HEC Cancels Exams Nationwide Amid Security Concerns in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

HEC Cancels Exams Nationwide Amid Security Concerns in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has officially announced the postponement of several nationwide exams, including the Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT), the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT), and the Recruitment Test for AML-CFT positions. The decision was made in light of the ongoing law and order situation in major parts of the country, particularly in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where large-scale political demonstrations have disrupted normal life.

The Education Testing Council (ETC) — a wing of HEC responsible for organizing these exams — released an official statement on Friday confirming that all tests scheduled for October 11 and 12, 2025, have been postponed until further notice. The commission emphasized that a revised schedule will be announced soon, and registered candidates will be informed via email, SMS, and HEC’s official website.

HEC Statement on Postponed Exams

In its statement, the HEC’s Education Testing Council explained that the decision was made to ensure the safety and convenience of students, many of whom were unable to travel to their examination centers due to road closures, transportation shutdowns, and communication barriers in several cities.

“The commission regrets the inconvenience caused to students and parents but assures that new dates will be communicated as soon as the situation normalizes,” the HEC spokesperson said.

The Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) is a mandatory test for students seeking admission to undergraduate programs in universities affiliated with HEC, while the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) serves as a qualification exam for scholarships and higher education programs. The AML-CFT Recruitment Test was also scheduled for candidates applying to specialized positions in financial monitoring and compliance.

The postponement has affected thousands of students nationwide, particularly those from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Peshawar, who had been preparing for months for these important assessments.

Lockdown in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

The twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been under tight security lockdown since Friday amid the ongoing protests by a religious political party. The demonstrations led to the closure of major roads, suspension of the Metro Bus service, and shutdown of mobile internet services, leaving thousands stranded.

The Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control issued an official notification to suspend 3G and 4G mobile internet services across both cities. The directive instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to coordinate with the district commissioners and police officials to enforce the suspension.

As a result, students, teachers, and daily commuters faced immense difficulty reaching schools, universities, and examination centers. Public transportation remained suspended, and businesses, hotels, and offices along Murree Road and surrounding areas were ordered to close temporarily for security reasons.

The closure of the Metro Bus Service further worsened the situation, as thousands rely on it for daily commuting between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Containers placed at major entry and exit points made travel nearly impossible, leading to severe traffic congestion on alternative routes.

Students Express Frustration Over Last-Minute Decision

Many students took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration over the last-minute postponement of exams. While most understood the security concerns, several students criticized the lack of timely communication from authorities.

A student from Rawalpindi wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

“I had been preparing for the USAT for weeks. I reached halfway to the exam center before realizing the test was postponed. There was no official message in time.”

Others highlighted how poor coordination between HEC and local administration created confusion, with many students arriving at their test centers only to find them closed.

However, education experts and parents supported HEC’s decision, noting that student safety must remain a top priority during such uncertain times.

HEC Promises Revised Schedule Soon

The Higher Education Commission assured that the new exam dates for USAT, HAT, and AML-CFT tests will be announced soon once the situation across the country stabilizes. All candidates have been advised to regularly check the official HEC website (www.hec.gov.pk) and monitor their emails for updated information.

The commission added that admit cards already issued will remain valid for the rescheduled exams, and there will be no need for re-registration.

Students are encouraged to continue their preparation and remain patient as the HEC works with law enforcement and administrative bodies to determine safe and accessible venues for upcoming examinations.

Nationwide Impact of Security Situation

The current law and order situation has not only disrupted examinations but also affected educational institutions, transportation, and daily business activities. Schools and colleges in multiple cities, including Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, have either suspended classes or shifted to online learning temporarily.

The academic calendar for several universities may face delays if the situation persists, raising concerns about the timely commencement of new semesters and admissions processes for 2025.

Analysts believe that the repeated disruptions due to political unrest are affecting Pakistan’s education sector and students’ mental well-being, especially those preparing for higher studies and professional exams.

The HEC’s decision to postpone nationwide exams underscores the challenges faced by Pakistan’s education system amid recurring political and security crises. While the delay has caused inconvenience to thousands of students, the move reflects the commission’s commitment to ensuring student safety and examination integrity.

Until further notice, all candidates are advised to stay updated through official channels, avoid misinformation, and wait for the revised exam schedule to be released.

For official updates, candidates should visit the HEC website or contact the Education Testing Council directly through its helpline or email support.