Islamabad: In a major policy shift, authorities have approved a conditional relaxation in the MDCAT passing criteria for private medical and dental colleges across Pakistan, aiming to address vacant seats and support institutional sustainability.
One-Time Relaxation for Admissions
According to the latest directive, private universities may grant a one-time relaxation of up to 3% in MDCAT passing marks if seats remain unfilled after exhausting the existing pool of eligible candidates. The relaxation will only be लागू when institutions confirm that no further qualified applicants are available.
Revised MDCAT Passing Criteria
Following the approved adjustment, the updated passing percentages are:
- MBBS: 52%
- BDS: 47%
Reason Behind the Decision
Officials stated that the decision has been taken to ensure the financial stability of private medical and dental colleges, many of which face operational challenges due to low admissions. By filling vacant seats, institutions can continue functioning effectively without compromising overall academic standards.
Strict Conditions
Authorities emphasized that the relaxation is conditional and temporary, applicable only after a thorough review of the admission pool. Universities must ensure transparency and verify that no eligible candidates are left before implementing the reduced criteria.
The move is expected to provide relief to private colleges while maintaining a balance between accessibility and merit in Pakistan’s medical education system.
