Is MDCAT the Only Option? Discovering Allied Health Sciences. If you’re a pre-medical student in Pakistan wanting to get into healthcare, chances are you’ve heard this a thousand times — “MDCAT is everything!”
Many students spend months preparing for MDCAT, believing it’s the only gateway to a respectable medical career. And when they don’t secure a seat in MBBS or BDS, their dreams feel shattered.But here’s the truth no one talks about — MDCAT is not the only option.In fact, there’s an entire world of healthcare fields that don’t require MDCAT, fields that offer job stability, good income, and opportunities both in Pakistan and abroad.
I’ve been through this myself. I appeared for MDCAT in 2024 and passed, but I couldn’t secure a seat in a government medical college. Post-MDCAT, I researched a lot and came across BS Dermatology, and now i have started my first semester as a BS Dermatology student. Instead of changing my dream of being in healthcare, I simply changed the path to it.That’s why I believe this topic is extremely important.
Today, let’s explore Allied Health Sciences, a lesser-known but rapidly growing area for students passionate about healthcare but looking for alternatives to MBBS and BDS.
Table of Contents
What Are Allied Health Sciences?
Allied Health Sciences refers to professional healthcare programs that train students to work alongside doctors, nurses, and specialists in various roles. These fields are crucial for patient care, diagnosis, rehabilitation, and even medical technology.From operating medical equipment to assisting in surgeries, from lab diagnostics to rehabilitation therapies – Allied Health professionals play a vital role in healthcare systems worldwide.
Is MDCAT Required for Allied Health Sciences?
No. Most Allied Health Sciences programs in Pakistan do not require MDCAT for admission.While some programs might ask for MDCAT just for eligibility, many universities accept students based on:
- FSc Pre-Medical marks
- A separate university entrance test
- Open merit
This makes Allied Health Sciences a great option for students who:
- Couldn’t clear MDCAT
- Don’t want the stress of MDCAT
- Want to pursue healthcare without becoming a doctor
Popular Allied Health Sciences Programs in Pakistan
Here are some of the top Allied Health Sciences degrees gaining popularity:
1. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
A 5-year program focused on rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and musculoskeletal health.Scope: Clinics, hospitals, sports rehab centers, international demand.
2. BS Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT)
Training in laboratory diagnostics and medical testing.Scope: Hospitals, pathology labs, research centers.
3. BS Imaging Technology / Radiology
Specializes in X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other diagnostic imaging.Scope: Hospitals, diagnostic centers, UAE & Gulf opportunities.
4. BS Dermatology & Aesthetic Sciences
A growing field in skin care, aesthetics, and non-invasive cosmetic procedures.Scope: Clinics, aesthetic centers, private practice, high demand in Dubai.
If you want a detailed guide about BS Dermatology. Read my blog in which I provide complete guide about its scope, salary, educarion etc.
5. BS Anesthesia Technology
Assisting in surgical procedures by managing anesthesia equipment and monitoring patients.Scope: Hospitals, operation theatres, high demand abroad.
6. BS Cardiac Perfusion
Focused on operating heart-lung machines during cardiac surgeries.Scope: Cardiac hospitals, specialized surgical teams.
These are only some examples – many other fields like these exist.
Why Consider Allied Health Sciences?
- No MDCAT stress
- Shorter pathway to a career (4-5 years)
- Good earning potential, especially abroad
- Growing demand in Pakistan’s private healthcare sector
- Opportunities for further specialization
Can You Work Abroad with Allied Health Sciences?
Yes! Many Allied Health degrees from recognized Pakistani universities are accepted in countries like:
🌍 UAE (especially Dubai)
🌍 Saudi Arabia
🌍 UK
🌍 Canada
🌍 Australia
Some fields, like Dermatology, Imaging Technology, and Physiotherapy, have direct licensing pathways for working abroad.
If you want to check the recognition status of Allied Health Sciences programs in Pakistan, visit the Higher Education Commission (HEC) official website.
Final Thoughts
If MDCAT didn’t go as planned or you simply don’t want the long, stressful MBBS route – don’t lose hope.Allied Health Sciences offers exciting, respected, and practical alternatives to still build a successful healthcare career.Remember, becoming a doctor is just one way to serve in healthcare – there are many equally rewarding paths waiting to be explored.📢
Have Questions?Comment below or explore other career blogs on Mashrik, your honest guide to healthcare fields beyond MBBS & BDS in Pakistan.
