June 26, 2026 Published: June 2026
The Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) has made an important change to the Nawaz Sharif Schools of Eminence (NSSE) Phase 2 program. For the first time, Universities and Degree Awarding Institutions (DAIs) are now allowed to apply for establishing NSSE schools across selected tehsils in Punjab.
This new decision gives higher education institutions an opportunity to take part in improving school education. Earlier, universities were not included in the list of eligible applicants, but the latest circular has officially added them as a separate category.
Universities Officially Added to NSSE Phase 2
PEF has expanded the eligibility criteria by introducing Universities and Degree Awarding Institutions as a new applicant category.
Institutions that meet the required conditions can now submit applications for opening NSSE campuses in the locations announced by PEF under Phase 2.
This change is expected to bring more experienced educational organizations into the project and improve the overall quality of school education.
Who Can Apply?
Universities and DAIs must meet the following requirements before applying:
- Hold a valid University Charter or DAI Charter issued by the Government of Punjab.
- Be recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
- Have at least 5 years of operational experience.
- Meet all conditions mentioned in the official NSSE Phase 2 Terms of Reference (TORs).
Only institutions fulfilling these conditions will be considered during the evaluation process.
Maximum Number of Campuses Allowed
PEF has also confirmed that each eligible university or DAI can apply for:
| Category | Maximum Allowed |
|---|---|
| NSSE Campuses | 3 |
Applications can only be submitted for the tehsils listed in the official NSSE Phase 2 advertisement.
Campus Building Requirements
Applicants must provide proof that they have a suitable building for the proposed school.
Accepted documents include:
- Ownership documents
- Valid rental agreement
- Iqrar Nama (where applicable)
The proposed building will also be physically assessed before final approval.
Financial Eligibility
PEF will review the financial capacity of every applicant.
The assessment will consider:
- Latest tax returns
- Bank statements
- Declared assets
- Audited financial reports
These documents help determine whether an institution has enough financial strength to operate an NSSE campus successfully.
Basic Eligibility Conditions
Besides scoring criteria, every institution must also meet these mandatory requirements.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Blacklisting | Must not be blacklisted by any government or donor organization |
| Experience | Minimum 5 years |
| Audit Reports | Last 3 years audited reports |
| Tax Returns | Required |
| Affidavit | Rs.300 stamp paper affidavit |
| Processing Fee | Must be submitted |
Failure to meet any of these conditions may result in disqualification.
Evaluation Criteria
PEF has introduced a 100-point evaluation system for universities and DAIs.
Institutional Capacity (50 Marks)
This section evaluates:
- Years of operation
- Number of academic faculties
- Number of owned campuses across Punjab
Institutions with stronger educational backgrounds receive higher marks.
Financial Capacity (30 Marks)
Financial strength is assessed using:
- Average annual turnover
- Audited financial statements
- Tax returns
Applicants with stable financial records receive better scores.
Proposed Campus Assessment (20 Marks)
Applicants must upload:
- Short video of the campus
- Google Maps location or GIS coordinates
- Building photographs
- Classroom photographs
- Laboratory photographs
- Playground images
- Five-slide presentation introducing the institution and proposed campus
These documents help PEF evaluate whether the campus is ready for operation.
NSSE Phase 2 Last Date
The last date for submitting applications remains:
30 June 2026
Applicants should complete the online application and upload all required documents before the deadline.
Why This Decision Matters
Adding universities and degree-awarding institutions is one of the biggest updates in NSSE Phase 2.
The new policy is expected to:
- Increase participation from experienced institutions
- Improve the quality of school education
- Expand educational opportunities across Punjab
- Strengthen the NSSE program
- Create healthy competition among applicants
This step also allows universities to contribute beyond higher education by supporting quality school education.
Final Words
The Punjab Education Foundation has officially opened NSSE Phase 2 applications for Universities and Degree Awarding Institutions. Institutions that are recognized by HEC, possess a valid charter, and have at least five years of experience can now apply for up to three NSSE campuses.
Interested institutions should carefully review the updated Terms of Reference, prepare the required documents, and submit their applications before 30 June 2026 to avoid missing this opportunity.
