University of the Punjab
Also known as PU · Punjab University
The University of the Punjab is a public university in Lahore and one of the oldest and largest universities in Pakistan. It offers a broad range of programs across the natural sciences, social sciences.
Quick Facts
| Founded | 1882 |
|---|---|
| Location | Lahore |
| Province | Punjab |
| Private or Government | Public (Government) |
| Institution Type | University |
| HEC Recognition | HEC Recognized |
| Website | http://www.pu.edu.pk/ |
About
The University of the Punjab is a public university in Lahore and one of the oldest and largest universities in Pakistan. It offers a broad range of programs across the natural sciences, social sciences, arts, law and professional faculties.
Degree Programs
This university offers 4 engineering programmes. PEC accreditation is granted to a specific programme at a specific university — a degree accredited elsewhere is not automatically accredited here — so confirm the status of your chosen programme directly with the Pakistan Engineering Council before enrolling.
Admissions
Undergraduate admission is normally based on HSSC or an equivalent qualification, with many institutions adding an entry test or interview. Postgraduate admission commonly requires GAT or an institutional equivalent. Requirements, closing dates and merit criteria change each cycle, so treat the institution’s own admissions page as authoritative. As a public-sector institution, fees are generally lower than at private institutions, and merit competition is correspondingly higher.
Applying in Punjab
Public-sector engineering admission in Punjab runs through the ECAT administered by UET Lahore, while medical and dental admission uses the national MDCAT. Punjab operates one of the country’s largest public university systems, so applicants typically hold offers from several institutions at once and should compare merit positions before accepting. Because University of the Punjab is in the public sector, seats are allocated partly on a domicile basis. Applicants holding a domicile from outside the province should check how many open-merit seats are available before applying.
HEC Recognition and Accreditation
The Higher Education Commission lists University of the Punjab as a recognised institution. Recognition means the HEC accepts the institution as competent to award degrees, and that its degrees can be attested and treated as valid for further study and public-sector employment. Recognition is institutional, however, and does not by itself confirm that any particular programme is accredited by its professional body. Applicants should confirm programme-level accreditation with the relevant council directly.
Disciplines
Rankings
| Provider | Ranking | Year | Overall Rank | Subject Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS | QS World University Rankings | 2026 | 542 |
Contact Details
- Address: Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore.
- Phone: +92-42-99231098-9, +92-42-35840735
- Official website: pu.edu.pk
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of the Punjab recognized by HEC?
Yes. The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan lists University of the Punjab as a recognised institution, which means its degrees can be attested by the HEC and are accepted for further study and public-sector employment. Recognition applies to the institution; individual programmes may additionally require accreditation from a professional council.
Is University of the Punjab private or government?
University of the Punjab is a public-sector institution. Public institutions generally charge lower fees than private ones because they receive government funding, and admission is correspondingly more competitive on merit.
What entry test is required for admission to University of the Punjab?
Requirements vary by programme. Most undergraduate intakes are based on HSSC or an equivalent qualification, and many institutions add their own entry test or interview. Confirm the current requirement on the institution's own admissions page, since criteria and closing dates change each cycle.
Does HEC recognition mean every programme at University of the Punjab is accredited?
No. HEC recognition confirms the institution is chartered to award degrees. Individual programmes in regulated fields need separate accreditation — the Pakistan Engineering Council for engineering, PMDC for medicine and dentistry, the Pakistan Bar Council for law, NCEAC for computing. A programme can sit inside a recognised institution without holding that professional accreditation, so check the specific programme before enrolling.
Where is University of the Punjab located?
University of the Punjab is located in Lahore, Punjab. Full address and contact details are listed above; the official website is www.pu.edu.pk.