The Punjab government has decided to expand the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) network by adding three new cities for the 2026 examination, making the test more accessible for students across the province.
For the first time, MDCAT examination centers will be established in Mianwali, Layyah, and Bahawalnagar. The move is expected to benefit students from remote and underserved areas by reducing travel distances, accommodation costs, and other expenses associated with appearing in the examination.
Authorities have directed the University of Health Sciences (UHS) to complete all necessary arrangements and establish the new examination centers before the scheduled test date. The expansion is part of the government’s efforts to improve access to higher education opportunities.
With the inclusion of the three new cities, MDCAT will now be conducted in 15 cities across Punjab, compared to 12 cities last year. The total number of examination centers will also increase from 26 to 32.
Officials said the decision was taken to make the admission process more convenient and student-friendly, particularly for candidates who previously had to travel long distances to reach testing venues.
The MDCAT 2026 examination is scheduled to be held on August 16. Thousands of aspiring medical and dental students are expected to participate in the test, which serves as a key requirement for admission to medical and dental colleges throughout Punjab.
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