Lahore : Punjab University (PU) has officially implemented a substantial increase in tuition fees across a wide range of its academic programmes, with some hikes reaching as high as 59%. The revised fee structure has come into effect starting this month and will apply to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
University officials confirmed that the decision was approved by the PU Syndicate — the institution’s highest governing body — and is part of a broader financial restructuring plan. The move comes amid growing financial pressure on public universities nationwide, with similar fee hikes recently introduced by other institutions.
The most significant increase has been applied to the LLM (Master of Laws) programme, where students will now pay Rs 7,825 more than last year, representing a 59% hike.
Other popular degree programmes have also seen notable increases:
- D Pharmacy fees have been raised from Rs 18,000 to Rs 23,000, a 28% increase.
- LLB students will also face a 28% fee hike.
- Medical diploma programmes have witnessed a 16% increase.
- Fees for BSc, BCom, BBA, and MBA programmes have risen by 15% on average.
The administration stated that the fee adjustment was necessary to manage rising operational costs, enhance academic infrastructure, and maintain quality education standards. However, the decision has sparked concern among students and parents, many of whom are already burdened by inflation and economic instability.
Critics argue that the hike could limit access to higher education for lower-income students, especially in professional programmes where tuition costs are now significantly higher.
According to data collected from several public-sector universities across Pakistan, the average fee increase now stands at 28%, reflecting a nationwide trend in public higher education cost adjustments.
Student groups have called for a rollback or at least a phased implementation of the increase, warning that the new structure may trigger protests if relief measures are not introduced.
