Thousands of students seeking admission to medical and dental colleges have received a major relief as authorities have decided to add three new cities to the MDCAT 2026 examination network.

According to official reports, Mianwali, Layyah and Bahawalnagar have been included in the list of MDCAT examination cities for the first time. The move is expected to save students from long-distance travel and make the examination process more accessible.

The relevant authorities have directed the University of Health Sciences (UHS) to take immediate steps for establishing examination centers in the newly added cities.

Officials said the decision aims to provide candidates with testing facilities closer to their hometowns while improving the overall management and efficiency of the examination process.

This year, MDCAT will be conducted in 15 cities, compared to 12 cities last year. Similarly, the total number of examination centers will be increased from 26 to 32, allowing authorities to accommodate a larger number of candidates and reduce overcrowding.

Education experts believe the expansion will help students focus better on their preparation by reducing travel-related stress, expenses and logistical difficulties. Parents and students have widely welcomed the initiative, calling it a student-friendly decision.

The addition of new centers is also expected to improve accessibility for candidates from remote and underserved areas, ensuring a more convenient examination experience.

MDCAT 2026 is scheduled to be held on August 16, when thousands of aspiring doctors and dentists will compete for admission to medical and dental colleges across the country.