On May 9, 2026, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan approved a groundbreaking policy on dual, double, and joint degree programmes. This initiative is designed to foster structured academic collaboration between Pakistani higher education institutions and recognized local and foreign partners.
The policy responds to the increasing globalization of higher education, rising student mobility, and the need for Pakistani universities to align with international standards. It provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for universities that wish to offer collaborative degree programmes at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Under the new policy, three types of collaborative academic arrangements are defined: dual degree programmes, which lead to two degrees in distinct or related fields; double degree programmes, offering two degrees in the same discipline from partnering institutions; and joint degree programmes, resulting in a single degree jointly awarded by the collaborating institutions.
The HEC mandates that universities must enter into formal collaborative arrangements, obtain necessary approvals, execute a detailed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), ensure credit mapping, and define admission and exit requirements. Additionally, they must disclose fee structures, provide student protection arrangements, and secure HEC’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) before launching any programme.
This policy is expected to benefit students by expanding access to international learning opportunities, enhancing credit mobility, and improving employability. It also aims to support Pakistani universities in strengthening international partnerships, improving curriculum relevance, and increasing the global recognition of Pakistani higher education.
HEC’s strategic move is seen as a step toward responsible internationalization, ensuring that academic standards are maintained while safeguarding student interests and institutional accountability.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 11, 2026
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