The JCAT-1 exam (Joint Centralized Admission Test) is a postgraduate entrance examination in Pakistan designed for medical graduates seeking admission into various specialty training programs such as FCPS, MS, and MD at public sector institutions in Punjab, particularly the University of Health Sciences (UHS), King Edward Medical University (KEMU), and Fatima Jinnah Medical University (FJMU). Below is a detailed blog covering every aspect of the exam:
Complete Guide to the JCAT-1 Exam
The JCAT-1 (Joint Centralized Admission Test) is a centralized entrance examination for postgraduate medical training programs. It serves as the gateway for admission into MS/MD/FCPS programs at several leading medical universities in Punjab, Pakistan.
What is the JCAT-1 Exam?
The JCAT-1 is conducted by the University of Health Sciences (UHS) in collaboration with King Edward Medical University (KEMU) and Fatima Jinnah Medical University (FJMU). It assesses a candidate’s knowledge and aptitude for specialty training in clinical medicine and surgery.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for JCAT-1, candidates must:
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Hold an MBBS degree from a recognized institution.
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Have completed one-year house job.
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Be registered with the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC).
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Some universities may require a domicile from Punjab.
How to Apply for JCAT-1
Application Process:
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Visit the official portal: https://www.kemu.edu.pk
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Navigate to the JCAT section.
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Download and read the prospectus.
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Fill out the online application form.
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Upload scanned documents and a recent passport-sized photograph.
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Pay the application fee through the prescribed bank (usually Bank of Punjab).
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Submit the application before the deadline.
Exam Frequency
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The JCAT exam is held twice a year, typically in:
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March
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September
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Exact dates are announced on the official KEMU and UHS websites.
Exam Fee
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The fee for the JCAT exam varies, but it is generally around PKR 10000.
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Fees must be submitted via challan in designated banks.
Exam Format
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Type: Computer-based test (CBT)
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Nature: MCQ-based exam
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Total Questions: 200 MCQs
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Duration: 3 hours
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Scoring: No negative marking
MCQ Breakdown
Subject Area | Question Type | Focus |
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Basic Sciences | ~70 MCQs | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology |
Clinical Sciences | ~130 MCQs | Medicine, Surgery, Gynae/Obs, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, ENT, etc. |
Admit Card/ Roll Number Slip
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After successful submission of the application and verification of documents, the admit card (roll number slip) is uploaded to the official portal.
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Candidates must log in to their account on the KEMU website and download the admit card.
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It is mandatory to print and bring the admit card along with a valid CNIC on the exam day.
Exam Centers
The JCAT exam is held in major cities of Punjab, primarily:
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Lahore (Main center – often at Expo Centre)
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Additional centers may be arranged based on applicant load.
The exact location is mentioned on the admit card.
Tips for Success
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Focus on both basic sciences and clinical concepts.
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Use resources like PLAB/USMLE books, past JCAT papers, and online MCQ banks.
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Practice mock exams under timed conditions.
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Regularly check the KEMU JCAT page for updates.
Useful Links
Conclusion
The JCAT-1 exam is a vital stepping stone for doctors aiming to specialize in clinical fields via structured training programs in Punjab. Understanding the exam pattern, preparing thoroughly, and staying updated with official announcements are essential for success.
For the latest updates, always refer to the official KEMU and UHS websites.
JCAT-1 Exam Preparation with Dr. Hafiz Atif – CEO of FAME (First Aid Made Easy)
When it comes to structured, high-yield preparation for the JCAT-1 exam, one of the most renowned platforms in Pakistan is First Aid Made Easy (FAME). Under the leadership of Dr. Hafiz Atif, FAME has emerged as a trusted name for guiding medical graduates to success in competitive postgraduate entrance exams.
About Dr. Hafiz Atif
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Cleared USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)
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FCPS (Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons)
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JCAT qualified
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Currently serving as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at Duke University, USA
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Founder & CEO of FAME (First Aid Made Easy) – a platform designed to simplify postgraduate exam preparation for Pakistani doctors
Dr. Hafiz Atif brings together local expertise and international insight, combining his own journey through top-tier exams to create a platform tailored to the unique challenges of the JCAT exam.
Why Choose FAME for JCAT-1 Preparation?
FAME is built on the principle of delivering conceptual clarity, exam-oriented content, and specialty-specific preparation. It is a one-stop solution for candidates targeting success in MS/MD/FCPS admissions through JCAT.
Key Features:
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Specialty-wise Resources: Content is organized according to the clinical specialty you are applying for, ensuring targeted learning.
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Comprehensive Materials: Access a wide range of study aids, including:
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Lecture videos
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Structured notes
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High-yield MCQ banks
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Topic-wise revision modules
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Focused Preparation: Designed to reflect the actual JCAT exam format — 200 MCQs based on basic and clinical sciences.
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Online Learning Platform: Flexible and accessible, allowing students to prepare at their own pace from any location.
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Guidance from Expert Faculty: Learn directly from Dr. Hafiz Atif and a team of specialists who understand what it takes to succeed in the JCAT.
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Mock Exams & Progress Tracking: Regular testing with analytics to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Subjects Covered on the FAME Platform
Basic Sciences | Clinical Sciences |
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Anatomy | Medicine |
Physiology | Surgery |
Biochemistry | Gynae & Obstetrics |
Pathology | Pediatrics |
Microbiology | Ophthalmology |
Pharmacology | ENT |
Who Should Join?
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Final-year MBBS students planning ahead
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House officers preparing for specialty training
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Repeat JCAT candidates looking to refine their strategy
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Doctors seeking structured guidance from an expert who has successfully cleared JCAT, FCPS, and USMLE
How to Enroll & Contact FAME
For full access to FAME’s JCAT preparation resources, and to receive personalized guidance from Dr. Hafiz Atif:
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📞 WhatsApp: 0318-0049742
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🌐 Website: www.firstaidmadeeasy.com.pk
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📱 Platform: Available online for flexible, self-paced learning
Final Word
Success in the JCAT-1 exam demands more than just hard work—it requires strategic preparation with the right tools and expert guidance. FAME, under the mentorship of Dr. Hafiz Atif, provides a proven path to help you secure your seat in the specialty of your choice.
Join the First Aid Made Easy (FAME) community and give your JCAT preparation the competitive edge it deserves.