Islamabad: A Senate Sub-Committee has called for a comprehensive review of the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) policy framework, advocating for greater transparency and consultation with stakeholders. The committee raised concerns about the test’s current structure and its implications for students seeking medical education both domestically and internationally, emphasizing the need for uniformity in admissions processes across Pakistan.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination convened at Parliament House under Senator Anusha Rehman to assess the existing MDCAT policy, which allocates 50% weightage to the test compared to formal exam results. The meeting focused on the legal basis of making MDCAT mandatory for students applying to foreign medical programs, questioning the lack of statutory backing for such directives issued by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMand DC).

The committee highlighted the issue of 743 vacant seats in medical and dental colleges nationwide and scrutinized PMand DC’s justification that the MDCAT requirement aims to prevent admissions in substandard foreign institutions. Members questioned why PMand DC has not maintained a list of substandard colleges to guide students. The Sub-Committee directed PMand DC and the Ministry of National Health Services to provide documents authorizing the mandatory MDCAT policy for foreign admissions.

In addition, the committee suggested that instead of imposing blanket restrictions, PMand DC should publish a list of non-compliant foreign medical institutions. Concerns were also raised about the test’s weightage and the challenges faced by A-Level students due to a syllabus focused on local intermediate curricula. The cost disparity in medical education between Pakistan and countries like China was noted as a significant issue.

Officials informed the committee that most vacant seats were in dental colleges, prompting discussions on the international recognition of Pakistan’s dentistry qualifications. The session also covered the collection and auditing of MDCAT fees.

Concluding the meeting, the Sub-Committee recommended a public hearing to involve students, medical practitioners, and university officials in revising policies to address issues in the medical admissions system.