The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has announced major changes to the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT), set to take effect from 2026. The decision aims to make the examination process more transparent, standardized, and aligned with global medical education standards.
According to officials, PMDC introduces new rules for MDCAT 2026 onwards to ensure equal opportunity for all candidates and improve the overall quality of medical education in Pakistan. The revised structure includes adjustments in the exam format, question distribution, and evaluation criteria.
The new policy outlines that the MDCAT will now follow a uniform syllabus across all provinces. This step is expected to eliminate confusion among students who previously faced differences in regional testing systems. PMDC also confirmed that the exam will be conducted digitally in multiple sessions, allowing for better management and accuracy in results.
Under the new rules, negative marking will not be applied, and each question will carry equal weight. The council also plans to strengthen measures to prevent cheating and paper leaks, ensuring the integrity of the exam process.
A PMDC spokesperson stated that PMDC introduces new rules for MDCAT 2026 onwards after receiving feedback from medical institutions, teachers, and student organizations. The reforms were designed to make the admission process more merit-based and efficient.
In addition, the PMDC will introduce a new grading system and performance analytics to help students better understand their strengths and weaknesses. Training workshops will be organized for teachers and administrators to implement the new system smoothly.
The announcement has received mixed reactions from students and education experts. While some have praised the modernization of the system, others have raised concerns about the transition process.
Nevertheless, PMDC introduces new rules for MDCAT 2026 onwards marks a significant shift in how future medical professionals will be assessed in Pakistan, promising a fairer and more transparent evaluation process.
Read More : PMDC Increases MDCAT Fee by 80%
