Every year, over 167,000 hopeful applicants from across Pakistan take the difficult MDCAT test, yet only about 21,400 MBBS and BDS seats are available, meaning fewer than 13% will secure admission. In Sindh alone in 2023, nearly 41,000 candidates sat for the exam, showing how intense the competition has become – Express Tribune.
MDCAT stands for Medical and Dental College Admission Test. It is more than just an entry exam; it’s a defining moment for thousands of aspiring doctors and dentists. From MDCAT registration 2021, which saw a record surge in applicants, to the latest policy changes, the test has evolved significantly over the years.
So, what exactly is MDCAT? Originally introduced as the MCAT by various provincial boards, the test was standardized in 2020 under the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) as the MDCAT, aimed at uniting medical entry testing nationwide. Over the years, it has undergone several changes in structure, syllabus, and administration. Today, under the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the MDCAT continues to evolve, reflecting the growing need for transparency, merit, and fairness in medical admissions across the country. Why is it so crucial in Pakistan’s medical education system? And how can you prepare to beat the odds and secure your spot in a top medical or dental college? In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know from the structure and syllabus to preparation institutes and study tips. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or simply curious, this is your complete guide to conquering the MDCAT. Students of either Edexcel or Cambridge can prepare and apply for this test.
What is MDCAT?
The full form of MDCAT, as stated above, is Medical and Dental College Admission Test. It is a paper-based test conducted in Pakistan and internationally for undergraduate students who want to pursue medicine and dental studies as their career. This tests is a prerequisite for admission to medical and dental universities. This test is for both public and private colleges.
MDCAT is conducted every year by the PMDC. This test was replaced in 2020 by the provincial medical entrance exam, but after the dissolution of the PMC in 2023, the test became a provincial-level test for each province, for which each province had to choose a university to conduct this exam. Each province has selected a medical university to conduct this exam. In Bloachistan, it is conducted by Bolan University of Health and Sciences, in Punjab, the University of Health Sciences Lahore (UHS) conducts it, and in KPK, it is conducted by Khyber Medical University (KMU).
Your O-level result of pre-medical O-level subjects can help you have a clear picture of whether you are made for the MDCAT or not.
Although this test used to be conducted on paper but for the first time in 2021, it was conducted computerized internationally through a local testing server. In Pakistan, only a limited MDCAT seats are available. Based on previous academic records, a total of 3405 seats are available for students in public medical colleges and 216 seats for public dental colleges in Punjab. Some seats are reserved for international students. There are a total of 76 seats for overseas Pakistanis.
Who is eligible for the MDCAT test in Pakistan?
To be able to appear in the MDCAT test in Pakistan, you should meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Students who have passed their FSc with pre-medical of A-level are considered for the MDCAT test in Pakistan.
- The marks requirement for MDCAT is 60%. Students should at least score a 60% of overall marks to be able to appear for the MDCAT test.
- The mandatory subjects for MBBS are Biology and Chemistry
- There is no particular age restriction to be able to attempt the test.
If you fulfill all the eligible points mentioned above, you can appear for the MDCAT test, which happens around summer every year in Pakistan.
Test structure and Scoring:
Every year, the MDCAT structure is modified to increase its complexity and make it competitive for students to achieve.
The Test structure of MDCAT 2025:
- Total MCQs: 180 questions
- Duration: 3 hours
- Format: Paper-based multiple choice
- Marking: No negative marking
- Minimum Pass Marks: 55% for Medical Colleges, 50% for Dental Colleges
The subject distribution weightage:
The subject weightage has been significantly improved since last year.
| Subject | Weightage | No of MCQs |
| Biology | 45% | 81 |
| Chemistry | 25% | 45 |
| Physics | 20% | 36 |
| English | 5% | 9 |
| Logical reasoning | 5% | 9 |
How to Apply for MDCAT?
The following is a step-by-step guide for MDCAT:
Step 1: Create an Account on the PMC Portal
The first step in your MDCAT journey involves creating an account on the official PMDC Student Online portal. Visit the official PMDC website (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council) and register to create a new account.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Personalise your account by logging into your PMDC account and filling in all the required details such as:
- Full name (as per your CNIC/B-Form)
- Father’s name
- Date of birth
- CNIC/B-Form number
- Contact number
- Permanent and mailing addresses
- A recent passport-sized photograph (with blue background)
Step 3: Pay the MDCAT Registration Fee
Before paying the fee, choose your examination center from the options available and then generate a challan from the system. The registration fee is approximately PKR 6000-7000. Payment can be made through online banking, ATM transfer, and through banks. After paying the fee, you need to upload the payment receipt as proof.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Documents required for your application to be submitted are:
- Scanned copy of CNIC/B-Form
- Recent passport-sized photograph (blue background)
- Matriculation certificate or result card
- Intermediate (FSc) certificate/result or hope certificate if awaiting results
- Domicile certificate
- Payment receipt
- Undertaking form (downloadable from the portal)
Please note:
- Documents should be scanned and clear
- The file should not exceed 1MB per document
- The formats acceptable are: JPG, JPEG, or PDF
Step 5: Verify and Finalize Your Application
Before submitting your application, review each tiny detail of the application properly and check all the uploaded documents to avoid errors.
Step 6: Download Your Admit Card
You will receive your admit card approximately 1-2 weeks before the examination. Download your admit card from the PMDC portal by logging into your account. Cross-check your admit card for all the details. Without your admit card you will not be able to enter the examination center.
MDCAT application timeline for 2025:
| Event | Expected Timeline |
| Registration Opens | June-July 2025 |
| Registration Deadline | August 2025 |
| Admit Card issue | 1-2 weeks before the exam |
| MDCAT examination | August-September 2025 |
| Result | Within 2-3 weeks after the exam |
MDCAT syllabus in Pakistan:
PMDC has issued the MDCAT syllabus for the year 2025. You can download the PDF of the syllabus from this official website: MDCAT Syllabus 2025
The Syllabus of MDCAT is well defined for students in Pakistan as well as foreign students, including the topics covered for each subject. Below is the list of topics covered in each subject:
Biology: (81 MCQs)
Biology is the subject that holds the highest weightage in the MDCAT test. A strong grasp in this subject can help you get the maximum weightage in the MDCAT test. The topics that are covered in Biology are:
- Biodiversity (Acellular Life/Variety of Life)
- Bioenergetics
- Biological Molecules
- Cell Structure and Function
- Coordination and Control/Nervous & Chemical Coordination
- Diversity Among Animals
- Enzymes
- Evolution
- Life Processes in Animals & Plants
- Prokaryotes
- Reproduction
- Support & Movement
- Variation & Genetics/Inheritance
Chemistry: (45 MCQs)
Chemistry is the second important subject in the test. It holds more weight than the rest of the two remaining. Below are the topics that are covered in the test:
- Introduction to Fundamental Concepts of Chemistry
- Atomic Structure
- Gases
- Liquids
- Solids
- Chemical Equilibrium
- Reaction Kinetics
- Thermochemistry and Energetics of Chemical Reactions
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Bonding
- S and P Block Elements
- Transition Elements
- Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry
- Chemistry of Hydrocarbons
- Alkyl Halides
- Alcohols and Phenols
- Aldehydes and Ketones
- Carboxylic Acids
- Macromolecules
Physics: (36 MCQs)
The physics topics that are required in the MDCAT test are:
- Force and Motion
- Work and Energy
- Rotational and Circular Motion
- Waves
- Thermodynamics
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Electromagnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Electronics
- Dawn of Modern Physics
- Atomic Spectra
- Nuclear Physics
English (9 MCQs):
The English section of the MDCAT tests your language skills. Topics covered are:
- Comprehend Key Vocabulary
- Demonstrate Control of Tenses and Sentence Structure
- Demonstrate Ability to Differentiate Between Correct and Incorrect Structure
- Use of Writing Conventions
- Comprehension of Short Written Text
- Selection of Appropriate Responses
Logical Reasoning (9 MCQs):
This is a new addition to the MDCAT test. It includes:
- Critical Thinking
- Letter and Symbol Series
- Logical Deduction
- Logical Problems
- Course of Action
- Cause & Effect
How to prepare for MDCAT in Pakistan?
Preparing for the MDCAT is crucial for admission to a medical or dental college. It requires proper planning and following a study schedule, just like you followed an effective study schedule to ace your O-levels. You should be familiar with the basics of the tests to succeed.
- Know the exam format: Having a strong grip on the paper pattern can help you prepare better. The above section about the syllabus has explained in detail which subject has what weightage.
- The passing marks:
To qualify for admission:
- MBBS aspirants need at least 55% (110/200)
- BDS aspirants need 50% (100/200)
However, securing passing marks isn’t enough. Your final admission depends on your aggregate score, which includes your MDCAT, FSc or A-levels, and matric or O-levels results.
- MDCAT syllabus: You should have a hands-down grip on the topics that are a part of the syllabus. By now, you already know in detail which topics are covered in each: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Logical Reasoning. Study hard for these topics.
- Enroll with a preparation institute: The best possible way to ace your test is to enroll with an MDCAT preparation academy that will provide you with expert guidance, regular testing with MDCAT past papers, and help you analyse where you stand. Institutes like KIPS, STEP by Punjab Group, Stars Academy, and others offer structured programs, regular testing, and expert guidance. Alternatively, online platforms provide flexibility, recorded lectures, and live support—ideal for students in remote areas or with tight schedules.
What is the MDCAT aggregate calculator?
The MDCAT aggregate calculator is a tool that is used to calculate your final score of the MDCAT test to finalize your admission in a medical college or dental college. The formula used to calculate your score is:
MDCAT = 50%
FSc/A-levels (Pre-Medical) = 40%
Matric/O-levels = 10%
Multiple free calculators on the internet can be used to calculate this score. They will help you estimate your score so that you can analyse your chances of admission.
MDCAT result:
The MDCAT result is usually announced within a few weeks of the test. Students can check their results on the official PMDC website using their roll number or CNIC. The result shows your subject-wise performance, total score, and whether you passed the minimum threshold. Make sure to download and save your result as it’s required during the admission process.
Conclusion:
MDCAT is a gateway to admission in your dream medical college. This test can shape your future and your career path. Understanding its format, preparing strategically, and staying consistent can greatly improve your chances of success. Whether you’re just starting your MDCAT journey or are in the middle of preparation, the right mindset and reliable guidance will take you far. If you’re struggling with your A-levels, enroll with VACE Global to achieve better grades with our expert faculty and secure your MDCAT position.
FAQs:
1. When does MDCAT registration begin?
Registration typically begins between May and June each year. Keep checking the official PMDC website for updated timelines.
2. Can A-level students apply for MDCAT?
Yes, A-level students can apply. They must obtain an IBCC equivalence certificate to ensure their subjects meet PMDC requirements.
3. How many times can I attempt MDCAT?
As of the current policy, there is no limit on the number of attempts, but it must be attempted in the year of admission.