Pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Master of Surgery (MS) in India is a significant step for medical graduates aiming to specialize in various medical fields. The journey begins with obtaining an MBBS degree from a recognized institution, followed by completing a Study MD/MS in India one-year compulsory rotating internship. Eligibility for MD/MS programs mandates that candidates possess a valid MBBS degree from a Medical Council of India (MCI) or National Medical Commission (NMC) recognized institution and have completed their internship by the specified deadline, typically March 31 of the admission year.
The primary gateway for admission into these postgraduate courses is the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates (NEET-PG), a computer-based examination comprising 200 multiple-choice questions to be answered within 3 hours and 30 minutes. The NEET-PG score is pivotal, as it determines eligibility and ranking for the counseling process. However, certain premier institutions like AIIMS, PGIMER Chandigarh, JIPMER Puducherry, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, conduct their own entrance examinations and do not accept NEET-PG scores. The admission process involves registering for the relevant entrance exam, participating in counseling sessions based on merit, and selecting preferred colleges and specialties. India boasts numerous esteemed medical colleges offering MD/MS programs.
Prominent among them are the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, Christian Medical College (CMC) in Vellore, Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, and the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. These institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic curricula, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The fee structure for MD/MS courses varies significantly between government and private institutions. Government colleges generally offer lower tuition fees compared to private colleges. For instance, institutions like Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi and Bangalore Medical College have relatively affordable fee structures, whereas private institutions may have higher fees.
It's essential for aspirants to stay updated with the latest information regarding entrance examinations, counseling procedures, and admission timelines, as these can change annually. Diligent preparation, timely application, and informed decision-making are crucial for securing a seat in a desired specialty and institution.
