If you’re planning to study abroad, apply for a foreign job, or submit educational documents for migration, you’ve probably heard two common terms: HEC attestation and IBCC attestation. Many students feel confused about which authority is responsible for what, and whether they need one, both, or neither.
This blog breaks down the differences in simple words so you know exactly which attestation you need.
1. What Is Attestation and Why Is It Needed?
Attestation is a formal process where a government authority verifies that your academic documents are real, valid, and issued by recognized institutions.
Foreign universities, employers, embassies, and migration offices often require attested documents so they can trust your qualifications.
In Pakistan, the two main bodies responsible for attesting educational documents are:
Each handles a different type of educational certificate.
2. What Is IBCC Attestation?
IBCC (Inter Board Committee of Chairmen) attests school-level and college-level documents, including:
- Matric (SSC) Certificates & Result Cards
- Intermediate (HSSC) Certificates & Result Cards
- O-Level Equivalence Certificates
- A-Level Equivalence Certificates
- Other board-issued certificates
Who needs IBCC attestation?
- Students applying to foreign universities for undergraduate programs.
- Individuals applying for student visas abroad.
- Those needing equivalency for international studies.
Purpose of IBCC Attestation
It confirms that your secondary and higher-secondary documents are genuine and issued by a recognized Pakistani education board.
3. What Is HEC Attestation?
HEC (Higher Education Commission) attests post-secondary and university-level documents, including:
- Bachelor’s Degrees
- Master’s Degrees
- MPhil/MS Degrees
- PhD Degrees
- Transcripts (All semesters)
- Diplomas issued by HEC-recognized institutes
Who needs HEC attestation?
- Students planning for postgraduate studies abroad.
- Job seekers applying for foreign employment.
- Professionals applying for work visas or immigration.
- Researchers submitting degrees for international verification.
Purpose of HEC Attestation
It verifies that your higher education qualifications are valid and issued by a recognized university.
4. Key Differences Between HEC and IBCC Attestation
| Feature | IBCC Attestation | HEC Attestation |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Education | School & College (SSC & HSSC) | University Degrees & Transcripts |
| Document Issuers | BISE Boards (e.g., Lahore Board, Karachi Board) | Universities / HEC-recognized Institutes |
| Typical Use | Undergraduate admissions abroad, equivalence | Postgraduate admissions, jobs, immigration |
| Examples | Matric, Inter, O/A Levels equivalence | BA, BSc, BS, MA, MSc, MS/MPhil, PhD |
| Authority Type | Board-level verification | Higher education authority |
| Attestation Format | Stamps & seals on certificates/cards | Online verification + stamp on degrees/transcripts |
5. Do You Need Both HEC and IBCC Attestation?
It depends on your situation:
✔ Applying for a Bachelor’s degree abroad?
You need IBCC attestation (for SSC & HSSC).
✔ Applying for a Master’s or PhD abroad?
You need HEC attestation (for university degrees).
✔ Going abroad for a job or immigration?
Usually HEC attestation is required.
Sometimes IBCC attestation is also needed if you submit Matric/Inter certificates.
6. Final Summary
- IBCC = Matric & Intermediate documents.
- HEC = University degrees & transcripts.
Both serve the same purpose—document verification—but at different education levels.
Knowing the difference helps you save time, avoid unnecessary appointments, and ensure your paperwork is ready when applying abroad for study, work, or migration.