Only 20 percent Foreign Medical Graduates Pass NRE in Pakistan

The National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) has officially announced the results of the National Registration Examination (NRE), revealing that only around 20 percent of foreign medical and dental graduates were able to clear the examination. The results have once again raised serious concerns about the academic quality of medical education obtained from foreign institutions and the preparedness of graduates seeking registration in Pakistan.

The NRE was conducted on December 14, 2025, at multiple examination centers across Pakistan. The examination was held in accordance with the regulations and policies laid down by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), which mandates the NRE for foreign-qualified doctors and dentists before granting registration. You can also view MDCAT Guide.

NRE December 2025: Candidate Statistics

According to official data released by NUMS, a total of 7,076 candidates registered for the December NRE. This included 6,993 foreign medical graduates and 83 foreign dental graduates. Out of the total registered candidates, 7,012 appeared in the exam, while 64 candidates were absent.

Despite the large number of participants, the success rate remained low. Only 1,473 candidates passed the examination. Among them, 1,467 were medical graduates, while only six dental graduates managed to qualify.

The overall medical pass percentage was 21.17%, whereas the dental pass rate stood at a concerning 7.23%, highlighting the challenges faced by dental graduates in meeting PMDC standards.

Comparison with Previous NRE Results

When compared with the previous NRE held on June 25, 2025, the results show a slight decline in performance. In the June examination, 5,035 candidates registered, including 4,994 medical and 41 dental graduates.

All medical graduates appeared for the exam, while dental candidates were marked absent. In that session, 1,252 medical graduates passed, resulting in a 25.26% pass rate, which was slightly higher than the December exam.

The consistent trend of low success rates in consecutive NRE exams reflects ongoing issues related to curriculum gaps, teaching standards, and exam preparedness among foreign medical graduates (FMGs).

Importance of the National Registration Examination (NRE)

The National Registration Examination is a mandatory requirement introduced by the PMDC to ensure that foreign-trained doctors and dentists meet the minimum clinical knowledge and professional competency standards required to practice in Pakistan.

As per PMDC regulations, two NRE examinations are conducted each year. The exam consists of Step-I (theoretical) and Step-II (clinical) components. Candidates must pass both steps to qualify for provisional registration.

NUMS has confirmed that the dates for the NRE Step-II clinical examination will be announced soon. Candidates who successfully clear both stages will be eligible to receive provisional registration certificates from the PMDC.

House Job and Career Path After NRE

After obtaining provisional registration, successful candidates can begin their house job training, either in Pakistan or abroad, depending on available opportunities and institutional requirements. Completion of the house job is essential for full registration and independent medical practice.

The NRE, therefore, plays a critical role in shaping the professional future of foreign medical graduates who wish to serve in Pakistan’s healthcare system.

PMDC’s Advisory to Students and Parents

In light of the latest results, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has once again advised students and parents to exercise caution when choosing medical and dental institutions abroad.

The council strongly emphasized that admission to unrecognized or substandard institutions can severely impact a student’s career. Graduates from such institutions often struggle to pass licensing examinations, leading to wasted time, financial loss, and professional uncertainty.

A PMDC spokesperson stated that selecting PMDC-recognized, internationally accredited medical colleges is essential for maintaining the integrity of the medical profession and ensuring patient safety.

Growing Concerns Over Foreign Medical Education Quality

Education experts believe that the low NRE pass rate is a reflection of varying academic standards across foreign institutions, particularly in countries where regulatory oversight is weak. Many students are attracted by lower tuition fees and easier admission criteria, but later face difficulties in licensing exams.

Medical professionals have also urged authorities to introduce better awareness campaigns to guide students before they decide to study medicine or dentistry abroad.

Where to Check NRE Results

NUMS and PMDC have confirmed that the NRE results for both June and December sessions are available on the official PMDC website. Candidates can check their pass or fail status using their roll numbers or designated registration details.

The latest NRE results serve as a wake-up call for aspiring medical and dental students planning to pursue education abroad. While studying overseas may seem attractive, ensuring institutional recognition and educational quality is crucial for long-term success.

As PMDC continues to enforce strict merit-based policies aligned with international standards, students are encouraged to make informed and responsible educational decisions to secure their future in the medical profession.