The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has rescheduled the National Registration Examination (NRE) Step-I for 2026. The examination, which was originally scheduled for October 11, will now be held on November 8, 2026.
The change has been announced due to unavoidable circumstances. According to the PMDC examination department, the revised date will apply to all candidates who are scheduled to appear in the examination.
Candidates preparing for the NRE Step-I have been advised to take note of the new examination date and follow any further instructions issued by the council. The change means candidates will now have additional time to prepare for the test.
The National Registration Examination is part of the registration process for Pakistani medical and dental graduates who have obtained their qualifications from institutions outside Pakistan. The examination is designed to assess whether candidates meet the required standards before they can proceed with registration in the country.
The NRE evaluates candidates on their medical or dental knowledge and professional competency. It forms part of the regulatory framework used to ensure that foreign-qualified practitioners seeking registration in Pakistan meet the prescribed professional requirements.
The examination is particularly important for Pakistani students who complete medical or dental education abroad and intend to return to the country for professional practice. Passing the required examination is part of the process through which their qualifications and competency are assessed for registration purposes.
With the examination now moved from October 11 to November 8, candidates should adjust their preparation schedules accordingly. They should also regularly check official PMDC updates for information about examination arrangements, venues, instructions and other requirements.
Candidates are advised not to rely on the previous October 11 date and should consider November 8, 2026, as the revised date for NRE Step-I.
The PMDC has not indicated any change to the broader purpose of the examination. The NRE will continue to serve as an assessment for foreign-qualified Pakistani medical and dental graduates seeking registration and recognition to practise in Pakistan.
Also read: PMDC Announces 2026 NRE Step 1 Exam Date
