ISLAMABAD: In a significant development for aspiring medical professionals, a new schedule for the National Registration Examination (NRE) for medical practice licenses has been announced in Pakistan.
National Registration Examination is a must for all foreign medical graduates if they want a medical practice license and is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
In a new move, Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has extended the deadline of online registration for Step 1 of NRE. The last date for completion of online registration for NRE by all candidates has now been extended till May 4, whereas initially it was to end on April 29.
PMDC has directed all candidates for NRE to register themselves on extended date and also told them to visit the website for any further updates related to exam.
Pakistan Medical and Dental Council devises new policy for medical students
Earlier, due to concerns regarding the mental health of students and teachers in medical and dental colleges, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has mandated all medical colleges to implement a mental health screening system.
Dr Rizwan Taj, President of the PM&DC, said the importance of timely identification and effective management of mental health issues, highlighting the rising cases of mental stress and suicide among students.
Students and teachers requiring additional support should be promptly referred to the psychology department. Medical and dental institutions are expected to establish dedicated psychology and counselling sections that utilise reliable and standard assessment tools. Mental health screenings should occur in two stages: during admission and on an annual basis. It is the responsibility of medical and dental institutions to prevent and effectively manage mental stress among both students and teachers.
