Getting into a medical college isn’t just about scoring well in your FSc. You also need to prove your knowledge, critical thinking, and nerves of steel in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT). This guide is designed to help you do exactly that.
In this article, we’ll walk through smart strategies, proven study techniques, and subject-wise tips to help you ace the exam and secure your MBBS admission in 2025.
What is MDCAT?
MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) is a standardized test conducted every year by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC). It's a mandatory requirement for entry into all public and private medical and dental colleges in Pakistan.
The test evaluates a student’s understanding of key science subjects and their aptitude for medicine.
Who Can Apply for MBBS Admission via MDCAT?
To be eligible for MDCAT and MBBS admission, you must meet the following conditions:
- Minimum 70% marks in FSc Pre-Medical or equivalent
- Must appear in MDCAT conducted by PMDC
- Domicile of Pakistan for public colleges; foreign students can apply to private colleges
- No age limit
MDCAT 2025 – Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
Understanding the structure of the test is your first step toward success.
| Subject | No. of MCQs |
| Biology | 68 |
| Chemistry | 56 |
| Physics | 56 |
| English | 20 |
| Logical Reasoning | 10 |
| Total | 210 MCQs |
- Time: 3.5 hours
- Marking: 1 mark for each correct answer, no negative marking
- Passing Marks: 55% for MBBS, 50% for BDS
When to Start Preparing?
Ideally, you should start preparing right after your FSc exams, giving yourself around 3 to 4 months of focused study.
If you’re balancing MDCAT prep with FSc, then a slow and steady 6-month study plan works best.
How to Start Your MDCAT Preparation?
- Know the Syllabus Inside Out
Start by downloading the official PMDC syllabus. This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time on irrelevant topics. Stick to what’s outlined.
- Choose the Right Books
The most effective MDCAT prep books include:
- Punjab Textbook Board (PTB) Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- KIPS Notes & MCQs Books
- National MDCAT Book (Step Academy)
- Unit-wise practice books
Use one main book per subject and avoid collecting too many resources.
Build a Daily Study Schedule
Creating a practical routine is the secret sauce for MDCAT success.
| Time | Activity |
| 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Revise Biology concepts |
| 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Solve Chemistry MCQs |
| 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Physics short questions + formulas |
| Break | Lunch + rest |
| 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | English grammar & vocab |
| 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Logical reasoning practice |
| 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Review mistakes from MCQs |
| Night | Light reading or revision |
Make sure to adapt the plan based on your strengths and weaknesses.
Subject-Wise Study Tips for MDCAT 2025
Biology – The Highest Weightage Subject
- Focus on diagrams and tables from your textbooks
- Prepare definitions and differences carefully
- Practice concept-based MCQs from each chapter
- Revise regularly — small details are easy to forget
Pro Tip: Create a biology formula and keywords notebook for fast revision.
⚗️ Chemistry – Practice Is Key
- Balance organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry
- Memorize periodic table trends, formulas, and reactions
- Solve numerical questions from physical chemistry
- Understand the logic behind equations instead of just memorizing
Physics – Concept Clarity Matters
- Don’t skip formulas. Derivations help you understand the “why”
- Focus on unit conversions, numericals, and MCQs
- Practice at least 20–30 MCQs per day per chapter
- Build confidence by reviewing solved examples
English – Grammar and Comprehension
- Learn synonyms, antonyms, and correct use of tenses
- Practice reading comprehension
- Review parts of speech, sentence correction, and punctuation
Logical Reasoning – Stay Sharp
- Improve your pattern recognition and visual analysis
- Solve puzzles, sequences, and analogy questions
- Use mobile apps like “Logical Reasoning Test” or “Brain Training”
Smart Strategies for Effective Learning
- Break Big Tasks into Smaller Goals
Instead of “complete Biology today,” try “finish Cell Structure MCQs in 1 hour.”
- Use the Pomodoro Technique
Study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break. After 4 rounds, take a longer 20-minute break. This improves focus.
- Use Active Recall
After every chapter, quiz yourself without looking at notes. Teaching someone else also helps retain knowledge.
Importance of Mock Tests
Mock tests are your trial runs before the big day. They help you:
- Understand the paper format
- Manage time under pressure
- Identify weak areas
Take a full-length mock test every week. After every mock, analyze:
- What went wrong?
- Which topics need revision?
- Which subjects are time-consuming?
Top MDCAT Academies in Pakistan
If you prefer guidance, these are some popular options:
- KIPS Academy – Nationwide
- Step Academy by Punjab Group
- Stars Academy
- Unique College and Academy
- NOVA Academy
Online platforms like Ilmkidunya, Tabir.pk, and Pre-MDCAT YouTube channels also offer video lectures and MCQs.
Nutrition, Sleep, and Mental Health
Your brain can’t work well if your body is exhausted.
Tips:
- Eat balanced meals with fruits, nuts, and water
- Sleep 7–8 hours daily
- Avoid all-nighters during revision week
- Take small walks or stretch breaks to refresh your body
- Don’t compare your progress with others
How to Stay Motivated?
- Set mini goals (e.g., 10 chapters this week)
- Use study trackers to visualize your progress
- Join MDCAT Facebook or WhatsApp groups for updates and peer support
- Remember why you started — your dream of becoming a doctor
FAQs About MBBS Admission and MDCAT
✅ Is MDCAT the only way to get MBBS admission?
Yes, currently all public and private medical colleges in Pakistan require MDCAT scores for MBBS admission.
✅ What is a good score in MDCAT?
A score above 160–170 is generally competitive for top public sector colleges.
✅ Is there negative marking?
No, PMDC removed negative marking to encourage students to attempt more confidently.
✅ Can overseas Pakistanis apply?
Yes, overseas and foreign students can apply through NUMS and private medical colleges.
✅ Can I prepare for MDCAT at home?
Absolutely. With proper time management, resources, and mock tests, many students succeed from home.
Final Thoughts
The path to MBBS admission in Pakistan is tough but not impossible. The key to acing MDCAT 2025 lies in consistency, not just talent. Focused preparation, smart planning, and confidence will take you far.