Introduction
Degree verification is a crucial process for individuals seeking employment, higher education, or immigration. In Pakistan, degree verification is primarily conducted by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and relevant universities to authenticate academic credentials. This blog provides a step-by-step guide on the degree verification procedure in Pakistan, including the requirements, fees, and methods available for verification.
Importance of Degree Verification
Degree verification serves multiple purposes, such as:
Ensuring the authenticity of academic qualifications
Preventing fraud and misrepresentation
Meeting requirements for local and international employers
Required for immigration and visa applications
Essential for equivalency certificates from foreign institutions
Authorities Responsible for Degree Verification
In Pakistan, the following authorities are responsible for degree verification:
1. Higher Education Commission (HEC)
HEC is the main body responsible for verifying degrees issued by recognized universities.
2. Respective Universities
Most universities provide verification services before a degree can be authenticated by the HEC.
3. Foreign Ministry (For International Use)
Once verified by HEC, degrees intended for international use may require attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Step-by-Step Degree Verification Process
Step 1: Verify from the Issuing University
Before submitting the degree to HEC, the applicant must get it verified by the issuing university. This process varies from one university to another but generally involves:
Submitting an application along with original and photocopied degrees and transcripts.
Paying the prescribed university fee.
Collecting the verified documents after the specified processing time.
Step 2: Register on the HEC Portal
Applicants must create an account on the HEC Degree Attestation System (DAS) by following these steps:
Visit the HEC website.
Click on "Degree Attestation System."
Register and create an account.
Fill in personal details and upload scanned copies of academic documents.
Select a preferred attestation center (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, or Quetta).
- If you want to attest and verified your degree without any hassle, click here and visit our website for apostille mofa degree attestation services in Pakistan
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Once the online application is approved, the applicant must book an appointment at the designated HEC office. No walk-in applications are entertained, and the appointment must be scheduled through the portal.
Step 4: Visit the HEC Office
On the scheduled date, the applicant should visit the selected HEC office with the following documents:
Original degrees and transcripts
CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) or passport
University verification proof (if required)
Printed appointment slip
Attestation fee receipt
Step 5: Payment of Fees
The attestation fee varies depending on the number of documents. The fees can be paid online or through bank deposits as specified by HEC. Generally, the charges are:
PKR 1000 per original degree
PKR 700 per transcript or copy
Step 6: Attestation and Collection
After successful verification, HEC will stamp the documents. The attested documents can be collected in person or dispatched via courier.
Online and Courier-Based Verification
For those unable to visit the HEC office physically, HEC provides a courier-based attestation service in collaboration with TCS Courier. The process involves:
Submitting the application online.
Sending originals and photocopies via designated TCS centers.
Paying the attestation fee through TCS.
Receiving attested documents at the provided address.
Verification for International Use
For documents required for international purposes, further attestation may be required from:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan
Embassy or Consulate of the Destination Country
The process includes:
Submitting HEC-attested documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Getting further verification from the concerned embassy or consulate.
Common Issues and Solutions
1. Missing University Verification
Always check university verification policies before submitting to HEC.
2. Incomplete Documentation
Ensure all required documents, including original degrees, transcripts, and CNIC, are available.
3. Technical Issues with HEC Portal
If facing online application issues, contact HEC support or visit their office for guidance.
Conclusion
Degree verification in Pakistan is an essential process for academic and professional purposes. The procedure involves verification by the issuing university, submission through the HEC online portal, fee payment, and attestation. Those applying for jobs, immigration, or further studies should ensure timely verification to avoid delays. Understanding the process and preparing the necessary documents in advance can make degree verification smooth and hassle-free.
FAQs
1. How long does HEC degree verification take?
It usually takes 2-7 working days, depending on the mode (in-person or courier service) and the volume of applications.
2. Can I verify my degree without an HEC appointment?
No, HEC requires an online appointment booking before attestation.
3. Is university verification mandatory before HEC attestation?
Yes, university verification is required for degrees issued before 2009. For recent degrees, university verification may not be necessary.
4. What happens if my degree is found to be fake?
HEC has strict policies against fake degrees. Any fraudulent documents can lead to legal action and blacklisting from HEC and relevant authorities.
5. Can someone else submit my degree for verification?
No, the applicant must be present unless submitting through the authorized courier service.
