The Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC) has announced an unprecedented increase in the fee for candidates appearing in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT), set for September 22, 2024. The fee has risen from Rs6,000 to Rs8,000 per candidate, sparking concerns among students and their families, especially given that the actual cost per candidate is estimated to be less than Rs1,000. This hike places an additional financial burden on parents who have already invested heavily in private coaching, which can cost between Rs70,000 and Rs90,000.
The PMDC, along with Khyber Medical University (KMU), has taken over the MDCAT following issues of cheating in previous exams. Last year, candidates were caught using modern devices, but accountability was lacking, particularly for those with influential connections. As the MDCAT approaches, PMDC and KMU face significant challenges in preventing malpractice and ensuring a fair testing environment.
This year’s MDCAT will be conducted nationwide, including in Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan, with paper-based exams held in six regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Students are advised to register on the official PMDC website starting August 5.
Dr. Zia-ul Haq, Vice-Chancellor of KMU, emphasized that the fee structure is determined by the PMDC and that KMU is only responsible for organizing the test. With these developments, the focus remains on upholding merit and integrity in the examination process, crucial for the future of aspiring medical and dental professionals.
Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming MDCAT—your future in healthcare depends on it!
For more details about MDCAT please visit PMDC Website below:
