NEET MDS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master of Dental Surgery)

NEET MDS is the single gateway for admission to postgraduate dental courses across India. Administered by the NBEMS, it evaluates BDS graduates for entry into DCI-approved MDS and PG Diploma programs.

Key Exam Details

  • Eligibility: A recognized BDS degree and a completed 12-month rotatory internship by the prescribed cutoff date. Permanent or provisional registration with the State Dental Council or DCI is mandatory.
  • Format: A 3-hour computer-based test with 240 MCQs. +4 for correct answers; -1 for incorrect responses.
  • Cutoff: General category typically needs the 50th percentile; reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) need the 40th percentile.

Timeline & Counselling

  • Registration: Applications open online on the NBEMS official portal.
  • Examination: Typically conducted in spring (May).
  • Counselling: Qualified candidates participate in centralized counselling by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) for All India Quota seats, and by respective state authorities for state quota seats.