Insights into Pakistan

QAA has published a new report for International Insights Members which looks at quality and transnational education in Pakistan.

With a total population of over 250 million, Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world. And, with around a third of that population younger than 14, that demographic emphasis is expected to fuel future increases in demand for higher education.

There are 262 universities in Pakistan, an increase of 206 since the year 2000. Student enrolment in the nation's universities has grown by more than 50 per cent in a decade.

Our new report considers the strategic vision laid out by Pakistan's Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the collaborative work being carried out by the HEC, the British Council and QAA to enhance the quality of higher education in the country.

Pakistan's engagement in the transnational provision of UK higher education grew from around 7,985 students in 2019-20 to 13,575 in 2022-23 – and our report explores updates to Pakistan’s TNE policy, first published in 2020 and revised in September 2024.

"Pakistan is clearly a nation of great potential for higher education providers," says Shannon Stowers, QAA's Head of International Policy & Engagement. "We very much hope our report will help institutions understand the country's current quality and regulatory environment, and the new guidelines for TNE."