If you’re thinking about a career in anesthesiology but aren’t sure whether MDCAT is required, you’re not alone. Many students get confused between anesthesiologist (a medical doctor) and anesthesia technologist (an allied health professional). I’m here to clear it all up for you in the simplest way possible.
Let me walk you through the different career paths and whether MDCAT is needed or not.
✅ If You Want to Become an Anesthesiologist (Medical Doctor)
So, you want to become an anesthesiologist—a doctor who puts patients to sleep before surgeries, manages pain, and plays a vital role in the operation theatre.
Here’s the step-by-step path:
🎓 Education Path:
- First, complete your FSc (Pre-Medical) or A-Levels with good marks.
- Then, you must clear MDCAT to get admission into MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery).
- After completing the five-year MBBS, you’ll need to apply for a residency or specialization in anesthesiology.
✅ Is MDCAT Required?
Yes, absolutely.
You cannot enter MBBS without passing MDCAT, and MBBS is the only route to becoming a medical doctor in Pakistan.
📝 Summary:
If your goal is to become a full-fledged anesthesiologist, MDCAT is 100% required.
❌ If You Want to Become an Anesthesia Technologist (Allied Health)
Now, if you’re interested in the field of anesthesia but not as a doctor, you might want to consider becoming an anesthesia technologist.
These are trained professionals who assist anesthesiologists during surgeries, handle equipment, and ensure everything runs smoothly in the operation theatre. This career is part of Allied Health Sciences.
🎓 Education Path:
- You need to complete FSc (Pre-Medical) or A-Level with Biology.
- Most universities require at least 45–50% marks.
- Instead of MDCAT, you’ll need to pass a university-specific test or interview.
✅ Is MDCAT Required?
No.
Most universities do not require MDCAT for admission into BS Anesthesia Technology programs.
Institutions like UOL, TUF, UMT, UBAS, and others have their own internal entry tests or merit-based admissions.
📝 Summary:
For anesthesia technologist programs, MDCAT is not required. Admission is usually based on your FSc/A-Level result and a university entry test.
🔑 Final Thoughts – Choose Your Path Wisely
Here’s what I always tell students:
- If your dream is to become a doctor and lead in surgeries, you must take and pass MDCAT.
- If you’re more interested in working in hospitals and assisting doctors with anesthesia, but not becoming a doctor yourself, then BS Anesthesia Technology is a great option—and you can skip MDCAT!
Still confused? Ask yourself:
Do I want to be called “Doctor”?
If yes → Go for MBBS → MDCAT is required
If no → Go for BS Anesthesia Tech → MDCAT is not required
Dr. Hamza Qureshi is a KEMU graduate and the creator of this platform, dedicated to helping MDCAT students with accurate tools and reliable guidance.