Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has officially announced the AIOU Entry Test schedule for the Spring 2026 admissions cycle. For students aiming to secure a seat in MS, MPhil, and PhD programs, passing the AIOU Entry Test is a mandatory requirement. This guide provides everything you need to know about the schedule, eligibility, and preparation strategy to ace the AIOU Entry Test.
Official AIOU Entry Test Spring 2026 Schedule
The university has organized the AIOU Entry Test by faculty to ensure a smooth testing environment at the main campus and regional centers.
| Faculty Name | AIOU Entry Test Date | Start Time |
| Arabic & Islamic Studies | February 23, 2026 | 09:00 AM |
| Faculty of Education | February 24, 2026 | 09:00 AM |
| Social Sciences & Humanities | February 25, 2026 | 09:00 AM |
| Faculty of Sciences | February 26, 2026 | 09:00 AM |
Eligibility Criteria for AIOU Entry Test
Before applying for the AIOU Entry Test, ensure you meet the following academic standards:
- Academic Record: For MS/MPhil programs, a minimum of 16 years of education with at least 45% marks or a 2.5 CGPA is required.
- PhD Requirements: Candidates must have a relevant MPhil/MS degree from an HEC-recognized university with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Entry Test Merit: You must score at least 50% marks in the AIOU Entry Test to be eligible for the subsequent interview phase.
AIOU Entry Test Paper Pattern & Syllabus
Understanding the structure of the AIOU Entry Test is crucial for effective preparation.
- Total MCQs: 100 Questions.
- Time Duration: 90 Minutes.
- Subject Breakdown:
- English Verbal (20%): Grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- Analytical & Quantitative Reasoning (30%): Basic math and logic.
- Subject-Specific (50%): Core concepts related to your field of study.
How to Register for AIOU Test Online
Follow these steps to complete your AIOU Test registration through the OAS portal:
- Create Account: Visit the official AIOU website and sign up using your email.
- Fill Application: Select your desired program and enter your academic details carefully.
- Upload Documents: Attach high-quality scans of your CNIC, degrees, and a passport-size photo.
- Pay Fee: The AIOU Entry Test fee must be deposited via bank challan, JazzCash, or EasyPaisa before the deadline of February 17, 2026.
- Roll Number Slip: Two weeks before the test, log in to your CMS account to download the AIOU Test roll number slip.
Test Centers for AIOU Test 2026
AIOU understands that travel can be difficult, so the AIOU Test is conducted at multiple locations:
- Main Campus: Sector H-8, Islamabad.
- Regional Hubs: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Quetta, Faisalabad, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Selection: You must choose your preferred center during the online registration for the AIOU Test.
Post-Test Procedure: Interviews & Merit Lists
Passing the written AIOU Entry Test is only the first hurdle.
- Interviews: Successful candidates will be called for interviews the following day (e.g., if your test is on Feb 23, the interview is on Feb 24).
- Final Merit List: The final selection is based on a 50/50 weightage of your previous degrees and your AIOU Entry Test + Interview score.
- Admissions Offer: Keep checking the university’s CMS portal for your admission confirmation letter.
Preparation Tips to Ace the AIOU Test
- Past Papers: The best way to prepare for the AIOU Test is to solve at least the last 5 years’ past papers.
- KIPS Prep: Many students use specialized coaching like KIPS for the analytical portion of the AIOU Test.
- Subject Focus: Since 50% of the AIOU Test comes from your major, revise your undergraduate core textbooks thoroughly.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
- Incomplete Profile: Not uploading the domicile or degree often results in your AIOU Entry Test application being rejected.
- Late Fee Payment: If you pay the fee after the February 17 deadline, your roll number slip for the AIOU Test will not be generated.
- Wrong Center Selection: Students often select the wrong regional office, causing them to miss the AIOU Entry Test on the exam day.
Final Thoughts
The AIOU Entry Test for Spring 2026 is a competitive but rewarding challenge. By following this guide and sticking to the official schedule, you can secure your admission in Pakistan’s premier distance learning university. For more daily updates on university admissions and government schemes, keep visiting Infoxpk