MDCAT Test Date and Schedule: When is MDCAT Held in Pakistan?
Complete information about MDCAT test dates, schedule patterns, and how to prepare your timeline around the exam.
One of the most common questions Pakistani pre-medical students ask is: "When is MDCAT?" Knowing the test date early allows you to plan your preparation timeline, book your test center, and avoid last-minute panic. Here is everything you need to know about MDCAT test dates and scheduling.
When is MDCAT Usually Held?
MDCAT is typically conducted between September and November each year. The exact dates depend on PMC's annual announcement, but the pattern has been consistent:
- Registration opens: July–August
- Registration closes: August–September
- Test dates: September–October (conducted over multiple days/sessions)
- Results announced: 2–4 weeks after the last test session
MDCAT Test Date History
| Year | Test Period | Conducted By |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | November 2020 | PMC (first national MDCAT) |
| 2021 | September–October 2021 | PMC |
| 2022 | September–October 2022 | PMC |
| 2026 | September 2026 | PMC |
| 2024 | September–October 2024 | PMC |
As the trend shows, MDCAT is consistently held in September–October. Plan your preparation to peak during this window.
Why MDCAT is Held Over Multiple Days
Since MDCAT is a computer-based test (CBT), test centers have limited seating capacity. PMC schedules multiple sessions across several days to accommodate hundreds of thousands of students. You are assigned a specific date and time slot during registration.
Can You Choose Your Test Date?
Partially. During registration, you choose your preferred test center and city. PMC then assigns you a date and time slot based on availability. While you cannot pick the exact date, registering early gives you a better chance of getting your preferred center and an earlier slot.
How to Plan Your Preparation Timeline
Assuming MDCAT is in September, here is a recommended timeline:
- January–March: Focus on FSc board exams. Keep MDCAT topics in mind but prioritize boards.
- April–May: Start dedicated MDCAT preparation. Cover Biology and Chemistry topics systematically.
- June–July: Complete the syllabus. Begin solving past papers and topic-wise MCQs.
- August: Full revision mode. Take mock tests every 2–3 days. Focus on weak areas.
- September: Final revision and mock tests. Stay calm and confident.
What If MDCAT Gets Delayed?
In some years, MDCAT has been delayed due to administrative reasons, court orders, or other factors. If this happens:
- PMC announces the revised schedule on their official website and social media.
- Use the extra time for more practice — do not lose momentum.
- Stay updated by following PMC's official channels.
MDCAT Retake Policy
If you are not satisfied with your score, you can retake MDCAT the following year. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each new attempt requires fresh registration and fee payment.
Keep checking the PMC website from June onwards for the official notification about that year's MDCAT test dates. Early awareness means early preparation — and that means a better score.