ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has introduced a strict new requirement for the upcoming Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026, making biometric verification mandatory for all candidates.
According to a public notice, all aspirants under the age of 18 must now possess a valid Juvenile Registration Card (JRC) issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). The council stated that this measure is essential to ensure transparency and prevent impersonation during the high-stakes exam.
The decision has sparked concern among the 200,000 students who appear for the test annually. Many parents have pointed out that children usually rely on the Child Registration Certificate (B-Form), and obtaining a JRC involves additional costs and time spent at NADRA centers.
Critics also noted that the card expires as soon as the candidate turns 18, meaning many students will have to apply for a CNIC shortly after the exam. However, PMDC officials maintain that the move is a necessary step toward modernizing the examination process and ensuring that only genuine candidates enter the medical profession.
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