Dental colleges in Kerala offer a wide range of opportunities for students to develop their knowledge, skills, and personalities and prepare them for successful careers in the field of dentistry. Dental education in Kerala is regulated by the National Dental Commission, which is a statutory body responsible for maintaining the standards of dental education and practice in the country.
Kerala has 6 government dental colleges with 300 BDS seats, 19 private dental colleges with 1,620 BDS seats, and 1 deemed institute. Admission to these colleges will be based on the NEET Exam Score conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE) will conduct NEET counselling for 85% of seats in government dental colleges and 100% of seats in private dental colleges under the state quota. The remaining 15% of seats in government dental colleges will be allocated through counselling conducted by the Medical Counseling Committee (MCC) under the All India Quota (AIQ). The dental colleges in Kerala offer both undergraduate (BDS) and postgraduate (MDS) courses. The BDS course is a 5-year program that includes 4 years of academic study and 1 year of compulsory internship. The MDS course is a 3-year program that allows students to specialize in various dental fields, such as oral surgery, periodontics, orthodontics, etc.
Dental Course Facts
| Course | BDS | MDS |
| Examination Type | NEET-UG | NEET-MDS Exam |
| Approval From | National Dental Commission | National Dental Commission |
| Eligibility Criteria | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology | BDS degree |
| Duration | 5.5 years | 3 years |
| Popular Dental Colleges in India | Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, Delhi Manipal College of Dental Sciences, ManipalGovernment Dental College and Hospital, MumbaiNair Hospital Dental College, MumbaiSDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad | Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai Christian Dental College, LudhianaNair Hospital Dental College, MumbaiGovernment Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai |
| Popular Dental Colleges In Kerala | Government Dental College, KottayamGovernment Dental College, CalicutGovernment Dental College, ThrissurPMS College of Dental Science and Research, ThiruvananthapuramPushpagiri College of Dental Sciences, ThiruvallaMES Dental College, MalappuramAzeezia College of Dental Sciences and Research, KollamMar Baselios Dental College, Kothamangalam | Government Dental College, KottayamGovernment Dental College, CalicutGovernment Dental College, ThrissurPMS College of Dental Science and Research, ThiruvananthapuramPushpagiri College of Dental Sciences, ThiruvallaMES Dental College, MalappuramAzeezia College of Dental Sciences and Research, KollamMar Baselios Dental College, Kothamangalam |
Contents
- 1 Why is Kerala a popular destination for Dental aspirants?
- 2 About Dental Courses (BDS & MDS)
- 3 Career Opportunities & Scope
- 4 Counselling Procedure
- 5 MCC 15 % AIQ Quota
- 6 Participating Dental Colleges
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions
- 7.1 Q. What are the eligibility criteria for admission to dental colleges in Kerala?
- 7.2 Q. Are dental colleges in Kerala recognized by the National Dental Commission?
- 7.3 Q. What are the courses offered by dental colleges in Kerala?
- 7.4 Q. What is the duration of the BDS course in Kerala?
- 7.5 Q. What is the duration of the MDS course in Kerala?
- 7.6 Q. How is the practical training in dental colleges in Kerala?
- 7.7 Q. What are the career prospects after completing dental education in Kerala?
- 7.8 Q. What is the admission process for dental colleges in Kerala?
- 7.9 Q. What are the job opportunities after completing a dental course from Kerala?
- 7.10 Q, What are the extracurricular activities available for dental students in Kerala?
Why is Kerala a popular destination for Dental aspirants?
High-quality education: Kerala has some of the best dental colleges in India that offer high-quality education and training to students. The colleges are recognized by the National Dental Commission and are affiliated with top universities, ensuring that students receive a rigorous academic curriculum.
Skilled Faculty: The dental colleges in Kerala have highly qualified and experienced faculty members who provide excellent guidance to the students. The faculty is well-versed in the latest dental techniques and technologies, ensuring that students are trained in the most up-to-date methods.
State-of-the-art facilities: Kerala’s dental colleges have state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped labs and clinics, that provide students with hands-on training in various dental procedures. This helps students to develop practical skills that are essential for a successful career in dentistry.
Clinical Exposure: Dental colleges in Kerala provide ample clinical exposure to students. They offer opportunities to treat patients under the supervision of experienced dentists, which helps students gain practical experience and build confidence.
Affordable Cost of Living: Kerala is a desirable destination for students from across India due to its affordable cost of living. The state is a desirable place to live and study because it also has a vibrant culture and stunning scenery.
About Dental Courses (BDS & MDS)
- Dentistry is a field of medicine that focuses on the investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the mouth, maxillofacial region, and related structures. The knowledge and skills needed to work in the dental industry are taught in dental courses. In India, the two primary dental programs are the BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) and the MDS (Master of Dental Surgery).
- An internship of one year is included in the five-year BDS program, which is an undergraduate dental program. Among the topics covered in the course are anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, dental materials, dental histology, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, and community dentistry. Additionally, students receive practical training in prosthodontics, root canal therapy, tooth extraction, and fillings.
- The three-year MDS program is a postgraduate program in dentistry. The goal of the course is to give students advanced knowledge and skills in a variety of dental specialities, including prosthodontics, orthodontics, pedodontics, periodontics, conservative dentistry, and endodontics. In order to graduate from the MDS program, students must complete a research project.
- Students must have a solid background in biology and science to be successful in both BDS and MDS courses. Additionally, students should be very skilled with their hands, have good communication skills, and focus on the needs of their patients when doing their work. Graduates from dental schools with a BDS or MDS degree can find employment as dental specialists in public and private clinics, research centres, and educational settings.
Career Opportunities & Scope
With technological and scientific advancements, the field of dentistry is also rapidly expanding. The demand for dental services is rising along with the population, presenting more career opportunities for dental specialists. Additionally, the growing emphasis on preventive care and early intervention is opening up more opportunities for dental professionals due to the increased awareness of oral health and hygiene. Following are a few of the career options open to BDS and MDS graduates:
Private Practice: Graduates of BDS or MDS programs can open their own private practices and offer patients dental care after completing their programs. For those who have an entrepreneurial spirit and are willing to take risks, private practice can be a lucrative option.
Hospital dentistry: Many hospitals have dental departments where dental specialists collaborate with other medical specialists to offer patients comprehensive medical care.
Academician: Graduates with an MDS degree can work in research and teaching capacities at dental universities and colleges. Additionally, they can work toward a PhD in dentistry and advance the subject through research.
Dentistry for public health: Dentists can work for governmental and non-governmental institutions that prioritize promoting dental health and preventing dental diseases.
Dental Industry: The dental industry has a variety of career options, including sales, marketing, and the design and development of dental tools and supplies.
Salary Range & Job Outlook
The salary range for dental professionals in India varies depending on factors such as qualifications, experience, location, and the nature of the job. Here is an approximate salary range for various job profiles in the dental field:
| Job Profile | Salary Range |
| BDS fresher | Rs. 20,000/- to Rs. 40,000/- Per Month |
| MDS fresher | Rs. 35,000/- to Rs. 60,000/- Per Month |
| Private Practice | Rs. 50,000/- to Rs. 2,00,000/-Per Month |
| Hospital Dentistry | Rs. 40,000/- to Rs. 1,00,000/-Per Month |
| Academician | Rs. 40,000/- to Rs. 1,00,000/- Per Month |
| Public Health Dentistry | Rs. 30,000/- to Rs. 70,000/- Per Month |
| Dental Industry | Rs. 30,000/- to Rs. 1,00,000/- Per Month |
The increasing awareness about oral health and hygiene is leading to a greater demand for preventive care and early intervention, creating more job opportunities for dental professionals. The job outlook for dental professionals in India is positive, with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement in the field.
Counselling Procedure
The Kerala NEET counselling process is a six-step process that includes registration, document verification, choice filling and locking, seat allotment, payment of fee, and reporting to the allotted college. Let’s take a detailed look at each step of the Kerala NEET counselling process:
Step 1 – Registration: The first step in the Kerala NEET counselling process is online registration on the official website of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala. Candidates must provide their personal and academic details, along with their NEET scorecard and other relevant documents. They must also pay the counselling fee at this stage.
The registration process for Kerala NEET counselling is an online process that is conducted by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala. Here are the steps to register for Kerala NEET counselling:
- Visit the official website of the CEE, Kerala: Candidates must visit the official website of the CEE, Kerala at cee.kerala.gov.in to begin the registration process.
- Click on the NEET UG Candidate Portal: On the homepage of the CEE, Kerala website, candidates must click on the NEET UG Candidate Portal link.
- Create a Profile: Candidates must create a profile by providing their personal and academic details, along with their NEET scorecard details. They must also create a login ID and password at this stage.
- Upload Documents: After creating a profile, candidates must upload the necessary documents such as their NEET scorecard, 10+2 mark sheet, passport-size photograph, and signature in the prescribed format and size.
- Pay Counselling Fee: After uploading the documents, candidates must pay the counselling fee through online mode using a debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- Print Acknowledgement: After payment of the counselling fee, candidates must take a printout of the payment receipt and acknowledgement slip.
- Registration Number: Candidates will receive a registration number after completing the registration process. They must keep the registration number safe for future reference.
It is important to note that candidates must provide accurate and complete information during the registration process. Any incorrect or incomplete information may lead to cancellation of their application. Candidates must also ensure that they upload the documents in the prescribed format and size to avoid any technical issues.
Step 2 – Document Verification: After registration, candidates must visit the designated verification centre to verify their documents. Candidates must bring their original documents along with their photocopies for verification. The verification process is important to ensure that the information provided by the candidates is accurate and complete.
Step 3 – Choice Filling and Locking: Once the document verification process is completed, candidates can fill in their choices of colleges and courses based on their preferences. Candidates are advised to carefully choose their preferences as the allotment of seats is based on their choices. Candidates must also lock their choices within the given timeframe.
Step 4 – Seat Allotment: The CEE, Kerala releases a merit list based on the preferences and the availability of seats. Candidates who are allotted a seat in a college are notified through their registered email and mobile number. They can download their allotment memo from the official website of the CEE, Kerala.
Step 5 – Payment of Fee: Candidates who are allotted a seat in a college must pay the required fee within the given timeframe to confirm their admission. Candidates must pay the fee online through the official website of the CEE, Kerala.
Step 6 – Reporting to the Allotted College: Candidates who have confirmed their admission by paying the fee must report to the allotted college within the given timeframe and complete the admission formalities. Candidates must bring their original documents along with their photocopies for verification at the time of admission.
It is important to note that Kerala has both government and private medical and dental colleges, and the counseling process for each type of college may vary. Candidates who have completed their 10+2 education from Kerala and have a domicile certificate are eligible for 85% of the seats in government medical and dental colleges. Candidates who have completed their 10+2 education from outside Kerala are eligible for the remaining 15% of the seats in government medical and dental colleges, as well as all the seats in private medical and dental colleges in the state.
MCC 15 % AIQ Quota
About MCC
The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The MCC is responsible for conducting online counselling for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate medical and dental courses in India, including MBBS and BDS, through the NEET UG and NEET PG exams, respectively.
The MCC conducts centralized counselling for the All India Quota (AIQ) seats in government medical and dental colleges across India, as well as for seats in Deemed and Central Universities, ESIC, and AFMC colleges. The counselling process involves registration, choice filling, seat allotment, document verification, and admission to the allotted colleges.
MCC NEET Counselling Registration
MCC holds four rounds of NEET-UG counselling for AIQ, including a mop-up round and a stray vacancy round. Following the completion of Round 2, the MCC will fill the remaining seats in a mop-up round and a stray vacancy round. The following steps must be taken:
- Visit the official website: Visit the official website of MCC (https://mcc.nic.in/) and click on the “UG Medical Counseling” tab.
- New registration: Click on “New Registration” and fill in all the required details such as personal details, contact details, NEET exam details, and security pin. After filling in all the details, click on the “Submit” button.
- Login credentials: After successful registration, a new page will appear with your login credentials. Use these credentials to log in and fill in your choices of colleges and courses.
- Choice filling: Fill in your preferred colleges and courses in order of priority. You can choose as many choices as you want.
- Locking of choices: After you have filled in your choices, you need to lock them by clicking on the “Lock Choices” button. Once the choices are locked, you cannot make any changes.
- Seat allotment: The MCC conducts the seat allotment process based on your rank, category, and the choices filled by you. You will be able to see your seat allotment result on the official website.
- Reporting to the allotted college: If you are satisfied with the seat allotted to you, you need to report to the allotted college within the specified time with all the required documents and pay the admission fee.
MCC Counselling Fees Structure
Counselling Fee (Non Refundable)
| Institution Type | UR | SC/ST/OBC/PwD |
| 15% AIQ/Central Universities | Rs. 1,000 | Rs. 500 |
| Deemed University | Rs. 5,000 | Rs. 5,000 |
Security Fee (Refundable)
| Institution Type | UR | SC/ST/OBC/PwD |
| 15% AIQ/Central Universities | Rs. 1,0000 | Rs. 5,000 |
| Deemed University | Rs. 2,00,000 | Rs. 2,00,000 |
BDS College Predictor
BDS College Predictor is a tool or software that helps students predict which BDS colleges they are likely to get admission in based on their NEET UG score, preferred location, and category. The predictor tool uses the previous year’s cut-off data, admission trends, and other relevant factors to generate a list of BDS colleges that match the student’s score and preferences.
The BDS College Predictor tool helps students make informed decisions about their admission process by giving them an idea of the colleges they may get admission to. It also helps them plan their application process by shortlisting colleges based on their preferences and eligibility criteria.
BDS Admission Consultant
A BDS admission consultant is a professional who provides guidance and assistance to students seeking admission to Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) courses in India. Our Consultants typically have extensive knowledge and experience in the field of dental education and can help students navigate the complex admission process. Helping students choose the right colleges based on their academic record, career goals, and personal preferences.
Assisting students with the application process, including filling out application forms, writing personal statements, and gathering necessary documents. Our top admission consultants are committed to serving each individual with the utmost integrity around the clock. Feel free to contact our admission consultant for any admission-related queries.
MDS College Predictor
MDS College Predictor is an online tool that helps students predict which dental colleges they are likely to get admission to for Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) programs based on their NEET MDS score, category, and preferred location. The predictor tool uses the previous year’s cut-off data, admission trends, and other relevant factors to generate a list of MDS colleges that match the student’s score and preferences.
The MDS College Predictor tool helps students make informed decisions about their admission process by giving them an idea of the colleges they may get admission to. It also helps them plan their application process by shortlisting colleges based on their preferences and eligibility criteria.
MDS Admission Consultant
An MDS admission consultant is a professional who provides guidance and assistance to students seeking admission to Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) programs in India. Our consultants have extensive knowledge and experience in the field of dental education and can help students navigate the complex admission process.
They provide expert advice, support, and guidance throughout the admission process, helping students make informed decisions and achieve their academic and career goals.
Participating Dental Colleges
Government Dental Colleges in Kerala
| College Name | Affiliated University | Est.Year | Type | Seat Intake | Tuition Fees |
| Govt. Dental College, Alappuzha | Kerala | 2014-15 | Govt. | 50 | |
| Govt. Dental College, Kottayam | Kerala | 2001-02 | Govt. | 40 | |
| Govt. Dental College, Kozhikode | Kerala | 1981-82 | Govt. | 50 | |
| Govt. Dental College, Thrissur | Kerala | 2015-16 | Govt. | 50 | |
| Govt. Dental College, Trivandrum | Kerala | 1959-60 | Govt. | 50 | |
| Pariyaram Dental College, Academy of Medical Sciences, Kannur | Kerala | 2004-05 | Govt. | 60 |
Private Dental Colleges in Kerala
| College Name | Affiliated university | Established Year | Type | Seat Intake | Tuition Fees |
| Al-Azhar Dental College, Kerala | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Amrita School of Dentistry, Kochi | Kerala | 2003-04 | Private | 60 | |
| Annoor Dental College & Hospital, Ernakulam | Kerala | 2002-03 | Private | 50 | |
| Azeezia College of Dental Sciences & Research, Kollam | Kerala | 2004-05 | Private | 100 | |
| Century International Institute of Dental Science & Research Center, Kasaragod | Kerala | 2003-04 | Private | 100 | |
| Educare Institute of Dental Sciences, Malappuram | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Sciences, Kothamangalam | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Kannur Dental College, kannur | Kerala | 2003-04 | Private | 100 | |
| KMCT Dental College, Calicut | Kerala | 2006-07 | Private | 100 | |
| Malabar Dental College & Research Centre, Malappuram | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Mar Baselios Dental College, Kothamangalam | Kerala | 2002-03 | Private | 60 | |
| MES Dental College, Malappuram | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Noorul Islam College of Dental Sciences, Trivandrum | Kerala | 2006-07 | Private | 100 | |
| PMS College of Dental Science & Research, Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala | 2002-03 | Private | 100 | |
| PSM College of Dental Sciences & Research, Trichur | Kerala | 2007-08 | Private | 100 | |
| Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences, Tiruvalla | Kerala | 2006-07 | Private | 50 | |
| Royal Dental College, Kerala | Kerala | 2003-04 | Private | 60 | |
| Sree Anjaneya Medical Trust, Calicut | Kerala | 2013-14 | Private | 100 | |
| Sri Sankara Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala | 2006-07 | Private | 100 | |
| St. Gregorios Dental College, Ernakulam | Kerala | 2005-06 | Private | 50 | |
| Travancore Dental College | Kerala | 2023-24 | Private | 50 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for admission to dental colleges in Kerala?
Ans: The eligibility criteria for admission to dental colleges in Kerala vary based on the course and the college. Generally, candidates should have completed 10+2 with a minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. They must have also appeared for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and obtained a qualifying score.
Q. Are dental colleges in Kerala recognized by the National Dental Commission?
Ans: Yes, dental colleges in Kerala are recognized by the National Dental Commission. They are also affiliated with universities and are regulated by state governments.
Q. What are the courses offered by dental colleges in Kerala?
Ans: Dental colleges in Kerala offer undergraduate (BDS) and postgraduate (MDS) courses in various dental specializations such as orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, etc.
Q. What is the duration of the BDS course in Kerala?
Ans: The duration of the BDS course in Kerala is five years, which includes four years of academic study and one year of compulsory internship.
Q. What is the duration of the MDS course in Kerala?
Ans: The duration of the MDS course in Kerala is three years.
Q. How is the practical training in dental colleges in Kerala?
Ans: Dental colleges in Kerala have state-of-the-art facilities that provide students with hands-on training in various dental procedures. Students get practical training in clinics, labs, and simulation labs that allow them to practice their skills before treating real patients. The faculty also provides guidance and mentorship to the students during their training.
Q. What are the career prospects after completing dental education in Kerala?
Ans: After completing dental education in Kerala, students can work as dentists in private or government hospitals, and clinics, or set up their own dental practice. They can also pursue higher studies in the field of dentistry or go into research and teaching.
Q. What is the admission process for dental colleges in Kerala?
Ans: The admission process for dental colleges in Kerala is based on the candidate’s NEET score. Candidates who have qualified for NEET must apply for counselling conducted by the Kerala government. Based on their NEET score and the state merit rank, they can choose their preferred college and course during the counselling process.
Q. What are the job opportunities after completing a dental course from Kerala?
Ans: After completing a dental course from Kerala, students can work as dentists in government or private hospitals, or dental clinics, or start their own practice. They can also work as dental consultants, dental surgeons, or dental specialists in private or government organizations. Dental education in Kerala also opens up opportunities for higher education and research in the field of dentistry.
Q, What are the extracurricular activities available for dental students in Kerala?
Ans: Dental colleges in Kerala offer a range of extracurricular activities for students, such as sports, cultural events, and social activities. These activities help students to develop their overall personality and provide them with opportunities to interact with peers from different backgrounds.