The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) announced on Thursday that the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) had been postponed by more than a month, from August 16 to September 20, on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the council said the decision had been taken “on the directions of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of Pakistan”. It said the test, previously scheduled for August 16, would now be held on September 20.

According to the PM&DC, the decision was made to ensure the “smooth, secure and transparent conduct” of the examination while also “facilitating all candidates”. The council said all other terms, conditions and examination arrangements would remain unchanged unless notified otherwise.

It advised candidates to “regularly visit the official PM&DC website and official communication channels” for further updates and instructions.