Best Medical Universities in Pakistan – HEC & PMC Recognized

Becoming a doctor is a big dream for many students in Pakistan. It takes hard work, the right college, and the correct information. That’s why knowing about the best medical universities in Pakistan helps.

Following the pandemic, the demand for doctors has increased significantly. Many students now aspire to enrol in PMDC-approved medical colleges. Parents are also seeking trusted universities with excellent teachers and promising job prospects.

To ensure you receive a quality education, choose a university approved by the PMDC and HEC. Some top colleges are even WHO-recognised medical schools.

So, if you’re planning to study medicine, this guide is for you. We’ll talk about top colleges, MBBS admission criteria, and how to choose the right one. Let’s explore your future in medicine step by step.

How We Ranked: Criteria for Evaluating the Best Medical Universities in Pakistan

Choosing the right medical college is a big step. So, we didn’t just guess. We followed the proper steps to rank the top medical universities in Pakistan for 2025.

We looked at many things that matter to students and parents. Here’s what we checked:

Accreditation

First, we verified whether the PMDC and HEC had approved the university. Some are also listed in the WHO World Directory of Medical Schools. This makes your degree valid in the United States, the United Kingdom, and many other countries.

Academic Reputation and Faculty Expertise

A good medical college must have skilled teachers. We checked the qualifications of professors and the faculty-to-student ratio. We also looked at awards and recognitions from 2020 to 2024.

Clinical Training and Hospital Links

Learning from books is not enough. Real training in hospitals is essential. We noted which universities are affiliated with teaching hospitals. Colleges with VR labs and AI tech got extra points.

Research and Publications (2020–2024)

We also examined the amount of research each university has conducted over the past five years. Some colleges published in top international journals and received grants for medical innovation projects.

Top 10 Medical Universities in Pakistan for 2026

Here is a list of the Top 10 medical university rankings 2026

1. Aga Khan University (Karachi)

Aga Khan University (AKU) is a leading medical school in Pakistan. It ranks #187 in Asia and #688 globally. Founded in 1983, AKU is known for its high-quality education. It is one of the best universities in Karachi. The university has strong partnerships with top global institutions, such as Johns Hopkins University.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene
• Postgraduate Medical Programs

Annual Fees: PKR 1,522,800

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

2. Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Karachi

DUHS is another of the top medical universities in Karachi. It ranks #341 in Asia and #1091 in the world. Founded in 2004, DUHS is recognised for its robust research and educational programs. It focuses on producing skilled medical professionals. The university collaborates with local and international healthcare organisations.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS
• Doctor of Pharmacy
• Nursing
• Public Health

Annual Fees: PKR 180,000 for open merit and USD 18,000 for Overseas Pakistanis.

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

3. University of Karachi (Karachi)

The University of Karachi is one of Pakistan’s oldest and most respected institutions. It ranks #371 in Asia and #1173 in the world. The university has a large campus and is affiliated with several medical colleges. It offers MBBS and BDS programs through Karachi Medical & Dental College, Jinnah Medical Dental College, and Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS
• BS in Physiology, Public Health, and Medical Laboratory Technology
• Medical Sciences
• Nursing
• Postgraduate Medical Programs

Annual Fees: PKR 180,000 per program

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

4. Quaid-e-Azam Medical College (QAMC)

QAMC is another top medical college in Pakistan. It has been around since 1971 and is located in Bahawalpur. The college is known for its quality education and clinical training. It’s affiliated with the Punjab Medical Faculty and recognised by the PMC. Research and community health are key parts of QAMC’s focus.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• Medical Sciences
• Postgraduate Programs in Medical Sciences

Annual Fees: PKR 2,400,000.

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

5. University of the Punjab (Lahore)

The University of the Punjab is located in Lahore. It ranks #389 in Asia and #1208 in the world. Founded in 1882, it is one of Pakistan’s oldest and best medical universities in Lahore. UoP offers an MBBS program as part of its Faculty of Health Sciences. It has a large and diverse student population.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
• Medical Sciences
• Nursing
• Postgraduate Programs

Annual Fees: PKR 50,000–200,000 (public university)

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

6. University of Lahore

The University of Lahore is one of Pakistan’s largest private universities, ranked #601 in Asia and #1700 globally for its medical programs. It offers a variety of medical courses with a focus on healthcare education. The university has modern campuses. It has a dedicated medical faculty and offers students opportunities for research and practical exposure.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS
• Nursing
• Public Health

Annual Fees: PKR 2,539,478.

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

7. Riphah International University

Riphah International University is located in Islamabad. It offers a strong medical program. The university is recognised by the PMC. Riphah focuses on both academic and clinical training. It aims to produce doctors who are ready to serve society. The university has modern facilities and a well-equipped hospital for practical training.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS
• Pharm-D
• Postgraduate Programs

Annual Fees: PKR 1.8 million to 2.3 million (public university)

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

8. University of Sargodha

The University of Sargodha is a very respected institution in Punjab. It offers quality medical education. It has experienced faculty and modern facilities. The university offers many medical programs, like MBBS and FCPS/MS/MD degrees, as well as programs in allied DPT and BSN.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BSN
• DPT
• Public Health
• Postgraduate Programs

Annual Fees: PKR 1.6-1.9 million

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

9. Ziauddin University

Ziauddin University is based in Karachi. It is a private medical university with strong academic credentials. The university provides excellent medical programs. Ziauddin is affiliated with several leading hospitals in Karachi. It also offers a variety of healthcare-related programs.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BDS
• Nursing
• Postgraduate programs

Annual Fees: PKR 1.76 million

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

10. NUST School of Health Sciences

NUST is one of Pakistan’s top universities, ranked #585 in Asia and #1660 globally. It is known for its engineering and technology programs, but its medical college, NUST School of Health Sciences, also stands out. It has a solid reputation for offering world-class medical education and training.

Programs Available:

• MBBS
• BS Human Nutrition and Dietetics

Annual Fees: PKR 395,000

Accreditation: PMDC, WHO, HEC

Quick Comparison of all 10 Universities

Public vs. Private Medical Colleges: Which is Better?

Choosing between public and private medical colleges is a significant decision. Both have their own advantages and challenges.

Cost Comparison

The tuition fees are considerably lower in Public Medical Colleges in Pakistan. For instance, in Sindh’s government medical colleges, the first-year tuition fee is approximately PKR 50,600, with subsequent years around PKR 36,600. Over five years, the total tuition amounts to about PKR 172,000.

The federal government has capped annual tuition fees at PKR 1.8 million for MBBS and BDS programs in private medical and dental colleges.

Admission Competition Rates

Admission is really competitive due to the limited seats in public medical colleges. They also have lower tuition fees. Applicants must achieve high scores on the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) and have an excellent academic record to secure a place.​

While the admission process is still rigorous, private colleges often have more seats available, potentially making admission slightly more accessible for students who meet the eligibility criteria.​

Step-by-Step Admission Guide for 2026

Admission to a medical university in Pakistan requires careful planning. Let’s break it down step by step. Whether you’re aiming for MBBS or MD, this guide will help you get started.

Entrance Exams

To study medicine in Pakistan, you must take the MDCAT exam. This is the Medical and Dental College Admission Test. It is a must for both public and private medical colleges.

In 2025, the MDCAT will follow a single national paper. The total marks are 200. To be eligible for MBBS, you must obtain at least 50% marks, with FSc/A-level marks contributing 40% and matriculation/O-level results accounting for 10%.

Subjects include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics or Math

Other Entrance Tests:

Some medical colleges, like Baqai Medical University, may have their own entrance tests. For instance, the Baqai Medical College Admission Test (BMCAT).

Required Documents

You’ll need the following documents when applying:

• Matric Certificate (with science subjects)
• FSc (Pre-Medical) result (at least 60% marks)
• CNIC or B-Form
• Domicile Certificate
• MDCAT Result
• Passport-sized photos

Some universities may require additional forms or affidavits. Always check their official website.

Provincial Quota Systems

Medical seats are divided based on provinces. Each province has its quota. If you’re from Punjab, you apply through UHS. For Sindh, it’s SMC or LUMHS. For KPK, it’s KMU, and so on.

There are also reserved seats for:

• Overseas Pakistanis
• Foreign students
• Students from tribal or rural areas

Accreditation Matters: PMDC-Approved Medical Colleges and Global Recognition

Picking the right medical university is a big decision. But one thing is obvious. You must choose a university that the PMDC approves. Without PMDC approval, your degree may not be accepted.

Why PMDC Accreditation is Non-Negotiable

PMDC is the main medical body in Pakistan. It verifies whether a medical college meets the established standards. These include labs, faculty, hospital links, and more.

If your university is not PMDC-approved, your MBBS or BDS degree won’t count. You can’t do your house job, register as a doctor, or even apply for postgraduate programs. So always check the PMDC list before applying. It’s updated every year.

Pakistani Universities in the WHO’s World Directory

Many students also want to work abroad. For that, the university must be in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDMS) by the WHO.

Many Pakistani medical universities are on this list. Some top ones include:

• Aga Khan University
• Dow University
• King Edward Medical University
• NUMS
• Fatima Jinnah Medical University

Transfer Opportunities to US/UK Programs

If your university is WHO and PMDC approved, you may get transfer options too. Some students move after 2–3 years to continue their studies abroad.

Also, many students apply for the USMLE (USA) or the PLAB (UK) after MBBS. Here are five Pakistani universities with great success in global exams:

Scholarships for Medical Students

Pursuing a medical degree in Pakistan can be financially challenging. Fortunately, several aid programs and medical scholarships in Pakistan are available to support deserving students.

HEC Need-Based Grants

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) offers need-based scholarships to support financially disadvantaged students pursuing undergraduate studies, including those in medical programs.

• Coverage: Full tuition fee and a monthly stipend.
• Eligibility: Students enrolled in undergraduate programs at selected public sector universities. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.​
• Application Process: Applications are submitted through the financial aid office of the respective university.​

Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Program

The Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Program aims to support students from low-income families.

• Eligibility: Newly admitted students in HEC-recognised universities (public). Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
• Application Process: Students apply online through the HEC portal and submit the required documents.

University-Specific Aid

• Aga Khan University Scholarships
• NUMS Need-Based Scholarships
• Government of Cuba Medical Scholarships
• Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the #1 medical university in Pakistan?

Aga Khan University (AKU) is the top medical university in Pakistan. It ranks high in Asia and globally. Known for its excellent education, intense research, and international connections, AKU is considered one of the best.

Are Pakistani MBBS degrees valid in the USA/UK?

Yes, Pakistani MBBS degrees are valid in the USA and the UK. However, you need to pass exams such as the USMLE or PLAB to practice medicine there. These exams ensure that you meet their medical standards.

Which university has the lowest fees for MBBS?

The University of the Punjab and the University of Karachi offer lower tuition fees for MBBS programs. Their fees range from PKR 50,000 to PKR 200,000.

How competitive is the MDCAT entrance exam?

MDCAT is highly competitive. Thousands of students compete for limited seats each year. It requires intense preparation in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and English to succeed.

Can international students enrol?

Yes, international students can enrol in medical universities in Pakistan. Many universities, like Aga Khan and Dow University, offer special seats for foreign students. They need to meet specific entry tests for MBBS and visa regulations.

What are the hostel facilities like?

Most medical universities offer on-campus hostels with basic facilities. These include food, Wi-Fi, and laundry services. Some universities provide separate hostels for male and female students for convenience.

Which universities offer merit scholarships?

Universities like Aga Khan University and Dow University offer merit-based scholarships. These are given to top-performing students based on their academic achievements in exams and previous studies.

How does Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s quota system work?

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has a quota system that reserves medical seats for local students. This ensures fair chances for students from the province to study medicine at universities in their region.

What is the duration of the MBBS program in Pakistan?

The MBBS program in Pakistan takes 5 years to complete. It includes lectures, practical training, and clinical rotations. After completing the program, students do a year-long internship to gain hands-on experience.

Which colleges have the best hospital placements?

Aga Khan University and Dow University of Health Sciences are known for excellent hospital placements. They have partnerships with top hospitals.

Conclusion

Selecting the right medical university is one of the most critical steps in shaping your future as a healthcare professional. The best medical universities in Pakistan in 2026 not only provide quality education but also emphasise practical training, research opportunities, and access to modern facilities.

From globally recognised institutions to affordable local options, students have a wide range of choices based on their academic goals and financial circumstances. To make the most informed decision, carefully compare programs, faculty, and opportunities for clinical exposure. By investing time in thorough research, you can confidently choose the university that aligns with your career aspirations and ensures long-term success in the medical field.