Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), based in Islamabad, is the largest and oldest open university in Pakistan. Established in 1974, AIOU has transformed the way education is delivered across the country by making it accessible to people from rural, remote, and underserved areas.
Named after the national poet Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the university was created with the vision of providing affordable and flexible education to every Pakistani, regardless of age, location, or background.
About AIOU
AIOU operates through a powerful distance learning model supported by printed materials, online platforms, radio/TV broadcasts, and regional campuses across Pakistan. With over 1.3 million enrolled students, it is one of the largest universities in the world by enrollment.
It is especially known for catering to:
- Women unable to attend regular universities
- Working professionals
- Underprivileged students
- People in far-flung regions
Academic Programs at AIOU
AIOU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs, as well as certificate courses and short-term diplomas.
Key Faculties:
- Faculty of Education
- B.Ed., M.Ed., and Ph.D. in Education
- Faculty of Arabic & Islamic Studies
- Quranic Studies, Hadith, Islamic Jurisprudence
- Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities
- Mass Communication, Sociology, Urdu, History, Economics
- Faculty of Sciences
- Environmental Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math
- Faculty of Management Sciences
- Business Administration, Public Administration, Accounting
The university also provides matric, intermediate, and technical education under the Open Schooling system.
Distance Learning and Technology
AIOU is Pakistan’s pioneer of online and blended learning. Students receive study packs by post or download them online. Recently, the university has introduced:
- Learning Management System (Aaghi LMS Portal)
- Online Workshops and Exams
- Digital Assignments and Lectures
- TV and radio broadcasts for remote students
This ensures that even students without internet access can study effectively.
Campus Life and Regional Offices
The main campus is located in Islamabad, featuring:
- Central Library
- Research Complex
- FM Radio Station
- Print Production Unit
- Tutorial and exam centers
AIOU also operates over 50 regional offices and 1,400+ study centers nationwide to support students in local areas.
Rankings and Recognition
- AIOU is recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan
- Acknowledged for its inclusive and women-friendly policies
- Among the top choices for working professionals and distance learners
Admission Process
AIOU offers admissions twice a year — in Spring and Autumn semesters. The process is mostly online and includes:
- Online registration through https://aiou.edu.pk
- Downloadable prospectus
- Mobile app and SMS services for updates
- Low-cost fees, scholarships, and installment options
Contact Information
- Address: Sector H-8, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Phone: +92-51-111-112-468
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