Office of Admissions
LUMS DHA, Lahore Cantt. 54792, Lahore, Pakistan
Tel: +92 42 3560 8000 Ext.: 2177
MPhil Society, Culture and Politics
MPhil Society, Culture and Politics
Overview
The Department of Humanities and Social Sciences offers a two-track graduate programme: an MPhil in Comparative Humanities and an MPhil in Society, Culture and Politics. Admitted students will be able to select the MPhil degree of their choice, with each degree enabling students to pursue further graduate studies and/or other professional pathways. At the heart of both programmes is a commitment to contextualised knowledge that enables social progress, cultural preservation, and contextually embedded research. It is taught by a dynamic faculty whose commitment to research and teaching is internationally recognised. This graduate programme has been designed with the intent to train researchers, teachers, intellectuals, and professionals in the fields of development, governance, heritage, historical studies, culture, social work, and social policy.
Mphil Society, Culture, and Politics
The MPhil in Society, Culture and Politics (SCP) is a unique interdisciplinary graduate programme that draws on the social sciences and related fields to offer different analytical tools and methodologies for making sense of a rapidly transforming world and our place in it. Rather than focusing on a single discipline, it trains students to critically think with theoretical categories that traverse disciplinary boundaries and cultivate imaginative and innovative approaches for understanding a world in motion and addressing its urgent social and political challenges. SCP brings together faculty from Sociology, Anthropology, Political Science, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Environmental Studies and related fields to offer courses that examine critical approaches to social and political theory, introduce students to empirically grounded scholarship from across the globe, especially seeking scholarly inspiration from other parts of the Global South, and impart rigorous training in multiple research methods with a focus on researching our local contexts. With its attention to locally-grounded theorizing, the MPhil in SCP will challenge the oversized influence of Eurocentric approaches that characterise the social sciences in Pakistan. The programme is designed to provide sufficient training to students, enabling them to both pursue a PhD after graduating or join careers in development, policy, education, media and related fields.
Curriculum Map
MPhil Society, Culture & Politics
| Semester | Courses & Credit Hours (CH) | Total CH (30) |
| 1st Year Fall |
| 9 Credit Hours (CH) |
| 1st Year Spring |
| 9 Credit Hours |
| 2nd Year Fall |
| 8 Credit Hours |
| 2nd Year Spring | Thesis Writing * Students must regularly schedule meetings with their thesis advisor and cohort. (4 CH) | 4 Credit Hours |
Admission Criteria
Fall Admission 2026
Applicants must meet the minimum eligibility criteria in order to be considered for admission to the MPhil Society, Culture, and Politics Programme.
Admission is purely merit-based and rests solely on the following criteria:
- Academic Record;
- Performance in Admission Test;
- Online submission of Admission Application, Processing &/Test Fee and supporting documents;
- Submission of a Curriculum Vitae (CV);
- Letters of Recommendation; (2 letters required);
- Personal Statement; and
- Writing Sample
To be considered for admission evaluation, ensure all steps are completed on or before the stipulated deadline.
NOTE:
These are the minimum requirements that applicants must fulfil to be eligible to apply. Fulfilment of these criteria does not guarantee admission to LUMS. Admission decisions made by the University are final.
Academic Record
A minimum of 16 years of education leading to a degree Programme is required for applying to the MPhil Society, Culture, and Politics Programme. As a minimum academic performance, all applicants must have a CGPA of at least 2.4 (on a scale of 4) or at least 60% marks in all university-level degrees.
Applicants are expected to have obtained their Bachelor’s (or Master’s) degree from the National or Foreign institutions that are accredited or recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan. Applicants who have obtained their degrees from institutions that are not listed with the HEC, Pakistan, will be required to obtain an Equivalence Certificate from the HEC before applying. For further information, visit www.hec.gov.pk.
NOTE:
Applicants completing their last degree by July 31, 2026, are eligible to apply for the MPhil Society, Culture, and Politics Programme if they meet the minimum admission requirements at the time of application submission.
The LUMS graduating class of 2026 is eligible to apply based on their 7th semester's results.
Test Requirement
Applicants are required to take One (1) of the following tests in order to be considered for Fall 2026 admissions:
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
The GRE (General) score is valid for five (5) years. Scores on the GRE (General) taken before April 26, 2021, will not be considered valid for Fall 2026 admissions. For further details, please visit www.ets.org
NTS GAT (General)
NTS GAT (General) is valid for Two (2) years. Scores of NTS (General) taken before April 26, 2024, will not be considered valid for Fall 2026 admissions. Moreover, in order to be eligible for the MPhil Programme, a cumulative score of 50 % in GAT (General) is the minimum requirement. For further information www.nts.org.pk
LUMS Graduate Admission Test (LGAT)
The LUMS Graduate Admission Test (LGAT) will be conducted only Once for Fall 2026 admissions at the designated cities in Pakistan.
The LUMS Graduate Admission Test (LGAT) is designed to assess applicants’ proficiency across three key areas: Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Reasoning. While the exact number of questions may vary, the Verbal section typically includes around 30 questions, the Quantitative section around 20 questions, and the Analytical Reasoning section around 15 questions. Each section is allocated approximately 35-40 minutes. All questions are presented in a multiple-choice format.
The LGAT Scores will be valid only for Fall 2026 admissions. The LGAT scores will be used for application evaluation and will not be disclosed to the applicants.
Note:
- If the applicant has taken more than one test or attempt, the best score of a single test or attempt will be considered for application evaluation.
- The University reserves the right to modify the test structure or format at any time without prior notice.
Submission
The admission application will be considered for evaluation after the successful completion of the following Four (4) STEPS by the applicants on or before the stipulated deadlines:
Online submission of scanned copies of required supporting documents;
Submission of an appropriate Application Processing Fee; and
Online submission of the Letters of Recommendation by the Referees.
Application Processing Fee
- The application processing fee is PKR 5,000
- LUMS Graduate Admission Test (LGAT) registration fee is PKR 3,000.
- The application processing fee is USD 200 for International applicants.
Note:
Applicants must complete and submit their Online Admission application on or before April 14, 2026, 5:00 pm (PKT).
Applicants are required to submit scanned copies of all supporting documents online on or before April 15, 2026.
After the successful submission of the Online application, applicants must make the Processing Fee payment by the deadline.
Referees must submit completely filled Letters of Recommendation by the given deadline.
Completion of all steps is mandatory. Applications, documents, or fee received after the stipulated deadline will not be processed.
Application Review/Interview Performance
Applicants are encouraged to provide complete and correct information regarding their academic achievements, research reports, attended workshops, and extracurricular activities in order to substantiate their applications. Applicants must mention all their academic and test attempts & must not hide any information. Applications will be evaluated based on the information provided at the time of submission.
Shortlisted applications will be reviewed by the relevant committee to finalize the admission decision.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Submitting a Curriculum Vitae (CV) summarizing the applicant’s academic and extracurricular background is compulsory when applying to the MPhil Programme.
Recommendation Letters
Submission of a minimum of two (2) recommendation letters from Professors who can speak to your academic background and aptitude is compulsory when applying to the MPhil Programme.
Writing Sample
A writing sample of academic prose (such as a term paper or standalone excerpt of a larger text, such as an undergraduate thesis) of 3000-5000 words. It must demonstrate the student’s ability to produce and coherently articulate an original argument about a topic in the humanities or social sciences.
Performance in Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to discuss their research interests, academic background, and potential alignment with our faculty's expertise. The interview will also assess the student’s motivation, critical thinking, and readiness for graduate research. Candidates may also be asked to complete a short writing assignment during the interview.
Fee Structure for FY 2026-27
For Locals and Students from SAARC Countries
| Particulars | Fall 2026 | Spring 2027 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours | 9 | 9 | 18 |
| PKR | PKR | PKR | |
| Admission Fee | 168,100 | - | 168,100 |
| Tuition Fee | 522,000 | 522,000 | 1,044,000 |
| Semester Registration Fee | 53,600 | 53,600 | 107,200 |
| General Security | 70,100 | - | 70,100 |
| Total | 813,800 | 575,600 | 1,389,400 |
Important Points
- The above breakdown of fee structure is for Year 1 of the M.Phil-MGSHSS programme.
- The per credit hour rate for FY 2026–27 is PKR 58,000/-
- Fees are payable by semester according to the schedule given in the Annual Fee bill.
- University fees are usually announced once each year. However, the University reserves the right to change its policies and fee structure at any time.
- The aforementioned fee structure for the M.Phil-MGSHSS programme is currently tentative and may be subject to change.
For International Students (Excluding SAARC Countries)
| Particulars | Fall 2026 | Spring 2027 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours | 9 | 9 | 18 |
| USD | USD | USD | |
| Admission Fee | 901 | - | 901 |
| Tuition Fee | 2,797 | 2,797 | 5,594 |
| Semester Registration Fee | 288 | 288 | 576 |
| General Security | 376 | - | 376 |
| Total | 4,362 | 3,085 | 7,447 |
Important Points
- The above breakdown of fee structure is for Year 1 of the M.Phil-MGSHSS programme.
- The per credit hour rate for FY 2026–27 is USD 310.8/-
- Fees are payable by semester according to the schedule given in the Annual Fee bill.
- University fees are usually announced once each year. However, the University reserves the right to change its policies and fee structure at any time.
- The aforementioned fee structure for the M.Phil-MGSHSS programme is currently tentative and may be subject to change.
Refund Policy
To learn more about the University's Refund Policy, please click here.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Deadline to submit Online Application | April 14, 2026, 5:00 pm (PKT) |
| Deadline to upload supporting documents (Online) and pay the application fee | April 15, 2026 |
| LUMS Graduate Admission Test (LGAT) | April 26, 2026 (Tentative) |
| Deadline to take GRE/NTS GAT (General) | April 26, 2026 |
| Completion of Admission Process | July 31, 2026 |
| Commencement of Classes | September 2026 |
Note:
- The University reserves the right to change dates and deadlines for admissions. Please stay connected to this webpage and the Online Admissions Portal to remain informed of any updates or changes.
What are the admission requirements for MPhil programmes?
Please refer to the Admission Criteria tab.
Do you require any test for admission to the MPhil programme?
Yes, you require a GRE (General) / LGAT / NTS GAT (General) test to apply for the MPhil Society, Culture & Politics.
I have received my transcripts for Bachelor's/Master's but I do not have the degree. What should I do?
You should submit all your transcripts latest by the document submission deadline. Copy of your degree can be submitted later.
Whom should I ask to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
The recommendation letters can be from a faculty member who has had a reasonable opportunity to evaluate you academically.
I have not yet received any confirmation email after the submission of my online application. What should I do?
You should recheck the completion and proper submission of your online application.
Is it possible to apply after the deadline?
Applications submitted after the deadlines are not accepted.
How do I inform about a change in my online application?
It is highly recommended to fill out the application form carefully. No changes can be made after the submission of online application. In sheer need an applicant can send the updated information to admissions@lums.edu.pk with the specific header "Change in Application Form".
How will you notify me regarding a decision on my application?
The final admission decision will be updated online in your application form. Regretfully, we are unable to provide information regarding your application status by telephone or e-mail.
May I appeal my admission decision or ask to have the decision explained?
The admission process is a well deliberated and thorough process. Each year we receive a large number of outstanding applications. Unfortunately, all of them do not qualify because of the limited number of available seats. The decision regarding admission is final.
Due to the volume of applications the University receive, it is not possible to provide feedback on unsuccessful applications.
How can International Applicants apply?
International applicants are required to apply through the regular online application process and are considered alongside all other applicants for admission.
What is the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan?
Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan is an independent, autonomous, and constitutionally established institution of primary funding, overseeing, regulating, and accrediting the higher education efforts in Pakistan.
HEC is responsible for formulating higher education policy and quality assurance to meet the international standards as well as providing accrediting academic degrees, development of new institutions, and uplift of existing institutions in Pakistan.
How do I get equivalence from Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan?
Applicants can get equivalence through the following process: http://hec.gov.pk if required.
Does LUMS offer campus accommodation?
LUMS provides a well-maintained and comfortable residential environment for all students.
What are the visa requirements for LUMS as an international applicant?
Please visit the link for visa requirements: https://international.lums.edu.pk
Are there any specific quotas in admission?
Admission to LUMS MS programme is purely merit based and there are no quotas.
Financial Support at LUMS
LUMS is committed to making high-quality education accessible to talented students from all backgrounds. Our Financial Aid Programme offers a wide range of support options, designed to facilitate students who demonstrate both high academic achievement and financial need.
Financial Aid awards are assessed each year, considering academic performance, demonstrated financial need, available resources, and university policies. While LUMS endeavours to provide substantial financial assistance within its available resources, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources to complement the aid provided by the university.
LUMS strives to enable students to pursue their educational and professional goals without financial barriers, reinforcing our commitment to an inclusive and academically vibrant community.
The following financial support options are available for MPhil Society, Culture & Politics Programme students:
- Merit Scholarship
Maintaining Eligibility
- Financial Aid award is valid for One (1) year only. Continuation of aid in the subsequent year is subject to reassessment.
- Maintaining satisfactory performance at LUMS.
- Students receiving Financial Aid should maintain a full-time status in a regular semester. Failure to do so will lead to the cancellation of the Financial Aid award.
- Financial Aid awards can be increased, reduced or kept the same at any stage of review during your stay at LUMS.
- LUMS reserves the right to physically verify the beneficiary's Home/Business premises at any given point in time.
- University reserves the right to amend, cancel or terminate the awarded Financial Aid in case of any misrepresentation or incorrect information provisioning. Misrepresentation may also lead to termination from the Programme.
LUMS Financial Aid
LUMS Financial Aid Programme not only supports students with financial challenges but also attracts top-ranked students, ensuring that the university upholds its commitment to academic excellence by providing opportunities for the brightest minds.
LUMS aims to reduce financial barriers to higher education, nurturing an inclusive and academically vibrant community where academically distinguished students can realize their full potential and achieve their professional aspirations. At the Graduate level, Financial Aid is provided in the form of an Interest-Free Loan.
To be considered for LUMS Financial Aid, applicants must submit their financial aid application along with all required supporting documents by the application submission deadlines. Applications that do not meet these requirements will not be eligible for financial aid assessment for the 2026-27 academic year.
This support can cover part or all of a student’s Tuition and Semester Registration fees and is assessed annually, considering academic performance, financial need, available resources, and prevailing university policies to ensure ongoing assistance that aligns with each student’s circumstances.
Repayment begins six months after graduation, with a flexible repayment period of 3 to 5 years, allowing students to transition smoothly into their careers. While LUMS is committed to offering substantial financial assistance, students are encouraged to explore additional external funding sources to supplement the aid provided by the University.
Merit Scholarship
At LUMS, academic excellence is highly valued, and the university is committed to supporting students who demonstrate outstanding performance in their studies. The Merit Scholarship at LUMS is designed to reward students who have demonstrated high academic achievement by providing them with financial support.
There is no separate application process for this scholarship. Applicants with high academic credentials are considered for scholarships.
Merit Scholarship covers partial to full tuition fees for One (1) year only and is awarded to the top-ranked applicants based on admission evaluation ranking.
Mode of Payment
Voucher can be paid through cash, Pay Order and Bank Drafts made in favour of "Lahore University of Management Sciences" at any branch within Pakistan of following banks.