The path at a glance
| Stage | Duration | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Matric (Science) | 2 years | Strong marks, as they count for 10% of your aggregate |
| FSc Pre-Medical or equivalent | 2 years | At least 60%, and it counts for 40% of your aggregate |
| MDCAT | One test | At least 55% for MBBS; it counts for 50% of your aggregate |
| MBBS | 5 years | A seat at a recognised college |
| House job | 1 year | Supervised work in a hospital |
| PM&DC registration | After training | Needed to practise; check PM&DC's current requirements |
| Specialisation (optional) | Several years | Postgraduate training, such as FCPS or MD/MS |
Step 1: Build strong Matric and FSc marks
Together these make up 50% of your aggregate. They are often decided before you think seriously about MDCAT, so take your board exams seriously from the start. FSc content also forms the core of the MDCAT syllabus.
Step 2: Pass MDCAT with the highest score you can
Read what MDCAT involves, check that you meet the eligibility rules, and register on time. Then follow a study plan. Your result stays valid for three years.
Step 3: Apply for admission
Admission is a separate application to your admitting university. Your aggregate and preferences determine your place on the merit list. Public colleges are far cheaper and far more competitive, while private colleges generally accept lower aggregates at much higher fees.
Step 4: Complete MBBS and your house job
MBBS runs for five years and combines basic sciences with clinical training. After you graduate, you complete a one-year house job in a teaching hospital.
Step 5: Register with PM&DC
You need PM&DC registration to practise legally. Requirements, including any licensing exam, can change, so check the PM&DC website for the rules that apply when you graduate.
Step 6: Specialise if you want to
Many doctors go on to postgraduate training in fields such as surgery, medicine or paediatrics. In Pakistan, common routes include FCPS through the College of Physicians and Surgeons, and university MD or MS programmes.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to become a doctor in Pakistan?
After Matric, it usually takes about 8 years to finish the basics: 2 years of FSc, 5 years of MBBS and a 1-year house job. Specialising adds several more years.
Can I become a doctor without MDCAT?
Not through an MBBS or BDS programme in Pakistan, as MDCAT is required. Students who study medicine abroad have to meet separate PM&DC rules to practise in Pakistan.
What is the difference between MBBS and BDS?
MBBS trains you as a medical doctor, while BDS trains you as a dentist. MDCAT is required for both, with a pass mark of 55% for MBBS and 50% for BDS.
How much does MBBS cost in Pakistan?
It depends heavily on the college. For example, annual tuition for open-merit seats at Punjab public colleges was reported at Rs 50,000 for 2026-27. Private college fees are much higher, so check each college’s current fee list.
Can I study medicine after A Levels?
Yes. You need IBCC equivalence, along with the same MDCAT and admission requirements as other applicants.
Keep reading
Sources
- SZABMU admissions FAQ, session 2026-27
- TechJuice: Punjab medical college admissions merit formula, 2026-27
- Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (official website)