Every year, thousands of students and parents across Pakistan go through emotional and physical distress during the MDCAT examination. As a recent candidate, I witnessed the exhaustion, chaos and heartbreak that surround this process — from overcrowded centres to long waiting hours under extreme weather conditions.
The current eligibility requirement of 65% marks in intermediate allows an overwhelming number of candidates to appear, many of whom are either unprepared or appear under family pressure rather than genuine interest. This creates unnecessary pressure on institutions, financial strain on families and discouragement among capable students who seek a fair opportunity.
Therefore, the eligibility criteria should be raised to at least 80%, ensuring that only serious and academically competent students appear in MDCAT. This will significantly reduce overcrowding, improve fairness and motivate students with lower grades to explore alternative disciplines earlier — resulting in a more balanced education system overall. This is a sincere appeal for reform that can bring relief and dignity to thousands of families who go through this process every year.
Shakeela Perveen
Karachi
