Education System in Pakistan
The Ministry of Education of Pakistan and Government of states are responsible authorities for administration of Education in Pakistan. However, the Federal Government decides the development of course curriculum, accreditation of courses and funding for researchers through institutes of Higher Education in Pakistan.
The literacy rate in major cities is quite decent however, overall literacy rate is nearly 60%, whereas the male literacy rate is high compared to that of females. Education is compulsory for children in the age group of 5 to 16 years. The Education system in Pakistan is divided into 5 levels -
- Primary School Education (Grade 1 to Grade 5)
- Middle School Education (Grade 6 to Grade 8)
- High School Education (Grades 9 and Grade 10, leading to Secondary School Certificate or SSC)
- Intermediate Education (Grade 11 and Grade 12, leading to Higher Secondary School Certificate or HSC
- University Education
Islamic subjects are mainly taught by Madrassas. Teachings are delivered in knowledge areas like Tafseer (Interpretation of the Quran), Hadith (sayings of Muhammad), Fiqh (Islamic Law) and Arabic language. Also some Madrassas teach subjects like logic, philosophy and mathematics etc. These Madrassas also provide living facilities to students.
The academic year in elementary and secondary schools runs from February to June and September to January.
The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), Universities and Colleges etc generally follow a semester system—two semesters of 16 to 18 weeks. Academic sessions run from January to May and August to December. However there might be exceptions.
Undergraduate admissions in Pakistan largely depend on program requirements however, HSSC/Intermediate Examination Certificate is necessary to apply. Also applicants get access to Under Graduate programs based on technical board diplomas etc.
A minimum grade average of 50 percent or above (second division pass) is required by most institutions, but this limit is more for competitive disciplines like engineering and medicine, which is usually higher (at least 60 percent).
Since upper-secondary education programs are offered in different streams, an HSSC in a stream related to the intended major is a typical requirement as well. In addition, students may have to write admission tests or interviews, especially at top-tier institutions.
Post Graduate education is also offered through various universities and higher education institutions. Admission is often based on performance in Under Graduate Examination or Entrance Examination/Interview or a set of these.