Shaheed Allah Buksh Soomro (SABS) University of Art, Design and Heritages, Jamshoro, is Pakistan’s first public-sector university dedicated entirely to art, design, and cultural heritage. Chartered under the Sindh Assembly Act XIV, SABS University grew out of the historic Federal College of Art and Design (FCAD) and later the Centre of Excellence in Arts and Design (CEAD) at Mehran University. Today, it stands as an independent, HEC-recognized institution in the heart of Sindh’s education hub.
If you are searching for the best public art university in Pakistan, SABS University admission, or affordable design degree programs in Sindh, this guide covers everything you need — from programs and fees to the entry test pattern and scholarships.
What is SABS University? A Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Shaheed Allah Buksh Soomro University of Art, Design and Heritages |
| Location | Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan |
| Type | Public / Government Sector |
| Established | Chartered by Government of Sindh (roots trace back to FCAD and CEAD, Mehran University) |
| Recognition | HEC-Recognized |
| Campus Life | Studio-based learning, hostels, transport, digital library, smart classrooms |
SABS University is not just another arts college. It is the only public art university in Pakistan built around hands-on, studio-based education — connecting traditional crafts with modern creative industries.
SABS University Programs List
SABS University offers seven undergraduate degree programs through its regular Fall intake. Whether you want to become an architect, a fashion designer, or a fine artist, there is a program for you.
| Program | Duration | What You Will Learn |
| Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) | 5 Years | Architectural design, structural planning, building construction, and spatial design |
| Bachelor of Ceramic Design | 4 Years | Pottery, 3D form development, material exploration, and craft innovation |
| Bachelor of Communication Design | 4 Years | Graphic design, digital media, branding, illustration, and advertising |
| Bachelor of Fashion Design | 4 Years | Garment construction, pattern making, apparel manufacturing, and fashion branding |
| Bachelor of Fine Arts | 4 Years | Painting, sculpture, printmaking, miniature painting, and visual expression |
| Bachelor of Interior Design | 4 Years | Spatial planning, interior architecture, furniture design, and material fabrication |
| Bachelor of Textile Design | 4 Years | Fabric printing, weaving techniques, surface design, and textile heritage |
Note: The Bachelor of Ceramic Design is a relatively new addition and reflects SABS University’s commitment to preserving Pakistan’s rich craft heritage while training modern designers.
SABS University Fee Structure (Local Open Merit)
One of the biggest reasons students choose SABS University is its affordable fee structure compared to private art schools. Here is the complete breakdown for local regular-merit students.
One-Time Admission Dues (Paid Once at Enrollment)
| Fee Head | Amount (PKR) |
| Admission Fee | 10,000 |
| Caution Money (Refundable) | 3,000 |
| Subject Society Fee | 2,000 |
| Marks Verification Fee | 3,000 |
| Enrollment Fee | 2,000 |
| ID Card Fee | 1,000 |
| Total One-Time Dues | 21,000 |
Per-Semester Academic Charges
| Fee Head | Amount (PKR) |
| Tuition Fee | 32,500 |
| Transport Charges | 12,000 |
| Development Charges | 4,000 |
| Semester Exam Fee | 3,500 |
| Games Fee | 2,000 |
| Total Per Semester | 54,000 |
Other Charges
| Fee Head | Amount (PKR) |
| Final Thesis Display Fee (Last Semester Only) | 5,000 |
| Application Processing Fee | 2,000 |
Hostel Charges (Optional)
| Fee Head | Amount (PKR) |
| Hostel Admission / Security Deposit (One-Time) | 17,000 |
| Hostel Semester Charges (Room + Utilities) | 28,500 |
Total First Semester Cost for a Day Scholar
| Description | Amount (PKR) |
| One-Time Admission Dues | 21,000 |
| First Semester Fee | 54,000 |
| Total | 75,000 |
Hostel charges are extra and only apply if you opt for on-campus accommodation.
SABS University Admission Eligibility
Before you apply, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for your desired program.
For Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
- Minimum 60% aggregate marks in Intermediate
- Acceptable combinations: FSc Pre-Engineering, FSc Pre-Medical, ICS (with Physics & Math), A-Levels, or equivalent diploma
For All 4-Year BS Design & Fine Arts Programs
- Minimum 45% aggregate marks in Intermediate
- Acceptable combinations: FA, FSc, ICS, I.Com, A-Levels, or equivalent diploma
For Result-Awaiting Students
Yes, you can apply even if your Intermediate Part-II result is pending. SABS University allows provisional admission based on your HSC Part-I marksheet. Your final admission will be confirmed once your Part-II result is verified.
SABS University Entry Test Pattern
Getting into SABS University is not just about marks. You must pass a practical Pre-Admission Test that checks your creative skills, English proficiency, and logical thinking.
Test Breakdown
| Test Component | Weightage | Duration | What It Tests |
| Drawing Test | 60% | 2 Hours | Observational sketching, creativity, and hand-drawing ability |
| English Test | 20% | 20 Minutes | Computer-based language proficiency |
| Aptitude Test | 20% | 20 Minutes | Computer-based visual awareness and logical reasoning |
Minimum Passing Score
You must score at least 30% overall on the entry test to be considered for admission.
Final Merit Calculation Formula
Your place on the merit list depends on three things:
Final Merit = (80% × Entry Test Score) + (10% × HSC / Intermediate Marks) + (10% × SSC / Matric Marks)
This means your entry test performance carries the most weight — so prepare your drawing skills seriously.
How to Apply for SABS University Admission
The entire application process is online. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the Portal — Go to admissions.sabsu.edu.pk during the open admission window.
- Register — Create an account using your email and CNIC or B-Form number.
- Fill the Form — Enter your personal details, academic record, and program choice.
- Upload Documents — Scan and upload:
- Matriculation and Intermediate marksheets (or Part-I result if awaiting)
- CNIC or B-Form
- Domicile certificate
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Pay the Fee — Generate the bank challan for Rs. 2,000 application fee, pay at the designated bank, and upload the paid receipt.
- Submit & Download — Complete the submission and download your confirmation slip.
- Appear for the Test — Report to the Jamshoro campus on your assigned date with your admit card for the practical entry test.
Tip: Apply early. Seats fill fast, especially for Architecture and Communication Design. Check the official website for exact dates for the current intake.
Scholarships and Financial Aid at SABS University
SABS University students can apply for multiple government and institutional scholarships, including:
- Sindh Education Endowment Fund (SEEF)
- National Endowment Scholarship for Talent (NEST)
- Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF)
- Balochistan Endowment Education Fund (BEEF)
- HEC Need-Based & Merit Scholarships
- Minority Community Scholarships
- Prime Minister / Provincial Laptop Schemes
These programs help deserving and talented students cover tuition and living expenses. Check the official SABS University scholarship page for updated application windows.
Why Choose SABS University Jamshoro?
If you are still deciding between SABS and other art schools, here is what makes it stand out:
- Pakistan’s First Public Art University — Chartered by the Government of Sindh, not a private institute.
- Affordable Education — Total first-semester cost is around PKR 75,000 — far less than private design colleges.
- Studio-Based Learning — You learn by doing, not just reading. The campus has design studios, art workshops, digital labs, and exhibition galleries.
- Full Campus Facilities — Separate hostels for boys and girls, transport service, central and digital libraries, and smart classrooms.
- Strong Industry Links — Exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative projects connect students with Pakistan’s creative industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The exact deadline changes every Fall intake. Visit admissions.sabsu.edu.pk or the official announcements page for the current session’s schedule.
Yes. Result-awaiting students can apply provisionally using their HSC Part-I marksheet.
A day scholar pays approximately PKR 75,000 in the first semester (one-time dues + semester charges). Hostel residents pay extra.
No. While it specializes in art and design, programs like B.Arch (Architecture) and Interior Design also attract students interested in technical and spatial fields.
Yes. SABS now offers a 4-year Bachelor of Ceramic Design, which is rare among public universities in Pakistan.
The test is usually scheduled shortly after the application deadline each Fall. Keep checking the official portal for your admit card and assigned test date.
Final Thoughts
SABS University Jamshoro is the best option for Pakistani students who want a government-recognized art and design degree without paying private college fees. With updated programs like Ceramic Design, a clear and affordable fee structure, and strong studio-based training, it is an opportunity worth grabbing.
Ready to apply? Head to admissions.sabsu.edu.pk, prepare your drawing portfolio, and stay tuned to the official announcements for test dates.
