ADMISSIONS BOOKLET Introduction With a vision to be a preeminent institution of higher learning, Habib University focuses on the formation of a community of students which bring with them diverse perspectives, interests and talents. Several factors play a role in admissions to Habib University. Students who demonstrate an interest in learning, a passion to engage the world around them and a desire to better themselves will be potential candidates for our University. The undergraduate admissions policy at Habib University is designed to enroll a diverse and high quality student body. We encourage students who want to further explore and expand on their diverse intellectual and creative pursuits and passions. With regard to academics, we are not only looking for academically exceptional students but those who demonstrate interest and involvement which is not restricted to boundaries of the classroom. The University is committed to ensuring that potential candidates who meet the admissions criteria are not deterred based on their financial background. All applications are considered and evaluated on the basis of individual potential regardless of an applicant’s religious, ethnic, racial, gender or socioeconomic background.
Role of Office of Admissions The role of the Office of Admissions is to: • • • • •
Provide clear and transparent admissions information to prospective applicants; Operate a fair and ethical admissions process and screening procedure; Ensure that the application of policies are consistent for all and across the university; Encourage and facilitate applicants from the widest range of educational and social backgrounds; Value and evaluate applicants based on a holistic
review of various academic and non-academic potential and excellence reflected in applications.
Admission Policy Applicants will be screened purely on their academic and extra-curricular/co-curricular potential, involvement and writing competencies. The admissions process is individualized and holistic in nature. All applications are considered and evaluated on the basis of individual potential regardless of an applicant’s religious, ethnic, racial, gender or socioeconomic background. In the first academic year at Habib University (2014-2015), all applicants will be considered undergraduate, first-year students. Students who are currently completing their final year in higher secondary school (high school) or have recently graduated from higher secondary school or an equivalent qualification are eligible to apply for admissions to Habib University accordingly. Habib University will not be accepting transfer students who are currently enrolled in local or international universities. Similarly, the University will not be accepting university credit transfers at this point in time. However, this policy is subject to change in the near future.
Programs of Study Habib University is initially offering the following Bachelor Degree programs: School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
School of Science and Engineering
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Social Development and Policy
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Electrical Engineering
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Communication Studies and Design
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Computer Science
Admissions Criteria All applicants must meet the following minimum criteria: •
Successful completion of FA/ICS/ICOM/FSc/A Levels/High School Diploma, International Baccalaureate or equivalent qualifications latest by August 2014;
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Successful completion of mandatory subjects;
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Meeting grades and subject requirements as mentioned below: Education System
Minimum Requirements
Cambridge International Examinations
Completion of at least 8 subjects in O’ levels (including mandatory subjects), obtaining no more than 2 C grades, with the remaining subjects obtaining a B grade or above; Successful completion of at least 3 principal subjects in A’ levels, excluding the General Paper, obtaining a minimum of a B grade average.
Regional Education Boards (Matriculation/Intermediate Examinations)
Matriculation with at least 60% marks or above; FA/ICS/ICOM/FSc with at least 65% marks or above.
National Technical Education Boards (i.e. Diploma in Associate Engineering)
Obtaining a minimum 65% or above; Applicants with this diploma are required to submit a necessary equivalence certificate issued by the IBCC, Pakistan.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Attaining a minimum of 32 out of 45 points.
American High School Diploma
An overall GPA of 3.0 or above out of a scale of 4.0.
Subjects Requirements for Degree Programs Science & Engineering (SSE) •
Bachelors Computer Science: Students must have taken Mathematics, Physics and a third principal Higher Secondary School or High School subject.
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Bachelors Electrical Engineering: Students must have taken Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry Higher Secondary School or High School subjects.
If submitting SAT scores in lieu of Habib University's entrance exam, all SSE applicants should also submit subject test scores for Math II, Physics, and Chemistry. Arts Humanities & Social Science (AHSS) Bachelors Social Development & Policy and Communication Studies & Design: There are no program-specific subject requirements for these two degrees. A Levels and Intermediate students with any subject background can apply for these programs.
Application Checklist The following supporting documents must be submitted via the online application system or directly to the Office of Admissions: Attested copies of Secondary and Higher Secondary School Certificates and Mark Sheets or Transcripts of the applicable education system, i.e. O Level and A Level Certificates, High School Diploma and Transcript or Official IB Diploma and Transcript Student Activity Resume – highlighting personal passions and involvement beyond the classroom. Download and View Student Activity Resume Sample Application Essay Copy of CNIC, B Form or Passport Official SAT General and Subject test scores, including Physics, Chemistry, and Math II subject tests (for SSE applicants only) sent directly to Habib University using code 7344 (optional for local applicants) Optional Portfolio (ePortfolio Preferred) Online payment of application processing fee or a copy of payment receipt Note: Applicants who are currently enrolled in their final year of high school study and have not yet received their final year results will be required to submit attested copies of Part 1 Higher Secondary School Certificates or First Year A’ Levels Certificates or equivalent qualification certificate or transcript from other educations systems. Students must submit to the Office of Admissions attested copies of their final year certificates or transcripts or mark sheets upon receiving these results.
STEPS
Admissions Procedure
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Register online following our “Apply Now” tab to create an account Complete the online application form along with the submission of all supporting documents Ensure all required documents from our checklist are uploaded online Pay the application fee online or send a copy of payment receipt to the Office of Admissions* Submit the application before the deadline: February 2, 2014 Take the Habib University Entrance Test (1st round shortlisted applicants only) OR submit official SAT/ACT scores (optional)** Appear in the interview (2nd round shortlisted applicants only)
Applicants are required to pay their application fee and submit all documents prior to the admissions deadline. Online payment of application processing fee of PKR 5000 can be made through credit card from the University’s website or can be deposited at the nearest Habib Metropolitan Bank branch through cash, bank draft or pay order drawn in favor of ‘Habib University’ and submit a copy of payment receipt to the Office of Admissions.
** Candidates choosing to submit their SAT General and Subject test scores must submit them to Habib University using code 7344 prior to the Admission test date.
Admissions Timeline Important Dates - 2014 Deadline to Apply for Early Admission
February 2
Deadline to Apply for Scholarships & Financial Aid
February 17
Habib University Admissions Test
February 22 & 23
Interviews
February - March
Early Admissions Decision
March 21
Scholarships & Financial Aid Award Notification
March 27
Deadline to Apply for Regular Admission
March 25
Deadline to Apply for Scholarships & Financial Aid
April 3
Habib University Admissions Test
April 12 & 13
Interviews
April - May
Regular Admissions Decisions
May 25
Scholarship & Financial Aid Award Notification
May 31
Enrollment Fee Deadline
May
Welcome Week
August 15 - 19
Habib University Opening Ceremonies
August 16
Family Day
August 17
University Day of Service
August 19
First Day of Class
August 20
UNDERGRADUATE APPLICATION FORM Instructions: - You can download this application form and save typed information on your computer. Once you have completed all sections of this form, you can submit it through e-mail, beginning October 26, 2013 along with your supporting documents. - For details about list of supporting documents to submit, please visit the 'Admissions and Aid' section on our website. - The application fee is PKR 5000 and can be paid at the nearest Habib Metropolitan Bank branch through cash, bank draft or pay order drawn in favor of Habib University, using our provided Payment Voucher. - Last date to submit this form, all supporting documents and payment of application fee is February 2, 2014
Personal Information * First Name
Middle Name
* Last Name
* Gender
* Date of Birth
* Place of Birth
* Nationality
* CNIC / B Form / Passport No.
Male
Country of Issue
City / Town
Sample
Issue Date
Expiry Date
Permanent Address * Address Line 1 Address Line 2 * Country
* City / Town
* State / Province
Postal Code
Mailing Address If your mailing address is different from your permanent address, please provide details below: Address Line 1 Address Line 2 Country
City / Town
State / Province
Postal Code
Contact Information * E-mail Address * Home Tel No.
* Mobile Number For example: 92213XXXXXXX
For example: 92300XXXXXXX
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Female
Emergency Contact Information * Name * Contact Number
* Relationship E-mail Address
* Why are you applying to Habib University? Briefly explain
Sample
* How did you first hear about Habib University?
Financial Aid
Will you be applying for Financial Aid?
Approximately what percentage of financial aid would you require?
Yes No
Educational Background Higher Secondary School Information (e.g. Intermediate/A-Levels) * Are you a Private Candidate ? * Current Board of Education * School Name * School Address * Country * Year of Completion
* City
* Attendance Date (Start)
*Attendance Date (End)
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Please provide up to 8 subject names , percentage / marks and the grade for each particular subject.
Subject / Course Title
Overall Grade
Percentage / Marks
Sample
Grade
If you have already completed your higher secondary studies and are currently taking a gap year, briefly explain your reasons for doing so and activities during this time.
Secondary School Information (Matric/O-Levels etc) * Are you a Private Candidate ? * Current Board of Education * School Name * School Address * Country * Year of Completion
* City
*Attendance Date (Start)
* Attendance Date (End)
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Please provide up to 8 subject names , percentage / marks and the grade for each particular subject.
Subject / Course Title
Percentage / Marks
Overall Grade
Intended Program
Sample
Please indicate the school and academic program you intend to apply to.
School of Science & Engineering
Select Program
School of Arts, Humanities and Social Science
Select Program
Undecided Your selection of an intended program is not a declaration of your major, as this will come at a later stage. * Why are you interested in this particular program and what do you aim to gain from it?
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Grade
Extra-curricular and Co-curricular Involvement Habib University values your personal pursuits, passions and extra-curricular and co-curricular involvement. Please download the Student Activity Resume template from our web site. You are to use this format to enter all academic and nonacademic achievements, participation in extra-curricular/co-curricular activities, community service, leadership roles, internship or work experience, talents and pursuits. As an example, you may view a Sample Student Activity Resume on our website. Please submit your Activity Resume as an e-mail attachment in Microsoft Word or PDF form, titled with your full name or application ID number.
Personal Essay Please respond to one of the following essay questions, using a limit of 300 words. You may paste your essay text in the text box below, or attach a Microsoft Word or PDF file with your application. Please save your file name with your full name or application ID number. 1. Detail your own understanding of the philosophy of Yohsin and how that impacts your current attitude, actions, and future goals. 2.
Describe a moment in your life you are not proud of. Explain how you would approach it differently today or how it has changed your view and actions.
3.
Recall a time when you challenged a belief. What inspired you to do so? What arguments did you use?
Sample
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Additional Information Please use the space below to discuss or share any relevant information, personal conditions and/or circumstances that have not been reflected in the application and will assist the Office of Admissions in understanding your potential and application better. A maximum of 150 words must be used.
Optional Portfolio You may submit up to 15 samples of creative and/or intellectual work that you have produced. Examples include, but are certainly not limited to, an article published in a newspaper, a research paper, photo or video of a science project, a poem or song that you have written and/or performed, samples of code that you have had significant influence in writing and have permission to share, original works of art or photography, a computer program or game you have developed, or a film/video that has significant input from you or you starred in. You may submit your portfolio as an e-mail attachment in PDF form, saved as a single file, titled with your full name or applicant ID number. You could also send us links to your selected work already present online.
Sample
Declaration * I have accurately completed my application to the best of my ability. I understand that failure to complete all aspects of the application before the application deadline and/or providing inaccurate or fraudulent information can lead to disqualification from being considered for admissions at Habib University. * I understand that submission of a complete application form and providing supplementary documents does not guarantee my acceptance to Habib University.
* My signature will confirm that I agree to communicate with the institution electronically and that I am aware of my responsibility to check your e-mail on a regular basis.
* Electronic Signature Your electronic signature will serve as an official signature
* Today's Date
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) Q. A.
Can I apply if I don’t meet the admissions criteria? Those students who do not exactly meet our admissions criteria may still apply. Our admissions process is holistic and individualized. Minimum grade requirement may not be the only determining factor in admission decisions.
Q. A.
I am already enrolled in another university and want to transfer; am I eligible and will my credits transfer? In the first academic year at Habib University (2014-2015), all applicants will be considered as undergraduate, first-year students. All those students who are currently completing their final year in higher secondary school (high school) or have recently graduated from higher secondary school or an equivalent qualification are eligible to apply for the admissions at Habib University. Habib University will not be accepting transfer students who are currently enrolled in a local or international university. Similarly, Habib University will not be accepting university credit transfers at this point in time. However, this policy is subject to change in the near future.
Q. A.
How can I proceed with my online application? Once you have registered for an account with Habib University, you will be assigned an Applicant ID number, username (your e-mail address) and password. Be sure you save these details as the system will allow you to complete parts of your application, save your information and return to your application at your convenience. All applicants can log in to the online application system at any time to check the status of their application.
Q. A.
What should I include in my student activity resume? Habib University values your personal pursuits, passions and extra-curricular and co-curricular involvement. Please download the format template for ‘Student Activity Resume’. Here you can specify participation in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, community service, leadership roles, internship or work experience. You can also include talents, pursuits and any academic and non-academic awards or achievements.
Q. A.
What is the optional portfolio? A portfolio is a collection of works that you assemble in order to demonstrate that you have the appropriate prior learning and skills and/or demonstrated your learning in or out of the classroom. It is the creative expression of you and your work up until the time of submission. You are limited by your own imagination.
Q. A.
What should be included in my portfolio? Habib University asks that you submit up to 15 samples of creative and/or intellectual work that you have produced up until now. Remember quality not quantity. Especially include those things that may have received wider recognition than just your high school. What is to be submitted, however, relies mostly on what is your intended school or program. Examples include but certainly are not limited to an article published in a newspaper, a research paper, photo or video of a science project, a poem or song that you have written and/or performed, samples of code that you have had significant influence in writing and have permission to share, original works of art or photography, a computer program or game you developed, or a film/video that has significant input from you or that you starred in. Submit each sample alongside a brief description that provides context for the sample e.g. how and when it was produced.
Q. A.
If I don’t submit a portfolio will it have a negative impact on my application? The portfolio will add value to an application but it is not a requirement. Applicants who do not submit a portfolio will not be disfavored in the admission process in any way.
Q. A.
How will I know about the progress of my application? You can check the status of your application by logging in to your application account. The Office of Admissions will also be corresponding with applicants via e-mail and will update applicants.
Q. A.
What is the assessment criteria for admission? Our admissions criteria is based on a number of factors including academic potential, Intellectual, creative and personal pursuits and passions, writing competencies and interpersonal communication skills.
Q. A.
Will I be required to appear for an interview as part of the admission process? Yes, an interview is a key part of our holistic admissions process. Unfortunately, however, we cannot interview all of our applicants. 2nd round shortlisted candidates will be contacted and informed of the date, time, and location of their interview. Applicants should make sure they show up to their interview at least 10-15 minutes early. Interviews will only be rescheduled in the most extreme cases.
Q. A.
What should I expect at my interview? The interview is the opportunity for you to demonstrate your potential in a three dimensional way. Here are few tips to help you in the interview process: • Know the institution, its history, mission, pedagogy, and philosophy; • Do research about your intended program and the overall career plan; • Know the current world affairs; • Rehearse the interview with family and friends; • This will be your last chance to make a first impression so dress for success; • Get plenty of sleep the night before the interview; • Show up 10-15 minutes earlier than your slotted time; • Relax.
For more information, contact us: Office of Admissions University Project Office 147, Block 7 & 8, Banglore Cooperative Housing Society Tipu Sultan Road, Karachi T: 34301051 W: habib.edu.pk E: admissions@habib.edu.pk Facebook.com/HabibUniversity Twitter.com/HabibUniversity Vimeo.com/HabibUniversity