PMDC Unveils Centralized MDCAT Question Bank to Ensure Fair Testing Nationwide

In a landmark move to reform medical education in Pakistan, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has officially inaugurated a centralized question bank for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT). This initiative aims to eliminate disparities in exam difficulty across provinces and provide a level playing field for all aspiring medical students.

Why the MDCAT Question Bank Matters

For years, students have voiced concerns over inconsistent MDCAT papers, with some provinces reportedly facing tougher questions than others. The newly developed question bank—comprising 2,000 rigorously vetted questions—addresses this issue head-on by offering a standardized pool from which all testing agencies must draw.

This reform ensures that every candidate, regardless of location, is assessed under the same criteria, promoting transparency and merit-based selection.

Developed by Experts, Backed by Leadership

The question bank was developed by subject matter experts and inaugurated by Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Mr. Syed Mustafa Kamal, at the PMDC headquarters. PMDC President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj emphasized that the initiative reflects the council’s commitment to fairness, academic integrity, and national cohesion in medical education.

MDCAT 2025 Scheduled for October

The MDCAT 2025 exam is set to take place in October, shortly after the release of Intermediate Part II results. This timeline aligns with the academic calendar and gives students ample time to prepare using the newly standardized material.

What This Means for Students

With the centralized question bank now in place, students can expect:

  • Uniform difficulty levels across all provinces
  • Greater transparency in the selection process
  • Improved confidence in the fairness of the exam
  • More focused preparation strategies

This development also opens doors for coaching centers and educators to align their teaching with the official question bank, helping students prepare more effectively.

A Step Toward Equitable Medical Education

The launch of the MDCAT question bank marks a pivotal shift in how medical admissions are conducted in Pakistan. By removing regional biases and ensuring consistent evaluation standards, PMDC is paving the way for a more equitable and merit-driven future in healthcare education.