ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) are addressing ongoing concerns regarding the quality of education among foreign medical graduates by establishing new criteria for Pakistani students aiming to study abroad. This initiative is aimed at preventing them from enrolling in institutions with lower academic standards and to ensure a smooth transition upon their return to Pakistan.

Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, PMDC and the ministry will implement a new set of guidelines designed to streamline the process of integrating foreign-trained professionals into Pakistan’s healthcare system.

Students will have to hold a valid Multiple Entry Visa for the duration of their studies and must have completed F.Sc Pre-Medical with at least 60pc marks. They will also require at least 50pc in the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT).

After a recent meeting, both bodies have come together to create a unified approach that will help these students make the most of their education while ensuring that Pakistan’s financial resources are effectively utilised.

To help guide students, the PMDC will work closely with Pakistani diplomatic missions to ensure foreign universities meet the necessary criteria.

“For the 2024-25 academic year, Pakistani students seeking admission to international medical and dental schools will need to meet specific requirements. They must hold a valid Multiple Entry Visa for the duration of their studies and have completed F.Sc Pre-Medical with at least 60pc marks, or achieved a minimum of 550 in each SAT-II subject, or 50pc in foreign MCAT/UCAT exams in Biology, Chemistry, and either Mathematics or Physics. Additionally, they need to score at least 50pc in the MDCAT conducted in Pakistan, with these results valid for three years,” a statement by PMDC stated.

“It is important that the foreign institution is recognised by the PMDC, especially for enrollments before the 2024-25 academic year. The medical qualification should be from a World Federation for Medical Education-accredited institution, and students must secure a PMDC Student Registration Certificate before starting their studies.

“They will also need to complete at least 6,200 hours of study over five years, maintaining an 80pc attendance rate. For those studying in non-English-speaking countries, six months of language training is required. Moreover, passing the National Registration Examination (NRE) is essential for full PMDC registration after qualification. Students will have to provide the residence and contact details in their host country before departure. This policy is designed to help Pakistani students abroad achieve the highest standards in their education and ensure they are well-prepared to contribute positively to Pakistan’s healthcare system upon their return,” it stated.

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2024