NEET MDS 2025 Eligibility Criteria: Everything You Need to Know

NEET-MDS is the only entrance exam for admission to MDS courses in India. If you're planning to appear for NEET-MDS 2025, you must meet the required eligibility criteria. In this blog, we will break down the eligibility requirements in simple terms to help you prepare without confusion.

NEET MDS 2025 Eligibility Criteria

Who is Eligible for NEET-MDS 2025?

To apply for NEET-MDS 2025, candidates must fulfill the following conditions:

1. Educational Qualification

• Must have a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree.
• The BDS degree must be recognized by the Dental Council of India (DCI).

2. Internship Requirement

• Candidates must complete a one-year compulsory rotatory internship.
• The internship must be completed on or before March 31, 2025.
• Proof of internship completion must be submitted during counselling.

3. Registration with the State Dental Council

• Candidates must be registered with the State Dental Council.
• A valid registration certificate must be available before appearing for the exam.

4. Eligibility for Foreign Nationals

• Foreign candidates must have a BDS degree recognized by DCI.
• They must obtain temporary registration from DCI for the exam.
• Security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is required.

5. Candidates Already Pursuing MDS

• Some universities may not allow candidates already pursuing an MDS course.
• Those who have taken an All India Quota (AIQ) seat in MDS before may not be eligible for AIQ seats again.

6. No Exemptions for Internship

• The 12-month rotatory internship is mandatory.
• No exemptions or relaxations are allowed except for specific past exemptions granted by DCI.

7. Important Note on AIQ 50% Quota Seats

• Candidates from Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh are eligible for All India Quota (AIQ) 50% seats only if they provide a self-declaration.

NEET MDS 2025 Eligibility FAQs

1. Can I apply for NEET MDS 2025 if my internship ends after March 31, 2025?

No, candidates must complete their one-year internship by March 31, 2025 to be eligible.

2. Can foreign nationals appear for NEET MDS 2025?

Yes, foreign nationals can appear, but they must get temporary registration from DCI and security clearance from MHA.

3. Is registration with the State Dental Council mandatory?

Yes, all candidates must have a valid State Dental Council registration before appearing for the exam.

4. Can I apply for AIQ 50% seats if I am from Jammu & Kashmir?

Yes, but only if you provide a self-declaration stating your eligibility.

5. Will I automatically get a seat if I clear NEET-MDS?

No, clearing NEET-MDS only makes you eligible for counselling. Admission depends on seat availability and merit ranking.