A career in dentistry is one of the most rewarding medical professions — combining science, skill, and patient care into a fulfilling lifelong journey. The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree is the gateway to this profession, and with NEET 2026 around the corner, now is the time to understand exactly how BDS admissions work in India.
This guide by Grab My University covers everything you need to know about BDS admission 2026 — eligibility, process, fees, and how to secure a seat even if counselling does not go your way.
What is BDS? Why Choose It?
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) is a 5-year undergraduate dental degree in India, including a 1-year mandatory internship. It is recognised by the Dental Council of India (DCI) and is the primary qualification to practise as a dentist.
With India’s growing demand for dental professionals and rising healthcare awareness, BDS graduates have excellent career prospects — in private practice, hospitals, government services, and even abroad.
Eligibility for BDS Admission 2026
- Must have appeared in NEET 2026 and obtained a valid qualifying score
- Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology as compulsory subjects
- Minimum 50% marks in PCB for general category (40% for SC/ST/OBC)
- Minimum age: 17 years as of 31st December 2026
- No upper age limit (as per Supreme Court ruling)
Step 1: Clear NEET 2026
NEET is the single entrance exam for all BDS admissions across India — government, management, and NRI quota. Register at neet.nta.nic.in and prepare thoroughly with focus on Biology, which carries maximum weightage.
Step 2: Register for BDS Counselling
After NEET results, register for MCC counselling for All India Quota BDS seats and your state counselling authority for state quota seats. BDS counselling runs alongside MBBS counselling.
- AIQ covers 15% of government dental college seats nationwide
- State quota covers 85% of government seats in your home state
- Private dental college seats are filled through management quota after counselling
Step 3: Explore Private College Admissions
India has over 300 dental colleges. Many top private dental colleges offer seats through Management Quota — giving you a confirmed BDS admission even after counselling rounds close.
Why Management Quota for BDS makes sense:
- Confirmed seat without waiting for multiple counselling rounds
- Choose your preferred college and city
- Valid NEET score required — no separate exam
- Fees regulated by state Fee Regulatory Committees
- Faster admission process — days instead of weeks
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Keep these documents ready for BDS admission 2026:
- NEET 2026 Scorecard
- Class 10 & 12 Mark Sheets and Certificates
- Transfer & Migration Certificate
- Date of Birth Proof
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Aadhaar Card (student & parent)
- 8–10 passport-size photographs
BDS Fees in India — What to Expect
Government BDS college fees range from ₹30,000 to ₹2 lakh per year. Private college management quota fees typically range from ₹3 lakh to ₹12 lakh per year depending on the college and state.
Always verify the fee structure with the college and get an official receipt for all payments.
How Grab My University Helps
At Grab My University, we guide BDS aspirants through every step — from college shortlisting to final seat confirmation. We work with top NMC and DCI-approved dental colleges across India and offer 100% transparent guidance.
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Grab My University — Trusted by hundreds of students across India. 📞 7788008300 / 7377290286 🌐 www.grabmyuniversity.com |
Final Thoughts
BDS in 2026 is a golden opportunity for students who are passionate about dental medicine. Whether through counselling or management quota, your path to a dental degree is clear — with the right guidance.
Contact Grab My University today and take the first step towards your BDS degree in 2026.
Grab My University | grabmyuniversity.com | 7788008300 / 7377290286
