The meeting, chaired by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Mallani, reviewed preparations for MDCAT 2026, discussed ongoing medical education reforms, and examined issues related to the pharmacy sector. Officials informed the committee that this year’s MDCAT examination will be held on August 16, 2026.
To make the examination process more transparent and secure, the authorities have increased the MDCAT question bank from 6,000 to 8,000 questions. In addition, three different question papers will be prepared for each province, with one paper being selected for use on the examination day.
The committee was also briefed on the admission formula for medical and dental colleges. According to officials, admissions will continue to be based on 10% matriculation marks, 40% intermediate marks, and 50% MDCAT score.
The MDCAT paper will consist of 180 multiple-choice questions to be completed within three hours. The subject distribution will include 45% Biology, 25% Chemistry, 20% Physics, 5% English, and 5% Logical Reasoning. Officials confirmed that there will be no negative marking in the examination.
Around 135,000 students have already registered for MDCAT 2026. The committee decided to keep the existing qualifying criteria unchanged, with students required to secure at least 55% marks for MBBS admissions and 50% for BDS admissions.
During the meeting, the committee also approved a cap on annual tuition fees for private medical colleges, setting the range between Rs. 1.8 million and Rs. 2.5 million. Private institutions have been directed to provide proper justification for their fee structures.
In addition, the committee instructed the Pharmacy Council to update its 1967 regulations so they better reflect the current needs and challenges of Pakistan’s pharmacy profession
Also Read: PMDC Announces MDCAT 2026 Schedule
