BAMS Course in India: Eligibility, Admission, Syllabus, Top Colleges, and Career Scope
The BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) course is one of the most respected and holistic medical degrees in India. Rooted in the 5,000-year-old science of Ayurveda, BAMS blends traditional healing with modern medical knowledge, making it a unique and valuable career path for students interested in natural and preventive healthcare.
This guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing BAMS in India — including course structure, eligibility, top colleges, and future prospects.
What is BAMS?
BAMS is an undergraduate degree course that focuses on Ayurvedic medicine — an ancient Indian system of holistic healing that aims to balance body, mind, and spirit. The BAMS curriculum integrates Ayurvedic concepts with some elements of modern medicine, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology.
- Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years academic + 1 year internship)
- Recognition: Approved by NCISM (National Commission for Indian System of Medicine), Ministry of AYUSH
Why Choose BAMS?
✅ Traditional & Modern Blend
Gain expertise in both Ayurveda and basic modern medical practices.
✅ Growing Demand
As interest in natural, alternative, and preventive healthcare rises, BAMS professionals are in high demand globally.
✅ Government Support
The Indian government promotes Ayurveda through the Ministry of AYUSH, opening job and research opportunities.
✅ Global Scope
Ayurveda is recognized in many countries, creating opportunities for practice, research, and wellness entrepreneurship abroad.
Eligibility Criteria for BAMS in India
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 (Science) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- Minimum Marks: 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC)
- Entrance Exam: NEET-UG is mandatory for admission
- Age: Minimum 17 years by 31st December of the admission year
BAMS Admission Process
- Qualify NEET-UG
NEET is mandatory for all BAMS admissions in India. - Register for Counseling
Through:- AYUSH Admissions Central Counseling Committee (AACCC) – for All India Quota (AIQ)
- State Counseling Authorities – for state quota seats
- Seat Allotment
Based on NEET rank, category, and preferences. - Document Verification & Admission Confirmation
Course Curriculum of BAMS
Year-wise Subjects:
1st Year
- Sanskrit
- Padartha Vigyan
- Ayurved Itihas (History)
- Kriya Sharira (Physiology)
- Rachana Sharira (Anatomy)
2nd Year
- Dravyaguna Vigyan (Pharmacology of Herbs)
- Rasashastra (Pharmaceuticals)
- Roga Vigyan (Pathology)
- Agadtantra (Toxicology)
- Charak Samhita (Ayurvedic Text)
3rd Year
- Swasthavritta (Preventive and Social Medicine)
- Prasuti Tantra & Stri Roga (Gynaecology)
- Kaumarbhritya (Pediatrics)
- Kayachikitsa (General Medicine)
- Panchakarma
- Shalya Tantra (Surgery)
- Shalakya Tantra (ENT & Ophthalmology)
Internship (1 Year)
Practical training in hospital departments — OPD/IPD, Panchakarma, Surgery, etc.
Top BAMS Colleges in India
| College Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi |
| Government Ayurveda College | Thiruvananthapuram |
| National Institute of Ayurveda | Jaipur |
| Tilak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya | Pune |
| Government Ayurvedic College | Guwahati |
| Rishikul Ayurvedic College | Haridwar |
| Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College | Karnataka |
| Patanjali Ayurved College | Haridwar |
BAMS Course Fees in India
| Type of Institute | Fee Range (per year) |
|---|---|
| Government Colleges | ₹15,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Private Colleges | ₹1.5 – ₹3.5 Lakhs |
| Deemed/Autonomous | ₹3 – ₹5 Lakhs |
Note: Fees may vary depending on state policies and category reservation.
Career Options After BAMS
🔹 Clinical Practice
Start your own Ayurvedic clinic or work with hospitals and wellness centers.
🔹 Government Jobs
Apply through UPSC, State PSCs, or AYUSH ministries for roles like Medical Officer, Health Officer, etc.
🔹 Postgraduate Studies
Pursue MD (Ayurveda), MSc in related fields, MPH, MBA in Hospital Administration, etc.
🔹 Research & Academics
Join research institutes like CCRAS or become a lecturer/professor in Ayurveda colleges.
🔹 Entrepreneurship
Launch your own Ayurvedic product line, wellness center, or Panchakarma clinic.
🔹 Abroad Opportunities
Work in countries recognizing Ayurveda (e.g., Germany, Sri Lanka, Nepal, UAE) or pursue wellness tourism opportunities.
BAMS vs MBBS: A Quick Comparison
| Aspect | BAMS | MBBS |
|---|---|---|
| System | Ayurveda (Traditional) | Allopathy (Modern Medicine) |
| Duration | 5.5 years | 5.5 years |
| Entrance | NEET | NEET |
| Scope | Clinical, Research, Wellness | Clinical, Surgery, PG Courses |
| Global Scope | Growing in wellness sectors | High in hospitals globally |
| PG Options | MD in Ayurveda, MSc, PhD | MD/MS, DNB |
Conclusion
BAMS is an excellent career path for students passionate about holistic healthcare, herbal medicine, and wellness. With growing awareness of Ayurveda across India and abroad, BAMS graduates are finding increasing opportunities in clinical practice, research, government health services, and the wellness industry.
If you want to become a doctor with a traditional touch and modern understanding, BAMS could be the right course for you!