The apostille route applies to Pakistan
Because both Pakistan and China are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, a document issued in Pakistan does not go to a Chinese embassy or consulate. It is certified once, in Pakistan, and mainland China accepts that certificate directly.
The Convention has operated between Pakistan and mainland China since 7 November 2023, the date it entered into force for China. Pakistan was already a party before then.
In Pakistan the apostille is issued by: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at its Islamabad headquarters and at liaison offices in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar and Gujrat. Confirm the current competent authority on the HCCH listing linked below before travelling anywhere — designations change, and several countries split the work between more than one body.
What this does not cover
Certification only proves the signature and seal are genuine. It does not translate the document and it does not oblige any university to accept it. Language requirements are set separately by whoever receives the document, so confirm those first, and have any translation made after certification so the certificate is included in it.
Frequently asked questions
Do documents from Pakistan need an apostille for China?
Yes. Pakistan and mainland China are both parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, so a document issued in Pakistan needs an apostille from the competent authority there, and does not need to be taken to a Chinese embassy or consulate.