University Options in Karachi for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Karachi offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Karachi

British universities:

• Institute of Business Administration (IBA) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Economics, Computer Science
• Aga Khan University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Medicine, Nursing, Education

Other international programmes:

• Karachi University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), Pakistan’s largest public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• NED University of Engineering and Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Technology

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• Karachi University – established 1951 (over 74 years); 40,000+ students; Pakistan’s largest public university, English-medium programmes available
• Institute of Business Administration – established 1955 (over 70 years); 5,000+ students; Pakistan’s top business school, well-established
• Aga Khan University – established 1983 (over 42 years); 3,500+ students; well-established private university, strong in Medicine
• NED University – established 1921 (over 104 years); 12,000+ students; well-established engineering university

Note: Karachi’s international programmes and English-medium offerings are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 42–104+ years and have 3,500–40,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Pakistan’s largest city.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• Karachi University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Pakistan’s largest public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• Institute of Business Administration – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Pakistan’s top business school, highly competitive, strong in Business, Economics, Computer Science
• Aga Khan University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in Medicine, Nursing, Education

Other universities:

• NED University of Engineering and Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established engineering university, strong in Engineering, Technology
• Habib University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Liberal Arts, Sciences, Engineering
• SZABIST – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Media Studies

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-AAA for competitive programmes. IBA is highly selective and may require AAA or higher.

IBDP: Typically 32-38 points minimum, with higher points (38+) for competitive programmes. Top universities often require 38+ points with specific Higher Level requirements.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Urdu language proficiency for programmes taught in Urdu.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams, interviews, or essays.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Local universities:

• Karachi University: PKR 50,000–150,000 per year (approximately USD 180–540). Public university, significantly lower fees.
• Institute of Business Administration: PKR 300,000–600,000 per year (approximately USD 1,100–2,200). Private university, higher fees.
• Aga Khan University: PKR 500,000–1,500,000 per year (approximately USD 1,800–5,400). Private university, Medicine programmes higher.
• NED University: PKR 80,000–200,000 per year (approximately USD 290–720). Public university.

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme and university type (public vs private). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (university-specific scholarships) that can cover 10–50% of tuition. Pakistani citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Karachi?

• Quality education – home to Pakistan’s top universities (IBA, Aga Khan University)
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Finance, Banking, Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare
• Cultural experience – immerse in Pakistani culture while studying
• Affordable cost of living – more affordable than many other major cities
• Strategic location – Pakistan’s largest city, commercial hub

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Urdu enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for university-specific entrance exams (especially for IBA)
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Pakistani citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Pakistan Higher Education Commission (HEC)
• Cost of living – Karachi is moderately affordable; factor in accommodation and living costs
• Visa requirements – ensure proper student visa documentation

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.