PMDC shifts NRE-II exam schedule, revises both phases

Updated national registration exam timeline moves both test phases to July 2026, prompting fresh planning for medical and dental graduates

PMDC revised public notice showing updated NRE Step-II exam dates for July 2026
Caption: PMDC has revised the NRE Step-II examination schedule for 2026, shifting both phases into July under an updated public notice issued on June 2. (Image: Dental News Pakistan graphic based on PMDC notification).

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has revised the schedule of the National Registration Examination (NRE Step-II), issuing a fresh public notice on June 2, 2026 that replaces the earlier timetable announced just days ago on May 21.

The update is more than a minor adjustment—it reshapes the entire examination window for candidates, as both previously announced exam phases have now been collectively shifted forward by one week.

Under the original schedule, the examination was set to take place in two phases: late June and early July. However, the revised notification has moved the entire cycle entirely into July 2026.

Revised NRE Step-II schedule

According to the updated PMDC notice:
The earlier June 27–28, 2026 session has now been removed from the schedule
The first revised phase will now be held on July 4 & 5, 2026 (Saturday & Sunday)
The second phase has been shifted to July 11 & 12, 2026 (Saturday & Sunday)

In effect, the full examination framework has been pushed forward, creating a uniform one-week postponement across both phases of the exam cycle.

Registration window remains unchanged

Despite the revised exam dates, the registration portal timeline for NRE Step-II continues as originally announced:
Portal active from May 25, 2026 to June 8, 2026
Candidates are required to complete their applications within this period through the official PMDC platform.

Why this revision matters

For thousands of foreign-qualified medical and dental graduates, the NRE Step-II is not just another exam—it is the gateway to professional registration and clinical practice in Pakistan.

Even a one-week adjustment can significantly impact:
Travel and relocation planning
Exam preparation schedules
Institutional coordination for international candidates

Such revisions also highlight the evolving logistical and administrative demands of conducting a national-level licensing examination.

Official advisory for candidates

PMDC has advised candidates to rely exclusively on official notifications and to regularly monitor its website for updates, as exam arrangements remain subject to regulatory adjustments.

Stay informed, stay alert

CLICK HERE TO JOIN Dental News Pakistan on WhatsApp for real-time updates on healthcare, education, and public safety.

Submit Blog