The number of students applying for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) has continued to decline in Pakistan. The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has raised concerns over the trend. According to figures from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), around 138,000 candidates applied for MDCAT in 2026. The number was 140,071 in 2025. The figures show a steady fall in interest over recent years. In 2022, 204,253 students applied for the test. The number dropped to 180,534 in 2023. Around 182,000 candidates applied in 2024. The figure then fell to about 140,000 in 2025. This year, applications dropped further to around 138,000.
PMA Raises Concerns Over MDCAT Trend
The Pakistan Medical Association said the decline may reflect growing concerns about medicine as a career. It described the trend as more than an issue caused by registration deadlines. The PMA pointed to several financial and professional challenges facing young doctors. These include high tuition fees at private medical and dental colleges. The association also highlighted concerns about the financial prospects of young doctors. Delays in house-job stipends were another issue raised by the group.
A shortage of paid postgraduate residency positions has also added to concerns. The PMA said these problems could discourage students from choosing medical careers.
Registration Extension Brings Limited Response
The MDCAT registration process was extended after the examination was rescheduled to September 20. The PMDC reopened its registration portal for five days. The additional registration period was aimed at helping students affected by regional disruptions. It also addressed administrative delays faced by some applicants. However, only 2,063 additional candidates registered during the extended period. This took the total number of applicants to slightly above 138,000. The PMA said the limited response suggests a deeper decline in interest. It argued that the issue cannot be explained only by missed registration deadlines.
Students Consider Other Career Options
The PMA also said many pre-medical students are considering other fields. These include computer science, artificial intelligence and biotechnology. Health data analytics is another area attracting students. These fields may offer better career progression and stronger starting salaries. International career opportunities are also influencing students’ decisions. The shift has raised questions about the future supply of doctors in Pakistan.
The PMA has urged authorities to address the main challenges facing medical professionals. It has also opposed lowering MDCAT passing standards simply to fill vacant seats. The association has called for limits on private medical college fees. It also wants timely payment of stipends for medical graduates. Other recommendations include creating regular medical officer positions. The PMA has also called for a federal law to protect healthcare professionals.
The association warned that failing to address these issues could create a shortage of doctors. Such a shortage could put additional pressure on Pakistan’s public healthcare system over the next decade. The latest MDCAT figures therefore highlight wider concerns about medical education and career prospects in Pakistan. The decline in applications may continue to receive attention from education and health authorities.
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