What is the NUMS MDCAT? Complete Guide to Registration, Test, and Admission
If you aspire to join Pakistan’s top military and medical colleges, you must know about the NUMS MDCAT. Organized by the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), this test is mandatory for admission into colleges like the Army Medical College (AMC) and other NUMS-affiliated institutions.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need about the NUMS MDCAT, from the application process to the exam format, merit criteria, important FAQs, and how to prepare smartly with platforms like Maqsad.
Quick Look
- What is the NUMS MDCAT?
- How to Apply for NUMS MDCAT 2025
- NUMS Registration Fee 2025
- NUMS Test Timing and Pattern
- Eligibility Criteria for NUMS MDCAT
- Merit Calculation for NUMS
- NUMS vs UHS MDCAT: What’s the Difference?
- List of NUMS-Affiliated Medical and Dental Colleges
- NUMS MDCAT and Army Medical College (AMC)
- Final Tips for NUMS MDCAT Aspirants
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The NUMS MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) is a specialized entrance exam conducted annually by NUMS. It is distinct from the UHS MDCAT conducted for public medical colleges in Punjab.
NUMS MDCAT is mandatory for students applying to Army Medical College Rawalpindi, CMH Lahore Medical College, Bahria University Medical and Dental College Karachi, and other affiliated institutes.
Unlike the centralized MDCAT regulated by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) for general public medical colleges, the MDCAT NUMS is specific to NUMS institutions and follows a slightly different pattern.
If you’re wondering how to register for MDCAT NUMS date, the process is simple but requires attention to deadlines:
- Registration typically opens in June-July each year.
- Visit the official NUMS website to fill out the online registration form.
- Upload required documents including your recent photograph, CNIC/B-Form, and academic certificates.
- Pay the NUMS registration fee through designated banks or online payment options.
Pro Tip: Always apply early to avoid technical issues close to the deadline. For expert tips on application and preparation, check out Maqsad, Pakistan’s leading learning platform for medical aspirants!
The NUMS registration fee for 2025 is expected to be around Rs. 4,200 to Rs. 5,000, subject to official updates.
Always verify the final fee structure from the official NUMS portal when the admission advertisement is released.
The NUMS test timing usually follows this pattern:
- Test Month: Early September
- Duration: 150 minutes (2.5 hours)
- Start Time: 10:00 AM sharp (usually Sunday)
- Reporting Time: At least 1.5 hours before test start.
The test syllabus is as follows:
- Biology: 35%
- Chemistry: 25%
- Physics: 25%
- English: 10%
- Psychological Test: 5% (separate section, qualifying only)
There are no negative markings in NUMS MDCAT, unlike some international tests. This encourages candidates to attempt all questions without fear.
Students must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:
- Minimum FSc (Pre-Medical) or equivalent with at least 60% marks.
- Appear in NUMS MDCAT 2025.
- For Army Medical College (AMC) – students must pass both NUMS MDCAT and an interview process.
- Students awaiting their final results can apply provisionally.
Important Note: If you plan to also apply through UHS MDCAT, you must appear in the centralized PMDC MDCAT separately.
The final merit for NUMS admissions is calculated as:
- NUMS MDCAT: 50%
- FSc / HSSC / A-level Equivalent: 40%
- Matric/O-Level: 10%
Thus, your NUMS MDCAT score holds major weight but FSc marks matter significantly too. Use this NUMS Aggregate Calculator to easily see where you stand.
While both NUMS and UHS conduct MDCATs, there are key differences:
- NUMS MDCAT is specifically for NUMS-affiliated colleges, mainly military-administered institutes.
- UHS MDCAT (organized by the University of Health Sciences Lahore) is for public-sector medical colleges in Punjab.
Thus, if you're targeting both, you must appear in both tests separately.
To pursue an MBBS or BDS degree through NUMS, students can apply to a variety of military-administered and private medical colleges across Pakistan. Here’s a complete list of NUMS-affiliated colleges along with their available seats for 2025:
For admission into AMC (Rawalpindi):
- You must clear the NUMS MDCAT.
- Additional requirements may include an interview and physical/medical fitness for cadet categories.
- MDCAT is necessary for AMC even if applying as a civilian candidate.
Fees for AMC MBBS program for civilians usually range around Rs. 220,000 to Rs. 250,000 per year (subject to change).
Success in the NUMS MDCAT requires a solid study plan, consistent practice, and stress management on exam day. Understanding the format, practicing with past papers, and strengthening your biology, chemistry, and physics concepts is crucial.
To boost your chances, platforms like Maqsad offer MDCAT preparation programs tailored for MDCAT NUMS candidates — with practice tests, concept videos, and revision planners designed for success.
Stay confident, stay consistent, and start early. Your medical career starts with a strong NUMS MDCAT performance!
What is the difference between the MDCAT and the NUMS MDCAT?
MDCAT is a general test for all public sector colleges, while NUMS MDCAT is for NUMS-affiliated colleges only.
What is the NUMS test?
It’s the entrance exam required for admissions into NUMS medical and dental colleges.
Do we have to give MDCAT for NUMS?
Yes, you must appear in the NUMS MDCAT separately to apply to NUMS-affiliated colleges.
Is NUMS private or government?
NUMS is a public sector university under the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan.
What is merit for NUMS?
Merit usually closes between 85% to 90% aggregate depending on the program and year.
Is NUMS for girls?
Yes, both male and female candidates can apply for NUMS-affiliated colleges.
What is NUMS passing marks?
The minimum passing marks for NUMS MDCAT are 60%.
What is the fees for MBBS in Army Medical College?
It ranges from Rs. 220,000 to Rs. 250,000 per year for civilian students.
Is MDCAT necessary for AMC?
Yes, MDCAT through NUMS is mandatory for AMC admissions.
Does FSc marks matter in NUMS?
Yes, FSc marks contribute 40% to your final merit calculation.
How many MCQs of NUMS are there?
The NUMS MDCAT typically includes 150 MCQs.
What is MDCAT passing marks?
For general MDCAT (PMDC), passing marks are usually 55% for MBBS and 50% for BDS.
Is NUMS test easy or difficult?
NUMS MDCAT is moderately challenging but manageable with the right preparation.
Does NUMS have negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in the NUMS MDCAT.
Is MDCAT easy or difficult?
It can be challenging due to competition, but focused preparation — like through Maqsad’s targeted MDCAT resources — makes a big difference!
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