NUST vs PIEAS: Which Islamabad Engineering University Suits You?
NUST and PIEAS are both in Islamabad and both hard to get into. PIEAS is small and science-heavy, with six BS programmes and Chemistry in its test. NUST is large and broad. Here's how they compare.
By ParhaiKrlo Team · Published 31 Oct 2026 · 2 min read
Updated: 31 October 2026
PIEAS is small, selective and built around engineering and the physical sciences. NUST is much bigger, with dozens of programmes. If you're strong in Chemistry and want a focused, research-minded place, look hard at PIEAS.
Quick answer
| NUST | PIEAS | |
|---|---|---|
| BS programmes | 40+ across five cities | 6, in Islamabad |
| Entry test | NET: 200 MCQs, 180 min | Written test: 100 MCQs, 180 min |
| Chemistry in test? | No (NET-Engineering) | Yes, 30 MCQs for Pre-Engineering |
| Negative marking | None | None |
| Merit | 75% NET, 15% FSc, 10% Matric | 60% test, 25% HSSC Part-I, 15% SSC |
| Minimum marks | 60% FSc | 60% in both SSC and HSSC |
PIEAS programmes
PIEAS offers just six BS degrees:
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer and Information Sciences
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
- Physics
NUST covers all of these areas and far more, from aerospace to business and law. See our NUST programmes guide.
The tests
PIEAS written test: 100 MCQs in 3 hours, four options, no negative marking. For Pre-Engineering it's English 10, Maths 30, Physics 30 and Chemistry 30. ICS students get Computer Science instead of Chemistry. The test score counts as a percentile.
NUST NET-Engineering: 200 MCQs in 3 hours: Maths about 100, Physics 60, English 40.
PIEAS gives you almost two minutes a question, so expect harder, deeper problems. NET is about speed. Our NET pattern guide has the details.
Merit and eligibility
PIEAS uses 60% test, 25% HSSC Part-I and 15% SSC. You need at least 60% in both Matric and FSc, or you're not eligible at all.
NUST uses 75% NET, 15% FSc, 10% Matric, and asks for 60% in FSc when you join. So your board marks matter a bit more at PIEAS.
Tests per year
For 2026, PIEAS held two BS written tests, on 12 April and 12 July. NUST runs NET-1 to NET-4, and only your best score counts. PIEAS also keeps some seats for SAT II and ACT candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PIEAS merit formula?
60% written test (percentile score), 25% HSSC Part-I and 15% SSC.
Does the PIEAS test have negative marking?
No. It is 100 MCQs in 3 hours with no negative marking.
Which programmes does PIEAS offer?
Six BS programmes: Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical and Metallurgy & Materials Engineering, Computer and Information Sciences, and Physics.
What marks do I need for PIEAS?
At least 60% in both Matric and FSc (or the IBCC equivalent). Below that you are not eligible.
Who should choose which?
- Choose PIEAS if you want one of its six programmes, enjoy Chemistry and Physics, and like a small, focused campus.
- Choose NUST if you want more programme choice, a test without Chemistry, or more attempts.
Many students apply to both. Practise for NET with NUST mock tests, and keep FSc Chemistry sharp for PIEAS.