Know where the marks are
Biology has 81 marks, which is more than Physics, English and Logical Reasoning combined. Here is a realistic way to split up two target scores:
| Subject (MCQs) | Target: 135 | Target: 160 |
|---|---|---|
| Biology (81) | 69 | 76 |
| Chemistry (45) | 32 | 40 |
| Physics (36) | 21 | 30 |
| English (9) | 7 | 8 |
| Logical Reasoning (9) | 6 | 6 |
| Total | 135 | 160 |
These are our suggestions and not official figures. To set your own goal, work backwards from the aggregate you need with the calculator.
The study loop that works
- Learn: read one unit from your textbook or our notes.
- Test: answer that unit's MCQs the same day, without looking anything up.
- Fix: for every wrong answer, write down why you got it wrong.
- Revisit: redo your wrong answers a few days later. Our practice mode saves your mistakes for this purpose.
Reading alone feels productive, but testing yourself is what shows you what you actually remember.
How to prepare each subject
Biology (81 MCQs)
Focus on accuracy. Most questions test whether you can recall details exactly, so make tables and revise them often. Start with big, rich units such as Biological Molecules, Homeostasis and Support & Movement. See all Biology units.
Chemistry (45 MCQs)
Divide your time across physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Organic takes up many units, so keep a reaction sheet, starting with Chemistry of Hydrocarbons. For physical chemistry, make sure you can work out problems on Chemical Equilibrium by hand. See all Chemistry units.
Physics (36 MCQs)
Understand the idea first, then work on speed. Keep a formula sheet with units, and practise without a calculator. Waves and Oscillations, Force and Motion and Electrostatics are useful places to start. See all Physics units.
English (9 MCQs)
A little goes a long way: study grammar and lexis and add a few words a day from our vocabulary list.
Logical Reasoning (9 MCQs)
This is a matter of practice and method, so a few sessions on series and deductions can help quickly. See all units.
Build up to full mock tests
- Early on: short subject tests once or twice a week.
- Mid-way: a half mock every week.
- Final weeks: full 180-MCQ, 3-hour mocks, starting at the same time as the real test where possible.
- After every mock: spend as long reviewing as you spent on the test.
Time management in the exam
- You have about one minute per MCQ, and easier Biology questions can buy you time for Physics numericals.
- If a question has you stuck for more than a minute, mark your best guess, flag it, and move on.
- With no negative marking, never leave a bubble blank.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Collecting resources without finishing any. Pick a few, then finish them.
- Ignoring the syllabus. Check what PM&DC lists before you spend hours on a topic.
- Leaving Physics for last. It needs regular practice over many weeks.
- Avoiding mocks because of low scores. Low early scores are useful information.
- Giving up sleep. Tired students make careless errors, so protect your sleep, particularly in the final week.
Frequently asked questions
How many months do I need to prepare for MDCAT?
If you know your FSc well, 3 months of focused study can cover the syllabus. Starting earlier gives you more time for practice and revision, especially if your FSc basics are weak.
How many hours a day should I study?
There is no magic number. Many students aim for about 6 to 8 focused hours during full-time preparation, but honest, distraction-free hours matter more than a high total.
Can I prepare for MDCAT without an academy?
Yes. You need the syllabus, your textbooks, plenty of MCQs and timed mocks, and the discipline to keep to a schedule. An academy can add structure, but it does not replace your own practice.
Which subject should I start with?
Start with Biology, as it carries 81 of the 180 marks. Study some Chemistry and Physics in parallel so you do not leave them for the end.
How do I get 170+ in MDCAT?
Very few do: in Punjab in 2026, 3.73% of candidates who appeared scored 170 or more. It takes near-complete Biology, strong Chemistry and Physics, and many timed mocks to cut out careless errors.
Should I study from textbooks or MCQ books?
Use both. The official syllabus is based on what you learned in FSc, so textbooks build understanding, and MCQs show you how that knowledge gets tested.
Keep reading
Sources
- ProPakistani: MDCAT 2026 date, registration, fees and centres (19 June 2026)
- ProPakistani: UHS MDCAT 2026 result announced (25 September 2026)
- PM&DC Uniform Curriculum MDCAT 2025 (PDF)