What is MDCAT? What are 7 most common Myths about MDCAT? How to prepare for MDCAT? MDCAT Preparation?
If you’re planning to appear in MDCAT, you’ve probably heard a lot of opinions, rumors, and myths that can confuse you — and honestly, drain your confidence before you even start preparing. I have been there, and it was exhausting.
Let me tell you this clearly — MDCAT is not just a test, it’s an emotional roller coaster. It doesn’t only check your knowledge, but also your confidence, time management, mental strength and determination.
In this blog, I’ll share the most common myths about MDCAT, and the truth behind them — based on my own journey of clearing both MDCAT and NUMS, and even securing a seat in a NUMS medical university along with some private institutes.
Table of Contents
What is MDCAT?
MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) is the entry test required to get admission in medical universities for MBBS and BDS. Some Allied Health Science programs also requires it.
MDCAT is a 3 hour, paper based test consisting of 180 multiple choice questions. No negative marking. The test consist of 5 subjects as follows:
| Subjects | Percentage | No. of MCQS |
| Biology | 45% | 81 |
| Chemistry | 25% | 45 |
| Physics | 20% | 36 |
| English | 5% | 09 |
| Logical Reasoning | 5% | 09 |
| Total | 100% | 180 |
If you want to know more details about MDCAT visit the PMDC official website
Now, let’s clear the most common myths about MDCAT that stress students out unnecessarily:
Myth 1:
Only Toppers Can Clear MDCAT.
Truth: This is absolutely false. You don’t have to be a school or college topper to clear MDCAT.Hardworking, smart, and consistent students clear it every year — even those with average FSc marks.👉 I wasn’t a topper either, yet I cleared MDCAT, NUMS, and even secured seats in medical institutes for both MBBS and BDS.
Myth 2:
You Need Expensive Academies to Pass.
Truth: Many students crack MDCAT through self-study, online resources, and online test sessions.However, if you struggle with time management or distractions, academies can help by providing structure and schedules.But remember, they are not a guarantee of success — your dedication and hardwork is!
Myth 3:
MDCAT is All About Cramming.
Truth: Cramming alone won’t get you far.Conceptual clarity and understanding are the keys to success.Sure, some memorization is required, but with clear concepts, you can easily tackle tricky MCQs. Especially in Physics and Chemistry your concept should be very strong.
Myth 4:
Failing MDCAT Ends Your Medical Career.
Truth: One failed attempt doesn’t mean your dream is over.Many successful doctors cleared MDCAT on their second or third attempt.Even if you choose not to attempt again, Pakistan offers excellent alternatives in the healthcare field where you can work in hospitals and fulfill your dream. Although I did not fail MDCAT and got admission in both Army Medical Institutes and Private institutes for MBBS, I still decided to go for BS Dermatolgy because of high financial requirements. Inshort my dream to become a dermatologist didnt end with MBBS and neither should yours.
Myth 5:
Only MBBS and BDS Are Worth It.
Truth: This outdated thinking limits your options.Pakistan offers amazing fields like:
✅ DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy)
✅ BS Radiology
✅ BS Dermatology( Read my BS Dermatolgy blog for more detailes)
✅ Public Health
✅ BS Nursing
✅ Pharma-D etc.
All these fields have great scope, good salaries, and respect — plus, every doctor needs a trained team to work efficiently. These fields not only have good scope in Pakistan but abroad aswell with proper certifications. Some of these fields even earn more than a certified a doctor.
Myth 6:
You Must Study 15 Hours a Day to Succeed.
Truth: It’s about quality, not just quantity.During my preparation, I did study 15 hours a day — but it left me exhausted.If you study 5-7 focused, distraction-free hours daily, you can cover more syllabus than in a tired 15-hour routine.Also, never compromise on sleep, diet, and mental health — balance is everything.
Visit About Me know my journey from MDCAT to BS Dermatology
Myth 7:
Past Papers Are Useless Due to Syllabus Changes.
Truth: Even with changes, past papers are GOLD.They help you:
✅ Understand the paper pattern
✅ Improve time management
✅ Build confidence
✅ Analyze your preparation level and makes your concept ever clearer
So never ignore past papers — they are still one of the best preparation tools and without solving past paper you can’t be prepared for MDCAT.
Tips For MDCAT Preparation:
Preparing for MDCAT is not an easy task, but with proper guidance and resources you can definitely ace it.
- Understand the paper pattern
- Make a proper time table.
- Prepare from those books that are specially designed for MDCAT preparation like KIPS or Star Academy which provide in-depth knowledge and pratice MCQ.
- Practice MCQs daily (Use KIPS practice books for chapter wise MCQs).
- Take weekly Mock Tests and solve past papers aswell (very important).
- Attempt a full paper with proper timer once your preparation is complete (use NUMS or MDCAT past papers for it).
- Take proper care of your mental and physical health.
If you want a detailed blog on MDCAT preparation, let me know in the comments below.
FAQ:
Q) What is the passing score for MDCAT?
- Minimum passing score for Medical College Admission is 55%
- Minimum passing marks for Dental College Admission is 50%
Q) Is MDCAT harder than NUMS?
- MDCAT is considered harder because it is highly conceptual and fewer public seats are available as it is a nationwide test. NUMS consist of more straight forward question and competition is lower as compared to MDCAT as it is focused on Army Medical College and NUMS-affiliated private colleges. Inshort if you are preparing for MDCAT you will find NUMS comparatively easier.
Q) What is the difficulty level of MDCAT
- 15% MCQs will Be Easy
- 70% MCQs will be Moderate
- 15% MCQS will be Difficult
Final Thoughts:
Anyone can clear MDCAT with proper preparation, consistency, and a lot of practice.It doesn’t matter what others say — your self-confidence and determination define your success, not your past marks. Just focus on your preparation and give your best.
Good Luck to All Future MDCAT Aspirants!Believe in yourself — because if I can do it, so can you.
