AYUSH vs MBBS: Is Choosing BAMS the Right Decision
After the NEET exam, many students feel confused. Some are not able to get an MBBS seat, especially in a government college. Then comes the big question — should you wait and try NEET again next year for MBBS, or go ahead with BAMS, which is a degree in Ayurvedic medicine? In this article, we will help you understand both options clearly so you can make the right decision for your future.
MBBS stands for Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. It is a modern medical degree where students learn about human anatomy, diseases, surgeries, and treatment using modern science, machines, and drugs.
BAMS stands for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It is an Ayurvedic degree where students learn about the traditional Indian system of medicine. BAMS includes subjects like herbal medicine, Panchakarma therapy, yoga, nutrition, and body detoxification.
MBBS doctors treat patients with modern tools and medicines like injections, tablets, surgeries, and machines. On the other hand, BAMS doctors use herbal medicines, Ayurvedic treatments, massage therapy, diet planning, and lifestyle management.
Low NEET Score MBBS or BAMS
If your NEET score is low and you are not getting a seat in a government MBBS college, then BAMS is a practical and smart choice. The competition for MBBS is very high, and even with a decent score, students often do not get into top colleges. Private MBBS colleges are very expensive and can cost 60 to 80 lakh rupees or more for the entire course.
In comparison, BAMS has a lower cut-off and is more affordable. BAMS admission also happens through NEET, but since fewer students choose Ayurveda, the competition is less. So, if you want to start your medical career without wasting another year, BAMS is a good option.
Career Options After BAMS
The BAMS course offers many career opportunities. After completing BAMS, you can work as an Ayurvedic doctor in hospitals, health centres, or open your own clinic. You can also work in Panchkarma centres, wellness resorts, spas, and Ayurvedic health tourism services.
Many Ayurvedic medicine companies like Patanjali, Dabur, and Himalaya also hire BAMS graduates in research, product development, and quality control.
If you want to study further, you can go for an MD in Ayurveda or an MBA in Hospital Management. You can also appear for government exams like UPSC, state medical officer posts, or join teaching as a lecturer in Ayurvedic colleges.
So, yes, job options are available and growing every year due to the rising popularity of natural healing.
An MBBS in private colleges is very expensive. A typical private MBBS college can charge between 8 to 20 lakh rupees per year, and the total cost for the full five-year course may go above 1 crore in some cases.
On the other hand, an MBBS college affordable for most students is usually a government institution, but these are very competitive to get into. Government MBBS colleges usually charge between 30 thousand to 1 lakh rupees per year.
BAMS, on the other hand, is much cheaper. In private, the fees are usually between 2 to 4 lakh rupees per year. Government BAMS colleges charge between 20 thousand to 1 lakh per year. This makes BAMS a much more affordable option if you want to study medicine.
BAMS Cutoff and NEET Marks
If your NEET score is between 250 to 400, you have a good chance of getting admission in BAMS. Many private colleges accept students with scores in this range. Government colleges may have slightly higher cutoffs, but through the state quota, even average scores can get you a seat.
So even if your score is not enough for MBBS, you can still become a doctor through BAMS.
To get admission in BAMS, you must:
Appear for the NEET UG exam
Register for AYUSH counselling (state or central)
Choose BAMS colleges as per your preference
Attend counselling and confirm your seat
BAMS admissions happen through AYUSH counselling, which is separate from MBBS counselling (MCC or state medical counselling). You can apply through the All India Quota or your State Quota, depending on your domicile.
Documents Required for BAMS Admission
You will need the following documents at the time of admission:
NEET Admit Card and Scorecard
Class 10th Marksheet and Passing Certificate
Class 12th Marksheet and Passing Certificate
Migration Certificate if changing board or state
Domicile Certificate for state quota
Caste Certificate, if applicable
Passport-size Photographs
Aadhaar Card or any ID proof
State Quota vs All India Quota
If your state rank is good, you should try through the state quota, because the competition is lower, and you may get a good college at a better fee. Some states also have reservation benefits for local students.
If you are looking for more options across India or trying for top private colleges, then you can also apply through the All India Quota, but keep in mind that the cutoffs are usually higher.
Repeat NEET or Choose BAMS
This is a personal decision. If you are 100 per cent sure that you can improve your NEET score and get into MBBS next year, and your family can support another year of preparation, then repeating may be a good idea.
But if you are unsure, or do not want to waste time and money on another attempt, and if you are open to working in Ayurveda and natural healing, then BAMS is a smart and future-ready choice.
With more people turning toward natural and holistic health, the value of Ayurvedic doctors is rising. So BAMS can give you both respect and a stable career.
BAMS is not just a backup plan. It is a different path in medicine. If you are interested in health, healing, nature, and traditional knowledge, then BAMS can give you a meaningful and successful career.
Instead of waiting and wasting time, you can start building your future today with BAMS and grow as a skilled Ayurvedic doctor.
Yes, after BAMS, you become a certified Ayurvedic doctor.
2. Is MBBS abroad a good option?
Yes, if you cannot afford a private MBBS in India and pursue MBBS abroad.
3. What is the fee for the BAMS course?
BAMS fees range from 2 to 4 lakh per year in private colleges.
4. Can I get BAMS with 300 marks in NEET?
Yes, many private BAMS colleges accept students with 250–400 NEET marks.
5. What is better, repeat NEET or do BAMS?
If you're unsure about improving, BAMS is a safe and smart choice.
6. Do BAMS doctors get government jobs?
Yes, through state health departments and the AYUSH Ministry.
7. Is MBBS better than BAMS?
Both are medical degrees. MBBS is allopathy, BAMS is Ayurveda — the better choice depends on your interest and score.
