ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has postponed the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026, rescheduling the examination from August 16 to September 20.
The decision was taken on the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who instructed the relevant authorities to ensure a more transparent and well-organised examination process, the PMDC said on Thursday.
The council clarified that only the examination date has changed and that all previously announced arrangements and terms will remain unchanged.
Why Was the MDCAT Postponed?
According to the PMDC, the exam was rescheduled following the prime minister’s directive to improve transparency and the overall conduct of the admission test.
Candidates have been advised to regularly visit the PMDC website for updated information regarding the examination.
What Will Remain Unchanged?
The PMDC said all existing examination arrangements, procedures and conditions will remain in place despite the change in date.
Earlier this year, the council also made it mandatory for students seeking admission to medical or dental institutions abroad to qualify the MDCAT and obtain PMDC registration before leaving Pakistan, a measure aimed at facilitating future recognition, licensing and registration of medical qualifications.