Ultimate Guide to MBBS in Pakistan

This blog post will serve as your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree in Pakistan. Whether you are a local student or an international aspirant, this guide will provide you with detailed information on the admission process, eligibility criteria, top medical colleges, course structure, and career prospects.

We understand that choosing to study medicine is a significant decision that can shape your future, and our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and insights to make an informed choice. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of MBBS in Pakistan.

P.S: We frequently update the information as soon as there is a change. You can bookmark as your to go guide about MBBS.

MBBS Stands for – MBBS Full Form

MBBS stands for “Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery”. It is an undergraduate professional degree in medical science that prepares individuals to become certified medical practitioners.

The term “Medicinae Baccalaureus Baccalaureus Chirurgiae” is derived from Latin and represents the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program.

MBBS Admissions Process in Pakistan

The admission process for the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program in Pakistan typically begins around November and concludes by the end of December. The general eligibility criteria include having completed 12 years of higher secondary school certificate (HSSC) in a premedical group, with a student required to have a score of 60% or more.

MBBS Admissions Age Limit

It’s worth noting that the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council has abolished the age limit for admission into the MBBS/BDS courses. So, there is no age limit.

Competition for Admission in MBBS in Pakistan

The competition for admission into MBBS in Pakistan is intense and has been increasing over the years. The MBBS degree has become a top priority for many students and parents. It makes the admission process highly competitive. You need to prepare well.

MDCAT Test

Every year, thousands of students appear for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) to secure admission in public sector medical and dental colleges. Even students with high aggregates, such as 85%, sometimes find it challenging to secure admission due to the high competition.

MBBS in Pakistan for International Students

The competition isn’t only limited to local students; the MBBS program in Pakistan also attracts international students, adding to the overall competitiveness.

In this environment, it’s crucial for aspiring students to not only focus on their academic performance but also stay updated with the latest admission processes, criteria, and deadlines.

MDCAT Aggregate Calculation Formula

Your aggregate score is a combination of your FSc (or equivalent) marks and MDCAT score. It gives a comprehensive picture of your academic performance and aptitude for the MBBS program.

How to Calculate Your Aggregate Score?

Here is a simple formula to calculate your aggregate score:

Aggregate % = (FSc % x 0.50) + (MDCAT % x 0.50)

All Government Medical Colleges and Universities in Pakistan

There are 52 public sector medical colleges in Pakistan. Below is the province wise detail of medical colleges and number of seats.

All Seats in Government Medical Colleges

Below is the updated detail of the available seats in all Govt medical colleges in all 4 provinces and AJK.

Here is the list of all public sector medical colleges in Pakistan.

By searching in the table you can get city wise or province wise list of government medical colleges in Pakistan. Like if you want get a list of government medical colleges in Lahore, you need to write Lahore in the field to get the list. You can also get a list of government medical colleges in Sindh or KPK in the similar way.

All Private Medical Colleges and Universities in Pakistan

There are 75 private medical colleges in Pakistan across all provinces. Below is the province wise seat allocation of private medical colleges.

All Seats in Private Medical Colleges

Here is an updated list of the seats avalable in all private medical colleges in each province.

All Private Medical Colleges in Pakistan List

In this table you can find and filter private medical colleges in various cities of Pakistan. Like can search Karachi to get a list of private medical colleges in Karachi or write Lahore in the search field to get a list of private medical colleges in Lahore.

You can also get a list of private medical colleges in Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Baluchistan or AJK.

MBBS Expenses in Pakistan

Pursuing an MBBS degree in Pakistan involves various expenses, including admission fees, tuition fees, and other incidental costs. These expenses can vary significantly depending on whether you are studying at a public or private medical college.

Costs in Public Medical Colleges

In public medical colleges in Pakistan, the general total cost of MBBS is about Rs 100,000 per annum. This cost primarily includes tuition fees, and students are required to pay an admission fee once.

Costs in Private Medical Colleges

The cost of studying MBBS in private medical colleges is considerably higher. The approximate fee for one year of MBBS at a private college in Pakistan ranges between Rs. 7 to 10 lakhs. Some A-grade private medical colleges charge approximately Rs 1,263,251 per year, while B-grade medical colleges charge around Rs 1,014,828 per year.

Additional Costs

Apart from tuition fees and admission fees, students should also consider other costs such as:

• Security deposit: Some colleges require a refundable security deposit. For instance, Bahria University requires a security deposit of Rs 50,000.
• PMC Registration Fee: Lahore Medical and Dental College charges a one-time Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) registration fee of Rs 5,000.
• Document Verification Fee: Some colleges charge a one-time document verification fee. For example, Lahore Medical and Dental College charges Rs 2,000.

How to Manage MBBS Expenses?

Given the significant costs associated with pursuing an MBBS degree, it’s essential to plan your finances carefully. Here are some strategies that could help:

• Scholarships and grants: Look for scholarships and grants offered by colleges, universities, and external organizations.
• Education loans: Consider taking an education loan if necessary. Many banks offer student loans at relatively low-interest rates.
• Part-time work: If possible, consider part-time work to support your studies. However, ensure it doesn’t interfere with your academic commitments.

MBBS Subjects and Courses

The Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree is a comprehensive program that spans five academic years, each with a duration of nine months including preparatory holidays and examinations. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of medical sciences, clinical practices, and holistic patient care. Here is a detailed breakdown of the course structure:

First Year

In the first year, students are introduced to the basics of medical sciences through three key subjects:

1. Anatomy: This subject provides a foundational understanding of the human body’s structure. It covers various body systems, organs, tissues, and cells.
2. Physiology: Physiology explores how different parts of the body function individually and in coordination with each other.
3. Biochemistry: Biochemistry dives into the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms.

Second Year

The second-year curriculum builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the first year and introduces new subjects:

1. Pharmacology: This subject focuses on the study of drugs, their properties, uses, and effects on the body.
2. Pathology: Pathology involves the study of diseases, their causes, processes, development, and consequences.
3. Forensic Medicine & Toxicology: This subject covers the application of medical knowledge to legal issues and the study of poisons.

Third Year

The third year of MBBS marks the transition from basic to clinical sciences. The subjects for this year include:

1. Community Medicine: This subject aims at promoting health and preventing disease through organized community efforts.
2. Ophthalmology: This specialty focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.
3. Otorhinolaryngology (ENT): This subject deals with diseases of the ear, nose, and throat.

Fourth Year

The fourth year introduces a variety of clinical subjects that equip students with the skills required in different medical specialties:

1. Medicine: This broad field covers the diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases.
2. Surgery: This subject focuses on the use of operative procedures to treat diseases and injuries.
3. Obstetrics & Gynaecology: This specialty deals with women’s health, particularly relating to the reproductive system and childbirth.

Fifth Year

The final year of the MBBS program includes a variety of elective/selective courses. This allows students to explore different areas of medicine in depth and gain a holistic education. After completing these five years, students undertake a one-year rotatory internship to gain hands-on experience in different medical departments.

The MBBS course structure in Pakistan is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive medical education. It combines basic and biomedical sciences with clinical subjects, preparing students for a successful career in medicine.

Pro Tip: Understand MBBS scope in our Scope of MBBS in Pakistan.

Specialization Options after MBBS in Pakistan

After completing their MBBS, doctors can choose to specialize in a variety of fields. This specialization not only enhances their skills and knowledge but also boosts their career prospects and earning potential. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular specializations in Pakistan:

Surgical Specialties

Surgical specialties are highly sought after as they offer the opportunity to perform life-saving procedures¹. These include:

• General Surgery: This specialty involves performing surgeries related to the abdomen, skin, soft tissues, and more.
• ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) Surgery: ENT surgeons diagnose and treat conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat.
• Orthopedic Surgery: Orthopedic surgeons deal with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system.

Non-Surgical Specialties

Non-surgical specialties focus on the diagnosis and non-operative treatment of various conditions¹. Some of these include:

• Internal Medicine: This specialty involves the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of internal organ systems.
• Pediatrics: Pediatricians specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents.
• Gynecology: Gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive systems and the breasts.

Super Specialties

Super specialties offer the opportunity to further specialize within a certain field. Some options include:

• Cardiology: Cardiologists diagnose and treat diseases related to the heart and blood vessels.
• Neurology: Neurologists deal with disorders of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.
• Nephrology: Nephrologists focus on kidney-related diseases.

Further Studying Options in Pakistan and Abroad

After completing an MBBS degree, many doctors opt for further studies either in Pakistan or abroad to enhance their skills and broaden their career prospects. Some of these options include:

Postgraduate Programs in Pakistan

In Pakistan, doctors can pursue postgraduate programs such as MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), or MPhil in various medical specialties. These programs provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the chosen specialty.

Studying Abroad

Many Pakistani doctors also choose to study abroad for their postgraduate education. Countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada are popular destinations due to their advanced medical education systems. Doctors can pursue residency programs, fellowships, or a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) in these countries.