Medical Admission Test on Dec 12, MCQ Format Unchanged
Plans to introduce a written component in this year's medical admission test have been dropped, with the exam retaining the MCQ format to prevent result delays and evaluation complications.
Sources from the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC) and Directorate General of Medical Education (DGME) confirmed the development to The Daily Campus.
They said discussions on adding written elements for the 2025-26 admission test took place, involving at least 15 meetings. However, concerns over delays in result publication prompted the decision to stick with MCQ.
DGME Director General Professor Dr Md Nazmul Hossain told The Daily Campus, “The medical admission will remain MCQ-based. We may include questions on general knowledge and human values. The proposal is in that form. We've consulted stakeholders and experts. Currently, general knowledge carries 10 marks; it could be increased to 15-20, integrated with other subjects. We'll finalise it next week.”
He added, “We considered written tests, but script evaluation would take too long. MCQ uses OMR machines for results in two days. Students are accustomed to that. Written isn't feasible this year.”
Professor Dr Md Nazmul Hossain said, “Previously, merit focused on memory and rote learning. We're planning gradual diversification, particularly assessing analytical skills, intelligence, and humanity. We want humane doctors. We'll tweak a few questions while keeping the MCQ pattern but varying content.”
He noted, “We've sought top experts' input. No major changes this year; gradual rollout. In two-three years, questions on analysis, intelligence, and human values will dominate. One-hour response-style questions are under consideration. We're discussing integration with experts. It could be finalised in a ministry meeting in late October.”
