The Virtual University of Pakistan (VU) will conduct the computer-based National Skill Competency Test (NSCT)nationwide on April 4–5, 2026, as part of a Higher Education Commission (HEC) initiative to bridge the gap between academia and industry.
Over 40,000 students from 199 universities offering computing and IT programs are registered to appear across 112 cities and 165 test centers. Eligibility has been extended to students enrolled in the 7th and 8th semesters.
The NSCT is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication (MoITT), Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), and the National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC). The initiative aims to align computing education with industry needs, improve graduate employability, and enhance the credibility of assessments.
To ensure transparency and exam integrity, VU has deployed supervisory staff at all centers. Additionally, monitoring control rooms in Lahore and Islamabad will provide real-time oversight to maintain strict vigilance and smooth conduct of the test across the country.
The HEC emphasized that the NSCT is a key step in preparing graduates for the evolving IT industry while addressing the critical skills gap in computing education.
