If you’re planning to study abroad with a Pakistani degree, one of the first formalities you’ll need is HEC attestation. This process confirms that your degree and transcripts are genuine and issued by a recognized institution. Without this step, foreign universities, credential evaluators, and even embassies may reject your application. The good news is that the procedure is straightforward once you know the exact sequence. This guide explains the HEC attestation process step by step, specifically for students preparing to apply abroad.
What is HEC Attestation?
HEC attestation is the official verification of your academic credentials by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. It is proof that your degree and transcripts are authentic, valid, and recognized. For study abroad purposes, attestation is often mandatory because it adds credibility to your documents before they are reviewed by foreign institutions or embassies.
Two Modes of Attestation
HEC offers two main ways to get your documents attested:
- Walk-in (Urgent) Mode – You book an appointment online, visit the HEC office, and usually receive attested documents the same day.
- Courier Mode – You send your documents through an approved courier service, and they are returned after attestation.
For applicants inside Pakistan, the courier option is available through designated providers. For those living abroad, HEC has partnered with international courier agents to handle submissions.
Attestation Fees
- Original document (degree or transcript): Rs. 1,000 each
- Photocopy: Rs. 700 each (only if the corresponding original is already attested or submitted together)
Payments are made online through the HEC e-Services system before you submit your documents.
Checklist Before You Start
- Valid CNIC or passport
- Original degree and transcripts
- Clear, legible photocopies
- Consistent spelling of your name and father’s name across all documents
- Scanned copies for uploading to the HEC portal
- Choice between walk-in urgent appointment or courier submission
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Create an Account on HEC e-Services
Register yourself on the HEC e-Services portal. Complete your profile with personal details and enter your academic qualifications one by one.
Step 2: Upload Your Documents
Scan and upload degrees and transcripts. Make sure scans are clear. If a transcript is incomplete, mark it as “in progress” in the application.
Step 3: Submit for Scrutiny
Submit your application online. HEC will review the information and notify you if anything needs correction.
Step 4: Pay the Attestation Fee
Once scrutiny is cleared, you’ll be prompted to pay fees online through the 1-Link system. After payment is verified, you can download and print your application form.
Step 5A: Walk-in Urgent Submission
Book an appointment at your nearest HEC office (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, or Quetta). On the scheduled day, carry all required documents and your printed form. If everything is in order, documents are typically attested and returned the same day.
Step 5B: Courier Submission Inside Pakistan
Take your documents and printed form to the designated courier service. They will deliver to HEC, and after attestation, your documents are sent back to you.
Step 5C: Courier Submission from Abroad
If you are outside Pakistan, submit documents through the designated international courier partner. They will forward them to HEC and return them to you after completion.
Step 6: Request Sealed Envelopes if Needed
Some credential evaluation agencies, like WES or ICAS, require attested photocopies inside sealed envelopes. When submitting, request this service and ensure you keep extra photocopies for yourself before sealing.
Step 7: Collect or Receive Documents
If you used walk-in, you collect your attested documents the same day. If you used courier, you receive them at your provided address.
Required Documents for Submission
- Original degrees and transcripts for each qualification
- Photocopies of each document to be attested
- CNIC or passport (plus photocopy)
- Printed HEC application form
- Authority letter and CNIC copy (if someone else is submitting on your behalf)
Things HEC Will Not Do
- HEC does not attest secondary school certificates (SSC/HSSC). These are handled by IBCC.
- HEC will not attest photocopies unless the original is also attested.
- Degrees from unrecognized institutions are not eligible for attestation.
After HEC: Next Steps for Study Abroad
In many cases, you’ll also need attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and legalization from the embassy of the country where you are applying. Always check the destination country’s requirements to avoid delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting documents with name or date mismatches.
- Forgetting to mark incomplete transcripts correctly.
- Not requesting sealed envelopes when needed for credential evaluators.
- Assuming all documents will be attested without scrutiny.
- Waiting too long to book an urgent appointment or start the process.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start at least two months before your university deadlines.
- Request originals, photocopies, and sealed envelopes in one go.
- Keep digital scans of all documents.
- Double-check your name spelling across all records.
- Track SMS or email updates from HEC regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need HEC attestation for every foreign university?
Most universities and scholarship bodies require it. Even if not mandatory for admission, embassies often ask for attested documents during visa processing.
Q2: Can HEC attest my photocopies without the originals?
No. Photocopies are only attested if the originals have already been attested.
Q3: Can I complete attestation while living abroad?
Yes, you can submit documents through HEC’s designated international courier partner without traveling to Pakistan.
Q4: Can someone else submit my documents in Pakistan?
Yes, if they carry an authority letter from you and a photocopy of their CNIC attested by a Grade-17 officer or above.
Q5: How long does courier attestation take?
It varies, but expect at least two to three weeks for domestic courier submissions. International submissions may take longer.
Q6: Do I need to attest both degree and transcript?
Yes, both must be attested because foreign institutions usually require verification of your academic record, not just the degree certificate.
Conclusion
HEC attestation is a crucial step for Pakistani students aiming to study abroad. The process may seem overwhelming at first, but once you understand the sequence, it becomes straightforward. Start by creating your HEC e-Services profile, upload and verify your documents, pay the fees, and choose between walk-in urgent or courier mode. Always plan ahead, keep your records consistent, and request sealed envelopes if needed. With this preparation, your documents will be ready for international recognition, bringing you one step closer to your study abroad journey.