Choosing a career in the medical field is a significant decision, and two of the most popular paths are pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). Both degrees offer rewarding and fulfilling career opportunities, but they cater to different interests and skills.
The MBBS course is a 5.5-year UG course that provides comprehensive education and training in various aspects of Medicine, preparing students to become qualified medical doctors.
On the other hand, the BDS course is a 5-year UG course focused on the study of Dental Sciences, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become professional dentists.
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There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison between MBBS and BDS, exploring the curriculum, career prospects, and unique aspects of each profession to help aspiring medical professionals make an informed choice.
Q: How many times can I appear for NEET?
According to NTA a candidate can appear for NEET any number of times. There is no restriction on the number of attempts permitted. Moreover, ever since the upper age limit of NEET has been removed, there is even more flexibility in terms of the number of NEET attempts.
The exam is conducted once a year, hence candidates can appear only once in an academic year. But unless candidates fulfil the eligibility criteria, they would not be able to get admission even if they score the qualifying cutoff marks for NEET.
Q: Can I get MBBS admission with a 300 score in NEET 2024?
It is possible to get admission to a private medical college with a score of 300 in NEET 2023. For government medical college, one should ideally obtain a score above 600. The NEET cutoff for the Government medical colleges vary as per the institute rank and round of counselling. Hence, it can be said that a score of 300 in NEET 2023 may not be sufficient for admission to Government medical colleges. As per past years' trends, a score between 500 to 700 or above is in the cutoff marks for NEET.
Q: Is there any age limit for NEET exam?
The upper age limit criterion was removed by NMC on March 9, 2022, based on the judgment made by the Supreme Court of India. Earlier, the case was under trial in the apex court. However, there is a lower age limit of 17 years as of December 31 of the academic year. Unless candidates meet the lower age limit criterion, they would not be considered eligible to appear for NEET.
Helpful Links for MBBS vs BDS Preparation:
Top Medical Colleges in India: Ranking, Admission, Placement, Fees, Cutoff
MBBS vs BDS: Highlights
When comparing MBBS and BDS, several key differences emerge. Candidates can check the table below to see the key points of the MBBS vs BDS course details.
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| Particulars |
MBBS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level |
UG |
UG |
| Course Duration |
5.5 years |
5 years |
| Course Fee |
Government Colleges: INR 6,100 to INR 1.1 Crore Private Colleges: INR 14,000 to INR 1 crore |
Government Colleges: INR 25,000 - INR 16 Lakh Private Colleges: INR 4.04 Lakh - INR 38.1 Lakh |
| Admission Criteria |
Entrance-based |
Entrance-based |
| Eligibility Criteria |
Class 12 in the Science stream with Chemistry, Physics, Biology/Biotechnology (which shall include practical tests in these subjects) and Mathematics subjects and be over 17 years of age. |
Class 12 in Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Biology subjects. |
| Entrance Exams |
NEET & KEAM |
|
| Popular Colleges |
Government: AIIMS Delhi, JIPMER, KGMU, AIIMS Rishikesh, etc. Private: CMC, KMC, SRIHER, St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Poonamallee, etc. |
Government: KGMU, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Institute of Medical Sciences Private: MMU, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, MSRUAS, etc. |
| Job Profiles |
MBBS Doctors, Medical Surgeons, Medical Officers, Paediatricians, General Physicians, Medical Assistants (Surgery), etc. |
Dentists, Dental officers in Defense Services, Dentists in Indian Railways, Lecturers, Researchers, etc. |
| Average Salary |
INR 2.5 LPA - INR 15 LPA |
INR 3 LPA - INR 9 LPA |
| Top Recruiters |
Medanta Hospitals, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Fortis Healthcare Ltd, Wockhardt Ltd, etc. |
Hospitals, Dental Clinics, Educational Institutes, Dental Product Manufacturers etc. |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
MBBS vs BDS Useful Links:
Top Medical Colleges in India for Best Placements: NIRF - MHRD Rankings
Difference Between MBBS vs BDS
Choosing between MBBS and BDS depends on an individual's interest in general Medicine versus Dental care, career aspirations, and the type of patient care they wish to provide.
Candidates can check details about MBBS and BDS courses.
What is MBBS?
MBBS full form is Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. It focuses on training students to become general physicians or surgeons capable of diagnosing and treating a wide array of diseases and conditions.
Q: Can I get an MBBS seat with a NEET score of 350?
If you belong to SC /ST category, you can get a MBBS seat with 350. for OBC and general category, cut-off score is much more higher than 350. So, prepare well. All the best.
Q: Can a class 12 student appear for NEET?
A Class 12 student can appear for NEET, provided he/she fulfills the eligibility criteria for the exam stated by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam conducting body. Although there is no upper age limit for appearing in NEET, but the lower age limit is still applicable. A candidate must of at least 17 years as of December 31 of the academic year. Unless candidates meet the lower age limit criterion, they would not be considered eligible to appear for NEET for the particular year. The other factors of eligibility include studying Physics, Chemistry and Biology as core subjects.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in NTA NEET UG exam?
There is no limit to the number of attempts to appear in the NTA NEET UG exam. While NEET UG is conducted once a year and candidates can appear only once in one year, an overall basis, an aspirant can appear for the exam as many times as he/she wishes to. Given the fact that the upper age limit has been removed, there is no barrier to the highest number of attempts.
Q: What is the minimum NEET score required to get an MBBS seat?
According to last year's NEET cutoff marks, a General or OBC category candidate should secure at least 500 marks to get an MBBS seat at a standard medical college in India. However, for a reserved category candidate, a score of 300 to 400 may get them an MBBS seat. Students must note that the minimum NEET score mentioned here is indicatie and not absolute. The minimum marks or the NEET cutoff marks will vary based on the qualifying cutoff, number of seats, number of aplications, andother factors. Candidates with a relatively low score must be patient and participate in multiple rounds of counselling untill they get the seat of their choice. Candidates may also participate in both national as well as state-level counsellings to expand their chances of admission.
Q: What is the eligibility criteria for NEET?
As per the eligibility criteria of NEET candidates should pass the Class 12th Board exam from a recognised institute and board from the Science stream with a minimum of 50 per cent aggregate (40 per cent for OBC/SC/ST and 45 per cent for PwD category candidates). The candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English subjects in Class 11 and Class 12. There has been a change in the NEET 2024 eligibility criteria. Till last year, Physics, Chemistry and Biology/Biotechnology subjects had to be studied as core subjects in order to be eligible to appear for the exam. This year, the National Medical Commission has revised the eligibility criteria, which states that candidates may study these subjects as additional papers. The minimum age limit is 17 years as on December 31 of the year of admission. The upper age limit criteria has been removed in the year 2022.
MBBS course typically lasts for 5.5 years, which includes a 4.5-year academic program followed by a one-year compulsory rotating internship.
MBBS graduates become medical doctors who can diagnose and treat general health conditions, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and specialize in various medical fields through further education.
What is BDS?
BDS full form is Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Focuses on dental and oral health, training students to become dentists who diagnose and treat dental issues and perform dental surgeries BDS generally lasts for 5 years, which includes 4 years of academic study and a one-year mandatory internship.
BDS graduates become dentists who focus on oral health, perform dental procedures, manage dental diseases, and can further specialize in areas like orthodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery.
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MBBS vs BDS: Eligibility
The eligibility criteria ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the academic and practical demands of MBBS and BDS courses, ultimately leading to successful careers in Medicine and Dentistry.
Candidates can check the table below to see the difference between the eligibility criteria for MBBS and BDS courses.
| Parameters |
MBBS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Education |
Class 12 in Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) subjects. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Biology |
| Minimum Aggregate Percentage |
50% |
50% |
| Age Limit |
17 |
17 |
| Entrance Exam |
NEET |
NEET & KEAM |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
MBBS vs BDS: Entrance Exam
While the major entrance exam (NEET-UG) for both MBBS and BDS in India is the same, the competition levels, cut-off scores, and career outcomes differ.
Also, if candidates wish to apply for the BDS course without taking NEET, they can sit for KEAM too.
Further, candidates can look at the table below to learn about the major differences between these two entrance exams needed for MBBS admission and BDS admission.
| Particulars |
MBBS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance Exam |
NEET |
NEET & KEAM |
| Conducting Body |
NEET - National Testing Agency KEAM - Office of the Commissioner of Entrance Exams (Govt of Kerala) |
|
| Mode of exam |
Offline |
NEET - Offline KEAM - Online (Computer-Based) |
| Exam Syllabus |
The NEET syllabus includes Physics, Chemistry and Biology topics from Class 11 and 12 |
NEET - The NEET syllabus includes Physics, Chemistry and Biology topics from Class 11 and 12 KEAM - The syllabus of KEAM is prescribed by CEE Kerala. The KEAM syllabus comprises all three subjects Physics Chemistry & Mathematics. KEAM syllabus is based on class 11 and 12 examinations. The weightage of the subjects in KEAM will be 5:3:2 in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
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MBBS vs BDS: Syllabus
Choosing between MBBS and BDS depends on an individual's interest in general medicine versus specialized dental care. MBBS course curriculum and BDS course curriculum require dedication and a strong foundation in Science subjects.
Here is a general overview of the semester-wise MBBS and BDS syllabus in India:
| Semesters |
MBBS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 |
|
|
| Semester 2 |
|
|
| Semester 3 |
|
|
| Semester 4 |
|
|
| Semester 5 |
|
|
| Semester 6 |
|
|
| Semester 7 |
|
|
| Semester 8 |
|
|
| Semester 9 |
|
- |
Note: The provided syllabus is a general outline and therefore may vary.
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MBBS vs BDS: Top Colleges
Both MBBS and BDS courses require rigorous academic preparation and dedication. Selecting a top college can significantly impact the quality of education, clinical exposure, and career opportunities in the respective fields.
Candidates can check the tables below for popular MBBS and BDS colleges in India:
Top MBBS Colleges
The MBBS colleges are generally major universities and research institutions within the medical field. They offer comprehensive medical education, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for research and specialization in various medical fields.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular MBBS colleges in India:
| MBBS Colleges |
MBBS Course Fees |
|---|---|
| 6.08 K |
|
| 13.5 K |
|
| 2.14 L |
|
| 30.46 K |
|
| 80.1 L |
|
| 68.02 K |
|
| 30 L |
|
| 51.52 K |
|
| 1.13 Cr |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Top BDS Colleges
The BDS colleges are often affiliated with leading medical universities or standalone dental institutions. They focus on providing specialized Dental education, hands-on clinical training, and opportunities for research in Dental sciences.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular BDS colleges in India:
| BDS Colleges |
BDS Course Fees |
|---|---|
| 1.9 L |
|
| 24 L |
|
| 17.6 L |
|
| 42.5 L |
|
| 20 L |
|
| 9.6 L |
|
| 11.72 L |
|
| 1.67 L |
|
| 16.48 K |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Useful Links for MBBS vs BDS:
NEET Chapter Wise Weightage PDF by NTA: Physics, Chemistry & Biology
MBBS vs BDS: Jobs and Salary
Choosing between MBBS and BDS depends on career interests, academic strengths, and desired work environment. Both fields offer rewarding careers with opportunities for professional growth and making a significant impact on patients' lives.
Further, candidates can check the table below to see the salary that a graduate can earn after pursuing either of the courses in India.
MBBS Salary in India
MBBS offers a broader range of job opportunities in general medicine, surgery, and various medical specialities. MBBS salary tend to be higher compared to BDS due to the broader scope of practice and higher demand.
Here are some common MBBS job profiles in India:
| Job Profile |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Medical Surgeon |
INR 15 LPA |
| Medical officers |
INR 10.6 LPA |
| Paediatrician |
INR 12 LPA |
| General Physician |
INR 7.2 LPA |
| Medical Assistant (Surgery) |
INR 2.5 LPA |
Note: The salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
BDS Salary in India
BDS focuses on dental and oral health care, with specialized career paths in dentistry. While BDS salary is generally lower than MBBS, BDS graduates can earn well with experience and specialization.
Here are some common BDS job profiles in India:
| Job Profiles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Dental officer in Defense Services |
INR 14.6 LPA |
| Dentist in Indian Railways |
INR 7 LPA |
| Lecturer |
INR 5.7 LPA |
| Dentist |
INR 4 LPA |
| Researcher |
INR 5 LPA |
Note: The salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Recommended Readings for MBBS vs BDS:
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MBBS vs BDS: Academic Scope
Both MBBS and BDS offer rewarding careers with opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives. The choice between the two depends on individual interests, career aspirations, and academic strengths.
Candidates can check the table below to see what courses they can opt for after pursuing MBBS as well as BDS.
Courses After MBBS
MBBS offers a broader academic scope covering all aspects of human health and diseases, with extensive clinical exposure and specialization opportunities in various medical fields.
Candidates can check the table below to see the courses they can opt for after pursuing an MBBS course in India.
| Courses |
Description |
|---|---|
| MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced medical knowledge and clinical training in specialized fields. |
|
| Master of Surgery (MS) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced surgical training and expertise in various surgical disciplines. |
|
| MBA in Hospital Management |
MBA in Hospital Management is a postgraduate program pursued after MBBS, focusing on developing managerial and administrative skills specifically tailored to the healthcare setting. |
| DNB (Diplomate of National Board) is a postgraduate medical qualification offered by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India. It is pursued after MBBS and provides specialized training and certification in various medical specialities, equivalent to MD or MS degrees offered by universities. |
Courses After BDS
BDS focuses specifically on dental and oral health sciences, with specialized training and opportunities for further education and career advancement in dental specialities.
Candidates can check the table below to see the courses they can opt for after pursuing a BDS course in India.
| Courses |
Duration |
|---|---|
| MDS is an advanced postgraduate program that allows Dental graduates to specialize in various fields providing in-depth knowledge and expertise for specialized Dental practice. |
|
| MBA in Hospital Management |
The MBA in Hospital Management is a specialized PG course designed to equip healthcare professionals with the managerial skills and knowledge needed to effectively run healthcare facilities. |
| Clinical Research courses are designed to train healthcare professionals and researchers in the methodologies and regulations governing clinical trials and research studies. |
|
| Public Health Management courses are tailored to equip professionals with the skills needed to address public health challenges effectively. |
Suggested Readings for MBBS vs BDS:
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MBBS vs BDS: FAQs
Q. Is BDS better than MBBS?
A. Basically, choosing between BDS and MBBS depends on personal career goals and interests rather than one being objectively superior to the other.
BDS focuses specifically on dental and oral health, preparing graduates to diagnose and treat dental conditions and perform dental procedures. On the other hand, MBBS offers a broader scope in general medicine and surgery, equipping graduates to handle a wide range of medical conditions across various specialities.
The choice between BDS and MBBS should consider one's passion for either dental or medical practice, along with future career goals and opportunities for specialization.
Q. Can BDS students do MBBS?
A. Yes, in general, BDS students can pursue MBBS after completing their dental degree, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and pass the required entrance examinations.
While BDS students already possess a strong foundation in biological sciences and clinical experience, they would need to adapt to the broader scope of medical education and clinical training offered in MBBS programs, which focus on general medicine, surgery, and specialized medical disciplines.
Q. Can BDS be called doctors?
A. Yes, graduates of BDS are commonly referred to as doctors. They earn this title upon completion of their dental degree, which qualifies them to diagnose and treat dental and oral health conditions.
While BDS graduates specialize in dental care rather than general medicine, they are recognized as healthcare professionals who can provide comprehensive dental treatments, perform dental surgeries, and promote oral health.
Q. Is BDS tougher than MBBS?
A. The difficulty of BDS vs MBBS is subjective and depends on individual strengths, interests, and learning preferences.
BDS focuses intensively on dental and oral health sciences, requiring in-depth knowledge of dental anatomy, procedures, and oral pathology. The curriculum includes rigorous clinical training and practical skills development in dental clinics.
In contrast, MBBS covers a broader spectrum of medical subjects including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and various medical specialities, demanding a comprehensive understanding of human health and diseases.
Both programs have their challenges.
Q. Who earns more, MBBS or BDS?
A. The average salary of an MBBS graduate is 15 LPA while that of a BDS graduate is INR 9 LPA.
In terms of earning potential, MBBS generally offers higher salaries compared to BDS, primarily due to the broader scope of medical practice and higher demand for medical doctors.
However, both MBBS and BDS professionals can enhance their incomes through experience, specialization, and practice in urban or specialized healthcare settings.
Q. Why is MBBS considered more prestigious than BDS in India?
A. MBBS entails a broader scope of medical education and training, covering a wide range of medical specialities and conditions beyond dental care. This comprehensive training prepares MBBS graduates to diagnose, treat, and manage various health issues, making them integral to primary healthcare and specialized medical fields.
Secondly, there is typically higher competition and demand for MBBS seats in medical colleges, reflecting its perceived importance and societal value.
Thirdly, MBBS graduates have opportunities for specialization (MD/MS) and further career advancement in diverse medical disciplines, enhancing their professional stature and earning potential.
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 days ago
Dear Siva,
To be eligible for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) in India, candidates must have completed their 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Since you have completed 12th with only Physics and Chemistry, you would need to fulfill the Biology requirement.
In Singapor
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 days ago
The application for NEET UG 2025 will be available from January 2025, and the examination is scheduled to be held on May 4, 2025;
Important Dates
Application Form Issued: January 2025
Application Last Date: February 2025
Correction Window: March 2025
Admit Card Release: April 2025
Exam Date: May 4, 2025
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Answered 3 days ago
As per BHU cutoff 2024 for the last-round seat allotment, the minimum rank stood at 1098 for the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) course for the General AI category candidates. Similarly, for the OBC category, the minimum rank stood at 1585 for the MBBS course.
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Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 days ago
You can apply for NEET with a United States high school Diploma if you have AIU equivalence and meet all required criteria. Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English must be included in your curriculum. Minimum PCB scores (50%, adjusted for reserved categories and PwD); and age 17 by De
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Beginner-Level 5
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Beginner-Level 5
Answered 4 days ago
The NEET UG score plays a crucial role in the BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) admission process. It serves as the primary criterion for determining eligibility for dental colleges across India.
Candidates must secure a minimum qualifying score in NEET-UG to be considered for admission to the BDS co
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Beginner-Level 5
Answered 4 days ago
Candidates who have scored 300 marks and wish to pursue MBBS or BDS programs can only apply through the paid seat quota.
This option allows admission by paying a higher fee, unlike the regular merit-based admission process.
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