Admission Criteria & Eligibility – Virtual University
Table of Contents
- Introduction & General Admission Criteria
- BS-Lateral (2 Year) Programs Criteria
- BS (4 Year) Programs Eligibility
- ADP (Associate Degree Programs) Criteria
- MS & MBA Programs Eligibility
- Diploma Programs Admission Criteria
- Short Courses Eligibility
- Specialization Certificate Criteria
- Result Awaiting Applicants
- Zero Semester Eligibility
Introduction & General Admission Criteria
Virtual University Pakistan provides affordable, world-class education to students across the country. The admission criteria and eligibility requirements ensure that every student meets the minimum academic standards. Before applying, candidates should check the VU Programs Page to view specific eligibility criteria for each program. These admission criteria are designed to help students understand their eligibility for different degree programs, diplomas, short courses, and certificates.
BS-Lateral (2 Year) Programs Criteria
BS-Lateral admission criteria allow students with a 2-year Associate Degree in the same field to join the 5th semester directly. Students from a different discipline or BA/BSc (annual system) must complete a bridging or deficiency semester as per program eligibility criteria. The minimum CGPA is 2.00/4 or 45% marks for annual system degrees. Always check program-specific criteria for BS-Lateral before applying: BS-Lateral Programs.
BS (4 Year) Programs Eligibility
Applicants must have completed 12 years of education, such as Intermediate or A-Level, with at least 45% marks. Students with less than 45% may become eligible after completing Zero Semester. Candidates with foreign qualifications must provide equivalence certificates from IBCC or HEC. Program-specific eligibility should be checked here: BS Programs.
Associate Degree Programs (ADP) Criteria
To meet ADP admission criteria, candidates must have at least 45% marks in Intermediate/HSSC or A-Level. Those scoring 33%-44% may need to complete Zero Semester. International qualifications require IBCC equivalency. Check ADP program eligibility: ADP Programs.
MS & MBA Programs Eligibility
MS in Computer Science
- 16 years of relevant education from an HEC-recognized institution.
- Minimum CGPA 2.50/4 or first division where GPA not used.
- Pass the University Entry Test (minimum 50%).
- Seats limited and based on merit.
MBA (Equivalent to MS)
- 16 years of education with minimum 50% marks or 2.0/4 CGPA in any discipline.
- Students in Business/Management/Commerce/Public Administration may get exemption up to 30 credit hours.
- Passing the Entry Test (GAT General, minimum 50%) and interview is mandatory.
Note: Limited seats available. Click here to download Sample of Entry Test
Diploma Programs Admission Criteria
Admission criteria for diplomas require a bachelor’s degree with 45% marks or 2.0/4 CGPA. Candidates with 33%-44% may be eligible after completing Zero Semester.
Short Courses Eligibility
Applicants should have basic English skills. There is no age, gender, or educational restriction. Maximum four courses per semester. Students enrolled in VU degree or diploma programs cannot apply. Short course admission criteria focus on language skills and interest in learning.
Specialization Certificate Criteria
- Minimum 16 years of education in any field.
- Apply for one specialization per admission session (Spring/Fall).
- Complete at least 12 credit hours.
- No course exemption allowed.
- Cannot enroll in multiple certificates simultaneously.
- Program duration: 1–3 semesters.
Result Awaiting Applicants (HSSC/Intermediate)
Students awaiting their Part-II or final HSSC/Intermediate results can apply provisionally based on their Part-I results, following specific conditions set by Virtual University.
Minimum Marks Requirements
| Program Type | Minimum Marks in Part-I | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| ADP/BS Programs (General) | 45% marks | None |
| Computing Programs (BSCS/IT/SE/DS) | 50% marks | Must have relevant subjects specified in eligibility criteria |
Provisional Admission Conditions
- Important Deadline: Provisionally admitted students MUST upload their Part-II and complete final result card in the LMS by the announced date.
- Failure to comply will result in:
- Automatic cancellation of admission
- Fee refund as per university policy
- Possible blocking of LMS access
Zero Semester Eligibility
Zero Semester helps students who do not meet minimum marks or CGPA requirements for undergraduate programs. Completion of Zero Semester allows students to meet the criteria and progress to Diploma, ADP, or BS programs. Always review eligibility criteria for your chosen program before applying.