The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has been directed to investigate concerns over the transparency and fairness of the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026 in Sindh. The inquiry follows complaints about the examination process and the pattern of results, particularly the absence of any candidate from Karachi Division among the top 20 positions.
The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination directed PMDC President Dr Rizwan Taj to conduct a detailed inquiry. The ministry said concerns had been raised through media reports, social media and public representatives regarding the conduct and results of the examination.
PMDC has been asked to carry out a centre-wise analysis of the results. The review will include the number of candidates appearing at each centre, marks and percentages, pass rates, distribution of high scores and any unusual variations between examination centres.
The inquiry will also examine relevant examination records and data. These include attendance sheets, seating plans, centre records, result data and invigilation arrangements. Where legally permissible, electronic and digital records will also be examined.
The investigation will consider complaints and allegations involving possible procedural irregularities, unauthorised assistance, impersonation, paper leakage, technical problems and administrative lapses. The ministry has directed that responsibility should be fixed if any irregularity or other factor is found to have materially affected the integrity or outcome of the examination.
The Sindh MDCAT 2026 was conducted on September 20 across nine centres, including two in Karachi. A total of 33,336 candidates appeared for the examination. According to the reported results, the highest score was 179 out of 180, while the first candidate from Karachi appeared at number 21 in the merit list.
The result pattern attracted attention because no candidate from Karachi Division appeared among the top 20. Candidates from districts including Shikarpur, Tharparkar, Larkana, Qambar-Shahdadkot, Badin, Naushahro Feroze, Mirpurkhas, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sukkur, Hyderabad, Dadu and Khairpur secured places in the top 20.
The results prompted criticism on social media and calls for an investigation. A Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services also directed the Sindh government and PMDC to examine the reported anomalies and the examination process. The committee has called for centre-wise analysis to determine whether there were unusual differences in candidate performance.
PMDC had earlier maintained that universities are responsible for ensuring the transparency and integrity of the MDCAT examination. The council’s role and responsibilities in the examination process have also been clarified through its official communications.
The ministry has given PMDC 15 days to complete the inquiry and submit its report. No finding of malpractice or irregularity has been established by the inquiry at this stage. Any further action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
Also read: PMDC Announces MDCAT 2026 Schedule
