USAT guide: pattern, syllabus and what the score is for
USAT (Undergraduate Studies Admission Test) is the entry test run by HEC's Education Testing Council for students finishing intermediate. This page explains the paper, the types of USAT and where a good score takes you.
USAT paper pattern
The pattern is the same for every USAT type. Only the subject questions change.
100 minutes, which is about 80 seconds a question.
40 minutes, written in English or Urdu.
| Section | Questions / marks |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 MCQs |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 25 MCQs |
| Subject knowledge (depends on your USAT type) | 30 MCQs |
| Argument-based essay (1 of 3 topics) | 15 marks |
| Narrative essay (1 of 3 topics) | 10 marks |
Source: HEC content weightages for USAT.
Types of USAT
You sit the paper that matches your intermediate group. Pick yours for the full syllabus.
- USAT-EPre-Engineering · syllabus
- USAT-MPre-Medical · syllabus
- USAT-CSComputer Science · syllabus
- USAT-GSGeneral Science
- USAT-AArts & Humanities
- USAT-COMCommerce
Scholarships that ask for a USAT score
HEC uses USAT to shortlist students for these undergraduate scholarships abroad.
USAT questions, answered
What is USAT?
USAT is the Undergraduate Studies Admission Test. It is run by the Education Testing Council (ETC) of Pakistan's Higher Education Commission (HEC) for students who have finished, or are finishing, intermediate (HSSC) or an equivalent qualification.
What is USAT used for?
Universities that accept USAT use the score in their admission merit, and HEC asks for a valid USAT score for several undergraduate scholarships, including scholarships to study abroad.
How many questions are in USAT?
There are 75 multiple-choice questions to be done in 100 minutes, followed by two essays (one argument-based, one narrative) in 40 minutes.
How long is a USAT score valid?
A USAT score is valid for one year. Scholarships set their own cut-off dates for when the test must have been taken, so check the notice for the scholarship you want.
Can I write the USAT essays in Urdu?
Yes. HEC's pattern allows the essays to be written in English or Urdu.
Is there negative marking in USAT?
HEC's published content weightages don't mention negative marking. Read the instructions on your own test slip to be sure.
Test dates, the fee and registration are announced by HEC for each test. Check HEC's ETC website for the current schedule.