Islamabad, August 3, 2026(Kamran Raja): More than 130 Pakistani students preparing to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies in the United States participated in EducationUSA Pakistan’s pre-departure orientation sessions held in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
Hosted by EducationUSA Pakistan—the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education—and operated through the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), the orientations equipped students with practical guidance before the start of their academic journey in the United States.
According to the Institute of International Education, more than 13,000 Pakistani students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities during the 2024–2025 academic year, marking the highest number on record. Pakistani students are pursuing studies in diverse fields, including mathematics, computer science, engineering, business and management, applied arts, and the social sciences.
Addressing the participants, Acting Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy Dave Moyer highlighted the strengths of the U.S. higher education system.
“Every year, talented students from across Pakistan choose the United States for the excellence, innovation, and opportunities that define our higher education system. Our universities are the gold standard, bringing together brilliant minds from every discipline and every corner of the globe. It is where bold ideas turn into breakthroughs and groundbreaking research shapes the future. As you begin your studies, I encourage you to fully immerse yourselves: collaborate with faculty, work across disciplines, and bring your ideas, perspective, and curiosity. We welcome you, and we look forward to all you will contribute,” he said.
This year’s orientations introduced a new format tailored to the distinct needs of undergraduate and graduate students. Separate sessions were organized to provide specialized guidance, while dedicated forums enabled parents, school counselors, students, and alumni to engage in discussions and interactive activities.
USEFP Executive Director Dr. Peter Moran encouraged students to build meaningful connections upon arrival in the United States.
“On arrival at your U.S. university, I encourage you to build a network and seek mentors among American students. This will enhance your learning and assist you in navigating a new environment. This will not only help you excel academically but also thrive personally and professionally throughout your studies,” he said.
The orientation sessions covered key aspects of student life in the United States, including cultural adaptation, academic expectations, housing, financial planning, and the effective use of campus resources. Alumni also shared firsthand experiences and practical advice to help incoming students prepare for life at American universities.
Director EducationUSA Pakistan Affan Javed congratulated the departing students and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting their academic success.
“We take pride in preparing students for the life-changing journey that awaits them in the United States. We hope the guidance and resources shared during our pre-departure orientations will help students navigate their academic and cultural experiences with confidence. We wish this year’s cohort every success as they begin this exciting new chapter,” he said.
EducationUSA provides accurate and comprehensive information on accredited U.S. higher education institutions and offers free advising services to students seeking admission to American colleges and universities. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is administered by USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States.
Prospective students can obtain free guidance on university selection, admissions, financial aid, and standardized test preparation through EducationUSA advising centers and the official EducationUSA Pakistan and USEFP platforms.