PMDC Reschedules MDCAT to September 20, Promises Same Conditions, Responds to 1,000 Complaints and Facilitated Candidates.

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) moved the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) from August 16 to September 20. The change was directed by the prime minister, according to PMDC's press release. The council said the new date would help ensure a smooth, secure and transparent exam. Other terms, conditions and arrangements will stay the same unless further notice. PMDC urges candidates to check its website for updates. It thanked stakeholders for their cooperation and apologized for any inconvenience. Every year up to 200,000 candidates sit the MDCAT. It is required for admission to medical and dental colleges, where about 25,000 students secure seats in the public and private sectors. According to a meeting with Azad Jammu and Kashmir health secretary, registration difficulties were reported, mainly because of prolonged internet shutdowns in the region. PMDC said it would provide facilitation. Last month the Senate Standing Committee on Health raised concerns over complaints about the exam. PMDC said around 135,000 candidates would appear, and the committee had received about 1,000 complaints from students.