So you’re thinking about going further — an MS, MPhil, PhD, MSc (Hons), or maybe an MBA — but you don’t want to quit your job or pack up and move to Islamabad. Fair enough, and you’re not alone. Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) just released its prospectus for AIOU MPhil PhD MBA Autumn 2026 admission through the Directorate of Advanced Studies & Research (DASR), covering research and professional degrees across four faculties. Grab a cup of tea and let’s go through eligibility, the admission test, fees, thesis rules, and scholarships together, one step at a time.
The AIOU Gazetteاے آئی او یو گزٹ
Lead Storyاداریہ
Your Complete Guide to AIOU's Postgraduate World, Autumn 2026 اے آئی او یو کے پوسٹ گریجویٹ پروگرامز کا مکمل رہنما، خزاں 2026
Thinking about an MS, MPhil, PhD, MSc (Hons), or MBA — without quitting your job or moving to Islamabad? This dashboard breaks down eligibility, admission tests, evaluation rules, thesis requirements, scholarships, and fees from the official Autumn 2026 prospectus, in one place, in both English and Urdu. کیا آپ ایم ایس، ایم فل، پی ایچ ڈی، ایم ایس سی (آنرز) یا ایم بی اے کرنا چاہتے ہیں — وہ بھی اپنی نوکری چھوڑے بغیر یا اسلام آباد منتقل ہوئے بغیر؟ یہ ڈیش بورڈ خزاں 2026 کے سرکاری پراسپیکٹس کی بنیاد پر اہلیت، داخلہ ٹیسٹ، تشخیصی قواعد، تھیسس کی شرائط، وظائف اور فیس — سب کچھ ایک ہی جگہ، انگریزی اور اردو دونوں زبانوں میں بیان کرتا ہے۔
Quick Factsاہم نکات
- Postgraduate admissions are announced once a year via newspapers & the AIOU website — separate from undergraduate cycles.پوسٹ گریجویٹ داخلوں کا اعلان سال میں ایک بار اخبارات اور اے آئی او یو ویب سائٹ کے ذریعے ہوتا ہے — انڈرگریجویٹ سے الگ۔
- Apply online via the OAS portal; pay fees through bank or mobile wallet.او اے ایس پورٹل کے ذریعے آن لائن اپلائی کریں؛ فیس بینک یا موبائل والیٹ سے جمع کروائیں۔
- Test/interview calls arrive only via SMS — no postal call letters.ٹیسٹ/انٹرویو کی اطلاع صرف ایس ایم ایس کے ذریعے دی جاتی ہے — کوئی ڈاک کے ذریعے کال لیٹر نہیں۔
- PhD theses are evaluated by three foreign experts before the viva voce.پی ایچ ڈی تھیسس کی جانچ وائیوا سے پہلے تین غیر ملکی ماہرین کرتے ہیں۔
Faculty-Wise Overviewشعبہ جات کے لحاظ سے جائزہ
Which Programme Is Right for You?آپ کے لیے کون سا پروگرام موزوں ہے؟
Postgraduate and professional degrees at AIOU sit under four faculties. Here's a snapshot of what each one offers.اے آئی او یو میں پوسٹ گریجویٹ اور پروفیشنل ڈگریاں چار فیکلٹیز کے تحت آتی ہیں۔ ذیل میں ہر فیکلٹی کا مختصر جائزہ دیا گیا ہے۔
Arabic & Islamic Studiesعربی و اسلامیات
MPhil Islamic Studies (General); PhD Islamic Studies (General, Seerat Studies, Hadith & Hadith Sciences).ایم فل اسلامیات (جنرل)؛ پی ایچ ڈی اسلامیات (جنرل، سیرت اسٹڈیز، حدیث و علوم الحدیث)۔
Educationتعلیم
MPhil & PhD in Distance/Non-Formal Education, Science Education, Educational Planning & Leadership, and related specializations.ایم فل و پی ایچ ڈی ڈسٹنس/نان فارمل ایجوکیشن، سائنس ایجوکیشن، ایجوکیشنل پلاننگ اینڈ لیڈرشپ اور متعلقہ شعبہ جات میں۔
Social Sciences & Humanitiesسماجی علوم و ہیومینٹیز
MPhil/PhD Mass Communication, PhD Pakistani Languages & Literature, MBA (1.5 & 2 Years), MS Management Sciences, PhD Business Administration.ایم فل/پی ایچ ڈی ماس کمیونیکیشن، پی ایچ ڈی پاکستانی زبان و ادب، ایم بی اے (1.5 و 2 سالہ)، ایم ایس مینجمنٹ سائنسز، پی ایچ ڈی بزنس ایڈمنسٹریشن۔
Sciencesسائنسز
PhD Agricultural Extension, MPhil Agricultural Technology, MSc (Hons) Livestock/Rural Development, MPhil/PhD Statistics, Computer Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Nutritional Sciences.پی ایچ ڈی ایگریکلچرل ایکسٹینشن، ایم فل ایگریکلچرل ٹیکنالوجی، ایم ایس سی (آنرز) لائیو اسٹاک/رورل ڈویلپمنٹ، ایم فل/پی ایچ ڈی شماریات، کمپیوٹر سائنسز، طبیعیات، کیمسٹری، ریاضی، ماحولیاتی سائنسز، حیاتیات، نیوٹریشنل سائنسز۔
Research Track — Level 1تحقیقی مرحلہ — سطح 1
Eligibility & Admission — MS / MPhilاہلیت اور داخلہ — ایم ایس / ایم فل
To qualify for MS, MPhil, or an equivalent programme, you'll need 16 years of schooling (or 4 years after HSSC) in the relevant subject, at least second division or equivalent CGPA/GPA, and a minimum of 120 credit hours from an HEC-recognized institution. Some departments add their own conditions — MPhil Islamic Studies, for example, asks for an MA in Islamic Studies with second division in both MA and BA. ایم ایس، ایم فل یا مساوی پروگرام کے لیے 16 سالہ تعلیم (یا ایچ ایس ایس سی کے بعد 4 سالہ تعلیم) متعلقہ مضمون میں، کم از کم سیکنڈ ڈویژن یا مساوی سی جی پی اے/جی پی اے، اور ایچ ای سی سے تسلیم شدہ ادارے سے کم از کم 120 کریڈٹ اوورز درکار ہیں۔ بعض شعبہ جات اپنی اضافی شرائط بھی رکھتے ہیں — مثلاً ایم فل اسلامیات کے لیے ایم اے اسلامیات میں ایم اے اور بی اے دونوں میں سیکنڈ ڈویژن ضروری ہے۔
The Admission Test — University Test vs GAT/HAT Generalداخلہ ٹیسٹ — یونیورسٹی ٹیسٹ بمقابلہ GAT/HAT جنرل
You have two routes: sit the university's own admission test and score at least 50%, or submit an accepted equivalent like the GRE/HAT General test with a minimum 50 percentile. Already have a valid GRE/HAT (General) score from ETS or another HEC-recognized body? You can skip the university test altogether. آپ کے پاس دو راستے ہیں: یونیورسٹی کا اپنا داخلہ ٹیسٹ دیں اور کم از کم 50% نمبر لیں، یا GRE/HAT جنرل جیسا کوئی تسلیم شدہ متبادل ٹیسٹ 50 پرسنٹائل کے ساتھ جمع کروائیں۔ اگر آپ کے پاس پہلے سے ای ٹی ایس یا کسی ایچ ای سی تسلیم شدہ ادارے کا درست GRE/HAT (جنرل) اسکور موجود ہے تو یونیورسٹی ٹیسٹ کی ضرورت نہیں۔
| Componentجزو | Weightageوزن |
|---|---|
| Qualification + Research + Experienceتعلیمی قابلیت + تحقیق + تجربہ | 30+5+5 = 40 |
| Written Testتحریری ٹیسٹ | 40 |
| Interviewانٹرویو | 20 |
| Totalمجموعی | 100 |
Application Stepsدرخواست کے مراحل
- Apply online via the OAS portal with your cell number or email.اپنے موبائل نمبر یا ای میل سے او اے ایس پورٹل پر آن لائن درخواست دیں۔
- Print your fee voucher; pay via bank or mobile wallet.فیس واؤچر پرنٹ کریں؛ بینک یا موبائل والیٹ سے ادائیگی کریں۔
- Admission is finalized by the Departmental Admission Committee, approved by the Vice-Chancellor.داخلہ ڈیپارٹمنٹل ایڈمیشن کمیٹی کی جانب سے حتمی اور وائس چانسلر سے منظور کیا جاتا ہے۔
Research Track — Level 2تحقیقی مرحلہ — سطح 2
Eligibility & Admission — PhDاہلیت اور داخلہ — پی ایچ ڈی
A PhD needs an MS/MPhil or equivalent degree with a CGPA of 3.0/4.0 in the semester system, or first division (60% marks) in the annual system. No CGPA or percentage on your transcript? Get an equivalence certificate from your parent university. پی ایچ ڈی کے لیے ایم ایس/ایم فل یا مساوی ڈگری سمسٹر سسٹم میں 3.0/4.0 سی جی پی اے، یا سالانہ نظام میں فرسٹ ڈویژن (60% نمبر) کے ساتھ درکار ہے۔ اگر ٹرانسکرپٹ پر سی جی پی اے یا فیصد درج نہیں تو اپنی سابقہ یونیورسٹی سے مساوی سرٹیفکیٹ حاصل کریں۔
Admission test: داخلہ ٹیسٹ: University's own GRE/HAT-equivalent test (60% pass) or an accepted external equivalent (also 60%).یونیورسٹی کا اپنا GRE/HAT مساوی ٹیسٹ (60% پاسنگ) یا کوئی تسلیم شدہ بیرونی متبادل (وہ بھی 60%)۔
In-service candidates: ملازمت پیشہ امیدوار: Must attach a departmental No Objection Certificate (NOC).اپنے ادارے سے این او سی درخواست کے ساتھ لازمی منسلک کریں۔
The Statement of Purposeاسٹیٹمنٹ آف پرپز
Your statement should cover four things: your potential research title, your current understanding of the field with possible research directions, the impact you hope your research will have, and genuine enthusiasm for the topic. آپ کے اسٹیٹمنٹ میں چار چیزیں شامل ہونی چاہئیں: ممکنہ تحقیقی عنوان، موضوع پر آپ کی موجودہ سمجھ اور ممکنہ تحقیقی رخ، آپ کی تحقیق کے متوقع اثرات، اور موضوع سے حقیقی دلچسپی۔
| Componentجزو | Weightageوزن |
|---|---|
| Qualification + Research + Experienceتعلیمی قابلیت + تحقیق + تجربہ | 40+5+5 = 50 |
| Written Testتحریری ٹیسٹ | 30 |
| Interviewانٹرویو | 20 |
| Totalمجموعی | 100 |
Professional Trackپروفیشنل ٹریک
MBA Programs — 1.5 Years & 2 Yearsایم بی اے پروگرامز — 1.5 و 2 سالہ
The Department of Business Administration runs the MBA in two tracks, depending on your academic background.شعبہ بزنس ایڈمنسٹریشن آپ کے تعلیمی پس منظر کے مطابق ایم بی اے کے دو ٹریک پیش کرتا ہے۔
| Business Graduatesبزنس گریجویٹس | Non-Business Graduatesغیر بزنس گریجویٹس | |
|---|---|---|
| Durationدورانیہ | 1.5 Years (3 semesters)1.5 سال (3 سمسٹر) | 2 Years (4 semesters)2 سال (4 سمسٹر) |
| Credit Hoursکریڈٹ اوورز | 30 | 60 |
| Eligibilityاہلیت | 16 yrs education, min. 50%16 سالہ تعلیم، کم از کم 50% | 16 yrs education, min. 50%16 سالہ تعلیم، کم از کم 50% |
Scheme of Studies & Electivesاسکیم آف اسٹڈیز اور اختیاری مضامین
Non-business graduates cover four semesters of core subjects (Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, Business Research, Financial Management, Organization Behaviour, Business Policy & Strategy), then four electives or two electives plus a Research Project. Business graduates get a condensed three-semester path. A long elective list — from Islamic Banking to International HR Management — lets you tailor the degree. غیر بزنس گریجویٹس چار سمسٹرز میں بنیادی مضامین (فنانشل اکاؤنٹنگ، مارکیٹنگ مینجمنٹ، بزنس ریسرچ، فنانشل مینجمنٹ، آرگنائزیشن بیہیویئر، بزنس پالیسی اینڈ اسٹریٹیجی) پڑھتے ہیں، پھر چار اختیاری مضامین یا دو اختیاری مضامین کے ساتھ ریسرچ پراجیکٹ۔ بزنس گریجویٹس کے لیے مختصر تین سمسٹر والا راستہ ہے۔ اسلامک بینکنگ سے لے کر انٹرنیشنل ایچ آر مینجمنٹ تک ایک طویل اختیاری فہرست موجود ہے۔
Assignment, Attendance & Evaluationاسائنمنٹ، حاضری اور تشخیص
- Two compulsory assignments per 3-credit-hour course.فی 3 کریڈٹ اوور کورس دو لازمی اسائنمنٹس۔
- 48 hours of tutorial/contact time per course; attendance compulsory.فی کورس 48 گھنٹے ٹیوٹوریل/کانٹیکٹ ٹائم؛ حاضری لازمی۔
- 75% workshop attendance required to sit the final exam.فائنل امتحان میں بیٹھنے کے لیے 75% ورکشاپ حاضری لازمی۔
- A non-credit viva voce must be passed after course work.کورس ورک کے بعد ایک نان کریڈٹ وائیوا پاس کرنا لازمی ہے۔
| Componentجزو | Weightageوزن |
|---|---|
| Assignment 1اسائنمنٹ 1 | 10% |
| Assignment 2اسائنمنٹ 2 | 10% |
| Mid Termمڈٹرم | 30% |
| Final Examفائنل امتحان | 50% |
To pass: minimum 50% in assignments (aggregate), 50% in mid-term, and 50% in the final exam — each component must be individually cleared, not just averaged. پاس ہونے کے لیے: اسائنمنٹس میں کم از کم 50% (مجموعی)، مڈٹرم میں 50%، اور فائنل امتحان میں 50% ضروری ہے — ہر جزو الگ الگ پاس کرنا لازمی ہے، صرف اوسط کافی نہیں۔
Passing the Course Workکورس ورک پاس کرنا
Course Work Evaluation & Passing Criteriaکورس ورک کی تشخیص اور پاسنگ کا معیار
Outside the MBA, evaluation is standardized across MPhil and PhD departments.ایم بی اے کے علاوہ، ایم فل اور پی ایچ ڈی شعبہ جات میں تشخیص کا معیار یکساں ہے۔
| Levelسطح | Continuous + Mid Termمسلسل + مڈٹرم | Final Examفائنل امتحان | Aggregate Passمجموعی پاس |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS/MPhil | 50% (20+30) | 50% | 50% |
| PhD | 50% (20+30) | 50% | 70% |
The Research Journeyتحقیقی سفر
Thesis, Synopsis Workshop & Research Requirementsتھیسس، سائنوپسس ورکشاپ اور تحقیقی تقاضے
- 1
Synopsis Orientation Workshopسائنوپسس اورینٹیشن ورکشاپ
After 24 credit hours (MPhil) or the PhD equivalent, attend a mandatory 2-week workshop, usually at the start of semester 3. Requires 12 credit hours passed, including Research Methods/Statistics.24 کریڈٹ اوورز (ایم فل) یا پی ایچ ڈی مساوی مکمل کرنے کے بعد، عام طور پر تیسرے سمسٹر کے آغاز میں 2 ہفتوں کی لازمی ورکشاپ میں شرکت کریں۔ اس کے لیے ریسرچ میتھڈز/شماریات سمیت 12 کریڈٹ اوورز پاس ہونا ضروری ہے۔
- 2
Complete Course Work & Comprehensive Examکورس ورک اور جامع امتحان کی تکمیل
PhD students clear a Comprehensive Examination within 90 days of finishing course work — a 4-hour written test, 70% pass, pass/fail only, maximum two attempts.پی ایچ ڈی طلباء کورس ورک مکمل ہونے کے 90 دن کے اندر جامع امتحان دیتے ہیں — 4 گھنٹے کا تحریری ٹیسٹ، 70% پاسنگ، صرف پاس/فیل، زیادہ سے زیادہ دو مواقع۔
- 3
Research, Writing & Publicationتحقیق، تحریر اور اشاعت
PhD researchers must publish one research article as first author (post-synopsis approval) before their viva — one W-category (or two X-category) for Sciences; one X-category (or two Y-category) for Social Sciences.پی ایچ ڈی محققین کو وائیوا سے پہلے سائنوپسس منظوری کے بعد پہلے مصنف کے طور پر ایک تحقیقی مقالہ شائع کروانا ہوگا — سائنسز کے لیے ایک W-کیٹیگری (یا دو X-کیٹیگری)؛ سماجی علوم کے لیے ایک X-کیٹیگری (یا دو Y-کیٹیگری)۔
- 4
Thesis Submission & Foreign Evaluationتھیسس جمع کروانا اور غیر ملکی جانچ
Submit five spiral-bound copies with an undertaking of originality. PhD theses go to three foreign experts — unconditional approval from at least two is required before the viva voce.اصلیت کے بیان کے ساتھ پانچ اسپائرل بائنڈ کاپیاں جمع کروائیں۔ پی ایچ ڈی تھیسس تین غیر ملکی ماہرین کو بھیجی جاتی ہے — وائیوا سے پہلے کم از کم دو کی غیر مشروط منظوری لازمی ہے۔
- 5
Viva Voce & Degree Awardوائیوا اور ڈگری کا اجراء
After a successful defense, submit five hard-bound copies (plus a soft copy) in the specified format to receive your degree.کامیاب دفاع کے بعد، اپنی ڈگری حاصل کرنے کے لیے مقررہ فارمیٹ میں پانچ ہارڈ بائنڈ کاپیاں (اور ایک سافٹ کاپی) جمع کروائیں۔
Duration Limitsدورانیے کی حد
MPhil: 24 cr. hrs course work + 12 cr. hrs thesis, 4–8 semesters (2–4 years). PhD: ~18 cr. hrs course work + thesis, 5 semesters to 8 years.ایم فل: 24 کریڈٹ اوورز کورس ورک + 12 کریڈٹ اوورز تھیسس، 4 تا 8 سمسٹر (2 تا 4 سال)۔ پی ایچ ڈی: تقریباً 18 کریڈٹ اوورز کورس ورک + تھیسس، 5 سمسٹر تا 8 سال۔
Plagiarism Policyسرقہ کی پالیسی
A plagiarized thesis leads to cancelled candidature and permanent debarment from AIOU. Plagiarism found post-degree cancels the degree itself, per HEC's Plagiarism Policy.سرقہ زدہ تھیسس پر امیدواری منسوخ اور اے آئی او یو سے مستقل پابندی عائد کی جاتی ہے۔ ڈگری ملنے کے بعد سرقہ ثابت ہونے پر ڈگری بھی منسوخ کر دی جاتی ہے، بمطابق ایچ ای سی سرقہ پالیسی۔
Funding Your Researchاپنی تحقیق کی مالی معاونت
AIOU Fully Funded PhD Scholarshipاے آئی او یو مکمل فنڈڈ پی ایچ ڈی اسکالرشپ
A merit-based, fully funded scholarship for scholars serious about research.سنجیدہ محققین کے لیے میرٹ کی بنیاد پر مکمل فنڈڈ اسکالرشپ۔
Eligibilityاہلیت
CGPA 3.5/4.0+ in MS/MPhil, a strong research proposal aligned with department areas, age 35 or below at admission closing. Research experience preferred, not mandatory.ایم ایس/ایم فل میں 3.5/4.0 یا زائد سی جی پی اے، شعبے سے ہم آہنگ مضبوط تحقیقی تجویز، داخلے کی آخری تاریخ پر عمر 35 سال یا کم۔ تحقیقی تجربہ ترجیحی مگر لازمی نہیں۔
Coverageاحاطہ
Full tuition for the entire PhD, plus Rs. 80,000/month (excluding fee) for living expenses.مکمل پی ایچ ڈی کی ٹیوشن فیس، نیز رہائشی اخراجات کے لیے 80,000 روپے ماہانہ (فیس کے علاوہ)۔
Durationدورانیہ
Up to 3 years (36 months), extendable to 4 years (48 months) on supervisor's recommendation.3 سال (36 ماہ) تک، سپروائزر کی سفارش پر 4 سال (48 ماہ) تک توسیع ممکن۔
Conditionsشرائط
Residential scholarship — physical presence at AIOU Main Campus required; payments tied to monthly attendance.رہائشی اسکالرشپ — اے آئی او یو مرکزی کیمپس میں جسمانی موجودگی لازمی؛ ادائیگیاں ماہانہ حاضری سے مشروط۔
Other Scholarships & Financial Assistanceدیگر وظائف اور مالی معاونت
SSF-101
Financial Support Scheme — for deserving, needy, talented students.فنانشل سپورٹ اسکیم — مستحق، ضرورت مند اور باصلاحیت طلباء کے لیے۔
SSF-102
Earn to Learn Scheme — earn while you study.ارن ٹو لرن اسکیم — تعلیم کے ساتھ کمائی کا موقع۔
SSF-103
Merit Scholarship — for students scoring 85%+ in their latest AIOU results.میرٹ اسکالرشپ — تازہ ترین اے آئی او یو نتائج میں 85%+ حاصل کرنے والے طلباء کے لیے۔
SSF-105
Final Year Project Grant — for BS, BSc (Hons), MPhil, MS, and PhD research projects.فائنل ایئر پراجیکٹ گرانٹ — بی ایس، بی ایس سی (آنرز)، ایم فل، ایم ایس اور پی ایچ ڈی تحقیقی منصوبوں کے لیے۔
SSF-106
Scholarship for Communities — differently abled students, orphans, gender-diverse individuals, children of martyrs, and inmates/prisoners.اسکالرشپ فار کمیونٹیز — معذور طلباء، یتیم، صنفی تنوع رکھنے والے افراد، شہداء کے بچے اور قیدی۔
General Aidعمومی امداد
Limited financial assistance available from 2nd semester onward, upon application with supporting documents.دوسرے سمسٹر سے محدود مالی امداد دستیاب ہے، متعلقہ دستاویزات کے ساتھ درخواست پر۔
Budgeting for Your Degreeاپنی ڈگری کے لیے بجٹ
Fee Structure for Autumn 2026خزاں 2026 کا فیس ڈھانچہ
Fees vary by faculty. Select a tab below for the standard first-semester breakdown.فیس فیکلٹی کے لحاظ سے مختلف ہوتی ہے۔ ابتدائی سمسٹر کی تفصیل دیکھنے کے لیے نیچے ٹیب منتخب کریں۔
| Admission Feeداخلہ فیس | Rs. 2,150 |
| Registration Feeرجسٹریشن فیس | Rs. 1,400 |
| Technology Fee/sem.ٹیکنالوجی فیس/سمسٹر | Rs. 850 |
| Tuition Fee (12 cr. hrs)ٹیوشن فیس (12 کریڈٹ اوورز) | Rs. 23,520 |
| Total 1st Semesterمجموعی پہلا سمسٹر | Rs. 27,920 |
| Thesis Evaluation Feeتھیسس ایویلیوایشن فیس | Rs. 23,520 |
| Admission Feeداخلہ فیس | Rs. 3,600 |
| Registration Feeرجسٹریشن فیس | Rs. 3,600 |
| Technology Fee/sem.ٹیکنالوجی فیس/سمسٹر | Rs. 850 |
| Total 1st Semesterمجموعی پہلا سمسٹر | Rs. 39,550 |
| Thesis Evaluation Feeتھیسس ایویلیوایشن فیس | Rs. 126,000 |
| Levelسطح | Total 1st Semesterمجموعی پہلا سمسٹر | Thesis Evaluation Feeتھیسس ایویلیوایشن فیس |
|---|---|---|
| MPhil | Rs. 27,920 | Rs. 23,250 |
| PhD | Rs. 39,550 | Rs. 126,000 |
Fee structure mirrors the Faculty of Education: MPhil first-semester total is approximately Rs. 27,920, PhD is approximately Rs. 39,550, with the same thesis and evaluation pattern. فیس ڈھانچہ فیکلٹی آف ایجوکیشن جیسا ہی ہے: ایم فل پہلا سمسٹر تقریباً 27,920 روپے، پی ایچ ڈی تقریباً 39,550 روپے، تھیسس اور ایویلیوایشن کا انداز بھی وہی ہے۔
| Admission Feeداخلہ فیس | Rs. 2,150 |
| Registration Feeرجسٹریشن فیس | Rs. 1,400 |
| Technology Fee/sem.ٹیکنالوجی فیس/سمسٹر | Rs. 850 |
| Total 1st Semesterمجموعی پہلا سمسٹر | Rs. 44,600 |
| Thesis Evaluation Feeتھیسس ایویلیوایشن فیس | Rs. 40,200 |
| Admission Feeداخلہ فیس | Rs. 3,600 |
| Registration Feeرجسٹریشن فیس | Rs. 3,600 |
| Technology Fee/sem.ٹیکنالوجی فیس/سمسٹر | Rs. 850 |
| Total 1st Semesterمجموعی پہلا سمسٹر | Rs. 45,760 |
| Thesis Evaluation Feeتھیسس ایویلیوایشن فیس | Rs. 150,840 |
| Registration Feeرجسٹریشن فیس | Rs. 1,400 |
| Admission Feeداخلہ فیس | Rs. 2,150 |
| Per Credit Hour Feeفی کریڈٹ اور فیس | Rs. 3,500 |
| Course Fee (each)کورس فیس (ہر ایک) | Rs. 10,500 |
| Project Fee (6 cr. hrs)پراجیکٹ فیس (6 کریڈٹ اوورز) | Rs. 21,000 |
| Technology Fee/sem.ٹیکنالوجی فیس/سمسٹر | Rs. 850 |
Your Roadmapآپ کا لائحہ عمل
How to Apply — Step by Stepدرخواست کا طریقہ — قدم بہ قدم
- 1
Watch for the Announcementاعلان کا انتظار کریں
Postgraduate admissions are announced once a year in newspapers and on the AIOU website.پوسٹ گریجویٹ داخلوں کا اعلان سال میں ایک بار اخبارات اور اے آئی او یو ویب سائٹ پر کیا جاتا ہے۔
- 2
Register Onlineآن لائن رجسٹریشن
Create your account on the OAS portal using your cell number or email.اپنے موبائل نمبر یا ای میل سے او اے ایس پورٹل پر اکاؤنٹ بنائیں۔
- 3
Submit the Formفارم جمع کروائیں
Fill in accurate contact details — SMS is the only way you'll be notified.درست رابطہ تفصیلات درج کریں — اطلاع صرف ایس ایم ایس کے ذریعے دی جائے گی۔
- 4
Pay Your Fee Voucherفیس واؤچر جمع کروائیں
Download and pay through a designated bank branch or approved mobile wallet.مقررہ بینک برانچ یا منظور شدہ موبائل والیٹ کے ذریعے ادائیگی کریں۔
- 5
Prepare & Testتیاری اور ٹیسٹ
Prepare for the admission test (or GRE/HAT equivalent) and, for PhD, your Statement of Purpose.داخلہ ٹیسٹ (یا GRE/HAT مساوی) کی تیاری کریں، اور پی ایچ ڈی کے لیے اسٹیٹمنٹ آف پرپز بھی تیار کریں۔
- 6
Attend the Interviewانٹرویو میں شرکت کریں
Bring all original documents, attested copies, and your CNIC if shortlisted.شارٹ لسٹ ہونے کی صورت میں تمام اصل دستاویزات، تصدیق شدہ کاپیاں اور شناختی کارڈ ساتھ لائیں۔
- 7
Confirm Your Seatاپنی نشست کنفرم کریں
Deposit your first-semester fee before the deadline — miss it, and your seat may go to the next candidate.مقررہ وقت سے پہلے پہلا سمسٹر فیس جمع کروائیں — تاخیر کی صورت میں نشست اگلے امیدوار کو دی جا سکتی ہے۔
Straight Answersواضح جوابات
Frequently Asked Questionsعمومی سوالات
Yes — a valid GRE/HAT General score (50 percentile for MS/MPhil, or the accepted equivalent for PhD) exempts you from the university's own test.جی ہاں — ایک درست GRE/HAT جنرل اسکور (ایم ایس/ایم فل کے لیے 50 پرسنٹائل، یا پی ایچ ڈی کے لیے تسلیم شدہ متبادل) یونیورسٹی ٹیسٹ سے استثنیٰ دیتا ہے۔
The Re-Appear/Again Re-Appear policy has been discontinued. You must re-register or re-enroll in the failed course when it's next offered.ری اپیئر/اگین ری اپیئر پالیسی ختم کر دی گئی ہے۔ فیل کورس اگلی بار پیش ہونے پر دوبارہ رجسٹر یا انرول کروانا ہوگا۔
No. You'd need to apply fresh for a new programme or specialization in a future admission cycle.نہیں۔ نیا پروگرام یا مضمون حاصل کرنے کے لیے آئندہ داخلہ سائیکل میں نئے سرے سے درخواست دینا ہوگی۔
Only at the main Islamabad campus, at reasonable but separate rates, subject to availability.صرف اسلام آباد کے مرکزی کیمپس میں، مناسب مگر الگ نرخوں پر، دستیابی سے مشروط۔
Minimum 3 years (5 semesters); the university allows up to 8 years maximum, as per AIOU and HEC rules.کم از کم 3 سال (5 سمسٹر)؛ اے آئی او یو اور ایچ ای سی قواعد کے مطابق زیادہ سے زیادہ 8 سال تک اجازت ہے۔
Yes. Non-business graduates complete a 2-year, 60-credit-hour MBA, while business graduates complete a condensed 1.5-year, 30-credit-hour version.جی ہاں۔ غیر بزنس گریجویٹس 2 سالہ، 60 کریڈٹ اوور ایم بی اے مکمل کرتے ہیں، جبکہ بزنس گریجویٹس کے لیے مختصر 1.5 سالہ، 30 کریڈٹ اوور ورژن دستیاب ہے۔
Why Pursue a Postgraduate Degree at AIOU MPhil PhD MBA Autumn 2026 admission
A little context first. AIOU was set up in 1974 as the world’s second open university, and the very first in Asia and Africa. That’s not just trivia — it means the university has had five decades to refine how distance-based research education actually works. Today, its Directorate of Advanced Studies & Research oversees every postgraduate and doctoral programme, making sure admissions and academic processes stay in line with HEC and statutory guidelines. Here’s what that means for you, in practical terms:
- Study while you work: You won’t be stuck in daily lectures. Postgraduate study here leans heavily on self-study, with face-to-face contact kept to scheduled teaching hours and workshops — so your day job stays intact.
- Recognized quality: Programmes are regulated by DASR in line with HEC rules, and every PhD thesis goes out to foreign experts for evaluation before a degree is awarded. No shortcuts here.
- Financial support: Money worries shouldn’t stop you from pursuing research. There’s a fully funded PhD scholarship, need-based aid, merit scholarships, and support schemes for specific communities.
- Wide subject range: Whether your interest lies in Islamic Studies, Education, Mass Communication, Business Administration, or the pure Sciences, AIOU runs research degrees across dozens of departments — chances are, your field is covered.
Which Postgraduate Programme Is Right for You? (Faculty-Wise Overview)
Before we get into the fine print, let’s figure out where your subject actually fits. Postgraduate and professional degrees at AIOU sit under four faculties, and here’s a quick snapshot of what each one offers for AIOU MPhil PhD MBA Autumn 2026 admission.
| Faculty | Key Programmes Offered |
| Arabic & Islamic Studies | MPhil Islamic Studies (General); PhD Islamic Studies (General, Seerat Studies, Hadith & Hadith Sciences) |
| Education | MPhil & PhD in Distance/Non-Formal Education, Science Education, Educational Planning & Leadership, and related specializations |
| Social Sciences & Humanities | MPhil/PhD Mass Communication, PhD Pakistani Languages & Literature, MBA (1.5 & 2 Years), MS Management Sciences, PhD Business Administration |
| Sciences | PhD Agricultural Extension, MPhil Agricultural Technology, MSc (Hons) Livestock Management/Agricultural Extension/Rural Development, MPhil/PhD Statistics, Computer Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Nutritional Sciences |
A quick heads-up: this list reflects the programmes highlighted in the Autumn 2026 prospectus excerpt. Some departments run additional specializations that aren’t listed here, so it’s always worth checking the official prospectus for the complete, current list before you apply.
Eligibility & Admission Procedure for MS/MPhil Programs
Let’s start with the basics. To qualify for MS, MPhil, or an equivalent programme, you’ll need 16 years of schooling (or 4 years of education after HSSC) in the relevant subject, at least second division or the equivalent CGPA/GPA, and a minimum of 120 credit hours from an HEC-recognized institution. Keep in mind that individual departments sometimes add their own twist — MPhil Islamic Studies, for instance, asks for an MA in Islamic Studies with second division in both your MA and BA. So it’s always worth double-checking your specific department’s requirements. Once you’ve confirmed you’re eligible, here’s how the process usually unfolds:
- Apply online through the AIOU admission portal (aiou.edu.pk/oas-fresh-admission) by registering with your cell number or email.
- Fill in and submit the admission form completely — half-filled forms only slow things down.
- Print your fee voucher and pay through designated banks or mobile wallets (JazzCash, EasyPaisa, UPaisa, or partner franchises).
- Admission to MPhil is processed and finalized by the Departmental Admission Committee (DAC), then approved by the Vice-Chancellor.
- Seats are limited, so plan ahead — the university reserves the right not to start a programme if a viable group of students doesn’t enroll.
The Admission Test — University Test vs GAT/HAT General
Here’s something that trips a lot of applicants up: you actually have two routes to choose from. You can sit the university’s own admission test and score at least 50%, or you can submit an accepted equivalent like the GRE/HAT General test with a minimum 50 percentile. Already have a valid GRE/HAT (General) score from ETS or another HEC-recognized body? Good news — you can skip the university test altogether.
How Merit Is Calculated (Weightage Breakdown)
| Component | Weightage |
| Academic Qualification + Research + Experience | 30 + 5 + 5 = 40 |
| Written Test (per HEC/AIOU policy) | 40 |
| Interview | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
One thing to think through carefully before you apply: once admitted, you can’t switch your MPhil programme or specialization midway. If you decide the field isn’t right for you, you’ll need to discontinue and apply fresh in a future admission cycle — so choose with intention.
Eligibility & Admission Procedure for PhD Programs
A PhD is naturally a bigger commitment, and the eligibility bar reflects that. You’ll need an MS/MPhil or equivalent degree with a CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 in the semester system, or first division (60% marks) if you came through the annual system. And if your transcript doesn’t clearly show a CGPA or percentage, don’t panic — just get an equivalence certificate from your parent university.
- Admission test: You’ll need to clear either the university’s own GRE/HAT-equivalent test (60% passing score) or an accepted external equivalent from an HEC-accredited testing body, also at 60%.
- In-service candidates: If you’re already employed, you’ll need to attach a departmental No Objection Certificate (NOC) with your application.
The Statement of Purpose
This part deserves real attention, because it’s where you actually get to sell your idea. Your statement of purpose should cover four things: the title of your potential research proposal, a clear sense of where you currently stand in the field along with possible research directions, the impact you hope your research will have, and — just as important — genuine enthusiasm for the topic. Committees notice when this last part is missing.
| Component | Weightage |
| Academic Qualification + Research + Experience | 40 + 5 + 5 = 50 |
| Written Test (per HEC/AIOU policy) | 30 |
| Interview | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
In-Service Candidates and NOC Requirement
If you’re working full-time and applying for a PhD, remember to attach your departmental NOC — it’s easy to forget in the rush of paperwork. Also, and this genuinely matters: test and interview intimations go out only via SMS, or get posted on the AIOU website’s news section. No call letters land in your mailbox. So double-check the mobile number on your admission form, especially if you’ve switched networks recently — you don’t want to miss your own interview because of an old SIM.
Come prepared: if you’re called for an interview, bring all your original educational documents, degrees (plus two sets of attested copies), thesis/research papers, and experience certificates for verification. No TA/DA is paid for the test or interview, and your CNIC is mandatory to sit the written test — leave it behind and you simply won’t be allowed in.
MBA Programs — 1.5 Years and 2 Years
Now, if business administration is more your speed, here’s some good news: the Department of Business Administration runs the MBA in two tracks, and which one you land in depends purely on your academic background.
| Business Graduates | Non-Business Graduates | |
| Duration | 1.5 Years (3 semesters) | 2 Years (4 semesters) |
| Credit Hours | 30 | 60 |
| Eligibility | 16 years of education, min. 50% marks / equivalent CGPA | 16 years of education, min. 50% marks / equivalent CGPA |
Eligibility and Duration
Both tracks ask for 16 years of education from an HEC-recognized institution with at least 50% marks or the equivalent CGPA, and you’ll have up to 4 years to finish, whichever track you’re on. Classes are held face-to-face for now, though the department has kept the option open to shift to online delivery if circumstances call for it.
Scheme of Studies and Electives
If you’re coming from a non-business background, you’ll work through four semesters of core subjects — Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, Business Research, Financial Management, Organization Behaviour, and Business Policy & Strategy — followed by four electives (or two electives plus a 6-credit-hour Research Project). Already have a business degree? You get a condensed, three-semester path instead, covering Managerial Accounting, Business Policy & Strategy, Advanced Research Methods, and your choice of electives or a Research Project. And there’s a genuinely long list of electives to pick from — everything from Islamic Banking and Strategic Marketing to International Human Resource Management — so you can shape the degree around what actually interests you.
Assignment, Attendance & Evaluation Rules
- Two compulsory assignments per 3-credit-hour course, marked and returned with academic guidance.
- 48 hours of tutorial/contact time per course; attendance is compulsory with no relaxation.
- 75% attendance in workshops is required before a student can sit the final exam.
- A non-credit viva voce must be passed by every student after completing course work.
| Component | Weightage in Aggregate Result |
| Assignment No. 1 | 10% |
| Assignment No. 2 | 10% |
| Mid Term | 30% |
| Final Examination | 50% |
Here’s the catch worth remembering: you need at least 50% in assignments (aggregate), 50% in the mid-term, and 50% in the final written exam. Each one has to be cleared on its own — you can’t average a weak final with a strong assignment score and hope it balances out.
Course Work Evaluation & Passing Criteria
Outside of the MBA, the good news is that evaluation is refreshingly consistent — the split between continuous assessment and the final exam is standardized across MPhil and PhD departments, so there’s no guessing game depending on which faculty you join.
| Level | Continuous Assessment & Mid Term | Final Examination | Aggregate Pass Mark |
| MS/MPhil | 50% (20% + 30%) | 50% | 50% |
| PhD | 50% (20% + 30%) | 50% | 70% |
Attendance really does matter here: if you fail your continuous assessment or assignments, or don’t hit the mandatory 70% class attendance, you’ll be declared Fail — no matter how well you did elsewhere. And one more change worth flagging: the old Re-Appear and Again Re-Appear policy is gone. If you fail a course now, you’ll need to re-register or re-enroll in it from scratch.
Thesis, Synopsis Workshop & Research Requirements
This is where things start getting real. Once you’ve completed 24 credit hours of MPhil course work (or the PhD equivalent), you’ll move into a mandatory two-week Synopsis Orientation Workshop (SOW) — usually right at the start of your 3rd semester. To attend, you need to have passed at least 12 credit hours of course work, including Research Methods/Statistics. And a simple rule to remember: you can only submit your thesis after clearing every single course.
- MPhil: a minimum of 24 credit hours of course work plus 12 credit hours of research thesis, to be completed over 4 to 8 semesters (2 to 4 years). Oversease students can contect with the relevent deparment.
- PhD: typically 18 credit hours of course work plus a substantial research thesis, completed within 5 to 8 years, following HEC/AIOU rules.
Comprehensive Examination (PhD)
Once your course work wraps up, there’s one more hurdle before research begins in earnest — the Comprehensive Examination. Your department conducts it within 90 days of finishing course work, and it’s a four-hour written test with a 70% pass mark. There are no grades here, just pass or fail, and you get two attempts to clear it. Make them count.
Plagiarism Policy
AIOU doesn’t take plagiarism lightly, and honestly, neither should you. If a thesis turns out to be a copied version of someone else’s published or unpublished work, the student’s PhD candidature gets cancelled, and they’re permanently barred from any AIOU programme going forward. Even if plagiarism surfaces after a degree has already been awarded, that degree gets cancelled too. All of this follows HEC’s Plagiarism Policy and SOPs — so originality isn’t optional.
Thesis Evaluation & Viva Voce
Once your research is done, you’ll submit five spiral-bound copies of your thesis to your supervisor, along with an undertaking that the work hasn’t been submitted anywhere else. Here’s the part that surprises many students: AIOU sends every PhD thesis to three foreign experts from technologically advanced countries for evaluation, and you need unconditional approval from at least two of them before you can even sit your viva voce. Clear that, and you’re through — just remember to submit five hard-bound copies (plus a soft copy) in the specified format afterward.
Research Publication Requirement
One more milestone stands between you and your viva voce: publishing at least one research article as first author, tied to your PhD research, and only after your synopsis has been approved. For Science disciplines, that means one W-category journal article (or two X-category ones); for Social Sciences, it’s one X-category article (or two Y-category ones).
AIOU Fully Funded PhD Scholarship Program
If money is the one thing holding you back from a PhD, this next part might change your mind. AIOU runs a merit-based, fully funded scholarship for scholars who are serious about research.
- Eligibility: You’ll need a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 (or the equivalent) in your MS/MPhil, a well-written research proposal that aligns with the department’s research areas, and an age of 35 years or below on the admission closing date. Prior research experience or publications is a plus, but not a dealbreaker.
- Coverage: Full tuition for the entire PhD programme, plus a monthly stipend of Rs. 80,000 (excluding fee) to help with living expenses — enough to actually focus on your research instead of worrying about rent.
- Duration: Up to 3 years (36 months), extendable to 4 years (48 months) if your supervisor and department chairman recommend it.
- Conditions: One thing to keep in mind: this is a residential scholarship. You’ll need to stay physically present at the AIOU Main Campus for the full duration, and your payments are tied to monthly attendance.
Other Scholarships & Financial Assistance Schemes
- Financial Support Scheme (SSF-101): Assistance for deserving, needy, and talented students who need a helping hand to continue their studies.
- Earn to Learn Scheme (SSF-102): A chance to earn while you study, so higher education doesn’t have to wait until your finances are perfect.
- Merit Scholarship Scheme (SSF-103): For students at any level who’ve scored 85% or above in their latest AIOU results — a nice reward for consistent hard work.
- Final Year Project Grant Scheme (SSF-105): Financial grants for market-oriented research projects, open to BS, BSc (Hons), MPhil, MS, and PhD scholars.
- Scholarship for Communities Scheme (SSF-106): Support built specifically for differently abled students, orphans, gender-diverse individuals, children of martyrs, and inmates/prisoners.
On top of these, limited general financial assistance is also available to deserving students from the 2nd semester onward, as long as you apply with the right supporting documents. It’s worth checking the AIOU website for the full terms and eligibility of every scheme — you might qualify for more than you think.
Fee Structure for Autumn 2026 (Faculty-Wise)
Now let’s talk numbers, because budgeting matters just as much as the academics. Fees vary a bit by faculty, so here are the standard first-semester breakdowns for MPhil and PhD programmes, with MBA fees shown separately.
Faculty of Arabic & Islamic Studies — MPhil
| Fee Head | Amount |
| Admission Fee (first semester only) | Rs. 2,150 |
| Registration Fee (once, at admission) | Rs. 1,400 |
| Technology Fee (per semester) | Rs. 850 |
| Tuition Fee (12 credit hours) | Rs. 23,520 |
| Total First-Semester Fee | Rs. 27,920 |
| Thesis Fee (12 credit hrs, 3rd & 4th semester each) | Rs. 11,760 |
| Thesis Evaluation Fee (at submission) | Rs. 23,520 |
Faculty of Arabic & Islamic Studies — PhD
| Fee Head | Amount |
| Admission Fee (first admission) | Rs. 3,600 |
| Registration Fee (first admission) | Rs. 3,600 |
| Technology Fee (per semester) | Rs. 850 |
| Total First-Semester Fee | Rs. 39,550 |
| Thesis Fee (per semester, 4 installments) | Rs. 31,500 |
| Thesis Evaluation Fee (at submission) | Rs. 126,000 |
Faculty of Education — MPhil & PhD
| Level | Total First-Semester Fee | Thesis Evaluation Fee |
| MPhil | Rs. 27,920 | Rs. 23,250 |
| PhD | Rs. 39,550 | Rs. 126,000 |
Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities — MPhil & PhD
Good news if you’re in this faculty — the fee structure closely mirrors the Faculty of Education. Expect an MPhil first-semester total of around Rs. 27,920, and a PhD first-semester total of around Rs. 39,550, with the same thesis and evaluation fee pattern.
Faculty of Sciences — MPhil/MS/MSc (Hons)
| Fee Head | Amount |
| Admission Fee (first semester) | Rs. 2,150 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 1,400 |
| Technology Fee (per semester) | Rs. 850 |
| Total First-Semester Fee | Rs. 44,600 |
| Thesis Fee (3rd semester, plus lab charges where applicable) | Rs. 22,300 (+ Rs. 69,950 lab charges*) |
| Thesis Fee (4th semester) | Rs. 22,300 |
| Thesis Evaluation Fee | Rs. 40,200 |
*Just a heads-up — lab charges apply only to Chemistry, Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, Environmental Sciences, and Agricultural Technology programmes, so most other Science students won’t see this extra line item.
Faculty of Sciences — PhD
| Fee Head | Amount |
| Admission Fee | Rs. 3,600 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 3,600 |
| Technology Fee (per semester) | Rs. 850 |
| Total First-Semester Fee | Rs. 45,760 |
| Thesis Fee (per semester, semesters 3–6) | Rs. 37,710 |
| Thesis Evaluation Fee | Rs. 150,840 |
MBA Fee Structure
| Fee Head | Amount |
| Registration Fee (first admission) | Rs. 1,400 |
| Admission Fee (first admission) | Rs. 2,150 |
| Per Credit Hour Fee | Rs. 3,500 |
| Course Fee (per course) | Rs. 10,500 |
| Project Fee (6 credit hours) | Rs. 21,000 |
| Project Evaluation Fee (at submission) | Rs. 21,000 |
| Technology Fee (per semester) | Rs. 850 |
Worth remembering: fees get revised periodically, sometimes without much notice, depending on the university’s operational needs. Before you pay anything, always confirm the current figures via your fee voucher on the OAS portal.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Keep an eye out for the official admission announcement in leading newspapers and on the AIOU website — postgraduate admissions come around once a year, separate from undergraduate cycles.
- Register on the online admission portal (aiou.edu.pk/oas-fresh-admission) using your cell number or email.
- Fill out and submit the admission form with accurate contact details. Remember, SMS is the only way you’ll hear about your test or interview.
- Download and pay your fee voucher through a designated bank branch or approved mobile wallet.
- Start preparing for the admission test (university test or an accepted GRE/HAT equivalent), and if you’re going for a PhD, get your Statement of Purpose ready too.
- If you’re shortlisted, show up for the interview with all original documents, attested copies, and your CNIC.
- Once selected, deposit your first-semester fee before the deadline to lock in your seat — miss it, and your seat could automatically go to the next-ranked candidate.
For the latest updates, it’s always worth checking the official AIOU Online Admission Portal and the main AIOU website. And if you’d like to understand the broader HEC policies behind postgraduate education referenced in the prospectus, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan website is a good place to look.
Common Student Concerns, Answered
- “Can I skip the admission test if I have a GRE score?”Yes, and it’s a nice shortcut — a valid GRE/HAT General score (50 percentile for MS/MPhil, or the accepted equivalent for PhD) exempts you from the university’s own admission test.
- “What happens if I fail a course?”Unfortunately, the Re-Appear/Again Re-Appear policy has been discontinued. You’ll need to re-register or re-enroll in the failed course the next time it’s offered.
- “Can I change my MPhil specialization after admission?”No, not mid-programme. If you want a different specialization, you’ll need to apply fresh in a future admission cycle.
- “Is hostel accommodation available?”To a limited extent — AIOU offers hostel facilities only at the main Islamabad campus, at reasonable but separate rates, and subject to availability, so book early if you’ll need one.
- “How long can a PhD really take?”At minimum, 3 years (5 semesters). On the other end, the university allows up to 8 years, in line with AIOU and HEC rules — so there’s room to go at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
Stepping back, AIOU’s Autumn 2026 postgraduate prospectus really does reflect a mature, HEC-aligned research ecosystem — a rigorous but fair admission test, structured synopsis workshops, foreign thesis evaluation, and a genuinely generous PhD scholarship for those who qualify. Whether you’re eyeing an MBA to boost your career, an MPhil to go deeper into your subject, or a PhD to become a recognized researcher, the fundamentals stay the same: confirm you’re eligible, prepare properly for the admission test or your Statement of Purpose, and don’t let an SMS notification or fee deadline slip past you. Take it one step at a time, and it’s genuinely manageable.
Image 3: Scholar researching — Alt text: “AIOU postgraduate scholar conducting thesis research”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum eligibility for AIOU MS/MPhil programmes?
16 years of schooling (or 4 years of education after HSSC) in the relevant subject, with at least second division or equivalent CGPA/GPA, and a minimum of 120 credit hours from an HEC-recognized institution.
2. What CGPA do I need for a PhD at AIOU?
A minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 in the semester system, or first division (60% marks) in the annual system, in your MS/MPhil or equivalent degree.
3. How much does the AIOU PhD scholarship pay?
The fully funded PhD scholarship covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 80,000, for up to 3 years (extendable to 4), provided you maintain satisfactory progress and residency at the main campus.
4. What is the passing percentage for PhD course work?
PhD students need 70% in aggregate to pass a course, compared to 50% for MS/MPhil students, alongside the mandatory 70% class attendance requirement.
5. Can I apply for MBA with a non-business background?
Yes. Non-business graduates complete a 2-year, 60-credit-hour MBA, while candidates with a business education background complete a condensed 1.5-year, 30-credit-hour version also read now AIOU MPhil PhD MBA Autumn 2026 admission details.
6. Where can I find the latest, official information?
Always refer to the official AIOU prospectus and the AIOU Online Admission Portal for confirmed dates, fee revisions, and programme updates, since departments reserve the right to amend offerings at any time.
