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BDS vs MBBS Career Choice

BDS vs MBBS: Which One Should You Choose?

Written By
Vaishali Pandey
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Updated On:
Mar 5, 2026
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5 Minutes
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Vaishali Pandey
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Updated On:
Mar 5, 2026

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BDS vs MBBS: Which One Should You Choose?

A Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), or a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) are two of the most popular professional options in the medical industry. Selecting a career path out of BDS vs MBBS is a big decision. Though they address diverse interests and skill sets, both degrees provide gratifying and rewarding job prospects.

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BDS vs MBBS: The Difference

Let’s look at BDS vs MBBS, and understand if you should pursue BDS or MBBS as per the famous colleges, the future aspirations and more. 

MBBS 

The main goal of MBBS is to prepare students to become general practitioners or surgeons who can identify and handle various illnesses.

The average length of an MBBS program is 5.5 years, consisting of a 4.5-year academic curriculum and a mandatory one-year rotating internship.

Graduates of the MBBS program become medical doctors who can conduct surgeries, prescribe drugs, diagnose and treat general health issues, and, with more training, specialise in different areas of medicine.

BDS

BDS focuses on dental and oral health, preparing students to work as dentists who do dental surgery and diagnose, treat, and prescribe dental care. Typically, BDS lasts five years, consisting of one year of required internship work and four years of academic study.

Graduates of the BDS program work as dentists, with an emphasis on oral health, managing dental conditions and performing dental operations. They can also specialise in areas such as oral surgery, periodontics, and orthodontics.

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Difference between MBBS and BDS- An Overview 

BDS vs MBBS: Key Highlights

Particulars MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
Course Level Undergraduate Undergraduate
Duration 5.5 years Five years
Fees • Government: ₹6,100 - ₹1.1 Crore
• Private: ₹14,000 - ₹1 Crore 		• Government: ₹25,000 - ₹16 Lakh
• Private: ₹4.04 Lakh - ₹38.1 Lakh
Admission Entrance exam-based Entrance exam-based
Eligibility • 12th grade Science stream
• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology (with practicals), Mathematics
• Minimum age: 17 years 		• 12th grade Science stream
• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Entrance Exams NEET • NEET
• KEAM
Notable Institutions • Government: AIIMS Delhi, JIPMER, KGMU, AIIMS Rishikesh
• Private: CMC, KMC, SRIHER, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Saveetha Institute 		• Government: KGMU, Datta Meghe Institute, Institute of Medical Sciences
• Private: MMU, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, MSRUAS
Career Opportunities • MBBS Doctors
• Medical Surgeons
• Medical Officers
• Pediatricians
• General Physicians
• Medical Assistants (Surgery) 		• Dentists
• Dental Officers (Defense Services)
• Dentists (Indian Railways)
• Lecturers
• Researchers
Salary Range ₹2.5 LPA - ₹15 LPA ₹3 LPA - ₹9 LPA
Major Employers Medanta Hospitals
Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre
Fortis Healthcare 		Hospitals
Dental Clinics
Educational Institutes
Dental Product Manufacturers

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Eligibility for BDS vs MBBS 

The qualifying requirements guarantee that applicants are ready for the theoretical and practical difficulties of MBBS and BDS programs, ultimately leading to prosperous careers in medicine and dentistry.

The table below shows the eligibility requirements for BDS vs MBBS:

Parameters MBBS BDS
Educational Qualification Completion of Class 12 in Science with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) Completion of Class 12 in Science with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB)
Minimum Percentage Required 50% 50%
Age Requirement 17 years 17 years
Entrance Examination NEET NEET & KEAM

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Admission Process- MBBS vs BDS 

The main entrance test (NEET-UG) for both BDS and MBBS in India is the same, although the career prospects and future options are different in BDS vs MBBS.

Also, if candidates prefer to apply for the BDS course without taking NEET, they can sit for KEAM too.

In addition, students can review the main distinctions between these two entrance tests required for admission to BDS vs MBBS from the table below: 

Particulars MBBS BDS
Entrance Exam NEET NEET & KEAM
Conducting Body National Testing Agency NEET - National Testing Agency
KEAM - Office of the Commissioner for Entrance Exams, Government of Kerala
Mode of Exam Offline NEET - Offline
KEAM - Online (Computer-Based)
Exam Syllabus NEET covers Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from Classes 11 and 12 NEET - Covers Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from Classes 11 and 12
KEAM - Prescribed by CEE Kerala, KEAM includes Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics based on the Class 11 and 12 curricula, with weightage distributed as 5:3:2 in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry

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Syllabus- BDS vs MBBS 

A person's interest in general medicine versus specialist dental care will determine whether to pursue an MBBS or BDS degree. The BDS and MBBS course curricula demand commitment and a solid background in science courses.

An outline of the Indian BDS vs MBBS semester-by-semester course is provided below:

Semesters MBBS BDS
Semester 1 Introduction to Embryology and Histology
Introduction to Molecular Medicine 		General Human Anatomy, including Embryology and Histology
General Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Nutrition, and Dietetics
Dental Anatomy, Embryology, and Oral Histology
Semester 2 Neuroscience I (Peripheral System)
Respiratory System 		Dental Materials
Preclinical Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge
Semester 3 General Pathology
Environmental Pathology 		General Pathology and Microbiology
General and Dental Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Preclinical Conservative Dentistry
Semester 4 Systematic Pathology
Alimentary System 		Preclinical Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge
Oral Pathology & Oral Microbiology
Semester 5 Special Pathology
Growth Disturbance and Neoplasia 		General Medicine
General Surgery
Oral Pathology & Microbiology
Semester 6 Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases
Reproductive and Child Health 		Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral Medicine and Radiology
Semester 7 Infectious Diseases
Diseases of the Immune System 		Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
Oral Medicine and Radiology
Semester 8 Endocrine Diseases
Brain Death 		Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge
Semester 9 Nervous System
Environmental Disorders 		-

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Top 10 Colleges BDS vs MBBS

The MBBS and BDS difference is that these courses  demand intense academic preparation and commitment. The college of choice can significantly impact the quality of education, clinical exposure, and career chances in the different professions.

The following tables list well-known MBBS and BDS colleges in India for prospective students:

BDS vs MBBS: Reputed Colleges and Fees
BDS Colleges BDS Course Fees MBBS Colleges MBBS Course Fees
KGMU ₹1.9 L AIIMS Delhi ₹6.08 K
SRIHER ₹24 L CMC ₹13.5 K
SRM Dental College ₹17.6 L KGMU ₹2.14 L
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences ₹42.5 L JIPMER ₹30.46 K
DMIHER ₹20 L KMC, Manipal ₹80.1 L
MMU ₹9.6 L MMC ₹68.02 K
Saraswati Dental College ₹11.72 L St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences ₹30 L
IMS BHU ₹1.67 L AIIMS Rishikesh ₹51.52 K
MAMC ₹16.48 K SRIHER ₹1.13 Cr

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Also Read: MBBS Fees for Private and Government Colleges 

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Career Opportunities BDS vs MBBS 

MBBS and BDS are fulfilling professions that can improve patients' lives. Depending on personal preferences, professional goals, and academic standing, one may choose between the two.

Courses after BDS 

Here are the courses you can pursue after BDS to advance your knowledge: 

Courses Description
MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) MDS is a postgraduate program for Dental graduates, offering specialisation and advanced expertise in various dental fields for focused practice.
MBA in Hospital Management This postgraduate course trains healthcare professionals in management and leadership skills to affiliate healthcare institutions.
Clinical Research Programs These courses provide training for healthcare professionals on conducting clinical trials and understanding clinical research regulations.
Public Health Management Public Health Management courses prepare professionals to tackle public health issues effectively with strategic solutions and management skills.

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Courses after MBBS 

Here are the courses you can pursue after an MBBS:

Courses Description
MD (Doctor of Medicine) MD is a postgraduate degree pursued after MBBS. It offers in-depth medical knowledge and specialised clinical training in various medical fields.
Master of Surgery (MS) MS is a postgraduate degree focused on advanced surgical training. It is awarded after MBBS to gain expertise in specific surgical areas.
MBA in Hospital Management This program is designed for MBBS graduates, providing management and administrative skills tailored to the healthcare industry.
DNB (Diplomate of National Board) DNB is a postgraduate qualification equivalent to an MD or MS awarded by the National Board of Examinations. It offers specialised training in medical fields.

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Salary- BDS vs MBBS 

Salary is one of the key factors to be considered befor pursuing any course. Let’s take a look at the common job roles one can get and the averag salary offered after BDS vs MBBS. 

BDS Salary in India 

Job Roles Average Annual Salary
Dental Officer in Defense Services ₹14.6 Lakhs per annum
Dentist in Indian Railways ₹7 Lakhs per annum
Academic Lecturer ₹5.7 Lakhs per annum
Private Practice Dentist ₹4 Lakhs per annum
Dental Researcher ₹5 Lakhs per annum

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MBBS Salary in India

Job Role Salary Offered
Surgical Specialist ₹15 Lakhs per annum
Medical Officer ₹10.6 Lakhs per annum
Child Specialist (Paediatrician) ₹12 Lakhs per annum
General Practitioner ₹7.2 Lakhs per annum
Surgical Assistant ₹2.5 Lakhs per annum

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Your question on “Is BDS better than MBBS” must have been answered by now. However, both BDS and MBBS courses require a significant amount of investment. 

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Propelld offers a 100% digital process for students to apply for a loan from the comfort of their homes. 

There are several more benefits, such as: 

Feature Details
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CollateralNot Required
MoratoriumAvailable
Processing Time10 Times Faster than Banks
Disbursal Time7 Days
Approval RateHigher than Banks
Special USPMarks Based Approval
% Financed100% of Fees

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FAQ: BDS vs MBBS 

What is the full form of BDS and MBBS in India?

BDS stands for Bachelor of Dental Surgery, and MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. Both are undergraduate medical degrees eligible for education loan financing in India.

Can I get an education loan for BDS and MBBS courses in India?

Yes, students admitted to recognised BDS or MBBS colleges in India can apply for education loans to cover tuition fees, hostel expenses, books, and other academic costs.

Is NEET mandatory for BDS and MBBS education loans?

Yes, since NEET qualification is compulsory for admission, banks require a valid NEET scorecard and confirmed admission before approving the loan.

Is MBBS more expensive than BDS for education loan purposes?

Generally, MBBS courses—especially in private colleges—have higher tuition fees than BDS, resulting in a higher required loan amount.

What is the maximum education loan amount for MBBS and BDS in India?

Banks usually offer up to ₹7.5 lakhs without collateral. Higher loan amounts, common for private MBBS colleges, may require collateral.

Is collateral required for MBBS and BDS education loans?

Collateral is typically not required for loans up to ₹7.5 lakhs. For higher loan amounts, lenders may ask for property or other approved security.

What expenses are covered under MBBS and BDS education loans?

Loans generally cover tuition fees, hostel charges, examination fees, books, medical instruments, and other academic-related expenses.

What is the interest rate for MBBS and BDS education loans?

Interest rates usually range between 8% and 13% per annum, depending on the lender, loan amount, and applicant profile.

What is the repayment tenure for MBBS and BDS education loans?

Repayment tenure generally ranges from 10 to 15 years, including the moratorium period.

Does the internship period count under the moratorium for MBBS and BDS loans?

Yes, the compulsory internship is included in the course duration and covered under the moratorium period.

Are government subsidies available for MBBS and BDS education loans?

Eligible students from economically weaker sections may avail government interest subsidy schemes based on income criteria.

Are tax benefits available on MBBS and BDS education loans?

Yes, under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, the interest paid on education loans qualifies for tax deduction for up to 8 years.

Can I get a 100% education loan for private MBBS or BDS colleges?

Some banks and NBFCs may finance up to 100% of tuition fees for recognised private medical and dental colleges, subject to eligibility.

Can I apply for an education loan before MBBS or BDS admission confirmation?

Banks generally require a confirmed admission letter for final sanction, but students can begin the inquiry process after qualifying NEET.

Can I take a second education loan for MD, MS, or MDS after MBBS or BDS?

Yes, students pursuing postgraduate medical or dental specialisations can apply for a fresh education loan, subject to eligibility and repayment history.

Which course usually requires a higher education loan amount: MBBS or BDS?

MBBS typically requires a higher loan amount due to higher tuition fees, especially in private medical colleges.

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About the Author

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Vaishali Pandey
Content Marketer
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A banker turned content marketer with expertise in growth-focused content strategies for the finance and digital sectors.  She currently drives data-backed content initiatives at Propelld, through high-impact storytelling.

Before moving into content marketing, Vaishali spent nearly a decade in banking, across their asset and lending divisions and spent almost a decade in finance. An MBA in Marketing and a writer at heart, she finally took up content marketing and now simplifies money talks for the readers.

She is also a certified digital marketer (MICA), combining data-driven insights with creative storytelling to deliver measurable business growth.

Beyond work, Vaishali is a handcrafted brand founder, avid reader, and travel & food blogger, blending creativity and strategy in everything she does.

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