The Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has directed the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) and the Secretary of Health to submit all relevant documents and legal provisions that authorize the Council to make the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) compulsory for students intending to pursue medical education abroad.
Meeting Details
The meeting of the Sub-Committee was held under the convenorship of Senator Anusha Rehman. The primary agenda was to review the preparedness for the upcoming MDCAT 2026 and to examine the legal framework surrounding the mandatory requirement of MDCAT for overseas medical aspirants.
Key Directives
- Submission of Documents: PM&DC and the Secretary of Health have been asked to provide all legal documents and provisions that empower the council to enforce MDCAT as a prerequisite for students seeking admission to foreign medical institutions.
- Review of Preparedness: The committee also evaluated the readiness for MDCAT 2026, including logistical arrangements, test centers, and security measures.
Background
The MDCAT has been a contentious issue, especially for students who plan to study medicine abroad. Many stakeholders have questioned the legal basis for making the test mandatory for foreign-bound students. The Senate sub-committee aims to clarify these legalities and ensure that the policy is in line with existing laws.
The committee emphasized that the decision should be based on clear legal authority and that students should not face unnecessary hurdles. The next meeting is expected to review the submitted documents and further discuss the matter.
