The Graduate Assessment Test (GAT) is a crucial exam organized by the National Testing Service (NTS) for admission to postgraduate programs across Pakistan. This step-by-step guide covers requirements, test format, scoring, session calendar, and a direct comparison with GRE and USAT to help Pakistani students make an informed decision.
What is GAT?
GAT assesses a student’s analytical, quantitative, and verbal reasoning skills for advanced academic admissions. There are two main categories:
- GAT-General: For M.Phil. and MS admissions.
- GAT-Subject: For PhD and research-based admissions.
Eligibility
- GAT-General: At least 16 years of education (BA/BS 4-year or equivalent, HEC recognized)
- GAT-Subject: At least 18 years of education (MS/M.Phil. or equivalent, HEC recognized)
- No age limit
GAT Test Format & Scoring Breakdown
GAT-General
| Section | Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 35 | 1 | 35 | 35% |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 35 | 1 | 35 | 35% |
| Analytical Reasoning | 30 | 1 | 30 | 30% |
| Total | 100 | — | 100 | 100% |
GAT-Subject
– 100 subject-specific multiple-choice questions (MCQs; varies by field)
– Passing marks: Usually 50% (always confirm institutional requirements)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Mode: Paper-based, in English
GAT Sessions Calendar for 2025
| Month | GAT Session |
|---|---|
| January | GAT session in January 2025 |
| March | GAT session in March 2025 |
| May | GAT session in May 2025 |
| July | GAT session in July 2025 |
| September | GAT session in September 2025 |
| November | GAT session in November 2025 |
Check the official schedule for latest updates as test dates may change.
How to Register for GAT (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the NTS Portal
https://portal.nts.org.pk/ - Create Account/Log In
- Use CNIC and a valid email address.
- Fill Application Form
- Enter personal and academic details (e.g., BISE LHR for Lahore board).
- Select Test Type & Discipline
- Choose GAT-General or GAT-Subject
- Pick your subject if GAT-Subject
- Choose Test City
- Choose your preferred primary/secondary test center
- Upload Recent Photo
- Passport-size, clear, with direct face
- Download and Pay Deposit Slip
- GAT-General: approx. Rs. 1,000
- GAT-Subject: Rs. 2,210 (regular), Rs. 3,010 (late fee)
- Always verify latest fees before paying. Pay via HBL, UBL, Meezan Bank, or MCB.
- Upload Fee Proof & Submit
- Submit form, upload payment slip
- Admit Card/Roll Slip
- Download from portal about 1 week before the exam
Documents Required
- CNIC or Juvenile Card
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Paid bank deposit slip
- NTS Roll Number Slip (admit card)
After Registration & Result
- Candidate List: Check provisional and final candidate lists for corrections.
- Test Day: Bring CNIC, roll number slip, and original deposit slip.
- Results: Available on NTS portal within 7 days post-test.
- Score Validity: 2 years from issue date.
Official Links
- GAT General: https://www.nts.org.pk/new/GAT-G.php
- GAT Subject: https://www.nts.org.pk/new/GAT-S.php
- Registration: https://portal.nts.org.pk/
- Application Guide: https://nts.org.pk/products/gatgen/gat-g-howto.php
GAT vs GRE vs USAT – Which Test Fits Your Goals?
Here’s a comparison to help you pick the right exam for your academic journey in Pakistan and beyond.
Comparison of GAT, GRE, and USAT tests for Pakistani students
| Feature | GAT | GRE | USAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Admissions to M.Phil., MS, PhD (Pakistan, NTS) | Graduate admissions abroad (especially USA) | Admissions to undergraduate (HEC, Pakistan) |
| Eligibility | GAT-General: 16 years; GAT-Subject: 18 years | Bachelor’s degree (or final year) | Intermediate (12 years of education) |
| Test format | Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Reasoning | Analytical Writing, Verbal & Quantitative Reasoning | Verbal, Quantitative, Essay Writing |
| Scoring | 0–100, passing ~50% | 260–340 (verbal & quant), 0–6 (writing) | 0–100, passing ~50% |
| Mode | Paper-based (Pakistan) | Computer-based (worldwide) | Paper-based (Pakistan) |
| Frequency | 6 times per year | Year-round at test centers | Multiple times a year per HEC schedule |
| Best For | Postgraduate studies in Pakistan | Graduate studies abroad | Undergraduate in Pakistan |
Key Tips for Success
- Confirm your university’s GAT requirements.
- Use official NTS sample papers and past papers (available on the NTS website).
- Develop balanced preparation—verbal, quantitative, and analytical reasoning.
- Practice time management during the test.
- Prepare required documents and arrive early on test day.
FAQs
Q: Who needs to take the GAT?
A: Students applying for M.Phil., MS, or PhD at NTS-partner institutions.
Q: How many GAT sessions are held annually?
A: About six sessions per year—see session calendar.
Q: Is GAT accepted everywhere?
A: Only accepted by NTS-affiliated institutions. Confirm with your target university.
Q: What score do I need to pass?
A: Usually 50%, but check your specific university’s requirements.
Q: Can I retake the GAT?
A: Yes, as often as it is offered within the score validity period.
We update this guide regularly with the latest schedules, fees, and preparation resources from NTS. Check back before registering to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
