The federal government has capped annual tuition fees at RS1.8 million for MBBS and BDS programs in private medical and dental colleges, Express News reported.
The decision was made by the Committee of Medical Education Reforms, trained in the Prime Minister’s directive and chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister. The announcement was made in a press release published by Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).
“The rise in the costs of tuition fees in private establishments has long been a burden for students and their families,” the statement said. “This decision indicates an important step towards an accessible and fair medical education in Pakistan.”
The PMDC noted that the question had already been discussed during the meetings of the Council held on June 4, 2022, December 10, 2023 and on February 23, 2024. In its last development, a sub-comity chaired by Professor Dr Masood Gondal was formed on February 27, 2025.
The Committee has started stakeholders, including private colleges and Pakistan Association of Medical Institutions (PAMI) before presenting its final recommendations.
Following a detailed financial analysis and a stakeholder consultation, the Reform Committee determined that 1.8 million rupees would be standard annual tuition fees for MBBS and BDS programs. The costs can be adjusted annually depending on the consumer price index (ICC).
PMDC said that institutions seeking to invoice more – up to a maximum of Rs 2.5 million per year – would be required to subject detailed financial justifications, including comparisons with similar institutions, offered services and academic improvements.
“The increases in unreasonable or unjustified costs will not be entertainment,” said the Council, adding that all increases in tuition fees must be transparent and aligned with real educational costs.
“It is essential to maintain the financial viability of private institutions, but the costs must remain reasonable and reflect real costs,” concluded the press release.
The reform is considered to be a breakthrough in wider government efforts to make the education of affordable quality health care for students from low and average income.
