The Senate has ordered a fresh MDCAT 2026 inquiry after members said they were not satisfied with the earlier report on complaints about the medical entry test. The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination directed the Ministry of National Health Services to investigate the complaints again and submit its findings within one week.
The decision is important for thousands of students who appeared in the MDCAT 2026 and are waiting for clarity on their future. It also puts the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) under fresh pressure to explain how the test was handled.
Why the Senate Ordered a Fresh MDCAT 2026 Inquiry
In its meeting reported on 22 October 2026, the committee reviewed the earlier inquiry report on complaints raised by students and parents. Members found the report unsatisfactory and asked the health ministry to start over. The ministry now has seven days to submit a new report.
PMDC officials told the committee that no irregularities or anomalies were found during the exam. However, senators were not convinced and raised several questions about transparency.
The Question Booklet Controversy
One of the main issues was PMDC’s practice of collecting question booklets from candidates after the exam. Students were not allowed to keep a copy of the paper. Committee members asked why the paper had not been made public, saying that transparency in the question bank and the exam process is essential to protect merit.
PMDC explained that the booklets are collected to protect the question bank and to stop future candidates from getting an unfair advantage. The committee rejected this explanation. Many students believe that without the paper, they cannot check their answers or challenge mistakes in the answer key.
PMDC Withdraws Policy for Students Going Abroad
During the same meeting, the committee also questioned a recent PMDC policy. Under this policy, students who planned to study medicine abroad were required to take the MDCAT. After the committee intervened, PMDC withdrew the policy. This is a relief for students who had already secured admissions in foreign medical universities.
Key Points of the MDCAT 2026 Inquiry
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Ordered by | Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services |
| Inquiry to be done by | Ministry of National Health Services |
| Deadline | One week |
| PMDC position | No irregularities found |
| Main concern | Transparency, question booklets not given to students |
| Related decision | MDCAT requirement for studying abroad withdrawn |
What It Means for MDCAT Students
The MDCAT 2026 inquiry does not change any result for now. Admissions and merit lists will continue under existing rules unless the inquiry finds serious problems. Students should:
- Keep their admit card, roll number and result record safe.
- Follow only official updates from PMDC and the health ministry.
- Avoid fake news about “re-tests” until an official notification is issued.
- Note that court cases on MDCAT 2026 are also under way, so legal decisions may affect the process.
Role of Teachers and Academies
Teachers and entry test academies also have a role. Many teachers argue that publishing papers and answer keys after each exam would mean preparation becomes fair for all students, not only those who can afford expensive academies. A transparent system helps teachers plan better and helps students trust the test.
What Happens After the MDCAT 2026 Inquiry?
Once the health ministry submits its report, the committee will review it in its next meeting. If complaints are proven, the committee could recommend corrective steps, changes in the testing system or action against those responsible. If the report again finds no problems, the committee may still push PMDC to adopt more open practices for future tests.
You can check official notices on the PMDC website.
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FAQs
Who ordered the MDCAT 2026 inquiry?
The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination ordered the fresh inquiry.
How much time has the ministry been given?
The health ministry has one week to complete the inquiry and submit its findings.
Did PMDC admit any irregularities?
No. PMDC told the committee that no irregularities or anomalies were found.
Do students going abroad still need MDCAT?
PMDC has withdrawn the policy that required students studying medicine abroad to take the MDCAT.