In February, PMDC increased passing marks from 50% to 70% and raised the attendance requirement from 75% to 90%.
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has clarified that the revised attendance and passing grade requirements will not be applicable for MBBS and BDS students enrolled until the 2024-25 academic session.
The decision, made during the board’s Oct. 21 meeting, follows feedback from universities, medical and dental schools, and requests from students and parents regarding the impact of changes in requirements during the current academic year. In early February, the PMDC increased the passing marks for MBBS and BDS exams from 50% to 70% and raised the attendance requirement from 75% to 90%.
“The Council resolved that revised attendance or passing grade requirements will not apply,” the PMDC announced. “Students already enrolled up to and including the academic session 2024-25 will continue under the previously applicable criteria of 50% minimum passing marks and 75% minimum attendance, as stipulated at the time of their admission or enrollment in MBBS or BDS programmes.”
For future cohorts, the council proposed a 5% gradual increase in attendance and passing grade requirements. The change will be subject to further review in consultation with universities, medical educators and other relevant stakeholders. “The final criteria will be communicated in due time,” he said.
