You’ll need to provide:

• Academic details
• Personal information
• Program preferences

Step 3: Appear for the Test

Attend the NUST Entry Test (NET) at your designated test center. If you’re not satisfied with your score, remember that you can retake the test in the next session.

Step 4: Check the Merit List

After the test, NUST will release a merit list based on your NET score and academic performance. Ensure you keep track of important dates and deadlines for merit list announcements.

Step 5: Pay Admission Fees

If you’re selected, you’ll need to pay your admission fees within the given deadline to secure your spot.

Required Documents

Applicants for NUST Admissions 2025 need the following documents for registration:

• Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), Form B or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)
• Foreign nationals (Non Pakistani) have to provide valid passport number.
• Matric Marksheet and XI marksheet (gap year students will need to provide combined marksheet for XI and XII)
• For A level candidates, O level equivalence certificate, duly issued by IBCC.

What is the NUST entry test fee?

The test fee varies depending on what test you are appearing for, but generally the cost for NUST admissions 2025 is as follows:

• NET Test (per series): PKR 5000 / USD 40
• SAT/ACT (National Seat): PKR 5000 / USD 40
• SAT/ACT (International Seat): PKR 10,000 / USD 80

Test Venues and Formats

NUST conducts the NET in both computer-based and paper-based formats:

• Computer-Based Test (CBNET): Held at Islamabad (H-12 Campus) and Quetta (NUST Balochistan Campus).
• Paper-Based Test (PBNET): Conducted in Karachi (DHA City) and Gilgit (Army Public School, Jutial).

Candidates should choose their preferred test venue during the NUST NET registration process.

Key Points for Applicants

• Multiple Attempts: Candidates can appear in multiple NET series to improve their scores; however, only one attempt per discipline is allowed in each series.
• Preparation Material: NUST does not endorse or provide any preparatory materials for the NET. Candidates are advised to consult relevant textbooks from various educational boards. Maqsad provides online practice tests which students can use to prepare for the NET.
• Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements for your desired program before applying. Detailed criteria are available on the NUST Undergraduate Admissions Portal.
• NUST Condensed Mathematics Course: For pre-medical students who wish to pursue an engineering degree at NUST, completing this course is a requirement to sit for the NUST Entry Test.

Enroll in Maqsad's ECAT 2025 Batch and boost your chances of acing the NUST Entry Test!

Eligibility Requirements for Admission at NUST

If you're planning to apply to NUST, it's essential to understand the academic eligibility criteria before proceeding. Here's a summarized guide to help you determine if you meet the admission requirements.

Minimum Academic Requirements

• SSC & HSSC (Matric & Intermediate)
  • Minimum 60% aggregate marks in both SSC and HSSC or equivalent qualifications as per IBCC equivalence.
• FA/FSc Stream Candidates
  • Can apply for NET based on Part-I results.
  • Admission confirmation is subject to provision of the full FA/FSc certificate or detailed marks certificate.

Foreign & Non-FSc Stream Candidates

This includes qualifications like:

• Cambridge Overseas Higher School Certificate (O/A Levels)
• British GCE (A-Level)
• American High School Diploma (Grades 9–12)
• International Baccalaureate (IB – Diploma Programme)
• Any other foreign qualification

Requirements:

• Must obtain IBCC equivalence certificate in relevant subjects/group.
• Must have at least 60% marks as per IBCC equivalence.
• O-Level students can apply with SSC equivalence certificate.
• Final admission is subject to A-Level (HSSC) equivalence certificate submission.

Important Tips for Foreign Qualification Holders

• Contact IBCC Pakistan early to get equivalence certificates prepared well in advance.
• Ensure your chosen subject group aligns with your intended program at NUST.
• Any subject deficiency or delay in documentation will result in admission cancellation.

Applying to NUST on the Basis of SAT/ACT

NUST offers a limited number of reserved seats in its undergraduate programs for national and international students based on SAT or ACT scores. Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for these seats, but they must be prepared to pay the tuition and associated fees.

SAT and ACT Requirements for NUST Admission

Students applying through ACT or SAT scores, should keep the followings in consideration:

• ACT: NUST accepts ACT scores, which must be sent directly to the university. NUST’s institutional code for receiving ACT scores is 2915, and scores are valid for 2 years.
• SAT: SAT scores, administered by College Board, USA, are also accepted by NUST. The institutional code for sending SAT scores is 2790, with a 2-year validity.

ACT/SAT Requirements:

NUST Entry Test Syllabus

The NUST entry test is primarily based on FA/FSc level curriculum (Part-I & Part-II), meaning it covers the subjects studied in HSSC. The test consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each with four answer options, and candidates are given 3 hours to complete the exam.

The English section follows the pattern of the SAT exam, and the test also includes an intelligence portion. The question bank is developed with reference to various textbooks, so a strong understanding of the concepts in these books will be advantageous for students to ace the exam.

For a more detailed insight, look into the NUST Entry Test Syllabus here.

Key Subject Areas for NUST Entry Test

The following subject breakdown gives students a clear idea of what to expect in the NUST Entry Test 2025 and helps with targeted ECAT preparation.

• Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry: Focuses on core concepts from high school, including problem-solving and application-based questions.
• English: Tests grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
• Intelligence/Reasoning: Evaluates logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and basic general knowledge.

NUST Entry Test Pattern

Nature of Questions:

The NUST Entry Test (NET) consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Students are required to complete 200 MCQs within a 3-hour timeframe. The number of questions from each subject aligns with the subject weightings for the student’s chosen discipline. For more details, read this article on the NUST Entry Test Pattern.

Conclusion

Preparing for admission to NUST is a journey that requires strategic planning, a clear understanding of eligibility criteria, and thorough preparation for the entry test. Whether you're applying through the NET or via SAT/ACT scores, it's crucial to follow the official guidelines and meet all documentation requirements—especially IBCC equivalence for foreign qualifications.

This guide has walked you through every step: from the application process and eligibility rules to test patterns and syllabus insights. With the right preparation and timely action, securing a seat at one of Pakistan’s top universities is absolutely achievable.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge, it's time to focus, stay consistent, and give your best effort. Your future at NUST starts with what you do today. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is calculator allowed in NUST entry test?

No, calculators are not allowed during the NUST entry test. It is important to practice calculations manually to ensure you are well-prepared.

When will NUST merit list be announced?

The NUST merit list is typically announced a few weeks after the completion of the entry test. The exact date may vary, so it's best to regularly check the official NUST website for updates.

Is NUST open for applications for 2025?

Yes, NUST opens applications for undergraduate admissions in phases starting December of the previous year. NET Series 1 is typically held in December, while Series 2 and 3 follow in March and June respectively.

What is the last date of the NUST entry test in 2025?

The last series of the NUST Entry Test (NET 3) is usually held in June or early July 2025. Exact dates are announced on the NUST admissions portal.

How many times does NUST offer admission in a year?

NUST conducts its entry test in three NET series every year. Students can appear in multiple series to improve their scores. However, admission is granted once per year.

How much merit is required for NUST?

Merit requirements vary by discipline. For competitive fields like Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering, students typically need an aggregate above 80% to be competitive.

Is the NUST entry test easy?

The NUST Entry Test (NET) is considered moderately difficult. It tests core concepts from FSc/A-Levels and requires strong preparation, especially for engineering and CS applicants.

What is the minimum merit for software engineering?

The minimum merit (closing aggregate) for Software Engineering at NUST Islamabad campus usually ranges between 84% to 87%, depending on applicant performance each year.

What are NUST fees per semester?

NUST’s undergraduate tuition fee per semester is approximately PKR 115,000 – 130,000, depending on the program. Engineering and CS programs tend to be on the higher side.

What is NUST acceptance rate?

NUST has a low acceptance rate, estimated to be less than 10% for popular programs like CS, SE, and Electrical Engineering, due to high competition.

How much are NUST hostel fees?

Hostel charges at NUST are around PKR 9,000 – 12,000 per month, excluding mess charges. Mess charges are additional and vary depending on student consumption.