HEC bans Imperial College of Business Studies (ICBS) Lahore

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan regularly monitors and evaluates the performance of higher education institutions across the country to ensure compliance with prescribed academic standards, regulations, and quality assurance guidelines. Institutions failing to meet these requirements may face regulatory action, including suspension or banning.

In this regard, HEC identified significant irregularities and serious deficiencies in the academic and administrative systems of the Imperial College of Business Studies (ICBS), Lahore. As a result, the Commission has imposed a ban on the institution.

Key Directives Issued by HEC:

• ICBS Lahore has been instructed to immediately cease new admissions and academic instruction effective from April 2017 until further notice.
• The general public and prospective students have been advised to avoid seeking admission to ICBS Lahore, as degrees awarded after April 2017 will not be recognized by HEC.
• However, degrees awarded prior to April 2017 will remain valid and recognized.

Public Advisory

HEC has issued a clear warning to students and parents to exercise caution when selecting institutions for higher education and to verify institutional recognition status before applying for admission.

Institution’s Response

In response to the directive, ICBS Lahore has stated that it is currently undergoing an upgradation and compliance process to address the identified deficiencies. The institution has expressed its intention to resume academic activities once it fully meets HEC’s prescribed standards.