Information Technology has become an important part of our lives, from smartphones to the Internet. The field has been growing so fast due to its vast areas of applications in different domains including education, healthcare, transportation, entertainment, and much more. Therefore, the demand for IT graduates is also immensely growing. Jobs such as Software Engineer, AI Engineer, Cloud Engineer, and Data Scientist are the hottest jobs in the world right now with high salaries and compensations.
However, to be a part of these big tech giants, such as Google, Meta (Facebook), Amazon, or Microsoft, you must begin your technological journey by learning about the vibrant field of Computer Science. Hence, one of the best ways to have a better career in IT is to start with an undergraduate degree from a reputed institute in the field above.
So, you need not worry about finding the best university to start your journey. I have listed the top 10 best IT universities in Pakistan so that you can choose the perfect fit for your future endeavors. We have ranked these universities based on their quality of education, infrastructure, alumni network, and job success ratio.
List of Best IT Universities in Pakistan
Table of Contents
1. National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST)
NUST urges the top institutions regarding Information Technology or Computer Science studies because it emphasizes new cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art infrastructure for research, innovation, and productivity. Although the university was established in March 1991, in a short time, it has received a high reputation in Pakistan and globally. There are a lot of reasons why should you choose NUST for your IT studies; great quality of education, highly qualified faculty, state-of-the-art research labs, and internationally-spread alumni network are only a few of them that will enhance your efforts to achieve your target of becoming an IT expert.
NUST is ranked on a distinguishable spot in world rankings, specifically in the Subject Ranking of computer science. According to the QS ranking, NUST ranks at #353 position globally, whereas it ranks between 301 to 400 in THE ranking.
Campuses
The main campus of NUST is in Islamabad. There is also a NUST Balochistan Campus located in Quetta, Balochistan. In addition to these, there are many colleges accredited with NUST, including NUST College of Electrical & Mechanical Engineering (CEME) Rawalpindi, College of Aeronautical Engineering, Military College of Engineering, Military College of Signals, Pakistan Navy Engineering College, NUST Institute of Civil Engineering, Institute of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, NUST Business School, and more.
Admissions
NUST offers courses in different levels of degree programs; undergraduate, Master, and PhD. If you are seeking to pursue the above degree level, you need to check the corresponding start and end date on the NUST website’s Admissions page. Because this date might vary amongst degree levels, it is always better to see the current timeline on the university website. Note, that there is an entry test that you need to pass (get min 50%) to get admission to NUST. It’s not very hard if you prepare for it. You can watch preparation videos on YouTube or read notes and books for preparation.
Fee Structure
We have only listed the tuition fee (on February 2025) per semester, there may be other types of fees as well, including admission, hostel, and transportation.
| Undergraduate | Rs. 171,350/semester at NUST main campus and Rs. 85,000/semester at NUST Balochistan |
| Masters | Rs. 111,960/semester at NUST main campus |
| PhD | Rs. 111,960/semester at NUST main campus. |
Nevertheless, it is one of the best universities in Pakistan for IT and Computer Science, but it can also be very costly for most students in Pakistan. However, you can seek scholarships to fund your studies as well or you can look at another university suited for you. If you want to know more about the university and the program, you can check it from the National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) website.
2. COMSATS University Islamabad
COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) is ranked among the top universities in Pakistan for various disciplines, including information technology (IT). The institute was established in 1998 and was initially named COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT). It later changed to COMSATS University Islamabad to expand its influence on other subjects as well. The university was formed by a proposal of the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) under the leadership of Sir Dr. Abdus Salam, the first Pakistani Nobel Laureate in science.
Since its inception, COMSATS has been striving rigorously to meet global standards in the field of science and technology. So, if you want a university with a dynamic curriculum and great faculty, then COMSATS can be a great fit for you. It is ranked between 711 and 720 on QS rankings while at #289 on US News rankings.
Campuses
Currently, COMSATS has eight campuses in seven different cities, including a virtual campus. Whereas, the main campus is in Islamabad, while sub-campuses are in cities such as Abbottabad, Wah, Lahore, Attock, Sahiwal, and Vehari. You can choose what gets closer to you or you can go with COMSATS main campus Islamabad.
Admissions
There are two intakes, spring and fall. The spring intake’s admissions usually start between October and November, whereas fall starts in June every year. Each student who wants to study at CUI must pass an entry test first, which depends upon the program you are applying to, which is conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS). For more information, you can visit their website. Click here.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 105,00 in the first semester and the second semester fee would be almost Rs. 83,000. |
| Masters | Rs. 99,000 in the first semester and the second semester fee would be almost Rs. 77,000. |
| PhD | Rs. 105,00 in the first semester and the second semester fee would be almost Rs. 83,000. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time and the fee can be deferred in both intakes as well, so it is always recommended to visit the official website for up-to-date fees. Moreover, also look for the fee on different campuses, it might vary.
3. National University of Computing and Emerging Sciences
The National University of Computing and Emerging Sciences (NUCES), also known as FAST or FAST NUCES, is a renowned university in Pakistan. It is known for its high-quality education and bright-minded graduates working in many big-giant companies, including Google and Microsoft. FAST has been a symbol of excellence in the fields of software engineering, computer science, and IT. Ultimately, pursuing your studies in this esteemed university would return you with a bright career and contact with like-minded people.
It has an alumni network that is spread in international IT industries that can help you step into the vibrant field of information technology. Although the university was founded in 2000, within the last two and a half decades, it is acknowledged for the influence it made in the country and internationally. It is recommended to choose FAST, especially if you want to go with Software Engineering. Truly, beginning your IT journey from FAST would be a great decision.
Campuses
NUCES has five campuses in five different cities, which are Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Chiniot-Faisalabad.
Admissions
The National University of Computing and Emerging Sciences (NUCES) has a very streamlined admission process, which is fully online. You do not need to send your documents via post or email. There is an application portal on the FAST website where you can fill out that application and apply. After a technical process or scrutiny, you will be informed of an entry test, which is physical. If you meet the eligibility criteria and pass that test, then will be admitted to the university.
Fee Structure
All level of degrees (BS, MS, and PhD) requires an admission fee of Rs. 30,000 and a security deposit of Rs. 20,000, which is refundable.
| Undergraduate | the tuition fee per credit hour is Rs. 10,000, as based on credit hours each semester can change in fee. |
| Masters | the tuition fee per credit hour is Rs. 10,000. |
| PhD | the tuition fee per credit hour is Rs. 10,000. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is always recommended to visit the official website for up-to-date fees. Moreover, also look for the fee on different campuses, it might vary.
To learn more about the university and its programs, kindly visit the FAST NUCES website.
4. Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI)
The Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) is one of the leading computing and engineering institutions in Pakistan, located in Topi, District Swabi in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). It offers multiple programs in technological sciences, including computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, and more. GIKI graduates are found in every major company in Pakistan and every regional or international competition. The university ranks between 451 and 500 in QS Rankings, and within the top 1000 best engineering universities in the world, according to Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings.
The institute is equipped with advanced research and development labs so that you can work on any of your future projects or be part of a research team working in your interest domain.
Admissions
GIKI starts offering admission between October and November, which usually ends in December. During the application period, you can apply through their admission portal. Likewise, after a successful online application review, you need to appear for an entry test that is conducted on the GIKI campus. Moreover, there are also some other mandatory requirements that you can check on the GIKI admissions page.
Fee Structure
Each self-funded students need to pay an admission fee of Rs. 65,000 (non-refundable) and security money of Rs. 30,000, which is refundable. In GIKI, you can pay your fee per semester or annually.
| Undergraduate | Rs. 427,500-492,500/semester or Rs. 855,000-985,000 annually. |
| Masters | Rs. 100,000/Semester |
| PhD | Rs. 100,000/Semester |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the official website for up-to-date fees.
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5. University of the Punjab (PU)
The University of Punjab or the Punjab University (PU) is the oldest and largest in Pakistan established in 1882 by the administration of Government College University Lahore. In the development and growth of the country, PU has played a vital role by producing brilliant graduates in numerous fields. From engineering to liberal arts, social sciences to agricultural sciences, business, economics, and many more.
Today, the university has influenced every public-private sector with its notable graduates, and its impact can be seen in other academic institutions in the region as well. Moreover, studying at the University of Punjab would not be only a rewarding experience in terms of a bright career, but also an exposure to history, culture, and traditions.
Campuses
PU comprises six campuses, the Allama Iqbal campus in Lahore, the Quaid-e-Azam campus in Islamabad, the Sir Syed campus in Khanspur, and other sub-campuses in Gujranwala, Jhelum, and Pothohar. Additionally, it has 8 constituent colleges, including Punjab University College of Information Technology (P.U.C.I.T).
Admissions
You can apply at the Punjab University through an online application with your personal information, educational details, and other requirements. Likewise, if your application is considered you will called for an entry test, which results in a merit list.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 119,440/Semester, which might vary by semester. |
| Masters | Rs. 60,365/Semester, which might vary by semester. |
| PhD | Rs. 181,865/Semester. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the Punjab University website for up-to-date fees.
6. University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore
The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore is among the oldest educational institutions in Pakistan located in Lahore. It has been teaching and producing brilliant engineering graduates. It was founded in 1921 as the Mughalpura Technical University, later renamed to Maclagan Engineering Univerisity, now finally known as the University of Engineering & Technology. It is known as a symbol of excellence when it comes to engineering sciences programs and offers several programs in the disciplines of engineering, natural sciences, and technology.
UET Lahore has been there for more than a hundred (100) years now and is one of the best universities we have today. Thus, considering UET would be a life-changing decision and a bright career.
Campuses
However, the main campus is in Lahore but it also has sub-campuses in four other cities which are Faisalabad, Rachna, Kala Shah Kaku, and Narowal.
Admissions
There are usually two intakes in UET, Spring and Fall. So, have your eyes on the UET website for the upcoming admission intake schedule so that you do not miss it.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 74,036 in the first semester and first installment. Rs. 79,421 in the first-semester second installment. For the following semesters, the fee deferred from the first. |
| Masters | Rs. 101,312 in the first semester and Rs. 347,784 for all four semesters. |
| PhD | No information was found from any source. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the official website for up-to-date fees.
7. Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS)
It is impossible to overlook LUMS when mentioning top universities in Pakistan. Because it has made its mark in areas where innovation and creativity meet together. However, it is known for courses in management sciences and business, but it also has produced top talents in the fields of information technology (IT) and computer science. The employment ratio of LUMS graduates is notable and in 2020, it was ranked in first position in Pakistan and top 200 globally in QS Graduate Employability Rankings.
LUMS has an association with industries in Pakistan and internationally which helps its graduates get a job easily. It focuses on students’ character building and personality development, so people who graduate from LUMS have very good communication and social skills.
Admissions
LUMS has a very competitive admission process and you need to work hard to get selected. It offers courses for both undergraduates and graduate students. To apply at LUMS, you have to fill out an online application with the required details and documents. LUMS also conducts an entry test to select the best among the applicants. Ultimately, students who pass the test with good marks can continue with the next process of admission.
Fee Structure
As I said earlier, LUMS has a very competitive selection, it also has heavy fees which is not affordable for many students. However, you can seek financial aid or perform exceptionally to receive a scholarship that can cover your all expenses. One of those scholarships is NoP.
| Undergraduate | Rs. 1,040,370 in the first semester and Rs. 756,950/semester. |
| Masters | Rs. 514,710 in the first semester and Rs. 319,000/semester. |
| PhD | Rs. 514,710 in the first semester and Rs. 319,000/semester. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the Lahore University of Management Sciences website for up-to-date fees.
8. NED University of Engineering and Technology
NED or NEDUET University is among the top universities in Karachi and Pakistan. NED is an abbreviation of the name of its founding member “Nadirshaw Edulji Dinshaw”, who contributed to its formation. There’s a very low chance that you want to study in Karachi and you have not heard about this prestigious institute. It was set up by the name of NED Government Engineering College in 1921 and was later named NED University of Engineering and Technology in 1977.
The university not only aims to teach students the required knowledge but also motivates its students to participate in practical activities. For instance, you will see students from NED developing technological solutions to enhance various industries. Thus, studying in an encouraging environment will lead you to pursue your dream job or be a leader in your domain.
Admissions
NED offers technology courses for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral (PhD). Similarly, admission is provided in two intakes Spring and Fall. Offerings for spring normally begin in mid-November, while for fall the application starts in August of each year. Moreover, other admission requirements are the same, such as passing an entry test to get into NEDUET.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 58,975/semester and for the first semester it may include admission fee and security deposit. |
| Masters | Rs. 44,900 (might include I Grade Examinations Fee as per course of Rs. 10,000). |
| PhD | Rs. 88,900 in the first semester which includes admission fee and security money. Rs. 60,000/semester excludes first. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the NED University of Engineering and Technology CSIT website for up-to-date fees.
9. Information Technology University (ITU)
ITU was established in 2012 and is located in Lahore. It was formed to enhance the current education system to meet international standards in the field of information technology. Despite being a young university, ITU has achieved significant recognition which is admirable. The Information Technology University (ITU) aims to mimic technological studies that are taught in top universities, such as MIT and Standford. Pursuing your IT study at ITU would be worth your time to win a top-level career.
Admissions
At ITU, they want to only select those who have a leadership mindset and can be further trained to lead IT industries. It requires you to pass a GRE or GAT test to get admission to the university. Additionally, there are other requirements as well, like the minimum score in previous studies that would be considered for making the merit list.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 192,900-248,000/semester. |
| Masters | Rs. 106,000-131,900/semester. |
| PhD | No information was found from any source. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the Information Technology University – ITU website for up-to-date fees.
10. Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS)
BUITEMS is located in Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan is among the top universities in Pakistan that provide courses in engineering, IT, and management sciences disciplines. It is counted to be the best university in Balochistan. The university was established in 2002, since then it has produced a lot of talented graduates who fulfill the demand in various engineering domains, including Mining engineering, computer engineering, software engineering, electrical engineering, and a lot more.
BUITEMS is ranked between 1200 and 1500 among the best universities in the world, according to Times Higher Education Rankings, and has achieved great recognition in Pakistan. Certainly, studying at BUITEMS would be a rewarding experience for your career and future.
Campuses
The main campus is located in Quetta near the International Airport, whereas there are 3 sub-campuses in Zhob, Muslim-bagh, and Takatu.
Admissions
However, BUITEMS has a very smooth admission process which starts from selecting your major and applying through their online application. After, you need to appear for an entry test to have a successful admission.
Fee Structure
| Undergraduate | Rs. 77,700 in the first semester and Rs. 48,415/semester excludes 1st. |
| Masters | Rs. 83,480 in the first semester and Rs. 52,720/semester excludes 1st. |
| PhD | Rs. 83,480 in the first semester and Rs. 52,720/semester excludes 1st. |
Note: The fee structure might change over time, so it is recommended to visit the BUITEMS website for up-to-date fees.
Conclusion
The list of best IT universities in Pakistan is not limited to this, it was only chosen universities to be ranked based on some crucial factors. There are a few more that came this close to making this list, which are mentioned below.
- Quaid-e-Azam University
- Karachi University (KU)
- Habib University
- University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Peshawar
- GCU Faisalabad
- Air University
- Pakistan Institue of Engineering & Applied Sciences (PIEAS)
If you feel something we missed in this post, kindly let me know and we will try our best to add your feedback to it. Thank you for your time and consideration.
