Air University AU-CBT Syllabus & Structure
Air University admits on its own computer-based test, the AU-CBT. Like the COMSATS NAT it is aptitude-led — 70% of the paper is reasoning rather than FSc subject content. It also has something the other tests here do not: if you already hold a qualifying score on another accepted test, you may not need to sit it at all.
You may be exempt from sitting it
- The AU-CBT is mandatory for undergraduate programmes unless you hold a valid exemption score.
- Accepted exemptions include NAT-IE, USAT-E, or SAT-I with a score of 1100 or above — or a comparable entrance test.
- Exemption scores must generally be within one year and meet the minimum score requirement (50).
- Check your existing scores before booking a test date — you may already qualify.
Structure
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total MCQs | 100 |
| Total marks | 100 |
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Negative marking | None |
| Format | Computer-based test (AU-CBT) |
| Conducted by | Air University, Islamabad |
Section breakdown
| Section | MCQs | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 | 20% |
| Analytical Reasoning | 25 | 25% |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 25 | 25% |
| Mathematics | 10 | 10% |
| Physics | 10 | 10% |
| Chemistry / Computer Science | 10 | 10% |
| Total | 100 | 100% |
Test centres
Air University runs the AU-CBT at centres in Islamabad, Kamra, Multan, Kharian, Lahore and Karachi, with sittings held in phases through the admission season. Confirm the current phase dates and your centre on the Air University admissions site before planning travel.
What this means for how you prepare
- Reasoning is 70% of the paper — analytical and quantitative reasoning alone are half of it. This is closer to an aptitude test than an FSc exam.
- Maths, Physics and Chemistry/CS are 10 questions each, 30% between them. Do not spend most of your time there.
- No negative marking: attempt every question.
- Reasoning question types are highly learnable. Timed practice on the patterns moves your score faster than revising subject notes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I skip the AU-CBT?+
Possibly. It is mandatory unless you hold a valid exemption score — NAT-IE, USAT-E, SAT-I of 1100+, or a comparable test — normally within the last year and meeting the minimum score.
How much of the AU-CBT is reasoning?+
70% — verbal (20), analytical (25) and quantitative (25) reasoning. Only 30 questions cover Maths, Physics and Chemistry/CS.
Is there negative marking?+
No, so attempt every question.
Where is the AU-CBT held?+
At centres in Islamabad, Kamra, Multan, Kharian, Lahore and Karachi, in phases through the admission season.
More Engineering College Admission Test (ECAT) guidance
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Understanding the exam is step one. Drill past-paper style MCQs with detailed explanations and track your accuracy by subject.
Practise reasoning & MCQsGuidance is provided for candidates' convenience and is not an official CPSP publication. Always confirm current rules and criteria at cpsp.edu.pk.