Doctor (MBBS and specialist)
Also called: MBBS doctor, Physician
Diagnoses and treats illness, and can specialise in areas like surgery, paediatrics or cardiology.
What the work is
Doctors examine patients, diagnose illness, prescribe treatment and perform procedures. After the MBBS degree (5.5 years including a one-year internship), most doctors take a postgraduate specialisation (MD, MS or DNB) in areas like medicine, surgery, paediatrics, gynaecology, orthopaedics, radiology or psychiatry, and some go on to super-specialise.
Admission to MBBS in India is through NEET-UG, one of the most competitive exams in the country. The training is long and intense, but doctors are respected and always needed.
A typical week
- See and examine patients
- Diagnose illness and plan treatment
- Perform procedures or surgery
- Handle emergencies and night duties
It suits people who
- Care deeply about people
- Are strong in Biology and Chemistry
- Can handle long study and pressure
Your path to get there
School (Class 8-10)
- Choose Science with Biology (PCB) in Class 11
Class 11-12
- Prepare for NEET-UGGovernment college seats depend on your rank
College or fresher
- Complete MBBS and the internship
- Write NEET-PG or INI-CET for MD, MS or DNB
Working or switching
- Becoming a doctor later means taking NEET and the full MBBS; there is no shortcut
- Healthcare workers can return through refresher courses and re-registration with their council.
- Hospitals often have flexible shifts and part-time roles for returning nurses and doctors.
Exams and certifications
| Name | What it is for | When |
|---|---|---|
| NEET-UG ↗ | MBBS, BDS and AYUSH admission | Once a year |
| NEET-PG and INI-CET ↗ | MD, MS and DNB admission | Once a year |
| FMGE or NExT ↗ | Licensing (NExT is planned to replace earlier exams) | After MBBS |
Exam names, eligibility and dates change. Always check the official website for this year's notice.
Job market
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