PMDC, health ministry initiative to support medical students abroad

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (NHSRC) have unveiled an initiative aimed at integrating Pakistani students pursuing medical and dental studies abroad into country’s healthcare system on their return.

Following a recent meeting, both bodies have agreed on a unified approach to help these students in pursuing their studies abroad while ensuring the efficient use of Pakistan’s financial resources.

It was decided that in the 2025-26 academic year, the PMDC and the ministry will implement new guidelines to facilitate the integration of foreign-trained professionals into Pakistan’s healthcare system.

These measures are intended to help students avoid enrolling in institutions with substandard academic performance and ensure a smooth transition upon their return to Pakistan.

The PMDC will collaborate closely with Pakistani diplomatic missions to ensure that foreign universities meet the required criteria.

For the 2024-25 academic year, Pakistani students seeking admission to international medical and dental schools must meet specific requirements, including holding a valid Multiple Entry Visa, achieving a minimum of 60pc in F.Sc Pre-Medical, or scoring at least 550 marks in each SAT-II subject or 50pc in foreign MCAT/UCAT exams. Additionally, they must secure a minimum of 50pc in the MDCAT conducted in Pakistan, with results valid for three years.

It's crucial that the foreign institution is recognized by the PMDC, particularly for enrollments before the 2024-25 academic year. The medical qualification must come from a WFME-accredited institution, and students must obtain a PMDC Student Registration Certificate before beginning their studies abroad.

They will also be required to complete at least 6,200 hours of study over five years, maintaining an 80pc attendance rate.

For the students studying in non-English-speaking countries, six months of language training is mandatory. Moreover, passing the National Registration Examination (NRE) is essential for full PMDC registration after qualification.

Students must also provide their residence and contact details in their host country before departure.

This policy aims to ensure that Pakistani students abroad achieve high educational standards and are well-prepared to contribute to Pakistan's healthcare system upon their return.