In recent days, students across Punjab have been confused after Punjab University (PU) issued—and then cancelled—a notification regarding Associate Degree (AD) examinations 2026. This led to a key question:

Has PU ended the 2-year Associate Degree program under HEC directives?**

What Happened?

21 January 2026: PU issued a notification for AD (Arts, Science, Commerce, BA Hearing Impaired) exams 2026.

  Admissions were not for fresh candidates
 Only supplementary, improvement, private, and late college candidates were allowed.
23 January 2026: PU cancelled this notification without giving a reason.

Why the Confusion?

The restriction on fresh candidates and sudden cancellation raised fears due to:

HEC’s shift toward 4-year BS programs
Gradual phase-out of traditional 2-year degrees nationwide

Has the AD Program Been Discontinued?

Short answer: No.

Facts:

PU has issued no official notification announcing discontinuation.
January 21 notice was cancelled, not replaced by a closure announcement.
No statement confirms that AD exams will stop.

What’s Likely Happening?

PU may be:

* Reviewing policies in line with HEC
* Making administrative or structural changes
* Preparing a revised notification

Abrupt termination without notice is unlikely, especially for existing students.

What Should Students Do?

Stay calm— no official closure yet.
Wait for a new PU notification.
Follow only official sources (PU website, Controller of Examinations).
Existing supplementary and improvement chances are usually protected.

### Final Verdict

Punjab University has NOT officially discontinued the 2-year Associate Degree program.
Until a clear policy announcement is made, claims about its closure are speculation, not fact.