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MDCAT
Medical and Dental College Admission Test
📝 Medical Entrance Examination Paper-based (OMR) ⏱ Valid: 2 Years Since 1998 ⚡ High
🕐 Last updated: June 18, 2026
📝 Register Now 🌐 Official Site
›
Score Range
0-200
Exam Fee
$28
Duration
210 minutes
Questions
200
Score Valid
2 Years
Frequency
Once per year
Accepted By
150
Pass Rate
35 percent
Difficulty
High
📝 Register for MDCAT 🌐 Official Website ✍️ Need application help? →
Quick Summary

MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) is a medical entrance examination conducted by Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC). Scores range from 0-200, valid for 2 Years, with a total duration of 210 minutes. Accepted by 150, the exam fee is $28, with high difficulty level.

📋 Exam Overview
🎯
Score Range
0-200
⏱
Duration
210 minutes
💳
Fee
$28
📅
Valid For
2 Years
🖥
Mode
Paper-based (OMR)
🌍
Accepted By
150
🗓
Frequency
Once per year
🏛
Conducted By
Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC)
❓
Total Qs
200
📑
Sections
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, Logical Reasoning
⚡
Difficulty
High
📊
Pass Rate
35 percent
The gateway to excellence in medical and dental education in Pakistan.
👤 Who Should Take This Exam?
Students who have completed their HSSC (Pre-Medical) or equivalent A-Levels and wish to pursue a career in medicine or dentistry. It is mandatory for admission to all public and private medical colleges in Pakistan.
🎓 Education Level
Undergraduate
🌍 Accepted In
Pakistan
📝 Exam Structure & Format
Question Types
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Language / Medium
English
Total Duration
210 minutes
Retake Policy
Candidates are allowed to take the MDCAT once during each annual cycle. There is no limit on the total number of years a student can attempt the exam, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Total Questions
200
Sections
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, Logical Reasoning
⚙️ More format details (timing, marking, equipment)See all ▾
Time Per Section
There is no specific time limit for individual sections, allowing candidates to manage the total 210 minutes according to their strengths and weaknesses.
Negative Marking
No
Calculator Allowed
No
Scratch Paper
Yes
Breaks Allowed
No
Home Edition
No
Digital vs Paper
The digital version previously used by PMC was computer-adaptive and allowed for multiple test dates, whereas the current paper-based version is conducted on a single day. The paper version utilizes OMR sheets which require manual bubbling, increasing the importance of neatness.
📑 Section Details
Biology consists of 68 questions, Chemistry 54, Physics 54, English 18, and Logical Reasoning 6 questions. Each section tests specific learning objectives defined in the PMDC national syllabus.
🎯 Scoring System
Score Range
0-200
Good / Passing Score
110 for MBBS (55%) and 100 for BDS (50%)
How Scoring Works
Each correct answer is awarded 1 mark, and there is no negative marking for incorrect or omitted answers. The total score is calculated based on 200 questions across five distinct subjects.
🏆 Minimum Scores for Top Universities
The minimum passing score is 55 percent for MBBS (110/200) and 50 percent for BDS (100/200) according to recent PMDC regulations.
📊 Section / sub-scoresSee all ▾
Writing
Not applicable
Speaking
Not applicable
Listening
Not applicable
Reading
Not applicable
Grammar
The English section primarily focuses on grammar and vocabulary, though a separate sub-score for grammar is not officially provided. Candidates' proficiency is assessed through sentence completion and error identification.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary is assessed within the English section, where students must demonstrate knowledge of specific medical and academic terms. There is no isolated score reported for vocabulary alone.
Analytical
Analytical skills are tested through the Logical Reasoning section which comprises six questions. These questions evaluate the candidate's ability to interpret data and solve logical problems.
Quantitative
Quantitative skills are integrated into the Physics and Chemistry sections where numerical problem-solving is required. There is no separate quantitative section in the MDCAT.
Verbal
The verbal component is represented by the 18-question English section. It tests the candidate's linguistic ability and understanding of standard English structure.
Subject
Subject-wise scores for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are the most critical components of the test. These scores are reported individually on the final result certificate provided to the student.
All Sub-Scores
The final result transcript typically shows individual marks obtained in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Logical Reasoning. This helps students identify their strengths and weaknesses for future improvement.
📈 Avg First Attempt
130-150
🔼 Score Improvement
Students who retake the exam after a year of dedicated preparation typically see a score improvement of 10 to 20 percent. This is often due to better familiarity with the exam pressure and refined study techniques.
💳 Registration & Fees
Fee (USD)
$28
See all ▾
28
Fee (INR)
₹2350
See all ▾
2350
Other
8000 PKR
📝 Register Now →
📋 Policies (rescheduling, cancellation, verification, waivers)See all ▾
⏰ Register in Advance
Registration usually opens 2 to 3 months before the scheduled exam date. Late registration is sometimes allowed with an additional fee for a limited period.
🔄 Rescheduling Policy
Rescheduling is generally not permitted once a candidate has selected a center and the registration window has closed. In rare cases of documented emergencies, PMDC may provide alternative solutions.
❌ Cancellation Policy
Examination fees are non-refundable and non-transferable to future cycles. If a candidate misses the exam, they must register again the following year with a fresh fee payment.
🔍 Score Verification
Yes
📋 Score Audit
Candidates can apply for a re-checking of their OMR sheet to ensure no calculation errors occurred during the automated scanning process. This requires a separate fee and application form.
↩ Reinstatement Policy
Not applicable
🎁 Fee Waiver Criteria
Not applicable
📅 Exam Dates & Schedule
📆 Available Months
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
🔁 Frequency
Once per year
📊 Results Declared
The results for the MDCAT are typically announced within 7 to 14 days after the examination date. Candidates can check their scores on the official PMDC website using their roll numbers or CNIC.
🔄 Retake Policy
Candidates are allowed to take the MDCAT once during each annual cycle. There is no limit on the total number of years a student can attempt the exam, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
⏰ Register By
Registration usually opens 2 to 3 months before the scheduled exam date. Late registration is sometimes allowed with an additional fee for a limited period.
✅ Eligibility & Access
🎂 Age Limit
No upper age limit
🎓 Education Required
HSSC (Pre-Medical) or equivalent with a minimum of 60 percent marks in the science subjects.
🛂 Citizenship
Pakistani citizens, dual nationals, and overseas Pakistanis are eligible to take the exam.
📍 Test Centers
30
More on accommodations, ID, and special versionsSee all ▾
🪪 ID Required
Yes
♿ Accessibility
Candidates with physical disabilities can apply for special accommodations such as ground-floor seating or assistance during the registration process. Documented evidence must be provided well in advance of the test date.
🔀 Special Versions
None
📐 Subject Variants
None
🤝 Disability Accommodations
PMDC provides accommodations like extra time or a writer for visually impaired students upon formal request and verification of medical documents. These requests must be submitted during the registration window.
🗓 Exam Day Guide
✅ What to Bring
Admit card, original CNIC or Passport, a clean clipboard, and multiple black or blue ballpoint pens. Water bottles are allowed if they are transparent and without labels.
🚫 Prohibited Items
Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, digital diaries, books, and any form of communication device. Candidates are also prohibited from bringing food items into the testing area.
📋 Exam Day Rules
Candidates must arrive at the center at least two hours before the start of the exam. No electronic devices, bags, or study materials are allowed inside the examination hall, and any form of cheating results in immediate disqualification.
After the exam: score reporting and deliverySee all ▾
⏱ Score Reporting
Score reports are generally released within 14 days and are made available through the PMDC online portal for all registered candidates. Hard copies are not typically mailed to individual homes.
📤 Score Sending
Scores are automatically integrated into the provincial centralized admission portals for public colleges. For private colleges, candidates must manually provide their MDCAT result during the application process.
🎓 Score Recipients
All medical and dental colleges across Pakistan, both public and private, use these scores for their annual induction cycles. Overseas colleges may also recognize the score for Pakistani expatriates returning for study.
📚 Preparation Guide
📅 Recommended Prep Time
3 to 5 months
🗓 Avg Prep Months
4 months
Preparation for the MDCAT requires a comprehensive review of the provincial and federal board textbooks. Students must focus on conceptual understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, alongside practicing English grammar and logical reasoning.
💡 Top Tips & Tricks
Focus heavily on the Biology section as it contains the highest number of questions and can significantly impact your final score. Consistent practice with past papers is crucial to understanding the exam pattern and improving time management skills.
Full study plan, resources, and common mistakesSee all ▾
📅 Study Plan
A three to four-month study plan is recommended, starting with a deep dive into core textbook concepts followed by topical MCQ practice. The final month should be dedicated to full-length mock exams to simulate the actual test day environment.
📖 Recommended Books
Punjab Textbook Board Books, Federal Textbook Board Books, KIPS Entry Test Series, and Redspot A-Level Series.
🏫 Popular Prep Courses
STEP by PGC, KIPS, Star Institute, and Nearpeer Online.
📱 Popular Prep Apps
Maqsad, Nearpeer, PreMed.pk, and Quizziz.
✅ Official Practice Tests
Yes — Free
🆓 Free Online Resources
PMDC sample papers, Nearpeer free trial modules, and YouTube channels such as STEP by PGC and PreMed.pk.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many students fail because they rely solely on rote memorization rather than conceptual clarity. Another common error is poor time management, where students spend too much time on difficult Physics numericals and run out of time for other sections.
💡 EduAtlasHub Exclusive Insights
🔍 Insider Tips
Always read the question stem carefully as some questions are designed to be tricky with 'except' or 'not' phrasing. Additionally, utilize the fact that there is no negative marking by ensuring every question is answered before time expires.
⭐ Unique Features
The test includes a Logical Reasoning section which is not common in many other Pakistani entry tests. It also uses a centralized national syllabus that aims to provide a level playing field for students from all provincial boards.
🎓 How This Score Impacts Your Application
The MDCAT score usually accounts for 50 percent of the total merit calculation for medical school admissions. This makes it the single most important factor in determining a student's placement in public or private colleges.
More insights: country notes, comparisons, myths, examiner tipsSee all ▾
🌍 Country-Specific Notes
The exam is conducted simultaneously in multiple cities across Pakistan and at international centers such as Riyadh and Dubai for overseas candidates. Regional universities often act as coordinating bodies for their respective provinces.
⚖️ Comparison with Alternatives
The MDCAT is more focused on the local FSc syllabus compared to the SAT or international MCAT which are more aptitude-based. It is generally considered more difficult due to the high volume of competition for limited seats in Pakistan.
🆕 Recent Changes
The exam conducting authority recently reverted from PMC back to PMDC, leading to the re-involvement of provincial universities in conducting the test. Additionally, the validity of the MDCAT score was extended to two years.
🔜 Upcoming Changes
There are ongoing discussions about moving the exam back to a computer-based format to ensure faster result processing. However, the current consensus remains with the paper-based OMR format for the upcoming cycle.
🧐 Myths vs Facts
Myth: The exam only follows the Punjab textbook. Fact: The PMDC sets a national syllabus that covers common topics from all provincial and federal boards. Myth: You need to memorize the entire dictionary. Fact: Only specific English vocabulary and grammar rules are tested.
👨‍🏫 Examiner Tips
Do not leave any question unanswered as there is no penalty for wrong answers. Focus your final revision on high-yield topics in Biology and ensure you have a strong grip on basic Physics formulas for quick calculations.
🏆 Success Stories
Thousands of students from underserved rural areas have successfully secured admissions in top medical colleges by utilizing free online resources. Many toppers emphasize that conceptual clarity and disciplined practice are the keys to overcoming the high competition.
📋 Post-Exam Steps
After receiving the MDCAT result, students must apply for admission through the provincial centralized portals such as UHS for Punjab or DUHS for Sindh. They must also submit their FSc and Matric marks to complete the merit aggregate.
🎯 Score Uses Beyond Admission
While primarily used for medical and dental admissions, the MDCAT score is sometimes considered by other allied health science programs as a benchmark for academic proficiency. It is not generally used for non-science professional placements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the MDCAT score valid?+
The MDCAT score is valid for 2 Years.
How much does the MDCAT cost?+
The exam fee is $28 (approximately ₹2350 in India).
How often can I retake the MDCAT?+
Candidates are allowed to take the MDCAT once during each annual cycle. There is no limit on the total number of years a student can attempt the exam, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
When are MDCAT results declared?+
The results for the MDCAT are typically announced within 7 to 14 days after the examination date. Candidates can check their scores on the official PMDC website using their roll numbers or CNIC.
Which universities accept the MDCAT?+
MDCAT is accepted by 150.
Is a calculator allowed in the MDCAT?+
No
How should I prepare for the MDCAT?+
Preparation for the MDCAT requires a comprehensive review of the provincial and federal board textbooks.
📝
Register for MDCAT
The gateway to excellence in medical and dental education in Pakistan.
Register Now →
📊 Quick Facts
Official Site →
Conducted ByPakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC)
Year Started1998
CategoryMedical Entrance Examination
Last UpdatedJune 18, 2026
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