The HAT is done. Now the waiting starts. Here is everything you need to know: when your result comes, what to do with it, and how to plan your next steps whether you scored well or not.
When does the HAT result come?
| What | Date |
|---|---|
| HAT test day | Sunday 25 October 2026 |
| Result expected | Around 16 November 2026 (tentative) |
| Answer key | Around the same time as result |
HEC marks this date as tentative. The result can come a day or two earlier. Start checking the ETC portal from 14 November 2026.
How to check your result
- Go to etc.hec.gov.pk and log in.
- Open your HAT application from the dashboard.
- Your score will show there. Download the result card and save it.
HEC also posts an announcement on hec.gov.pk → Services → ETC → Announcements when the result is out.
What does your score mean?
| Score | What it means |
|---|---|
| 60 or above | Eligible for MS, MPhil and PhD. Meets Commonwealth Scholarship requirement too. |
| 50 to 59 | Eligible for MS and MPhil. Not enough for PhD or Commonwealth Scholarship. |
| Below 50 | Below HEC minimum for MS. You need to retake. |
These are the HEC minimums. Some universities set higher cutoffs, like 55 or 60 even for MS. Check with your target university.
If you passed: what to do next
- Download your result card from the ETC portal as soon as it is out.
- Check admission deadlines at the universities you want to apply to. Many universities open spring admissions in November or December.
- Start preparing your application documents: transcripts, degree or provisional certificate, CNIC, photos, statement of purpose.
- Read our full guide on MS and MPhil admission with a HAT score.
If you did not pass: what to do next
- Do not worry. Many students retake HAT once or twice.
- Register for the December 2026 HAT. Registration opens 8 November 2026 and closes 22 November 2026.
- The December test is on 13 December 2026. That gives you about 7 weeks to prepare.
- Read our HAT score improvement and retake guide to know exactly what to work on.
The answer key and objections
HEC releases the answer key on the ETC Announcements page around result day. If you think an answer is wrong, check the announcement to see if HEC is accepting objections. When they do, there is a short window to submit. The announcement will say how.
HAT score and the Commonwealth Scholarship
If you applied for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28 before 20 October, HEC will add your October 2026 HAT result to your application by itself when it comes out. You do not need to do anything extra for this.
How universities get your HAT score
HEC shares scores with universities through the ETC system. When you apply to a university, you also attach a copy of your result card yourself. See our full post on how universities receive your HAT score.
Common questions
When will the HAT October 2026 result come?
HEC has given 16 November 2026 as the tentative result date. Keep checking etc.hec.gov.pk from 14 November onwards.
How do I check my HAT result?
Log in to etc.hec.gov.pk and open your HAT application. Your score will show there. HEC also announces results on their website under ETC Announcements.
Will HEC release the answer key?
Yes. HEC usually releases the answer key around the same time as the result. Check the ETC Announcements page.
What score do I need for MS admission?
At least 50 out of 100 for MS and MPhil. At least 60 for PhD and for the Commonwealth Scholarship.
Can I retake HAT if I am not happy with my score?
Yes. The next HAT is on 13 December 2026. Registration opens on 8 November 2026.
Do I need to send my HAT score to universities myself?
You download your result card from the ETC portal and attach it when you apply to universities. HEC also shares scores with universities directly through the ETC system.