All eligible students of Virtual University of Pakistan who have received the registration email and are currently enrolled in the 7th semester or above in BS programs of Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, and Data Science (including students admitted through the BS Entry Route / BS Lateral Entry) are advised to complete their registration for the National Skills Competency Test (NSCT).

As per the SOPs, please note that a student’s registration will only be considered complete once the following steps are completed on the portal:

• Uploading a passport-size photograph, and
• Selecting the preferred test city.

Students can complete their registration by visiting the following portal:

https://nsct.hec.gov.pk/

It is pertinent to mention that registration and appearance in the NSCT is mandatory for all students fulfilling the above criteria, as per the requirement of the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Therefore, all eligible students are strongly advised to complete their registration at the earliest, and no later than March 20, 2026.

Student Registration Guide

Students may review the registration guidelines at the following links:

Student Guide: https://nsct.hec.gov.pk/Student%20Guide.pdf

Video Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgGp5lMrNS4

Competency Areas to be Assessed

The test will be based on industry-endorsed competency areas, finalized through a dedicated Technical Committee led by P@SHA, with representation from industry, academia, accreditation bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

The finalized competency areas can be accessed at:

https://nsct.hec.gov.pk/Area%20of%20Competencies%20-%20National%20Skill%20Competency%20Test.pdf

All eligible students are advised to start preparing for the test in accordance with the competency areas provided above as the National Skills Competency Test (NSCT) is scheduled to be conducted on April 04–05, 2026.

For any query, please contact: focalperson-nsct@vu.edu.pk

Best of Luck!

Virtual University of Pakistan