How to Apply for the USAT Test for BS Admission

The Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) is a test for admission in BS programs in the universities of Pakistan. This test is conducted by HEC through its testing body Education Testing Council (ETC).

This guide explains everything an applicant needs to know from eligibility criteria and registration steps to fee payment, test preparation, roll number slips, and test schedules.

■ Eligible Criteria

Students applying for BS programs in Pakistani universities, who meet the following criteria:

• Students who have completed Intermediate (HSSC) or equivalent education
• Students awaiting Intermediate results
• A-Level students or equivalent qualification

■ Types of USAT Tests

There are different types of USAT Tests based applicant’s educational discipline or intended field of study, as follows:

Selecting the correct category is extremely important because the one part of the test is based on the chosen academic discipline.

■ USAT Test Schedule and Frequency

The USAT is conducted several times throughout the year. For reference, the schedule for upcoming USAT is given below:

Test Date: July 5, 2026
Registration Deadline: June 7, 2026
Roll Number Slip: June 25, 2026

Test Date: September 6, 2026
Registration Deadline: July 26, 2026
Roll Number Slip: August 28, 2026

Test Date: November 15, 2026
Registration Deadline: October 4, 2026
Roll Number Slip: November 6, 2026

Test Date: December 31, 2026
Registration Deadline: November 8, 2026
Roll Number Slip: December 4, 2026

However, applicants should not assume that the schedule remains the same every year. It is essential to regularly check official announcements. The HEC and ETC portals are the primary sources for all USAT-related announcements.

Since the USAT score is required for admission in BS program, the student must plan their test well before the admission cycle of their intended university.

■ Documents Required Before Applying

Before starting the application process, applicants should prepare the following documents and information:

• Valid CNIC or B-Form
• Passport-size photograph
• Active mobile number
• Active email address
• Educational details

It is highly recommended to use a personal email address and mobile number because all updates, roll number slips, and announcements are sent through them.

■ Procedure to Apply for the USAT

Step 1: Visit the Official ETC Portal

Applicants must visit the ETC Online portal provided on the official website of the HEC.
This online portal is used for:

• Registration
• Fee challan generation
• Application submission
• Roll number slips
• Result announcements

Always use the official portal to avoid fraud or misinformation.

2: Create an Account

New users need to create an account ETC Online portal for USAT Test by providing the following information:

• Full name
• CNIC/B-Form/Passport number
• Email address
• Mobile number
• Password

After entering details, the system usually sends a verification email or SMS. Applicants should carefully save their login credentials for future use.

Step 3: Log In to the Portal

After account creation:

• Open the ETC portal
• Enter email/CNIC (as username)
• Enter password
• Click Login

Once logged in, the dashboard will appear.

Step 4: Select the USAT Test

From the available tests section:

• Choose “USAT”
• Select the relevant category
• Read instructions carefully

Applicants should never rush during this step because choosing the wrong category may affect university admissions later.

Step 5: Fill the Application Form

The application form contains multiple sections where the student has to enter the following information.
Personal Information

• Name
• Father’s name
• Date of birth
• Gender
• CNIC/B-Form number

Educational Information

• Matric details
• Intermediate details
• Board name
• Passing year
• Marks/grades

Test City Selection
Applicants can choose their preferred test city according to availability. Popular test cities usually include:

• Karachi
• Hyderabad
• Lahore
• Islamabad
• Peshawar
• Quetta
• Multan
• Sukkur

Seats in some cities may fill quickly, so early registration is beneficial.

Step 6: Upload Photograph

Applicants must upload a recent passport-size photograph.
Important Photo Guidelines:

• Clear face visibility
• Light background preferred
• No sunglasses
• Proper image size according to portal requirements

Blurred or incorrect photographs can create problems during verification.

Step 7: Generate Fee Challan

After completing the form, applicants need to generate the fee challan. The portal creates:

• Challan number
• Fee amount
• Bank details

Applicants should print or download the challan.

■ How to Pay the USAT Fee

The fee can usually be paid through:

• Designated banks
• Online banking
• Mobile banking apps
• ATM services

Payment methods and account details are provided on the official online portal of HEC/ETC.
After payment:

• Keep the receipt safely
• Do not lose the transaction slip

The applicant is required to provide the details of submitted fee in their online application. The application is not considered complete until fee verification is successful.

Step 8: Submit the Application

Once fee payment is confirmed:

• Review all entered information carefully
• Correct any mistakes
• Click Submit

After submission, applicants usually receive:

• Confirmation message/email
• Application tracking information

It is wise to take screenshots or print the submitted application form for record purposes.

■ How to Download the Roll Number Slip

Before the test date, ETC uploads roll number slips on the portal.

• Log in to ETC portal
• Open dashboard
• Click “My Applications”
• Download roll number slip

The slip contains:

• Test date
• Reporting time
• Test center
• Seat number
• Important instructions

Applicants should print the downloaded roll number slip.

■ What to Bring on Test Day

Applicants should carry:

• Printed roll number slip
• Original CNIC or B-Form
• Clipboard
• Blue or black ballpoint pen

Without original identification documents, entry may not be allowed.

■ Items Usually Not Allowed

The following items are generally prohibited:

• Mobile phones
• Smart watches
• Notes/books
• Calculators (unless specifically allowed)
• Electronic devices

Violation of rules may result in disqualification.

■ How USAT Scores Are Used

Universities generally use USAT scores along with students' intermediate and matric marks for making merit list for admission. Each university may have its own admission policy. Applicants should check university-specific requirements carefully.

■ Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid

1. Applying at the Last Moment

Heavy website traffic near deadlines may cause:

• Login problems
• Payment delays
• Submission failures

2. Selecting the Wrong Test Category

This is one of the most common mistakes.
Applicants must choose the category matching:

• Their educational background
• Intended degree program

3. Incorrect Information Can Cause Problems

Mistakes in the following may create issues later.

• CNIC numbers
• Names
• Academic records

Always double-check information before final submission.

4. Use Active Contact Information

Many students miss updates because:

• Email addresses become inaccessible
• SIM cards are inactive

Always use working contact details.