AIOU Announces Entry Test Schedule for MS, MPhil and PhD Admissions Spring 2026

AIOU Announces Entry Test Schedule for MS, MPhil and PhD Admissions Spring 2026

Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has officially announced the entry test schedule for admissions into its MS, MPhil and PhD programs for the Spring 2026 semester , with examinations set to commence in the final week of February across multiple cities in Pakistan.

The university administration has confirmed that entry tests for various faculties will be conducted simultaneously at 9:00 am from February 23 to February 26, 2026, at both the main campus in Islamabad and designated regional centers nationwide.

Complete AIOU Entry Test Schedule 2026

According to the official notification issued by the university's admissions department, the faculty-wise testing schedule is as follows:

• February 23, 2026 (Monday) – Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies

• February 24, 2026 (Tuesday) – Faculty of Education

• February 25, 2026 (Wednesday) – Faculty of Social Sciences

• February 26, 2026 (Thursday) – Faculty of Sciences

All tests will commence promptly at 9:00 am, and candidates are advised to arrive at their designated test centers at least one hour before the scheduled time for documentation verification and seating arrangements.

Test Centers and Venue Details

In a move to ensure accessibility for candidates from all regions of Pakistan, AIOU has established testing facilities at multiple locations. Candidates can appear for their entry tests at:

• Main Campus, Islamabad – All faculties

• Regional Center, Gilgit-Baltistan – All faculties

• Regional Center, Multan – All faculties

• Regional Center, Karachi – All faculties

• Regional Center, Quetta – All faculties

University officials confirmed that candidates have the flexibility to select a test center of their convenience during the application process. This decentralized approach aims to minimize travel requirements and accommodate candidates from remote and far-flung areas of the country.

Application Deadline and Process

The university is actively accepting online applications for MS, MPhil and PhD programs until February 17, 2026 . Prospective candidates can access the complete prospectus and admission forms through the official AIOU website at www.aiou.edu.pk.

The application process is entirely online, and university authorities have urged candidates to complete their submissions well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical difficulties. Late applications will not be entertained under any circumstances, officials emphasized.

Merit and Transparency: The Interview Phase

University spokespersons clarified that qualifying the entry test is only the first step in the admission process. Candidates who successfully pass the written examination will be required to appear for a compulsory interview before the final merit list is prepared.

"The administration is fully committed to ensuring complete merit and transparency throughout the testing and interview process," a senior AIOU official stated. "All procedures will be conducted in strict accordance with the university's academic regulations and higher education commission guidelines."

The interview panel will assess candidates' research aptitude, subject knowledge, and suitability for advanced degree programs. Final selection will be based on a composite score combining entry test performance and interview evaluation.

Preparing for AIOU Entry Tests

Education experts advise candidates to thoroughly review their relevant subject areas, with special emphasis on research methodology and core disciplinary knowledge. For PhD aspirants, a clear understanding of their proposed research topic and its contribution to existing knowledge will be crucial during the interview phase.

The university has not released sample papers or past test materials, encouraging candidates to rely on standard textbooks and their previous academic preparation.

Importance of AIOU Postgraduate Programs

AIOU, as Pakistan's largest distance learning institution, plays a pivotal role in providing higher education opportunities to students who cannot attend traditional full-time programs due to professional or geographical constraints. The university's MS, MPhil and PhD programs are particularly significant for working professionals seeking to advance their academic qualifications while maintaining employment.

The Spring 2026 admissions cycle reflects AIOU's continued commitment to expanding access to quality postgraduate education across Pakistan's diverse regions.

Key Takeaways for Applicants

• Entry tests begin: February 23, 2026

• Last date to apply: February 17, 2026

• Test timings: 9:00 am sharp at all centers

• Locations: Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Multan, Karachi, Quetta

• Mandatory stages: Written test followed by interview

• Application mode: Online only via AIOU official website

Candidates facing any difficulties during the application process can contact the AIOU admissions helpline or visit their nearest regional office during working hours. The university has also activated a dedicated email support system for admission-related queries.

With the deadline approaching rapidly, prospective students are strongly advised to complete their registration formalities without delay and begin rigorous preparation for the forthcoming entry tests.

This announcement marks another milestone in AIOU's mission to promote higher education and research culture in Pakistan, offering aspiring scholars a pathway to advanced degrees through a transparent, merit-based admission system.