The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has revised the MDCAT examination criteria and schedule for MBBS and BDS admissions for the 2026 academic session.
Speaking to Tribune, Dr. Fatima Abid, Director of Admissions at Jinnah Sindh Medical University, shared the key changes to the policy. She explained that candidates must now obtain at least 65 percent marks in FSc (Pre-Medical) or an equivalent qualification to qualify for the test — an increase from the previous 60 percent requirement.
Additionally, applicants must possess matriculation, intermediate, and domicile certificates from the same province where they plan to take the MDCAT. According to Dr. Abid, this measure aims to minimize logistical and administrative challenges and promote fairness in seat allocation and monitoring.
The updated MDCAT syllabus will include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Logical Reasoning, featuring 180 multiple-choice questions without negative marking. Dr. Abid noted that the PMDC has instructed all exam papers to be prepared under a standardized national framework, using a centralized question bank to ensure transparency.
The MDCAT exams will now be held from October 5 to 26, 2025, across multiple centres nationwide. Biometric attendance and ID verification systems are already installed at all participating institutions.
Acknowledging public concerns over previous paper leaks, Dr. Abid reassured that new safeguards — including digital encryption and secure paper distribution — are being implemented to ensure integrity and prevent future breaches.
Via: Express Tribune
