IMAGE EXPLANATION: This banner illustrates the five core medical tests every candidate undergoes: Eye Sight, Height/Weight, Chest Expansion, Blood Pressure, and Orthopedic check. Each station is conducted by specialist army doctors.

The Pakistan Army medical test is one of the most crucial stages in the selection process. Every candidate must pass a series of physical and medical examinations to ensure they meet the rigorous standards. This guide covers everything you need to know – from eye sight requirements to chest expansion, and preparation tips directly from official recruitment guidelines.

What the Medical Test Includes

IMAGE EXPLANATION: The eye test uses a Snellen chart for distant vision and Ishihara plates for color blindness. For combat arms, 6/6 unaided vision is mandatory. Technical branches may accept 6/9 with glasses.

Detailed Eye Sight Requirements

• Distant vision: 6/6 in each eye without glasses (for combat arms).
• Color vision: Must pass Ishihara plates test – no color blindness.
• Night vision: checked during special tests.
• Eye diseases: No history of glaucoma, cataracts, or squint.

Note: Candidates for technical corps may have slightly relaxed eye standards but still must meet minimum 6/9 with glasses.

IMAGE EXPLANATION: Height measured with stadiometer, weight with calibrated scale. BMI calculated automatically. Underweight or overweight candidates are referred for reassessment after 30 days.

Height, Weight & BMI

• General duty soldier: Height 5’4″ (162.5 cm), weight proportional to BMI (18–25).
• Combat arms (infantry, armour): Height 5’6″ (167.5 cm) minimum.
• Officers: Height 5’4″ (men) / 5’2″ (women) – varies by branch.
• Overweight candidates may be rejected; underweight also leads to disqualification.

IMAGE EXPLANATION: Measurement taken at nipple line. First at normal expiration, then after maximum inhalation. The difference must be at least 1.5 inches. Breathing exercises help improve expansion.

Chest Expansion

• Minimum chest (relaxed): 30 inches (76 cm) for soldiers, 32 inches for officers.
• Expansion after full inhalation: at least 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
• Measured with a tape at nipple level – candidates with underdeveloped chest may be advised to improve with breathing exercises.

IMAGE EXPLANATION: Visual summary of top preparation tips: cardio, balanced diet, eye exercises, pranayama, hydration, mock tests, medical records, and early start.

How to Prepare – 8 Essential Tips

1. Start early: Begin fitness routine at least 3 months before tests.
2. Cardio & running: 1.6 km run in under 7 minutes is often required.
3. Balanced diet: Include protein, fruits, vegetables – avoid oily food.
4. Eye care: Reduce screen time, do eye exercises, and get regular checkups.
5. Breathing exercises: Pranayama or deep breathing to improve chest expansion.
6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, avoid smoking/alcohol.
7. Mock tests: Practice physical drills (push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups).
8. Medical file: Collect all previous medical records – be transparent.

IMAGE EXPLANATION: This section answers the most common queries candidates have about glasses, flat feet, height relaxation, and BP checks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I join Pakistan Army with glasses?
A: For combat arms, glasses are not allowed. For technical/admin branches, you may be accepted with 6/9 correctable vision.

Q: What if I have a minor flat foot?
A: Flat foot is usually a disqualification for combat roles, but some support roles may consider if minor.

Q: Is there any relaxation in height for certain regions?
A: Yes, candidates from Northern Areas and FATA may get 1″ relaxation in height. Check with ASRC.

Q: How is chest expansion measured exactly?
A: Measurement is taken at the nipple line – first at normal expiration, then after maximum inhalation. Difference must be ≥1.5″.

Q: Do they check blood pressure multiple times?
A: Yes, if BP is high initially, rest is given and rechecked. Chronic high BP leads to rejection.

IMAGE EXPLANATION: The full selection flow: online registration → written test → physical test → medical exam → interview → final merit.

Official Recruitment Process 2026

• Online registration at joinpakarmy.gov.pk
• Written test (intelligence & academic)
• Physical test (run, push-ups, sit-ups)
• Medical examination (detailed as above)
• Interview / final selection

For the most accurate and updated call-up letters, always refer to the official Pakistan Army website or your nearest recruitment centre.