Most programs ask for at least 50% in the USAT. HEC itself uses 50% as the minimum for scholarships like the Stipendium Hungaricum, and many universities use it too. Your USAT score is valid for 1 year, so take the test in the same year you apply.
USAT passing marks in simple words
The USAT is not a pass or fail test like a board exam. It gives you a score. Then each university or scholarship decides what score is enough.
- 50% is the common minimum. HEC asks for 50% in HAT or USAT for the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship.
- Top universities often use your USAT as part of their merit, along with your FSc or A level marks. A higher score moves you up the merit list.
- Always check the admission page of your own university for its exact rule.
How long is the USAT score valid?
HEC says the USAT is valid for 1 year (HAT is valid for 2 years). So if you take the USAT in October 2026, plan to use it for admissions within the next year.
What score should you aim for?
In my opinion, aim for 65% or more in your practice papers before test day. Real test day stress usually costs students a few marks. If you are getting 65% at home, you are safe for the 50% line and in a good place for merit.
How the marks add up
Part I has 75 MCQs. Part II has 2 essays worth 15 and 10 marks. So the essays matter. A student who writes 2 good essays can get the 25 essay marks that many others lose. Read our USAT essay guide for how to do that.
How to check your USAT result
- Wait for HEC to announce the result on the ETC announcements page.
- Log in to etc.hec.gov.pk with the account you registered with.
- Open your USAT application and download your result card.
The result for the 25 October 2026 USAT is expected around 16 November 2026. See all dates in our HEC test calendar 2026.
Is there negative marking?
We could not find any official HEC rule about negative marking in the USAT. My advice: read the instructions on your paper on test day. If there is no penalty written there, do not leave any MCQ empty.
Common questions
What are the USAT passing marks?
There is no single pass mark for every university. HEC programs like the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship ask for at least 50%, and many universities use 50% as the base. Some ask for more.
How long is a USAT score valid?
HEC says the USAT score is valid for 1 year.
Can I take the USAT again to improve my score?
Yes. HEC holds the USAT several times a year, so you can register again for the next sitting.
Is there negative marking in the USAT?
HEC has not published a negative marking rule for USAT that we could find. Read the instructions on your paper on test day.
Where can I check my USAT result?
Log in to the ETC portal at etc.hec.gov.pk with your registered account after HEC announces the result.