The chain
For Pakistani degrees, the order is fixed and non-negotiable:
| Step 1 — HEC | Higher Education Commission attests your bachelor's/master's degrees and transcripts |
|---|---|
| Step 2 — MOFA | Ministry of Foreign Affairs adds the foreign-ministry stamp |
| Step 3 — IBCC (if needed) | Only for matric/intermediate certificates — mainly undergraduate admissions |
Step 1 — HEC attestation
- Create your profile on the HEC e-portal (online).
- Upload scans of your degrees and transcripts.
- Pay the fee through the portal's payment options.
- Book scrutiny — HEC verifies your originals against university records.
- HEC attests copies of your verified documents.
Step 2 — MOFA attestation
Take your HEC-attested documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
- Islamabad — MOFA headquarters
- Camp offices — Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta
MOFA adds the foreign-ministry stamp that foreign universities and embassies recognize.
IBCC — when needed
The Inter Boards Coordination Commission attests matric and intermediate certificates. You only need this if the opportunity specifically asks for secondary-school documents — rare for postgraduate applications, common for undergraduate admissions.
Timeline & fees
| Total time | Budget 2–6 weeks including appointments and scrutiny |
|---|---|
| Fees | Verify current fees on the HEC e-portal before paying — they change |
| When to start | The day you shortlist opportunities, not the week of the deadline |
Other nationalities
- Hague Convention countries: use an apostille instead — one stamp, no chain.
- Others: embassy legalization — check your foreign ministry's process.
FAQ
Can MOFA attest without HEC?
No. The order is fixed: HEC first, MOFA second.
Do I need attestation for every application?
Most applications accept scans initially — but keep attested copies ready, because offers, visas and enrolment will demand them.
Photocopies or originals?
HEC verifies originals and attests copies. Carry both when you travel — originals and attested copies in hand luggage.