Gold medalist Laiba Ijaz’s suicide raises questions over US admission fraud
Gold Medalist’s Dream of Studying in the US
Laiba Ijaz, a gold medalist from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), died in an incident reported in Islamabad’s Sector G-10. Her family alleges that a consultant provided fake admission documents after promising to arrange her admission to a university in the United States.
Laiba had completed her bachelor’s degree with a gold medal and hoped to continue her education abroad. Her family says the alleged fraud shattered her plans and caused severe distress.
Family Claims Father Sold Property to Fund Education
According to the family, Laiba’s father earned a living by selling milk on a motorcycle while supporting his children’s education. The family reportedly lived in a rented flat and made financial sacrifices to help her pursue higher studies.
Relatives allege that the consultant demanded a large amount to arrange admission to a US university. Her father reportedly sold a plot and paid Rs2.1 million in cash, while the family also raised money by pledging the mother’s jewellery with a bank.
The family said the admission documents were later checked and found to be fake. However, reports have mentioned different amounts allegedly demanded or paid, and the final financial details have yet to be independently established.
Family Shares Final Message as Police Investigate
The family has also shared details of a message Laiba reportedly sent to her maternal uncle. According to the family, she expressed concern about the consequences of her father learning about the alleged fraud.
Police have expanded their investigation into the incident within the jurisdiction of Ramna Police Station in Islamabad. The post-mortem report is still awaited, and authorities say the final cause of death will be determined through medical findings and the investigation.
Police have not yet announced final findings confirming the circumstances of her death or establishing the consultant’s responsibility. The allegations therefore remain under investigation.
Education and Visa Fraud Cases Raise Concerns
The case has renewed concerns about education consultants who allegedly exploit students and families seeking admission, scholarships and visa assistance abroad. Families can face serious financial losses when they rely on false promises or documents that have not been verified.
In a separate case reported on September 29, 2026, the Associated Press of Pakistan said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Islamabad Zone had arrested a suspect following a complaint from the US Embassy. The case reportedly involved allegedly forged documents submitted with a US student visa application, including fake bank statements and tax records.
How Students Can Protect Themselves
Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) has previously warned students about fraudulent education consultancies, including those promising guaranteed admission, scholarships or faster visa processing. Students and parents should verify admission offers and scholarship details directly with the university before paying any money.
Families should also ask for written agreements and official payment receipts and avoid trusting documents supplied only by an intermediary. The FIA advises travellers using agents or consultants to verify the authenticity of relevant travel documents through the destination country’s diplomatic mission.
The Laiba Ijaz case highlights the risks families may face when they invest their savings in overseas education plans. However, the allegations against the consultant must be established through evidence and the ongoing investigation.
Students should check university offers independently and confirm all payments before proceeding. Clear records, direct communication with universities and careful document checks can help families avoid fraud.
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