If you want to begin a nursing career at one of the most respected public sector institutions in the capital, the College of Nursing at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad is a strong choice. Admissions run through Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU), which PIMS is part of. This guide explains the PIMS College of Nursing admission 2026 in full: the programs on offer, who is eligible, the entry test, the application process, and the documents you need.
One key point before you start. The official sources for these admissions are the PIMS website and the SZABMU admissions portal. Rely only on these for the confirmed dates, fees, and forms.
About PIMS College of Nursing
The College of Nursing at PIMS has been training nurses since 1987 and is a constituent institute of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, a public sector university established in Islamabad. The college offers professional nursing education with strong clinical training at the PIMS hospitals, one of the largest healthcare complexes in the country. As a public institution, its fees are far lower than private nursing colleges, which makes it highly sought after.
Programs Offered
The College and School of Nursing at PIMS, under SZABMU, typically offer the following nursing programs:
- Generic BSN. A four year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for FSc Pre Medical students. This is the main entry route for fresh students after intermediate.
- Post RN BSN. A two year degree program for candidates who are already qualified, registered nurses looking to upgrade their qualification.
- Nursing diploma programs. In some sessions, diploma options such as midwifery have also been offered. Check the current advertisement for availability.
PIMS Nursing Admission 2026 Dates
Admissions usually open once a year, and the schedule for the 2026 session is set and announced by SZABMU and PIMS. Because unofficial websites often publish outdated or conflicting dates, you should confirm the opening date, the closing date, the entry test date, and the merit list date only from the official portal. Apply as early as the window allows, since forms submitted late or with missing documents are not entertained.
Eligibility Criteria
The requirements differ by program. For the Generic BSN four year degree, the typical criteria are below.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Matric | Science with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects |
| FSc | Pre Medical with a minimum of 50 percent marks, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
| Entry test | SZABMU entry test is a prerequisite, with a minimum qualifying score |
| Age | Within the limit set by the university, commonly in the range of 16 to 35 years |
| Foreign qualifications | Require an IBCC equivalence certificate |
For the Post RN BSN two year program, applicants must be qualified nurses registered with the Pakistan Nursing Council, with the required diploma and experience. Male candidates may offer a diploma in midwifery or an equivalent post basic specialty in its place. Candidates already working in the government sector must provide a No Objection Certificate from their department.
The SZABMU Entry Test
Admission to the Generic BSN program is based on the SZABMU entry test along with your academic record. The test draws on your FSc subjects, so prepare across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English. A qualifying score in this test is essential, and final selection is made on merit, so a strong result improves your chances at a limited number of seats.
Step by Step Application Process
The application is generally completed online through the official portal. The usual steps are:
- Step 1. Visit pims.gov.pk or the SZABMU admissions portal and open the nursing admission section.
- Step 2. Create an account with accurate personal details and a valid email and phone number.
- Step 3. Fill in the application form and select your program, making sure every detail matches your documents.
- Step 4. Upload the required documents in the formats specified.
- Step 5. Pay the prescribed test or application fee through the bank challan or online method shown, and keep the receipt. The fee is usually not refundable.
- Step 6. Submit the form, then appear for the SZABMU entry test on your assigned date.
- Step 7. Check the merit list on the official portal once it is announced, and complete admission formalities if selected.
Documents Required
- Matric and FSc certificates and mark sheets, with attested photocopies.
- Computerised CNIC, or B Form for younger candidates.
- Two recent passport size photographs.
- Domicile certificate.
- IBCC equivalence certificate for foreign qualifications.
- No Objection Certificate for government employees, where applicable.
- The paid fee challan or receipt.
Fees and Seats
As a public sector institution, PIMS College of Nursing keeps fees modest compared with private colleges, though a prospectus or application fee applies, and hostel charges are separate for those who need accommodation. Seats are limited and competition is strong, with candidates accepted from across Pakistan under the relevant quota. For the exact current fee, seat count, and quota breakdown, always refer to the official prospectus and advertisement.
Why Choose PIMS for Nursing
- Strong clinical exposure. Training at the large PIMS hospital complex gives excellent hands on experience.
- Public sector fees. Far more affordable than private nursing colleges.
- Recognised degree. A SZABMU nursing degree is well regarded by employers at home and abroad.
- Career growth. Nursing offers strong demand in Pakistan and excellent opportunities overseas.
To get a sense of nursing earnings, see our breakdown of how much nurses are paid in the Pakistan Army each month, and explore other routes in our guide to healthcare degrees that do not require the MDCAT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PIMS nursing admission require the MDCAT? No. Admission to the BSN program is based on the SZABMU entry test, not the MDCAT. The MDCAT is required only for MBBS and BDS.
What is the minimum percentage for BSN at PIMS? You generally need at least 50 percent marks in FSc Pre Medical, with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, plus a qualifying SZABMU entry test score.
Can male candidates apply? The Generic BSN program admits eligible candidates, and the Post RN route has specific provisions for male nurses. Confirm the current intake details in the official advertisement.
Where do I apply for PIMS nursing admission 2026? Through the official PIMS website, pims.gov.pk, and the SZABMU admissions portal. Avoid unofficial sites for applications or payment.
How many seats are there? Seats are limited and set each year by the institution, so check the current prospectus for the exact number and quota.
Final Word
PIMS College of Nursing admission 2026 is an excellent opportunity to train as a nurse at a leading public sector institution in Islamabad. Prepare your documents early, study hard for the SZABMU entry test, and rely only on the official PIMS and SZABMU portals for the confirmed dates and fees. With limited seats and real competition, early and careful preparation makes the difference.
If you are also weighing a medical college path, you can plan it alongside nursing. Estimate your medical merit with our MDCAT aggregate calculator 2026 and explore the strongest options to pursue after FSc Pre Medical.
Dr. Hamza Qureshi is a KEMU graduate and the creator of this platform, dedicated to helping MDCAT students with accurate tools and reliable guidance.