If you’re planning to appear in the MDCAT exam in Pakistan, one of the first questions you might have is: Do I need a domicile certificate?
The short answer is yes — in most cases, a domicile is a mandatory requirement for MDCAT registration and admission to medical or dental colleges in your province.
In this guide, I’ll explain why domicile is important, who needs it, who doesn’t, and how it affects your MDCAT admission process.
Why Is a Domicile Required for MDCAT?
The domicile certificate is an official document that proves your permanent residence in a specific province or district. It’s not just a formality because it plays a big role in seat allocation for medical and dental colleges.
Since most public medical colleges in Pakistan admit students based on provincial quotas, your domicile ensures that you are applying for the right region.
Key Rules About MDCAT Domicile Requirements
Here’s what every MDCAT aspirant should know:
✅ Mandatory Document – A domicile certificate of your province is compulsory for MDCAT registration. Other documents like your CNIC, B-form, passport, or birth certificate cannot replace it.
✅ Provincial Limitation – You can only apply for MDCAT seats in the province where you hold domicile.
✅ Islamabad Students – If you have an Islamabad (ICT) domicile, you may apply for open merit seats in Punjab.
✅ Overseas Pakistanis – If you are applying under the Overseas or Dual National quota, you don’t need a domicile certificate.
✅ Reserved Seats – For certain reserved categories such as under-developed districts or tribal areas, you must have a district-specific domicile.
✅ Test Center Restriction – You cannot appear for MDCAT in a province other than your domicile region. For overseas candidates, the Riyadh test center is available.
Who Doesn’t Need a Domicile for MDCAT?
While domicile is compulsory for most students, there are some exceptions:
- Overseas Pakistanis or Dual Nationals applying under their special quota
- Foreign students seeking admission through foreign seats
But remember, if you’re applying for open merit seats, you’ll still need a domicile.
Why This Rule Exists
Some students wonder why they can’t just apply in any province. The main reason is fair seat distribution.
Medical and dental seats are divided province-wise to ensure that students from every region get an equal chance based on their local population and resources. Without domicile rules, seats could get unfairly concentrated in certain areas.
Tips for MDCAT Aspirants Regarding Domicile
Get it early – If you don’t have your domicile yet, apply for it as soon as possible because the process can take time.
Check your district – Make sure your domicile matches the district or province you intend to apply in.
Keep copies ready – Always keep both original and attested copies of your domicile with your MDCAT documents.
Final Words
In short, yes, domicile is required for MDCAT in Pakistan except in certain special cases like overseas or dual national quotas.
Without a domicile, you cannot register for MDCAT or secure admission to public sector medical and dental colleges in your province.
So, if you’re an MDCAT aspirant, make sure this document is ready before registration opens. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of stress later.
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Dr. Hamza Qureshi is a KEMU graduate and the creator of this platform, dedicated to helping MDCAT students with accurate tools and reliable guidance.