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How to Become a Doctor: Be a Doctor With this Guide in 2024
Nikita Parmar
Updated on 30th August, 2024 , 16 min read
How to Become a Doctor: Comprehensive Overview
India is a country where people's dream is to be either a doctor or engineer. A doctor is a certified medical expert who is educated to treat people with various health concerns. They treat patients with various health concerns based on their specialties. Doctors employ several diagnostic tests to establish the conditions that are causing the patient's ailment and then treat them accordingly. After finishing their education, doctors might choose to work in their own clinic or in any other healthcare facility.
In this article, we will discuss
- How to be a Doctor: highlights
- Who is a Doctor
- What are the Specialised fields to become a doctor?
- How to Become a Doctor: Eligibility Criteria
- How to Become a Doctor: Duration
- How to Become a Doctor: Classes to Prepare for Medical
- How to Become a Doctor: After 10th
- How to Become a Doctor: After 12th (Step-Wise)
- How to Become a Doctor: After Graduation
- How to Become a Doctor: After Post-Graduation
- How to Become a Doctor: Without MBBS/NEET
- How to Become a Doctor: Benefits of Becoming a Doctor
- How to Become a Doctor: Fees to Become a Doctor in India 2024
- How to Become a Doctor: Top Medical Colleges in India
- How to Become a Doctor: Salary in India
- How to Become a Doctor: Skills Required to Become a Doctor
- Tips For Future Doctors
- How to Become a Doctor: Leading Recruiters
The following table shows the details of a how to become a doctor:
Particulars | Details |
Eligibility | MBBS |
Industry | Medical, Pharma, Healthcare |
Average Starting Salary | INR 2-60 Lakh |
Highest Salary | INR 20.4 LPA |
Job Opportunities | Government Hospitals, Healthcare Centers, Pharmaceutical Companies, etc. |
Who is a Doctor?
A doctor is a trained medical expert who is authorized to treat patients for a range of medical ailments. Doctors use diagnostic tests to diagnose the illnesses affecting their patients and subsequently prescribe the proper therapies. Both independent medical clinics and healthcare institutions are places where doctors can practice medicine. There are several specializations accessible to doctors, helping them develop a specialized set of abilities that increase their effectiveness while treating patients.
What are the Specialized Fields to become a Doctor?
General Physician
As the name suggests, a general physician ensures the physical and mental fitness of a patient. They majorly address issues like fever, cold, inflammation or pain in the body. These doctors are the first point in a patient's journey towards diagnosis and treatment of disease and even suggest another expert to treat their conditions.
Cardiologist
A cardiologist specializes in cardiovascular health. He has expertise in blood vessel and treating heart related problems. Cardiologists use a wide range of therapies, from medicine to sophisticated surgical techniques, to protect patients' hearts and general health since they have a thorough understanding of the circulatory system.
Dermatologist
They specialize in skin care, nail and hair health. They are accountable for treatment of skin disorders and giving skincare advices for personalized care. These experts play a significant role in maintaining good skin and treating ailments that affect comfort, attractiveness, and self-esteem.
Paediatrician
The physician who specialises in the care of children is called the pediatrician. These doctors ensure that the overall health of the kids is monitored, like vaccinations, nutrition, colds and coughs and other day-to-day issues that children face.
Orthopaedic
The doctor who treats the structure and skeleton of the human body is called orthopaedic. Also called an Ortho. This includes treatment of the muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments and joints along with all the nerves that are required for your body to move. It also involves the treatment of the diseases that affect the human skeletal structure.
Surgeon
A surgeon is a doctor who after a diagnosis focuses on surgeries and operations on a patient and is categorised as a surgeon. This often involves surgically cutting, opening and stitching the back of the human body parts to fix the ailment.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a doctor of the Human brain. Mental conditions, mental, emotional and behavioural disorders are treated by Psychiatrists. They can treat most medical conditions related to the human brain.
Ophthalmologists
Ophthalmologists are specialists in treating and diagnosing a wide range of eye disorders. To ensure the best possible eye health, they provide both medicinal and surgical remedies for ocular disorders and vision issues. Maintaining clean vision and avoiding issues connected to vision are important tasks for ophthalmologists.
Gynecologists
The reproductive health of women is the specialty of gynecologists. They treat reproductive system problems, pregnancy, and childbirth. Gynecologists ensure safe pregnancies by helping with births and by providing prenatal care. They also provide care for a range of gynecological disorders, improving the general comfort and health of women.
Physician Assistant
During surgeries, anesthesiologists provide anesthesia to ensure the safety and comfort of the patients. They control discomfort and keep an eye on vital signs during procedures to make sure medical interventions are successful. Anesthesiologists are essential in providing patients with a painless and controlled surgical experience.
How to Become a Doctor: Eligibility Criteria
The procedure for How to become a doctor is mentioned below:
- To be eligible for the MBBS program, a student must have completed the 10+2 Science stream (including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology semesters). Before applying for admission, candidates should ensure that they meet the minimal educational requirements for this program. The subjects like physics, chemistry and biology are necessary to have a holistic knowledge and score better in the entrance tests that are required for medical examination tests.
- Appear for the MBBS Entrance Exam: After completion of the class 12th student needs to appear for the NEET Exam. It is one of the most competitive exams to pass to study medical courses in most colleges. whereas some other colleges conduct their own examinations which include: JPIMER, AIIMS, Kasturba Medical College, and Maulana Azad Medical College among others. Your admission is confirmed once you pay the fees.
- Completion of MBBS degree: One can go on to apply for their MBBS Degree from the age of 17 till they are 25. One gets 5 years and 6 months to complete the degree. Please note that it is advisable to apply within two years of completing your class 12th.
- Internship for a year: Students also need to complete a year internship which is mandatory to complete. In this internship, students need to work under the supervision of a team of doctors and sometimes this internship takes place in the associated hospitals.
- Get certified: After completion of the MBBS, the student also needs to get certified by any state medical board. Be sure that the institute from where you complete your medical degree is certified by the Medical Council of India.
Since becoming a doctor involves years of study, the procedure can occasionally be difficult, but the outcome is mostly worthwhile. Make sure you are completely devoted to your career before becoming a doctor because it can take years of tremendous effort and strict training to become a doctor. After finishing secondary school, a person must train for at least five years and six months before applying to medical school in India.
How to Become a Doctor: Duration
- Approximately 10 to 15 years might pass following high school.
- Before one may apply to medical school, one must complete a 4-year college degree after graduating from high school.
- After spending another four years in medical school, one should continue on to a residency for a few more years to get experience in the area.
- Although it may seem like a long time, candidate expertise will help them meet others in their profession and deliver the greatest treatment.
- Do not restrict yourself to a pre-medical or hard scientific degree; medical schools will accept any major provided you finish the required courses.
How to Become a Doctor: Classes to Prepare for Medical
- Concentrate on taking Biology and Chemistry classes: Pick a couple of life science classes to add to your education plan since you'll be working with medications and learning how they affect individuals. Try to choose courses like human biology, organic chemistry, or pharmacology.
- Take a couple of Sociology or Psychology classes:- Look over the list of courses offered at your institution, and attempt to fit in a few behavioral sciences. By taking these courses, you may increase your understanding of human behaviour and thought processes, which will enable you to provide your patients with the most effective care possible.
In India, becoming a doctor is a highly traditional procedure that requires a lot of merit and commitment. Students who want to learn how to become physicians in India must begin their studies in class 10th. They must select the appropriate topics, prepare for NEET, and decide whether to pursue MBBS or speciality degrees such as BSc, BAMS, or BPT.
How to Become a Doctor: After 10th
To become a doctor, students must complete their MBBS. After class 10th, students should take Science and Biology if they want to become doctors. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are crucial, but it is up to the students if they wish to study mathematics or not. If the student comes from the general category, they must then pass 10+2 with high marks and get an aggregate score of at least 55% in PCB. The next step is NEET, a national-level test that serves as a doorway to the Indian medical school (MBBS).
How to Become a Doctor: After 12th (Step-Wise)
Students can start preparing for MBBS or other courses that will help them become doctors in India straight after class 10th by selecting Physics, Chemistry, or Biology (with or without math). There are a few crucial stages that may be taken to learn how to become a doctor after the 12th grade, below are those steps-
- Complete Class 12th in Relevant Subjects- Candidates who want to be doctors must pass class 12th board examinations with the necessary grades in all subjects. They can select physics, chemistry, and biology as their secondary school electives. To pass medical admission examinations like the NEET, AIIMS, and JPIMER, one has to have a fundamental understanding of these fields.
- Clear the MBBS Entrance Exams- NEET is the most popular entrance exam in India, and the majority of medical institutions recognize its results. Many universities have their own admission examinations, including JPIMER, AIIMS, Kasturba Medical College, Maulana Azad Medical College, and others.
- Complete MBBS- Although many people enter right away after graduating, students can wait until they are 25 to submit an application. It's ideal to begin medical school two years after passing your class 12th board examinations. Minimum age of 17 years is required for enrollment in the MBBS program. The minimal amount of time needed to become a doctor is 5 years and 6 months after passing class 12th. After earning their MBBS, candidates are qualified to practice medicine. Candidates have the choice to pursue a specialization after obtaining an MBBS.
- Pursue an Internship- Candidates seeking an MBBS degree are often required to do an internship that lasts one year, after that they will get a chance to work with patients while being supervised by renowned medical professionals.
- Get registered at the Indian Medical Register- Candidates must first register with one of India's state medical bodies in order to practice medicine there. To qualify, they must complete an internship and an MBBS degree at a facility recognized by the Medical Council of India. After registering with the Indian Medical Register, candidates can start their careers and practice medicine in India.
- Begin Medical Career- Candidates who wish to further their knowledge in the medical sector may seek a second master's degree or even a Ph.D. Many medical professionals decide to practice medicine after earning their MBBS and a master's degree in medical science.
Check More: List of AIIMS Colleges in India.
How to Become a Doctor: After Graduation
One must pass the admission test and finish the 5-year MBBS program after completing class 10+2, before requiring an internship. Students can so apply for NEET after graduating. The student must take PCM classes in class 12th and receive a 50% in exams.
Read More: BDS Salary, Jobs, Scope in India
How to Become a Doctor: After Post-Graduation
Following the completion of their MBBS, doctors must complete a one-year internship before continuing their studies to get the highest doctoral degrees of Doctor of Medicine and Master of Science.
Among the many specializations available to students, these are a few popular specializations for becoming a doctor are as follows-
- Dermatologist
- Dentist
- Gynecologist
- Medical Analyst
- Anesthesiologist
- Pathologist
- Physician
- Researcher
- Radiologist
- Neurologist
- Surgeon
- Nutritionist
- Forensic Officer
- Pediatrician
Also Check: ANM and GNM Nursing Courses.
How to Become a Doctor: Without MBBS/NEET
It is never required to do NEET or MBBS courses in order to become a doctor. Students can become doctors/physicians by enrolling in programs like B Pharmacy, BSc Nursing, BPT, and others. If a student does not have an MBBS or NEET, there are several courses in the medical sector that they may take.
The best courses to take to become a doctor without taking the NEET are listed in the table below-
Name of Course | Specialization | Duration |
Physiotherapy | B.Sc. Physiotherapy | 4 years |
Pharmacy | 4 years | |
Nursing | B.Sc. Nursing | 4 years |
Biotechnology | B.Sc. Biotechnology | 3 years |
Cyber Forensics | B.Sc. in Cyber Forensics | 2-3 years |
Biomedical Engineering | B.Sc. Biomedical Sciences/ B.Tech Biomedical Engineering | 4 years |
Cardiac Technology | B.Sc in Cardiac/ Cardiovascular Technology | 4 years |
Read More: Diploma in D.Pharmacy.
How to Become a Doctor: Benefits of Becoming a Doctor
The reputation of a doctor is among the highest in the world. It provides certain benefits that no other career can provide. Below are listed a few benefits-
- High Salary: Working as a doctor is a noble career, but most applicants are drawn to the high pay that the industry provides. Doctors make more money than any other profession and this is one of the main causes for students who have completed class 12th wanting to become doctors/physicians.
- Positive Impact: Doctor's efforts to save patient's lives and advance humankind, which is extremely fulfilling and rewarding in and of itself. Because of the good work they accomplish, doctors are valued in society, which inspires and helps them improve in their careers.
- Job Security: The career of a doctor is perhaps the most secure one due to the high employment rate. A doctor does not have to worry about losing his employment as long as he has his license to practice medicine.
- Continuous Learning: In this field, there is no limit to the number of fresh examples, and with each one, knowledge expands.
- Travel Opportunities: Although one can not able to pick their ideal city or area of employment, they may be able to travel to other locations when pandemics, natural disasters, or other emergencies arise.
Also Read: BAMS Doctor Salary.
How to Become a Doctor: Fees to Become a Doctor in India 2024
The average cost of becoming a doctor in India is as follows-
- Government-funded MBBS courses range in price from Rs.25,000 to Rs.75,000 per year.
- The government only provides around 25,000 seats.
- An MBBS course at a private college costs between Rs. 15 and 40 lakhs.
- Management quota seats would cost between Rs. 55 and Rs. 80 lakhs.
- Students must prepare well before taking any form of admission exam to become an MBBS doctor.
Read more: How to Become a Medical Officer in India?
How to Become a Doctor: Top Medical Colleges in India
For those interested in studying medicine in India, there's a list of some of the top medical institutions in India below-
Name of College | Rankings |
1 | |
2 | |
3 | |
4 | |
Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences | 5 |
6 | |
Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research | 7 |
Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research | 8 |
Kasturba Medical College | 9 |
10 |
Also Read: DGO Full Form in Medical.
How to Become a Doctor: Salary in India
A doctor's beginning pay is typically approximately INR 5.40 LPA. However, a doctor's income might climb to INR 1.17 crore per year with incremental increases in experience and knowledge. The degree, area of speciality Gynaecologists, etc. all affect a doctor's pay. The monthly salary for doctors working in private hospitals might reach INR 5 L.
The following table gives the details about the salary of different specializations-
Specializations | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
ENT Specialist | 9.60 lakh |
General Physician | 7.10 lakh |
Cardiologists | 14.70 lakh |
Oncologists | 9.45 lakh |
Paediatrician | 9.60 lakh |
Neurologists | 11.64 lakh |
Gynecologists | 10.80 lakh |
How to Become a Doctor: Skills Required to Become a Doctor
One must not only prepare by obtaining a variety of school credentials but also should enrich themselves with a variety of skill sets in order to become a successful doctor. These abilities will assist students not only in comprehending their line of work but also stand out from the competition and succeeding.
The following list of talents for becoming a doctor is provided for your information-
- Thinking in Solutions
- Administering treatments physically
- Critical Analysis
- Teamwork abilities
- Correct Medication Prescription
- Identifying Diseases
- Emotional quotient
- Identifying Symptoms
- Keeping Current with Medical Research
- Providing Post-Procedure Care
- Active Hearing
- Possibility of Giving Advice
- Patience and sympathy
- Attention to detail and time management
Also Read: GNM Nursing Salary.
Tips For Future Doctors
There are a few things future doctors can keep in mind to develop a successful career as a doctor.
- Students need to have a Specialization in mind such as ortho or paediatric. There are two types of specialisations students can pursue, MS or MD i.e. Master of Surgery or Doctor of Medicine. Students need to choose MD to be physicians, whereas MS in case they want to pursue surgery.
- Choose a super specialization: There are two options to choose from DM and M Ch. By choosing these students can further advance their careers.
- Ongoing Learning: To improve your chances to excel in your professional career you need to keep learning and understanding new things. You must keep improving your knowledge and technical skills to be doctor.
How to Become a Doctor: Leading Recruiters
The majority of physicians are hired by public and private hospitals, however, others opt to teach at prestigious medical schools in India as professors.
The following list includes the top medical recruiters in India-
- Apolo
- Max
- AIIMS
- Fortis
- BLK Super Speciality Hospital
- Lilavati Hospital
- Manipal Hospital
- Columbia Asia Referral Hospital
What are the Steps of Becoming a Doctor in India?
1. Finish your senior secondary education
You must have good marks after you graduate from secondary school in all the subjects. Physics, chemistry and biology are the subjects you must focus on as they are compulsory for admission into MBBS. You will have to qualify competitive exams like NEET, AIIMS or JPIMER. You will have to perform brilliantly if you wish to take admission into the college of your choice.
2. Clear the MBBS entrance exam
After 12th, you will have to crack the most popular and coveted NEET exam. A number of colleges, including JPIMER, AIIMS, Kasturba Medical College, Maulana Azad Medical College, and others, hold their own entrance exams.
3. Complete your MBBS
You can apply for the MBBS program, which is the first degree in the medical sciences required to become a doctor, when your time in the 12th grade is up. Although many applicants enroll right after graduation, you can wait until you are 25 years old to apply for the MBBS. Enrolling in medical school two years after passing your class 12 board examinations is advised. The MBBS program requires applicants to be at least 17 years old to be eligible for admission. After passing grade 12, one must work for a minimum of five years and six months to become a doctor. Upon earning your MBBS degree, you may be qualified to work as a physician. After earning your MBBS, you can choose to specialize in a certain area to further refine your abilities and advance your methods before entering the workforce.
4. Go for an Internship
A year of internship is mandatory while you pursue your MBBS degree. You can practice under the guidance of senior doctors. While some medical institutions may mandate you to perform the internship at a certain hospital, others may have their own hospital wings where you can complete the internship.
5. Register with the Indian Medical Register
You must register with one of India's state medical councils in order to practice medicine there. Generally speaking, physicians who hold a registration with any state medical council are qualified to be listed on the Indian Medical Register. You can finish your MBBS degree and an internship from an institution approved by the Medical Council of India to become eligible. You are able to initiate your medical career in India by registering with the Indian Medical Register.
6. Practice as a doctor
If you want to learn more about the medical field after earning your master's degree, you can usually choose to pursue a second master's or even a PhD. After earning their MBBS and a master's degree in medical science, many doctors decide to start their careers. In terms of practice, there are two common choices. In the first, a physician works as an employee of a particular healthcare facility, like a multispecialty hospital. The second choice is to work as a solo practitioner in your own clinic or while being supervised by a more experienced physician.
Is It Really Difficult To Become A Doctor?
If you aspire to become a doctor, it can sometimes be tiring as you need to devote years of study and practice dedicatedly. It takes immense perseverance, hard work and technical competence. You can achieve your dream of becoming a doctor provided that you are committed to it. After completing secondary school, an individual must practice medicine in India for a minimum of five years and six months to get expertise in the field of specialization one has chosen.
Before you start your path to become a doctor in India, there are a few crucial factors to take into account. The first is the price of schooling. In India, medical school can be quite costly and is not always free. The time commitment required to become a doctor is something else you must be ready for. In India, medical school usually lasts five years. Following that, you have to finish an internship and a residency program, which both take one year. If you wish to pursue post-graduation and specialization, add a couple additional years.
You will be well-positioned to begin your career as a doctor in India after your schooling is complete. In India, there are plenty of chances for doctors to work in both the public and commercial sectors, and the medical field is highly valued. In addition, there are plenty of options for doctors to work abroad, with generally competitive pay.
Thus, if you want to study medicine in India, make sure to look into the various medical schools and career paths that are open to you. Even though the path can be difficult at times, it will ultimately be worthwhile!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to graduate from medical school?
Ans. The entire medical program, MBBS, is completed in 5 years, and preparation begins in class 10+2 and forward.
How much does a doctor make in India?
Ans. A doctor typically earns between INR 3,00,000 and INR 80,000 per year in remuneration. This is the typical beginning pay, however, it may change based on the doctor’s position.
Which doctor earns the most money?
Ans. All doctors often earn a good living, but surgeons typically earn more than all other doctors.
In India, what age do you become a doctor?
Ans. Minimum age of 17 years is required for admission to the MBBS program. The minimal time necessary to become a doctor after graduating grade 12 is five years and six months. After finishing the MBBS degree, candidates are eligible to practice medicine.
Which subject is best for a doctor?
Ans. To become a doctor, you must first complete the MBBS program. After 10th grade, you should study Science with Biology. It is your decision whether or not to study Mathematics, but Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are essential. You should get high results in your 10+2 exams.