The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has officially announced the postpone of several nationwide exams, citing growing security concerns in various parts of the country. The decision primarily affects the Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT), the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT), and the Recruitment Test for AML-CFT positions. This move comes amid heightened tensions and political demonstrations in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This will significantly disrupted daily life and transport systems.
HEC’s Decision to Postpone Exams
The Education Testing Council (ETC), a dedicated body under the Higher Education Commission (HEC) responsible for conducting these standardized examinations, issued an official statement on Friday confirming the postponement. The announcement clarified that all tests scheduled for 11 and 12 October 2025, have been deferred until further notice. The HEC emphasized that this decision was taken purely out of concern for the safety, comfort, and accessibility of students traveling to examination centers.
In its official press release, the HEC stated that a revised exam schedule will be released soon, and all registered candidates will receive updates through email, SMS, and the commission’s official website. The statement further expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to thousands of students and parents nationwide. This will assured that new dates would be communicated as soon as the situation normalizes.
Ensuring Student Safety Amid Unrest
According to the ETC, the decision to postpone these nationwide exams was driven by the unstable law and order conditions. That made it unsafe for students to appear at their designated centers. Many students across major cities faced severe transportation issues, road blockages, and mobile communication barriers due to widespread protests and police blockades.
“The commission regrets the inconvenience caused to students and parents but assures that new dates will be communicated as soon as the situation normalizes,” said the HEC spokesperson in an official statement. The HEC further emphasized that student safety remains its top priority. The commission will only proceed with examinations once peace and normalcy are fully restored in the affected regions.
Overview of the Postponed Tests
- USAT is required for admission to HEC-affiliated undergraduate programs.
- HAT evaluates students for scholarships and higher studies.
- AML-CFT Test targets roles in financial compliance.
- The postponement affects thousands of students nationwide.
- Many feel frustrated and uncertain after months of preparation.
Lockdown in Islamabad and Rawalpindi
The twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been under a strict security lockdown since Friday following large scale demonstrations organized by a religious political group. The protests led to road closures, suspension of public transport services, and temporary shutdown of mobile internet across major areas. These developments made it nearly impossible for students, teachers and staff members to reach educational institutions and testing centers on time.
The Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control issued a notification directing the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to suspend 3G and 4G services across both cities. This directive was coordinated with local district administrations to ensure public safety and prevent communication disruptions from escalating into larger security risks.
Due to these measures, movement between key routes such as Murree Road, Faizabad, and Blue Area became severely restricted. Public transportation, including the Metro Bus service, was suspended, while several schools, universities, hotels, and offices were temporarily closed. The blockade of major intersections created traffic congestion, forcing many commuters to turn back or find alternate routes.
The Impact on Students and Commuters
For many students, the timing of the announcement added to their challenges. Numerous candidates had already traveled long distances to their test centers before learning that the exams had been postponed. With limited communication networks and blocked transport routes, several students were unable to receive timely updates from HEC.
The closure of the Metro Bus Service made the situation worse, especially for students from low-income families who rely heavily on public transport. Containers placed at key entry and exit points between Islamabad and Rawalpindi prevented smooth movement, resulting in long queues and severe delays.
Teachers and administrative staff also reported difficulties reaching their institutions. Many schools and universities shifted temporarily to online classes to prevent academic loss. However, the lack of internet connectivity in several areas posed additional hurdles for both educators and students.
Students Express Disappointment Online
Following the postponement, social media platforms were flooded with posts from students expressing their frustration over the last-minute decision. While most acknowledged that HEC’s move was in the best interest of safety, others criticized the lack of timely communication.
One student from Rawalpindi shared her experience on X (formerly Twitter), stating that she had already reached halfway to the examination center before realizing that the USAT had been postponed. She mentioned receiving no official notification before her departure. Similar stories were echoed by several others who claimed only found about the delay through friends or social media updates.
Despite the criticism, many education experts and parents commended the HEC for prioritizing safety over convenience. They emphasized that in a volatile security environment, ensuring student protection must come before academic scheduling. The consensus among educators was that while the postponement is unfortunate, it reflects responsible governance from HEC’s leadership.
HEC Promises a Revised Exam Schedule
- HEC will announce new dates for USAT, HAT and AML-CFT exams once conditions improve.
- Admit cards remain valid students do not need to reapply or pay extra fees.
- Candidates should check the official HEC website, emails and messages for updates.
- Students are advised to ignore unverified news on social media.
- HEC is coordinating with provincial authorities to arrange safe exam venues and reduce delays.
Nationwide Impact of the Security Situation
The ongoing unrest has disrupted more than just examinations. Schools and colleges in multiple cities, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Peshawar, have suspended physical classes and temporarily shifted to online learning. Business centers, hotels, and offices along major roads have also faced closures due to safety measures.
Analysts warn that if the situation persists, it may lead to delays in university admissions and semester commencements for 2025. The continuous interruptions caused by political instability are taking a toll on students mental well-being and academic consistency. Nevertheless, the education sector remains hopeful that the situation will soon improve. Also allowing for the restoration of regular academic schedules across the country.
A Commitment to Student Welfare
HEC’s decision to postpone nationwide exams demonstrates its unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare of students and upholding academic integrity. While such delays can cause anxiety among candidates, the commission’s transparent communication and assurance of revised schedules reflect professionalism and accountability.
Students are encouraged to use this additional time to continue preparing for their respective tests. Education experts believe that this pause offers an opportunity for revision and self-assessment, which can ultimately improve performance once new dates are announced.
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Conclusion
The decision by the Higher Education Commission to postpone nationwide exams amid security concerns in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Its highlights the delicate balance between academic responsibility and public safety. Although the delay has inconvenienced many students, it was a necessary step to protect thousands potential risks during uncertain times.
As situation begins to normalize, HEC is expected to release a revised schedule soon, ensuring that no student’s future is compromised. Until then, candidates are advised to remain calm, continue their preparation, rely only on verified information from official HEC channels.
Pakistan’s education system continues to face challenges from political and social instability, yet the resilience of students and educators remains strong. The HEC’s prompt and precautionary action serves as a reminder that safeguarding lives must always take precedence over deadlines.
