HEC Urgent Degree Attestation Fee Guide

When you have an opportunity to study abroad or a promising job offer overseas, time is often of the essence. One of the most critical steps in preparing your documents is getting your degree attested by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. For those on a tight deadline, the urgent attestation service is a lifesaver. However, this expedited service comes with a specific cost.

This guide will provide a clear breakdown of the HEC urgent degree attestation fee, explain the process, and offer tips to ensure your application is handled smoothly and quickly. Understanding these details will help you navigate the process with confidence and meet your deadlines without stress.

What is HEC Degree Attestation?

HEC degree attestation is the process by which the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan verifies and certifies that a degree or transcript issued by a recognized university is authentic. An official HEC stamp and signature are applied to the original document, confirming its legitimacy for use both within Pakistan and internationally.

This verification is a mandatory requirement for many academic and professional purposes. It assures foreign universities, employers, and government bodies that your qualification is genuine and meets recognized standards. Without HEC attestation, your degree will not be accepted for most official procedures abroad.

Why is HEC Attestation Important?

HEC attestation is a non-negotiable step for anyone planning to use their Pakistani degree internationally. Its importance cannot be overstated.

You will need an HEC-attested degree for:

• International University Admissions: Applying for Master’s, PhD, or other programs abroad.
• Work Visas and Employment: Securing a work permit or employment in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and others.
• Immigration: As part of the educational credential assessment for immigration to countries like Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
• Professional Licensing: Registering with international professional bodies for fields like engineering, medicine, and accounting.

The HEC Urgent Attestation Process

The HEC offers two modes for degree attestation: normal and urgent. The urgent service is designed for individuals who need their documents processed in a fraction of the time. While the normal process can take several weeks, the urgent service significantly shortens this timeline.

The process is managed through the HEC’s online portal. Here is a step-by-step overview:

1. Create an Account: The first step is to create a profile on the HEC e-services portal at eservices.hec.gov.pk.
2. Complete Your Profile: Fill in your personal and educational details accurately. You will need to upload scanned copies of your academic documents and personal identification.
3. Submit an Application: Once your profile is complete, create a new attestation application. You will select the documents you need attested (e.g., Bachelor’s Degree, Transcript).
4. Choose Urgent Service: During the application, you will be given the option to choose between “Normal” and “Urgent” attestation. Select the urgent option.
5. Schedule an Appointment: After submitting the application, you will need to schedule an appointment at your nearest HEC office (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, or Quetta). The urgent service offers earlier appointment slots.
6. Visit the HEC Office: On your appointment day, visit the HEC office with your original documents, photocopies, and the application fee.
7. Document Verification and Stamping: An HEC official will verify your original documents against the information in your online application. If everything is in order, your documents will be stamped and attested, usually on the same day.

HEC Urgent Degree Attestation Fee Structure

The primary difference between the normal and urgent service is the cost. The HEC charges a premium for the expedited process. Understanding the HEC urgent degree attestation fee is crucial for budgeting your expenses correctly.

The fees are charged per document. Here is a general breakdown:

• Urgent Attestation of an Original Document: The fee is PKR 3,000 for each original document (e.g., one degree and one transcript would be two original documents).
• Urgent Attestation of a Photocopy: The fee is PKR 3,000 for each photocopy of an already attested document.

Let’s look at a common scenario:

Suppose you need to get your Bachelor’s degree and its transcript attested on an urgent basis.

• Attestation for Original Bachelor’s Degree: PKR 3,000
• Attestation for Original Transcript: PKR 3,000
• Total HEC Urgent Degree Attestation Fee: PKR 6,000

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change. Always verify the current fee structure on the official HEC website before starting your application. The fees are payable through a specific bank challan generated from the HEC portal.

Tips for a Smooth Urgent Attestation Experience

The urgent service is fast, but it still requires meticulous preparation. Any error can cause delays, defeating the purpose of paying the higher fee.

• Start Your Online Application Early: Even if you need the documents urgently, complete your online profile and application well in advance. This gives you time to resolve any data entry errors or document upload issues.
• Ensure Your Degree is Recognized: The HEC only attests degrees from HEC-recognized universities and programs. Verify your institution’s status on the HEC website before you begin.
• Gather All Original Documents: Make sure you have all required original documents, from matriculation (SSC) onwards. HEC officials will need to see the complete chain of your academic record.
• Double-Check Your Information: Ensure all information on your online application form perfectly matches your original documents. Any mismatch in name spelling, dates, or registration numbers can lead to rejection.
• Arrive Early for Your Appointment: Get to the HEC office ahead of your scheduled time. This gives you a buffer to handle any last-minute issues.
• Organize Your Documents: Keep your documents neatly organized in the correct order (e.g., Degree, Transcript, CNIC, etc.). This makes the verification process quicker and smoother for the HEC staff.

Final Thoughts

The HEC urgent attestation service is an invaluable resource for anyone facing a tight deadline. While the HEC urgent degree attestation fee is higher than the normal service, the speed and efficiency it offers are often well worth the investment. By understanding the process, preparing your documents carefully, and being aware of the costs involved, you can successfully get your degrees attested and move forward with your international plans without delay. Always refer to the official HEC portal for the most current information and guidelines to ensure a successful application.