What is BAMS?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

The BAMS course focuses on the theories and practices of Ayurveda and also provides you with the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathology and other diagnostic methods. After completing your BAMS studies, you can work as a Ayurvedic physician across healthcare settings, start with your individual practice and also work as a researcher in pharmaceutical firms and government organizations.

No, the BAMS course is an undergraduate degree course in Ayurvedic Medicine. The BAMS course does not include any doctorate; instead, it's a sort of graduate degree. One can do post-graduation like MD (Doctor of Medicine) in Ayurveda and also can do a doctorate in Ayurved Medicine after studying BAMS.

BAMS and MBBS are two different Medical degrees that students can pursue after completing Class 12. BAMS full form in medical is Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, while MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. Both degrees have their own unique curriculum and focus on different aspects of Medicine.

Candidates can look at the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.

Being a BAMS student, you can be a general physician, but only within the scope of Ayurvedic medicine. See, you are trained to diagnose and treat patients using Ayurvedic principles, so you clearly cannot prescribe allopathic medicines or perform surgeries. You can provide herbal remedies, suggest dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications to your patients, though.

Here are some reasons why individuals might choose to study an Ayurvedic Doctor course:

• We all know Ayurveda is one of the world's the oldest systems of medicine, with a history spanning thousands of years. Individuals interested in traditional healing methods, natural remedies, and holistic approaches to healthcare may find BAMS appealing.

• You can be an Ayurvedic Doctor, a consultant, researcher, or even an educator, etc.

• Ayurveda offers a wealth of unexplored territory for research. Ayurvedic Doctor course graduates can contribute to the advancement of Ayurvedic knowledge by conducting research studies and clinical trials.

Basically, BAMS admission depends on how well a student did in his or her class 12th board examination—on subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Moreover, a good score in NEET is usually required since most medical courses conduct entrance examinations on an all-India basis.

Yes, ofcourse you can get admission into many reputated BDS, BAMS or BHMS government college at this score in NEET. The cut-off for many government college of BAMS, BHMS, or BDS are always lower than 500 marks (except top 5 colleges) for reserved categories in NEET.

If you wish to pursue BAMS course in India, you must be between 17 to 25 years at the time of admission in India. But, for candidates who belong to SC/ST/OBC, the age limit may be relaxed by some colleges. 

MBBS is a medical degree which teaches modern allopathic medicine. It is a five and a half year course, where candidates learn to become future doctors of the nation,

BAMS, on the other hand, focuses on Ayurveda studies which is a traditional Indian system of medicine that uses natural remedies. Many candidates who wish to become an Ayurvedic doctor or get jobs in Ayurveda field can purue this course. 

BHMS is all about Homeopathy which is a system of medicine that treats patients with highly diluted substances. Candidates who wish to become a Homeopathic doctor can start by pursuing BHMS course.

No, BAMS cannot be pursued without NEET. The BAMS course is considerably an undergraduate course that involves studying Ayurveda among students. It represents the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. Students who aim to acquire a strong career course in medicine within India are supposed to appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test popularly known as NEET. It is under the recognition of the terms and conditions that have been laid down by the concerned authorities.
According to the Ministry of AYUSH, every student has to appear and qualify in NEET to seek admission in the BAMS course; therefore, without appearing for NEET, no student could pursue the BAMS course.
Thus, NEET, as a requirement of the present policy, is a compulsory condition for pursuing BAMS in India. Students failing to appear in this exam will not be eligible for admissions to BAMS courses.

Yes, for BAMS course candidates must appear for NEET UG. 

NEET is a common exam for admissions to UG Medical courses in various medical colleges across India. Candidates must qualify NEET if they wish to be eligible for admission to BAMS colleges.

One of the prime reasons why the BAMS course can be labeled as difficult is the quantum of study material that students are required to learn. Ayurved is a very complex system of medicine, evolved over thousands of years, and to attain proficiency in the subject, there is a huge quantum of knowledge to be acquired. The students of the BAMS course, apart from theoretical knowledge, have to earn practical experience through internship and clinical rotations, which are really tiresome and time-consuming.
Another complexity of the BAMS course is that it is a highly specialised area. In comparison with other more general courses like Business or Psychology, BAMS deals explicitly with Ayurveda and subjects related to it. This therefore calls for the student to have a strong interest in the field and must be willing to put all efforts into studying for it.

The full form of BAMS in Medical is a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It is, in other words, an undergraduate degree course of 5.5 years in the faculty of Ayurveda, an Indian traditional medical system. BAMS includes the subjects of Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Pathology, and Surgery, with a special and detailed knowledge associated with the principles and practices of Ayurveda.
BAMS is a course by definition meant to provide students with the understanding and expertise they will need to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases on an Ayurvedic basis. After attainment of this Ayurveda qualification, an individual may practice, be engaged in research, or take up academic assignments or careers with relation to Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is fast becoming the system of medicine all over the globe as complementary and alternative medicine. Opportunities are vast for graduates with BAMS status in India and abroad. This encompasses a broader view of Ayurveda and prepares the student to acquire skills in promoting health and preventing diseases.

MD can be pursued after a BAMS course. The full form of BAMS in medical terminology is Bachelor of Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery. It is an undergraduate course of 5.5 years in India. Doctor of Medicine is a postgraduate course and requires a Bachelors in medicine or related fields.
The eligibility condition for getting into an MD course is that the candidate should have completed his or her undergraduate degree with a minimum of 50% marks along with the qualification in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, popularly called NEET PG. A candidate can register himself for MD in the desired specialty once he or she is eligible for NEET PG. The duration of the MD programme is three years, and it involves theoretical as well as practical training in the chosen speciality.

Both has its own respect, scopes and requirement. There is huge shortage of Dentist in India added to fact that Alternative Therapies are now highly sought after in India. Both has its own financial expenditures, like eqiuptments used and so. Henceforth, do bit more homework of what suits you. If you ask me, though BAMS may have equally the same value but opt for BDS. The opportunities are quite diverse India and Abroad, especially when most of reports by Times of India and so speaks about shortage of Dentists in India.

Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two.

Dear Prem,

Both the courses have good scope. If you opt for BAMS, you will become a doctor. As per the current scenario, BAMS has got a lot of scope. On the other hand, BBA is a completely different thing. According to me, you should opt for BAMS.

Yes, it can be observed that studying Ayurved in India can be quite expensive as most of the colleges have an average tuition fee of more than INR 5 lakh. However, you can refer below for the best Ayurveda colleges in India that offer quality education at minimal cost:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website/ media reports/ NIRF website and may vary.

Hope this helps you!

There are about 800+ best Medical colleges in India that provide full-time MBBS courses. Of these top MBBS colleges in India, 153 are privately owned, 89 are government owned and the rest 8 are semi-government owned. NEET, KEAM, Kerala NEET, MP NEET, AP NEET and Maharashtra NEET are some of the popular entrance exams for admission to top Medical colleges in India. Some of the best MBBS colleges in India are All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Delhi, Christian Medical College, JIPMER Puducherry, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, KGMU and many more. 

The candidates who complete the BAMS course can certainly open a hospital however, compliance with various laws and rules set up or framed by various authorities, securing necessary licenses, adequate infrastructure and facilities, sufficient funding, and competent medical and administrative staff is required.
Furthermore, the candidates will have to meet all standards of health authorities so that your hospital functions well in its operations and treats patients befittingly.

The BAMS salary can vary depending on the various factors such as company, one's experience and even skills. 

Cadidates can check a general overview below:

• Entry-Level: INR 2.4 - 4.8 LPA
• Mid-Level: INR 4.8 - 7 LPA
• Senior-Level: INR 7 - 9 LPA

Hi Osama, The remuneration in Ayurvedic medicine doctors depends upon professional qualifications, experience and proficiency.

The salary in the field is also varying as per your expertise and professional reputation. At the entry level, one may get INR 25, 000 - INR 30, 000 per month as a consultant in the government sector.

The government also recruits Ayurveda Medical Officer under the pay scale of INR 15, 600 - INR 39, 100 with grade pay of INR 5400.

However, in the private sector, one can get suitable pay hike as per his knowledgeable experience and expertise. For the competent practitioners earning handsome salary is not the big issue.

Hi,

If you have done BAMS from a recognised university with more than 50% then you are eligible to seek admission in MBA or PG Diploma in Healthcare Management in any university or B-School.

Yes, candidates can use Dr. prefix in front of their names because under Indian Medicine Central Council Act of 1970, BAMS grads are considered a medical practiioners who have permission to practice and even prescribe medicines.

A BAMS doctor is a practitioner of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine that originated in India. BAMS full form in medical is Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, which is a 5.5-year undergraduate degree programme that combines the study of modern Medicine and traditional Ayurvedic practices.

BAMS doctor are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses using a holistic approach.

No, a BAMS doctor are not authorised to perform C-sections at pregnant women.

C-section surgeries are considered to be an advanced and complex practice which is only performed by skilled and authorised doctors and requires extensive practise in obstetrics and gynaecology, which is only covered under the MBBS and MD courses. 

Yes, BAMS doctors use stethoscopes. The BAMS curriculum includes Ayurveda practise which also includes use of stethoscopes for examining a patient's heart, lungs and even other vital functions. 

Yes, BAMS doctors can open their clinics and practice Ayurvedic medicine independently. After completing their BAMS course and obtaining the necessary registration with the state medical council, they are authorized to treat patients using Ayurvedic methods. 

BAMS doctors can offer a variety of services, including consultations, Ayurvedic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, and herbal medicine. 

Yes, a BAMS student is eligible to appear for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam, provided they meet the required educational qualifications. The UPSC Civil Services Exam, which is conducted to select candidates for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other civil services, allows candidates with a degree in any discipline from a recognised university to apply. 

No, BAMS doctor are not authorised to execute a delivery in the same way as an MBBS doctor who are trained in obstetrics and gynaecology. While BAMS doctors are trained in Ayurvedic methods and can provide prenatal and postnatal care, they are not authorized to conduct deliveries independently. 

Normal deliveries and other obstetric procedures require specialised training in modern medicine, and BAMS doctors are not equipped with the necessary skills to manage deliveries or handle complications during childbirth. 

BAMS, which is also called the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, is an ideal course for those who wish to pursue a career in Ayurvedic field. Due to the increasing awareness of Ayurvedic practise, the demand for BAMS grads is at an all time high.

Also, since the world is becoming more health-conscious, many people are turning to Ayurveda as a natural approach to their ultimate wellness. So we can say that the career scope for BAMS course is very wide.

Yes, a BAMS doctor is authorised use injections only if they have necessary training and also follow the guidelines which is set by the Ministry of AYUSH. 

But it is very important that they follow the regulations and scope of practice set by the state medical councils.

Completing a BHMS course after already having a BAMS can offer several benefits:

• The course provides students with skills in alternative medicine system.
• Having both the degrees ma help candidates land a better job and pay.
• Multiple degrees may help candidates go through professional development and career growth.

BSc Horticulture is a programme focused on the cultivation, management, and study of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It involves agricultural and horticultural sciences.

BAMS is an undergraduate programme in traditional Indian medicine known as Ayurveda. It covers the principles and practices of Ayurvedic medicine, herbal medicine, and holistic health.

Candidates can check the table below to know about the comparison between the two.

Note: The information is sourced from the official site and may vary.

BAMS focuses more on medical Science and care. Comparatively speaking, BSc Agriculture is more job-oriented than BAMS both now and in the future. Both of the aforementioned courses are excellent, have a wide range of applications, and each has its own significance, however, it largely relies on your interests and goals.

A career in Horticulture will equip candidates for a wide range of jobs. Whether they want to work in a lab, a field, a floral shop, an arboretum, a botanical garden, on a golf course or something completely different, there is a job for them. The options are limitless. Plant Science and food systems majors both begin their careers with a mandatory internship and are told of numerous other internship opportunities throughout the year.

Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery Bachelor's degree lets candidates have a Dr. before their names and be addressed as such which leads to a lot of respect. Along with respect, it provides candidates with experience. Ayurveda is also in its golden age at the moment. People are becoming more aware of Ayurvedic treatments and practices.

No, an AYUSH doctor is not at all equal to an MBBS doctor. The studies provided and practises held in the AYUSH courses are way too different than that of an MBBS doctor.

While an MBBS doctors is trained in modern allopathic medicines, the AYUSH courses provide studies on traditional healthcare method. 

Suggested Links for BAMS course:

Ayurveda

Yoga

Unani

Homoeopathy

Alternative Medicine

The top 3 government universities that offer BAMS course are as follows:

• Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research - 23.85 Lakh
• MUHS - 1.15 Lakh
• Kerala University of Health Sciences - 2.48 Lacs - 2.75 Lakh

The top 3 private universities that offer BAMS course are as follows:

• Parul University - 16.11 Lakh
• SGT University, Gurgaon - 15.72 Lakh
• Rama University, Kanpur - 10.64 Lakh

No, AIIMS does not offer BAMS course. AIIMS offers courses which focus only on the modern medical education and training, offering various medical degrees such as MBBS, MD and even various other PG and super-specialty courses.

You can learn about Ayurveda courses and pursue a profession in this area by taking advantage of the numerous courses and certifications available.

Below are some of the Ayurveda courses that candidates can check out:

• Bachelor in Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences

• Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery

• BPharma in Ayurveda 

Nope, a BAMS doctor cannot practice as a gynecologist in modern medicine directly. But, they can specialize in "Stree Rog and Prasuti Tantra," which is the Ayurvedic branch focusing on women's health, pregnancy and even childbirth. 

To become a gynecologist, candidates must pursue MBBS course and later followed by followed an MD or DNB course. 

Suggested Links for BAMS Course:

MD Course

DNB Course

Yes, BAMS doctor can also be drug inspector if they do right study and get the need qualification. But not everyone can do it just after finishing BAMS, they need extra step.

Mostly drug inspector job ask for degree in Pharmacy or something like that. Still BAMS student can take more training in medicine, pharmacology or pharma science and then apply. So it’s not impossible, but little more work needed.

Yes, BAMS doctors are getting more and more demand now, because people like Ayurveda and other old style medicine. Many people like natural treatment and full body care, so they go to BAMS doctors in city and village both. They help in long sickness, prevention and for staying healthy.

Also government is giving more support to Ayurveda and putting it inside health system. That’s why BAMS doctor job is growing a lot these days.

No, after BAMS you can’t be dermatologist like in modern medical. For that you must do MBBS and then MD in Dermatology. BAMS doctors only learn Ayurveda way of treatment.

Still, they can do Ayurvedic dermatology and help with skin problem using herbs and natural method. But they are not allowed to do modern dermatology things like laser or advance allopathic treatment.

The average BAMS salary can get up to INR 4 LPA, whereas that of an MBBS doctor can get up to INR 7.5 LPA.

No, BAMS doctor salary is not same like MBBS doctor. MBBS doctors mostly earn more money because they can do more type of treatment in modern medicine.

In the medical field, the MBBS course has been more well-liked than the BAMS course. However, with government support, the popularity of the BAMS course is rising in India.

• Course curriculum: In the MBBS, you study human anatomy, pathology, and other clinical dimensions of medicine. You study conventional Ayurvedic Science and its applications in the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS).
• Fees: The fees for the BAMS are comparably lower than the MBBS fee. Even in government colleges, the cost of the MBBS programme can reach 15 Lacs, while the BAMS programme can reach 7 Lacs.
• Job Role: With a BAMS, you can work as an ayurvedic consultant, doctor, or medical officer in the government. Private hospitals and clinics require a master's degree in any area of medicine, including surgery, but you can apply for medical officer jobs in the government after earning your MBBS, such as in UPSC CMS.
• Pay: With a BAMS degree, you can expect to make an average salary of around INR 40,000 per month, whereas an MBBS degree can earn you up to INR 1 Lacs per month. Most students prefer MBBS during NEET counseling if they get good ranks, but these days there is a trend toward preferring BAMS over private MBBS.

The BAMS doctors starting slaary usually goes around 3 to 6 lakh per year. But it can change because of job type, place, and experience.

If a fresh graduate works in private clinic or hospital, they may get 25,000 to 40,000 per month. If they open own practice, the income can be different for each person. In government jobs, salary is more fixed and comes with extra benefits.

The industries that hire professionals with BAMS courses:

1. Healthcare & Hospitals

2. Pharmaceutical Industry

3. Government Sector

4. Education & Academics

5. Wellness & Spa Industry

6. Medical Tourism

7. Health Insurance

8. NGOs & Public Health Organizations

9. Research & Development

10. Entrepreneurship

The skills that are essential for a successful career after BAMS course are given below:

• In-depth Knowledge of Ayurveda

• Clinical Diagnosis & Treatment Planning

• Herbal Medicine Expertise

• Panchakarma & Ayurvedic Therapies

• Patient Counseling & Communication Skills

• Research & Analytical Skills

• Pharmaceutical & Drug Formulation Knowledge

• Entrepreneurial & Business Management Skills

• Public Health & Community Medicine Awareness

• Modern Medical Integration & Adaptability

BAMS course graduates have diverse growth opportunities and career progression paths. They can start as Ayurvedic practitioners in hospitals, clinics, or wellness centres and later establish their practice. 

With experience, BAMS course graduates can advance to roles like senior consultant, medical officer, or hospital administrator. In the pharmaceutical industry, they can work in research, formulation, and quality control, progressing to managerial positions. Those interested in academics can pursue postgraduate studies (MD Ayurveda, MPH, or MBA in Healthcare) and become professors or researchers. Government jobs in AYUSH departments, public health programs, and regulatory bodies offer stable career paths. 

AI and automation are transforming the healthcare industry, but their impact on careers after BAMS courses will be limited in certain areas. While AI can assist in diagnosis, research, and patient management, the core aspects of Ayurvedic practice—such as personalized treatment, Panchakarma therapies, and patient counselling—require human expertise and a holistic approach, making them less likely to be replaced by automation. 

However, BAMS professionals may need to adapt by integrating AI tools for better patient record management, treatment planning, and research analysis. Those who stay updated with digital healthcare trends, telemedicine, and AI-driven diagnostics will have a competitive edge in the evolving job market.

The following are the challenges or risks in pursuing a career after the BAMS course:

• Limited Government Job Opportunities

• Lower Initial Salary Compared to Modern Medicine

• Lack of Standardization in Ayurvedic Practices

• Competition from Other Alternative Medicine Fields

• Need for Continuous Learning & Specialization

• Regulatory and Licensing Challenges

• Limited Awareness & Acceptance Among Patients

• Difficulty in Establishing a Private Practice

• Integration with Modern Medicine & Technology

• Market Saturation in Urban Areas

The documents that are required during the application process for the BAMS course are:

• 10th Marksheet & Certificate

• 12th Marksheet & Certificate

• NEET Scorecard

• Admit Card & Rank Letter (if applicable)

• Transfer Certificate (TC)

• Migration Certificate

• Character Certificate

• Domicile Certificate (if required)

• Caste Certificate (for reserved category candidates)

• Income Certificate (for scholarship eligibility)

• Aadhaar Card or Any Government ID Proof

• Passport-size Photographs

• Medical Fitness Certificate

The BAMS course duration is of 5.5 years, which aso includes 4.5 years of academic study and also 1 year of mandatory internship. The BAMS course curriculum is divided into 3 phases. The course includes Ayurvedic principles, modern medical sciences, herbal medicine and even clinical training. 

The internship provides hands-on experience in Ayurvedic hospitals, clinics, and research centres, ensuring practical exposure before professional practice.

The rank of college is very important when choosing BAMS course. A good rank college means better study, good teachers, nice building, more patients for practice, and better career chance.

Top colleges that are connected with famous universities or NCISM approved give more facilities like hospital training, research, and internship. Students from such colleges also get advantage in job, higher studies, and even government exams.