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Preparing for the MDCAT after completing your A-Levels can feel overwhelming — especially when most resources seem tailored for FSc students. But don’t worry, you’re not at a disadvantage. In fact, with the right strategy and resources, A-Level students can excel in the MDCAT and secure admission to top medical colleges in Pakistan. Wonder how to crack MDCAT for A-Level students with the right strategy? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MDCAT for A-Level students — from understanding the syllabus overlap to adapting your Cambridge-based preparation to Pakistan’s national medical entry test format.
There are a few key differences between preparing for the MDCAT from a FSc background and an A-Level background:
Related: Maqsad's MDCAT Aggregate Calculator
A solid study plan is crucial when preparing MDCAT for A-Level students, especially with limited time after A-Level exams. Here’s an example plan if your A-Level exams finish in June and MDCAT is in September (approx. 16 weeks of prep):
The table summarises a well-structured study plan to help preparing for MDCAT for A-Level students:
Week Range | Focus | Details |
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Weeks 1–2 (June) | Get Organized |
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Weeks 3–6 (July) | Intensive Content Review |
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Weeks 7–10 (August) | Advanced Revision & MCQs |
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Weeks 11–14 (Late Aug – Early Sept) | Mock Tests & Weak Areas |
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Weeks 15–16 (Final 2 Weeks) | Final Polishing |
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Throughout, focus on high-yield topics and use active recall. Tools like flashcards (for definitions in Biology/Chem) and Pomodoro sessions (50 min study, 10 min break) can help maintain concentration. Above all, start your MDCAT prep early—premature exhaustion is better than cramming, which is nearly impossible given the extensive syllabus.
A lot of A-Level students are stressed about getting into AKU. However, as intimidating as it may be, having an A-Level background is actually advantageous, given that AKU Entry Test also tests conceptual understanding and critical thinking rather than just memorisation. For more guidance, read How to Get Admission in AKU.
The MDCAT (Medical & Dental Colleges Admission Test) is a mandatory exam for entry into medical/dental colleges in Pakistan. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Logical Reasoning, to be completed in 3.5 hours. The exam is scored out of 200 points, with each subject weighted roughly: Biology (34%), Chemistry (27%), Physics (27%), English (9%), and Logical Reasoning (3%). For example, the Biology section alone has 68 questions. Scoring well on the MDCAT is crucial for admission; typically students need around 55–60% (110–120/200) to pass and pursue an MBBS.
The official PMDC MDCAT syllabus is detailed and comprehensive. In practice, many MDCAT questions align with the provincial FSc syllabus. Because A-level syllabuses differ (especially in biology breadth), A-Level students need to review any missing topics from the FSc curriculum before the test.
To be eligible for MDCAT, you generally need a pre-medical qualification (FSc Pre-Medical or equivalent) with minimum percentages, as set by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Commission (PMDC). The typical criteria include:
In short, is MDCAT necessary for MBBS? Yes – you cannot enter an MBBS program in Pakistan without passing the MDCAT. Therefore, even after A-Levels, you must clear the MDCAT exam and meet the marks criteria for admission.
Related: A-Level Equivalence Calculator
In addition to textbooks, leverage online platforms and courses. For example, Maqsad is a popular online prep platform in Pakistan that offers MDCAT video lectures, live classes, practice tests, and analytics tailored for MDCAT for A-Level students. Maqsad follows a structured study plan: they provide daily live classes aligned with the syllabus, plus a database of 10,000+ MCQs to practice. Their guidance is tailored to different student types (freshers, improvers, repeaters) and even offers counseling for weak areas.
Finally, don’t ignore offline help. Join a coaching class or group study if possible, where you can ask doubts. Many A-Level students find that once they start practicing MDCAT-style questions, their confidence grows. Whether you study solo or guided, make sure your resources cover all MDCAT topics. For example, Maqsad’s blog advises thoroughly understanding the syllabus and even provides its own syllabus guide.
To give your prep an extra boost, explore Maqsad’s MDCAT courses and mock tests. Maqsad offers free live classes and Q&A sessions specifically designed for entry test preparation. Using a structured platform can keep you on track and provide valuable feedback as you progress toward the MDCAT exam.
Preparing for MDCAT after A-Levels requires understanding the exam format, meeting eligibility, and filling any content gaps compared to FSc students. Our guide has outlined the differences and a sample study timeline. Start early, use reliable resources (like Maqsad’s live courses and MCQ bank), and follow a disciplined schedule. With focus and practice, MDCAT for A-Level students becomes not just manageable, but winnable. Good luck!
Is MDCAT easy for A-level students?
MDCAT can be challenging for A-Level students because its syllabus is based on the FSc curriculum. However, with focused study on any topics not covered in A-Levels and regular MCQ practice, A-Level students can perform well.
Can we do MBBS after A-level?
Yes, A-Level students can pursue MBBS in Pakistan. They must obtain an IBCC equivalence certificate and meet the required percentages.
Who is eligible for MDCAT?
Students who have completed or are awaiting results of a pre-medical program (FSc Pre-Medical or equivalent, including A-Levels with science subjects) are eligible.
What A-level subjects are needed for medicine in Pakistan?
A-Level students should have studied Biology, Chemistry, and Physics to apply for MBBS. A fourth subject is optional but not mandatory for medical college entry.
Is A Level equal to matric?
No. In Pakistan, A-Levels is equivalent to the Intermediate (FSc) level, which comes after matric.
What is the lowest aggregate for MBBS in Pakistan?
Admission to MBBS is highly competitive. The basic eligibility is roughly 60-70% in FSc/A-Levels and passing MDCAT (usually around 55-60%). However, closing merits at top public medical colleges in recent years were often very high (close to 90-95% combined of MDCAT and FSc).
Which fields do not require MDCAT?
MDCAT is required only for MBBS/BDS (medical and dental) programs. Other fields like Pharmacy, Engineering, Dentistry, or general science degrees do not require MDCAT.
How many times can I attempt MDCAT?
There is no formal limit on how many times you can take the MDCAT. It is offered once a year, and you can sit for it as often as you like.
Which university accepts MDCAT?
All public and private medical and dental colleges in Pakistan require MDCAT for MBBS/BDS admissions. This includes universities like AKU, DUHS, UHS, KMU, KEMU, LUMHS, etc.
Can I clear MDCAT in 1 month?
Clearing MDCAT in just 1 month is very difficult due to the extensive syllabus. Experts recommend studying consistently over a longer period.
Can A-Level students give MDCAT?
Yes, A-Level students can appear in MDCAT, but they must get their equivalence certificate from IBCC.
Is MDCAT harder than A-Levels?
MDCAT is different—it focuses on speed and MCQs. Some A-Level students find it tricky due to unfamiliar topics and format.
Is A-Level harder than FSc?
A-Levels are conceptually deeper, while FSc is more about memorization. Difficulty depends on your learning style.