$10,000 MDCAT Fee Fixed for Overseas Pakistanis Under New Admission Policy 2025

LAHORE (26 September 2025): The Punjab government has approved a new admission policy for medical and dental colleges, introducing major changes for both local and overseas students. The decision was finalized during a special meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, where multiple health-related reforms were also discussed.

MDCAT Mandatory for Admissions

Under the revised policy, the MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) has been declared mandatory for students applying to public sector medical and dental colleges. This step ensures a merit-based system for admissions, aligning with international standards of medical education.

MDCAT Fee for Overseas Pakistanis

One of the most notable updates is the introduction of a $10,000 fee for children of overseas Pakistanis taking the MDCAT.

• The fee applies exclusively to overseas students aiming for admissions in Punjab’s medical institutions.

• The government says the move is designed to support overseas families while also ensuring transparency and fairness in the admission process.

Policy Updates for Private Medical Colleges

The new admission framework also includes significant changes for private sector institutions:

• Students selected in the admission list must pay one-third of the tuition fee to the University of Health Sciences (UHS).

• After the final merit list is announced, UHS will transfer the collected amount to the respective medical or dental college.

• The remaining fee will be paid directly by students to the institutions.

This system has been introduced to improve accountability and transparency in fee collection.

Postgraduate Training in Private Hospitals

Another key development discussed in the meeting was the introduction of mandatory postgraduate training in private hospitals.

• Trainee doctors will be placed in institutions based on demand for specialists in relevant fields.

• This aims to bridge the gap in healthcare services and ensure specialist doctors are available where needed most.

Health Reforms and New Achievements

During the meeting, CM Maryam Nawaz also expressed satisfaction over recent milestones in Punjab’s healthcare system:

• First successful angioplasty performed in Sahiwal.

• Launch of cardiac surgery services at the Sahiwal Cardiac Center.

• Directives to establish a transparent treatment protocol at Mayo Hospital’s Ablation Center.

Final Words

The new MDCAT admission policy 2025 marks a significant shift in Punjab’s medical education system. With the $10,000 MDCAT fee for overseas Pakistanis, mandatory testing for all applicants, and new rules for fee collection, the government aims to make the process more transparent and merit-driven.

Additionally, by introducing postgraduate training in private hospitals, Punjab is moving toward strengthening healthcare delivery across the province.

This policy not only impacts thousands of aspiring medical students but also signals the government’s commitment to raising the standards of medical education in Pakistan.