Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery – BAMS Full Form, BAMS Syllabus, BAMS Fees, and BAMS Eligibility Criteria

BAMS full form is Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery that is an undergraduate-level degree course in ayurvedic medical science. The BAMS course duration is five years plus six months of training. This is a medical science program in traditional Indian medicine, focusing on Ayurveda. It trains students in principles and practices of Ayurvedic medicine, herbal treatments, therapeutic techniques like Panchakarma, and holistic healthcare methods. Graduates are prepared to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases using Ayurvedic principles and therapies.

The basic BAMS eligibility is that the aspirant must have completed 12th with science stream (PCB being the main subjects). The BAMS syllabus covers topics like fundamental principles of Ayurveda, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, herbal medicine, diagnostics, surgery (Shalya Tantra), and preventive medicine (Swasthavritta).

For admission to Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery program it is mandatory to clear the NEET. NEET is an entrance exam conducted to offer admission to various medical science programs such as BAMS degree.

Top BAMS colleges in India are Banaras Hindu University, National Institute of Ayurveda, Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth Pune, DY Patil University Mumbai, AVS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, and Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University. On average, BAMS course fees in these top colleges range from INR 40K to INR 5 Lakhs.

After completing the BAMS degree, BAMS doctors are authorized to work in Government Hospitals, Private Hospitals & Clinics, Healthcare community, Colleges, Life science industries, Pharmaceutical industries, Wellness centers, Dispensaries, etc. The BAMS salary in India stands at INR 6 LPA to INR 12 LPA.

Table of Content

BAMS Course Highlights

BAMS Eligibility Criteria

Generally, BAMS eligibility criteria for conclude the following points –

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as subjects.

• Minimum Marks: Most institutions require a minimum aggregate of 50% - 55% marks in the qualifying examination/12th (though this can vary between institutions and states).

• Entrance Exams: Admission is often based on national or state-level entrance exams like NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency) in India.

• Age Criteria: Candidates must typically be at least 17 years old at the time of admission, with upper age limits varying by institution and state regulations.

BAMS Entrance Examinations

Entrance examinations for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) degree course in India is NEET. NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted in India. It serves as the primary entrance test for admission to undergraduate medical (MBBS), dental (BDS), and other related courses like BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery), BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery), BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery), and B.V.Sc & AH (Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry) in government and private colleges across India.

Key points about NEET –

Conducting Body: NEET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

Subjects Covered: The exam includes questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology) based on the NCERT curriculum of classes 11th and 12th.

Mode of Examination: NEET is conducted in pen and paper mode (offline mode) where candidates mark their responses on the OMR sheet.

Selection Criteria: Admission to BAMS and other courses through NEET is based on merit obtained in the entrance examination. Candidates must also meet eligibility criteria including minimum educational qualifications and age limits.

Frequency: NEET is typically conducted once a year, usually in May or June.

NEET has streamlined the admissions process for medical courses in India, ensuring a standardized and fair selection procedure based on merit. Candidates aspiring to pursue BAMS or other medical courses should regularly check the NTA website and other relevant sources for updates on exam dates, application procedures, and eligibility criteria.

BAMS Admission Procedure

The admission procedure for BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) typically involves several steps –

1. BAMS Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements, which generally include passing the 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as compulsory subjects. Minimum aggregate marks and age limits may also apply, varying by institution and state regulations.

2. Entrance Examination: Admission to BAMS courses is primarily through national or state-level entrance exams. The most common entrance exam is NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). State-level exams like CPAT (for Uttar Pradesh) or state CETs (Common Entrance Tests) are also used in some states.

3. Application Process: Candidates need to apply for the entrance exams as per the notifications issued by the respective conducting authorities. This involves filling out an online application form, uploading required documents, and paying the application fee.

4. Admit Card: After successful registration, candidates receive an admit card specifying their exam date, time, and exam center details.

5. Entrance Exam: Candidates appear for the entrance exam on the scheduled date. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology) based on the syllabus prescribed by the exam conducting body.

6. Declaration of Results: Results of the entrance exam are announced on the official website of the conducting authority. Candidates can check their scores and ranks.

7. Counselling Process: Qualified candidates are required to participate in the counselling process conducted by the respective state or central authorities. During counselling, candidates choose their preferred colleges and courses based on their ranks and availability of seats.

8. Seat Allotment: Seats are allotted to candidates based on their rank, choices filled during counselling, and availability of seats in the participating colleges.

9. Document Verification and Admission: Once seats are allotted, candidates need to report to the allotted college for document verification and completion of admission formalities. They must submit original documents as per the requirements of the college.

10. Commencement of Classes: After completing the admission process, classes for the BAMS course typically commence as per the academic schedule of the college.

Top Colleges/ Universities offering BAMS Course

The top colleges offering BAMS degree in the country are as follows –

1. Banaras Hindu University           

2. IMS BHU Varanasi          

3. Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune    

4. KLE University   

5. DY Patil University Mumbai      

6. GGSIPU New Delhi         

7. SCSVMV University      

8. SSU Cuttack        

9. National Institute of Ayurveda    

10. Rama University, Kanpur

11. Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University 

12. Kurukshetra University   

13. Tantia University 

14. Yenepoya University       

15. Government Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram   

16. Tantia University 

17. NTRUHS Vijaywada       

18. LNCT University 

19. AVS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya   

20. Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University) 

21. Parul University  

22. Gujarat Ayurveda University      

23. Kerala University of Health Sciences

24. SGT University   

25. MUHS      

26. IIMT University  

27. Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College      

28. Sri Sri University

29. Dr. B.R.K.R. Government Ayurvedic College    

30. Chaudhary Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan   

31. SMBT Group of Institutions       

32. Rajiv Gandhi Government Post Graduate Ayurvedic College    

33. Sumandeep Vidyapeeth   

34. Government Akhandanand Ayurved College      

BAMS Syllabus

The BAMS syllabus typically covers a wide range of subjects related to Ayurveda, medical sciences, and holistic healthcare. Here's a brief overview of the BAMS syllabus:

1. Foundation of Ayurveda:

• Introduction to Ayurveda: History, philosophy, and basic principles (Sankhya, Triguna, Panchamahabhutas).

• Concept of health and disease according to Ayurveda.

• Fundamentals of Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology (Sharira Rachana and Kriya).

1. Pre-clinical Subjects:

• Ayurvedic concepts of anatomy (Sharira Rachana), physiology (Sharira Kriya), and biochemistry (Rasa Shastra).

• Modern anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry as relevant to Ayurvedic medicine.

1. Para-clinical Subjects:

• Pharmacology and toxicology (Dravyaguna Vigyana and Agada Tantra).

• Pathology and microbiology (Nidan and Vikriti Vigyana).

1. Clinical Subjects:

• Medicine (Kaya Chikitsa), which includes Ayurvedic diagnostics, internal medicine, and clinical examination.

• Surgery (Shalya Tantra), focusing on Ayurvedic surgical procedures and techniques.

• Obstetrics and Gynecology (Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga).

• Pediatrics (Kaumarabhritya).

• Geriatrics (Jara Chikitsa).

1. Specialized Therapies:

• Panchakarma therapies: Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana.

• Rasayana (Rejuvenation therapy) and Vajikarana (Aphrodisiac therapy).

1. Preventive and Social Medicine (Swasthavritta):

• Principles of hygiene, dietetics, and lifestyle management according to Ayurveda.

• Yoga and Naturopathy principles and practices.

1. Research Methodology and Medical Ethics:

• Basic principles of research in Ayurveda.

• Ethical considerations in Ayurvedic practice and clinical research.

The BAMS syllabus integrates both traditional Ayurvedic knowledge and modern medical sciences to provide a comprehensive education in Ayurvedic medicine and surgery. The exact syllabus may vary slightly between universities and states, but it generally covers these broad areas to prepare students for a career in holistic healthcare based on Ayurvedic principles.

The entire curriculum of BAMS degree is divided into four and half years of academic learning, one year of internship training. The BAMS subjects taught in academic sessions of BAMS degree are –

BAMS Fees

The BAMS fees in India can vary widely depending on whether the college is government-funded or private, its reputation, infrastructure, and location. Generally, the fee structure can be categorized as follows –

• Government Colleges: BAMS fees is typically lower in government colleges compared to private institutions. Government colleges may have annual fees ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per year depending on the state and college.

• Private Colleges: Private colleges tend to have higher fees. Annual BAMS fees in private colleges can range from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakhs or more per year. Some prestigious private colleges may have even higher fees.

• Additional Costs: In addition to tuition fees, students may need to budget for expenses such as hostel fees, examination fees, laboratory charges, books & study materials, uniforms, and other miscellaneous expenses.

• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Some colleges and government schemes offer scholarships or financial assistance based on merit, income criteria, or specific categories such as SC/ST/OBC. Students are advised to check with individual colleges or state authorities for details on available scholarships.

The BAMS fees in some of the top private and government colleges of India is mentioned in the table below –

BAMS Career Prospects

BAMS degree offers a variety of career prospects for graduates in India and increasingly in other countries where Ayurveda is gaining popularity. Here are some key career paths and opportunities for BAMS doctors:

• Ayurvedic Practitioner: Graduates can practice as Ayurvedic doctors, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing Ayurvedic medicines, and providing holistic treatments based on Ayurvedic principles. BAMS doctors can work in private clinics, hospitals, wellness centers, or establish their own practice.

• Researcher: Many opportunities exist in research institutions, universities, and pharmaceutical companies involved in Ayurvedic drug research, clinical trials, and development of herbal medicines.

• Academician: BAMS graduates can pursue teaching careers in Ayurvedic colleges and universities after obtaining postgraduate degrees (MD or MS in Ayurveda). They can also contribute to curriculum development and academic research.

• Public Health Specialist: BAMS doctors can work in government health departments, NGOs, and public health programs focusing on promoting Ayurvedic healthcare, preventive medicine, and community health initiatives.

• Consultant: They can work as Ayurvedic consultants in wellness resorts, spa centers, and healthcare facilities catering to holistic wellness.

• Panchakarma Specialist: Specialization in Panchakarma therapies can lead to opportunities in specialized clinics and wellness centers offering detoxification and rejuvenation treatments.

• Medical Officer: Some BAMS doctors may opt to work as medical officers in Ayurvedic hospitals, dispensaries, or health centers operated by government agencies or private organizations.

• Entrepreneurship: BAMS professionals can establish their own Ayurvedic pharmacy, manufacturing unit for herbal medicines, or wellness center offering Ayurvedic treatments and therapies.

• Health Journalism and Media: Opportunities exist in health journalism, writing, and media related to Ayurveda and holistic healthcare, contributing articles, blogs, or working as health advisors in media platforms.

• International Opportunities: With increasing global interest in traditional and alternative medicine systems like Ayurveda, there are opportunities for BAMS doctors to work internationally in wellness tourism, research collaborations, and healthcare consulting.

Overall, BAMS degree offers a diverse range of career paths blending traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern healthcare practices, catering to the growing demand for holistic and integrative healthcare solutions worldwide.

BAMS Salary in India

BAMS graduates have diverse career opportunities across healthcare, academia, research, and wellness sectors, each offering its own salary structure and growth prospects. The salary of BAMS doctors in India can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, type of employer (government or private sector), and additional qualifications.

Here's a rough estimate of BAMS salary ranges across different job roles in India:

BAMS Top Recruiters

Here are some of the top recruiters for BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) graduates in India, categorized by sectors where Ayurvedic professionals are in demand –

BAMS doctors may also explore entrepreneurial opportunities by starting their own clinics, wellness centers, or Ayurvedic product businesses.

FAQs about BAMS Course

Ques – What is BAMS full form?

Answer – BAMS full form is Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery.

Ques – What is BAMS course?

Answer – The BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) is a five-and-a-half-year undergraduate program that teaches Ayurvedic medicine, surgery, and holistic healing. Students learn about herbal treatments, diagnostics, and patient care based on Ayurvedic principles. Graduates can practice as Ayurvedic doctors or work in related healthcare fields.

Ques – What is BAMS course duration?

Answer – The BAMS course typically lasts five and a half years, including a one-year compulsory internship. The program is divided into academic years covering Ayurvedic theory, clinical practice, and surgery.

Ques – What is BAMS eligibility for admission?

Answer – The eligibility for BAMS admission requires a 10+2 qualification with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects, along with a qualifying entrance exam in some institutions.

Ques – What is BAMS course fee?

Answer – The BAMS course fee is INR 50,000 to 5 LPA.

Ques – Which is better, BAMS or BHMS?

Answer – BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic medicine and traditional healing practices, while BHMS centers on Homeopathic medicine. The choice depends on your interest in either natural healing methods – Ayurveda or Homeopathy.

Ques – Which is better, BDS or BAMS?

Answer – The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) focuses on dental care and surgery, while BAMS specializes in Ayurvedic medicine and holistic healing. The better option depends on your interest in dentistry versus traditional medicine.

Ques – Which is better, MBBS or BAMS?

Answer – The MBBS focuses on modern medicine and clinical practice, while BAMS specializes in Ayurvedic medicine and natural healing. The choice depends on your interest in allopathic versus traditional healthcare practices.