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Understanding the NEET BDS Course 2025
Bachelor of Dental Surgery, or BDS for short, is a professional undergraduate dental curriculum. The five-year BDS program consists of a one-year rotating internship and four years of theoretical study. India has 28,088 BDS seats available at more than 320 government, private, and recognized universities as of 2024.
Candidates for the BDS program must have graduated from an authorized Indian board with a 10+2 in the science stream. The BDS program is supervised by the Dental Council of India (DCI). For individuals who wish to work in dental surgery and healthcare, this article offers comprehensive information about the BDS course.
BDS Eligibility Criteria: Your Pathway to a Dental Career
Aspiring candidates must fulfill the eligibility criteria to gain admission to the BDS course. It is essential for them to understand the fundamental requirements for pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery, along with the course structure. These eligibility guidelines must be followed to secure admission to the program. Below are the eligibility criteria as per NEET.
1. Candidates with disabilities must have received a minimum score of 45% on their qualifying tests.
2. Candidates from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Scheduled Castes (SC) must receive at least 40% of the possible points.
3. OCI, NRI, and international applicants, as well as unreserved candidates, must have received at least 50% of the possible points on their qualifying test in biology/biotechnology, chemistry, and physics.
4. According to the rules of the Dental Council of India and the relevant university, students from foreign or international boards are eligible if their qualifying test scores match the equivalency established by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
5. Candidates must have successfully completed a recognized Higher/Senior Secondary Examination or the Indian School Certificate Examination, equivalent to the 10+2, with subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology.
6. Prior to December 31 of the year of admission, or at the time of admission, candidates must have completed 17 years.
BDS Course Duration & Fees: Your Complete Guide
The 5 years BDS course duration consists of four years of theory and 1 year of a rotating internship program. The BDS fees are set by the university or medical college where the students are admitted. Before enrolling in any particular Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) college, students should study the fee structure. Both government and private universities charge between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,200,000 lakhs for BDS.
NEET BDS Course 2025 Syllabus: Understanding the Core Subjects
| 1st Year |
|---|
|
General Human Anatomy including Embryology and Histology |
|
General Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Nutrition and Dietetics |
|
Dental Anatomy Embryology and Oral Histology |
|
Pre-clinical Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
|
Dental Materials |
| 2nd Year |
|---|
|
General and Dental Pharmacology and Therapeutics |
|
General Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Nutrition and Dietetics |
|
Dental Anatomy Embryology and Oral Histology |
|
Pre-clinical Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
|
Oral Pathology & Oral Microbiology |
| 3rd Year |
|---|
|
General Medicine |
|
Oral Medicine and Radiology |
|
Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedic |
|
General Surgery |
|
Conservative dentistry and Endodontics |
|
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery |
|
Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry Periodontology |
|
Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
| 4th Year |
|---|
|
Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics |
|
Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics |
|
Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
|
Periodontology |
|
Oral Medicine & Radiology |
|
Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
|
Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics |
|
Public Health Dentistry |
All candidates must complete an obligatory rotating internship program in all departments for the length specified for each department below after passing the exam.
NEET BDS Internship Departments and Duration of Postings
| Units | Duration of Assignments |
|---|---|
|
Oral Medicine & Radiology |
1 month |
|
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery |
1 and a half month |
|
Prosthodontics |
1 and a half month |
|
Periodontics |
1 month |
|
Conservative Dentist |
1 month |
|
Pedodontics |
1 month |
|
Oral Pathology & Microbiology |
15 days |
|
Orthodontics |
1 month |
|
Community Dentist/Rural Service |
3 months |
|
Elective |
15 days |
|
Total |
12 months |
Conclusion
The well-organized undergraduate Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program equips students for a fulfilling future in dentistry. The 5 years program, which includes a 1 year rotating internship, blends classroom instruction with hands-on experience to guarantee a thorough understanding of dental sciences.
With over 28,000 seats available across India and unambiguous qualifying standards, BDS offers aspiring dentists several opportunities to pursue their objectives. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, from fundamental sciences to specialized dental specialties, to ensure that students are ready for success in both the classroom and the workplace.
The required internship fosters practical skills and real-world knowledge by providing hands-on exposure in a variety of departments. BDS is a first step toward a rewarding and significant career in dentistry for people who are enthusiastic about oral healthcare.
Also read: BDS Course 2025: Career Options, Subjects & Key Highlights
FAQ
The 5 years undergraduate Bachelor of Dental Surgery program consists of a 1 year rotating internship and 4 years of theoretical study.
As of 2024, there are 28,088 BDS seats available across more than 320 government, private, and deemed universities in India.
The BDS course prepares students for a career in dental surgery and healthcare, offering opportunities to work as certified dentists or pursue advanced specializations.
Yes, the BDS program is regulated and recognized by the Dental Council of India (DCI).
Candidates must fulfill the NEET qualification requirements and have completed their 10+2 in the science stream (biotechnology, chemistry, biology, and physics) from an accredited board.
Yes, these subjects are mandatory for eligibility in the BDS program.
Yes, students with disabilities are eligible, provided they secure at least 45% in their qualifying exams.
Candidates must be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.