Aga khan university (aku)
Get all details for the Aga khan university (aku). Find dates, preparation guides, and application info below.
Application Status
Admission Test Type
National Admission Test
Start Date
Jun 29
Deadline
Jul 23, 2025
Degrees Valid Because of This Test:
The AKU Admission Test is typically required for various undergraduate programs, including:
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) (Direct Entry and Post-RN)
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery (BScM) (Direct Entry and Post-RM)
- Bachelor of Studies in Arts and Sciences (BS) (with majors like Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Social Development Studies, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, Human and Environmental Biology)
- Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene (ASDH)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
Passing Scores
AKU does not publicly disclose specific "passing scores" for its admission test. Admission is highly competitive and merit-based, considering various factors:
- Scholastic achievements (previous academic performance).
- Performance on the AKU Admission Test.
- Interviews (for shortlisted candidates).
- Productive use of time and other experiences indicating potential for leadership.
- For MBBS: Candidates in Pakistan must also submit valid MDCAT scores as administered by PMDC. While AKU primarily looks at its own test and grades for selection, a minimum passing score (often around 65%) in MDCAT is required for eligibility.
- Minimum academic eligibility requirements (e.g., for MBBS, a minimum aggregate of 70% in F.Sc Pre-Medical or three B grades in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology for A-Level students). Successful candidates often have significantly higher scores.
Test Format: The AKU admission test generally comprises two main sections:
English: This section assesses English comprehension and expression, both written and verbal, as English is the medium of instruction at AKU. It typically includes:
- Reading Comprehension
- Passage Completion
- Sentence Completion
- Use of Synonyms & Analogies
- Functional English
- It is a sophisticated test of grammar and vocabulary in academic contexts.
Quantitative and Logical Reasoning / Science and Mathematics: The content of this section varies depending on the program.
- For MBBS: This section includes:
- Biology: 20 MCQs
- Chemistry: 20 MCQs
- Physics: 20 MCQs
- Science Reasoning: 30 MCQs (evaluates scientific reasoning and problem-solving)
- Mathematics Reasoning: 30 MCQs (focuses on quantitative and math reasoning skills)
- For other programs (e.g., Bachelor of Studies): May focus more on general quantitative and logical reasoning rather than specific science subjects.
General Test Characteristics:
- Duration: Typically 2 hours (for MBBS test, may vary for other programs).
- Questions can be attempted in any order.
- All questions carry one mark, and there is no negative marking.
- Only ONE answer should be marked for each question.
- Calculators are generally not allowed.
- The test is administered in English.
Test Benefits:
- Merit-based admission: Ensures a fair and transparent selection process based on a comprehensive assessment of skills and potential.
- Assessment of critical skills: The test evaluates critical reasoning, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for success in demanding academic programs.
- Holistic evaluation: It is part of a multi-criteria assessment that includes academic achievements and interviews, providing a complete picture of the applicant's capabilities.
- Preparation for demanding curricula: The rigorous nature of the test helps identify candidates who are well-prepared for AKU's challenging academic environment.
- Access to a prestigious institution: Successfully passing the test and subsequent admission opens doors to a world-renowned university with a strong reputation for quality education, research, and healthcare.
- Eligibility for various programs: The test is a gateway to a wide range of undergraduate degrees in medicine, nursing, arts and sciences, and allied health.
Apply Process:
The application process generally involves several stages:
- Online Application:
- Create an account on the AKU Admissions Portal.
- Complete your profile with accurate personal and academic details.
- Select your desired program (e.g., MBBS, BScN).
Submission of Documents:
- Upload or submit academic transcripts and certificates (Matric, Intermediate/HSSC, O/A-Levels, or equivalent).
- Provide a copy of your National ID card or passport.
- Submit a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Any other required documents, such as personal statements or reference letters, depending on the program. Provisional applications may be accepted from candidates whose final results are pending.
Application Fee Payment:
- Pay the non-refundable application fee as per the selected program's specifications. This can usually be done via an online payment gateway or designated bank branches.
Entrance Test:
- Upon successful application submission and fee payment, eligible candidates will be invited to take the AKU Undergraduate Admission Test on the scheduled date. Information regarding test centers and timings will be provided on the admit card.
Interviews:
- Candidates who successfully perform on the written test are shortlisted and invited for oral interviews. These interviews are a mandatory component and assess attributes like critical reasoning skills, attitude, and leadership potential.
Final Selection:
- Shortlisted candidates are ranked based on a comprehensive review of their scholastic achievements, interview evaluations, and other assessed attributes.