Islamabad — The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has announced major changes in the eligibility criteria for students seeking admission to MBBS and BDS programs across the country. According to the official notification issued on Friday, the minimum marks limit in intermediate (pre-medical) or equivalent educational qualification has been increased from 60 percent to 65 percent.
The decision will apply to admissions for the academic year 2025-2026 and will be applicable to both local and overseas candidates.
key changes
- Increased Academic Eligibility:The minimum required score in F.Sc (Pre-Medical) or equivalent has been raised from 60% to 65%.
- Domicile-Based Exam Centers:Candidates can now only appear for the MDCAT in the province or region specified on their domicile.
- International Test Center:For students residing abroad, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is the sole approved international location for the MDCAT.
- Public Syllabus:The official MDCAT 2025 syllabus is available on the PMDC website to ensure transparency.
Official Notification Released by PMDC Registrar
In an official circular issued by Dr Shaista, Registrar PMDC, it was clarified that now only those students will be eligible for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT). Those who have secured at least 65% marks in FSC (Pre-Medical) or equivalent examinations.
Domicile-Based Testing and Overseas Provisions
Under the latest admission policy, candidates must take the MDCAT exam in the province or territory of their domicile. The move is aimed at preventing the misuse of provincial quotas and strengthening the regional merit system.
For overseas Pakistani students, PMDC has clarified that the city of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia has been designated as the only international examination center. MDCAT will not be held at any other international venue.
MDCAT Syllabus and Preparation Guidelines Updated
Along with the change in eligibility criteria, PMDC has also released the new syllabus of MDCAT on its official website. The new curriculum consists of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and English, with special emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving ability.
Candidates are advised to read the syllabus carefully and adjust their preparation according to the new standards.
Background and PMDC’s Vision
In recent years, the reconstituted PMDC has taken several steps to improve the quality and transparency of medical education in Pakistan. By raising the qualification standard, the council aims to make local medical education at par with global standards and reduce the entry of unprepared students into the medical field.
Further instructions and FAQs related to MDCAT 2025 will be released soon on the official website of PMDC.
