PMDC Sets Maximum Annual Tuition Fee for Medical and Dental Colleges Across Pakistan

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has officially announced that the maximum annual tuition fee for medical and dental colleges for the 2025–26 academic session will be Rs. 1.89 million. This marks a 5% increase from the previous cap of Rs. 1.8 million set for 2024–25, in accordance with the PMDC Act 2022.

This decision follows recommendations from the Medical Education Committee, which was established by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address concerns around rising tuition fees in private medical and dental institutions. Beginning from the 2026–27 academic year, the PMDC has stated that annual fee adjustments will be linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), tying future increases directly to inflation rates.

Under the new policy, all private colleges are now required to publicly display their approved fee structures at least three months before the admissions cycle begins. This move is intended to promote transparency and ensure that prospective students and their families are well-informed. Compliance with this requirement falls under Section 20(7) of the PMDC Act.

The PMDC has also issued a clear warning to institutions that any college found charging or displaying fees above the approved limit will face disciplinary actions. These may include the suspension of accreditation, halting student admissions, or legal penalties under Section 33 of the Act.

This update comes in response to ongoing concerns raised by parents and lawmakers over unaffordable fee hikes. The issue first gained attention last year when families voiced frustration over excessive tuition demands. The Senate Standing Committee on Health took notice after PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui consistently raised the matter. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif established a high-level review committee headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, which led to the fee cap being introduced for the 2024–25 session.

The latest increase to Rs. 1.89 million reflects the government's effort to balance institutional sustainability with public concerns, while ensuring fee adjustments are managed through a regulated and predictable system going forward.