If you are planning to become an Assistant Professor (Male/Female) (BS-18) in Pakistan, understanding the salary structure, eligibility criteria, and career growth is very important. Many students complete their Master’s, MPhil, or PhD but remain confused about pay scales, promotions, and future benefits.
In this detailed guide, you will learn:
- Basic salary of BS-18 Assistant Professor
- Maximum salary and annual increment
- Qualification requirements
- Career growth in universities
- Answers to common salary-related questions
This article is specially written for Pakistani students who want clear, practical, and step-by-step guidance.
Assistant Professor (BS-18) Salary Structure in Pakistan
The Assistant Professor (BS-18) position is a prestigious government teaching job in public universities and colleges.
Official Salary Details:
- Basic Salary: Rs. 56,880
- Maximum Salary: Rs. 139,744
- December Increment: Rs. 8,715
These figures apply under the BS-18 pay scale according to government rules.
What Does This Salary Actually Mean?
Your Basic salary is Rs. 56,880 when you start. Over time, with annual increments and promotions, your salary increases gradually until it reaches the maximum stage.
In addition to basic salary, you may also receive:
- House Rent Allowance
- Medical Allowance
- Conveyance Allowance
- Ad-hoc Relief Allowances
- Research or Special Allowances (in universities)
👉 This means your total monthly take-home salary can be much higher than the basic pay.
What Is the Salary Grade of an Assistant Professor?
An Assistant Professor in government universities usually falls under:
- Grade: BS-18
This is higher than a Lecturer (BS-17) and lower than Associate Professor (BS-19).
Academic Hierarchy in Pakistan
- Lecturer – BS-17
- Assistant Professor – BS-18
- Associate Professor – BS-19
- Professor – BS-20 or BS-21
So, BS-18 is considered a strong mid-level academic position.
How Much Do Professors, Teachers, and Lecturers Make in Pakistan?
Here is a simplified comparison to help students understand salary differences:
| Position | Grade | Starting Basic Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| School Teacher | BS-14 to BS-16 | 65,000 – 70,000 |
| Lecturer | BS-17 | 65,000 – 80,000 |
| Assistant Professor | BS-18 | 70,000 – 56,880 |
| Associate Professor | BS-19 | 80,000 – 75,000+ |
| Professor | BS-20/21 | 90,000 – 100,000+ |
Note: These are basic salaries. Total salary depends on allowances and institution type.
Private universities may offer different packages depending on reputation and experience.
What Is Higher, a PhD or a Professor?
This is a common confusion among students.
Simple Answer:
- PhD is a degree.
- Professor is a job title.
You need a PhD degree to become a Professor in most universities.
Step-by-Step Academic Path:
- Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
- MPhil or MS
- PhD
- Assistant Professor
- Associate Professor
- Professor
So technically, a Professor is a higher position, but a PhD is a qualification required to reach that level.
What Is the Minimum Salary for a PhD in Pakistan?
There is no fixed salary just for having a PhD. Salary depends on the job role.
If you are hired as:
- Lecturer (PhD holder) – Around 70,000+
- Assistant Professor (PhD required) – Basic Rs. 56,880 + allowances
- Research Officer – 60,000 to 120,000 depending on organization
In private sector companies, PhD holders may earn even more depending on skills.
👉 Tip: Your specialization (IT, Law, Engineering, Medical, Business) strongly affects your salary.
What Is the LLB Salary in Pakistan?
If you are a law student, you might wonder about LLB salary in Pakistan.
Here is a realistic breakdown:
- Fresh LLB Graduate (Junior Lawyer): 35,000 – 50,000
- High Court Practice (Experienced): 70,000 – 160,000+
- Law Lecturer (BS-17/18): 70,000 – 90,000
- Legal Advisor in Company: 80,000 – 200,000
Salary in law depends heavily on experience and networking.
⚠ Avoid This Mistake:
Do not expect high income immediately after LLB. Law requires time to build reputation.
Eligibility Criteria for Assistant Professor (BS-18)
To apply for Assistant Professor (Male/Female) BS-18, you usually need:
- PhD in relevant subject
OR - MPhil/MS with required teaching/research experience
Other Requirements:
- Research publications (HEC recognized journals)
- Strong academic record
- Interview clearance
Always check official advertisement from:
- Public Service Commission
- HEC
- University website
How to Become an Assistant Professor in Pakistan (Step-by-Step Guide)
If your dream is to become an Assistant Professor, follow this roadmap:
Step 1: Choose the Right Field
Select a subject with strong demand (IT, Education, Business, Engineering).
Step 2: Maintain High CGPA
Try to keep your CGPA above 3.0 to improve eligibility.
Step 3: Complete MPhil or PhD
PhD gives you better chances and faster promotion.
Step 4: Publish Research Papers
HEC-recognized journals are preferred.
Step 5: Apply Through Proper Channel
Apply through FPSC, PPSC, KPPSC, or university portals.
Benefits of Becoming an Assistant Professor (BS-18)
Besides salary, this job offers:
- Job security
- Pension benefits
- Paid leaves
- Research funding
- Respect in society
- Promotion opportunities
Also Read About: Starting Salary of a Python Developer in Karachi
For many Pakistani students, this is a stable and honorable career path.
Career Growth After BS-18
With experience and research:
- Promotion to Associate Professor (BS-19)
- Then to Professor (BS-20/21)
- Administrative roles like Dean or Vice Chancellor
Your income increases significantly at higher grades.
Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid
- Ignoring research publications
- Not checking HEC eligibility criteria
- Choosing low-demand subjects
- Delaying PhD too much
- Relying only on private sector opportunities
Plan early and stay focused.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the salary grade of an Assistant Professor?
Assistant Professor comes under BS-18 in government institutions.
2. How much do professors make in Pakistan?
Professors (BS-20/21) can earn 100,000 to 250,000+ depending on allowances and institution.
3. What is higher, PhD or Professor?
PhD is a degree, while Professor is a job title. You need a PhD to become a Professor.
4. What is the minimum salary for a PhD holder?
It depends on the job role, but usually starts from 60,000 and can go much higher.
5. Is Assistant Professor a good career in Pakistan?
Yes, it offers stable income, respect, pension, and long-term growth.
Final Thoughts
The Assistant Professor (Male/Female) (BS-18) position is a powerful career opportunity for Pakistani students who want stability, respect, and long-term financial growth.
With a basic salary of Rs. 56,880, maximum of Rs. 139,744, and a December increment of Rs. 8,715, this role provides both financial security and professional recognition.