PMDC rejects claims of 80pc fee increase for MDCAT 2025

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has denied reports of an 80 per cent increase in the fee for the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT).

In a statement, the council confirmed that the exam is scheduled for Sunday, 5 October 2025.

“It has come to the notice of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) that there has been a misunderstanding regarding the MDCAT examination fee, which claims that it has increased by 80pc,” the statement said.

The council clarified that the fee has increased modestly over recent years, rising from Rs8,000 in 2024 to Rs9,000 for 2025, a 12.5 per cent increase rather than the 80 per cent figure circulating on social media.

The PMDC also noted that the exam will be administered by universities nominated by federal and provincial authorities, rather than directly by the council.

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“However, PMDC as a regulator has developed a uniform syllabus for the MDCAT in consultation with all stakeholders,” the statement added. It further highlighted its significant investment in developing a question bank based on the common syllabus agreed upon by the provinces.

The council attributed the fee revision, requested by the examination-conducting universities, to rising costs associated with paper printing, enhanced security measures, logistics, examiner and invigilator payments, and ensuring adequate seating and facilities for candidates.

“Despite significant inflation and increasing operational costs, PMDC remains steadfast to affordability and fairness,” the release said, emphasising a balanced approach to keep the exam accessible while maintaining quality and integrity.

The PMDC reaffirmed its commitment to “transparent, responsible, and merit-based admissions” to guarantee equal opportunities for all aspiring medical and dental students.