PMDC sets tuition fee cap for private medical colleges

The decision was made by Committee on Medical Education Reforms, formed on PM's directive and chaired by DPM.

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The federal government has capped annual tuition fees at Rs1.8 million for MBBS and BDS programmes in private medical and dental colleges, Express News reported.

The decision was made by the Committee on Medical Education Reforms, formed on the prime minister’s directive and chaired by the deputy prime minister. The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).

“The rising cost of tuition in private institutions has long been a burden for students and their families,” the statement read. “This decision marks a significant step towards accessible and equitable medical education in Pakistan.”

The PMDC noted that the issue had previously been discussed in council meetings held on June 4 2022, December 10 2023, and February 23 2024. In its most recent development, a sub-committee chaired by Prof Dr Masood Gondal was formed on February 27 2025.

The committee engaged stakeholders including private colleges and the Pakistan Association of Medical Institutions (PAMI) before presenting its final recommendations.

Following a detailed financial analysis and stakeholder consultation, the reforms committee determined that Rs1.8 million would be the standard annual tuition fee for MBBS and BDS programmes. The fee may be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

PMDC clarified that institutions seeking to charge more — up to a maximum of Rs2.5 million per year — would be required to submit detailed financial justifications, including comparisons with similar institutions, services offered, and academic enhancements.

“Unreasonable or unjustified fee hikes will not be entertained,” the council stated, adding that all tuition increases must be transparent and aligned with actual educational costs.

“It is essential to maintain the financial viability of private institutions, but fees must remain reasonable and reflect real costs,” the statement concluded.

The reform is being viewed as a breakthrough in the government’s broader effort to make quality healthcare education affordable for students from low- and middle-income backgrounds.