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The Diplomate of National Board (DNB) is a highly sought-after postgraduate medical qualification in India, equivalent to the MD/MS degrees awarded by Indian universities. The National Board of Examinations (NBE) conducts the DNB programs across a variety of specializations, offering a wide range of opportunities for medical graduates to advance their careers.
However, the admission process for DNB programs is competitive and involves understanding the intricacies of the DNB cutoff, seat matrix, and fee structure. For aspiring candidates, navigating these aspects effectively is crucial to securing a seat in the specialization and institute of their choice. In this comprehensive guide, Bodmas Education provides an in-depth overview of the DNB cutoff, seat matrix, fees, and how expert consultancy can help you navigate the process seamlessly.
The Diplomate of National Board (DNB) is a postgraduate and postdoctoral diploma offered by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The DNB qualification is recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI) and is considered equivalent to the MD/MS degrees offered by Indian universities. DNB programs are available in a wide range of specializations, including medicine, surgery, paediatrics, orthopaedics, radiology, and more.
Course Duration:
The duration of the DNB program typically ranges from 3 years for most specialties. However, for candidates with MD/MS degrees, the duration may be reduced, and they may be eligible for a 2-year DNB program in specific fields.
Branches/Specializations Available:
DNB programs are offered in multiple medical and surgical specialties. Some of the major specializations available under the DNB program include:
Medical Specialties | Surgical Specialties |
DNB General Medicine | DNB General Surgery |
DNB Pediatrics | DNB Orthopedics |
DNB Dermatology | DNB Obstetrics and Gynecology |
DNB Psychiatry | DNB Urology |
DNB Radiology | DNB Plastic Surgery |
DNB Anesthesia | DNB Neurosurgery |
DNB Respiratory Medicine | DNB ENT (Otorhinolaryngology) |
DNB Cardiology | DNB Ophthalmology |
DNB Nephrology | DNB Cardiothoracic Surgery |
DNB Gastroenterology | |
DNB Endocrinology |
The entrance examination for the DNB program is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). The primary entrance exam for DNB is:
• DNB CET (Common Entrance Test): This exam is conducted for entry into the 3-year DNB program after MBBS. It tests candidates on their medical knowledge, clinical skills, and understanding of various medical concepts.
• DNB SS (Secondary Specialty) Exam: For MD/MS holders, this exam is conducted for entry into DNB specialty courses (like surgical and medical specialties). This is a more advanced exam and is specific to the field of specialization the candidate wishes to pursue.
For DNB (Post MBBS) Program:
• Educational Qualification: The candidate must have completed their MBBS degree from a recognized medical college in India.
• Minimum Marks: A candidate should have obtained at least 50% marks in the final MBBS exam.
• NEET-UG: The candidate must have appeared and qualified in NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for UG).
• Internship Completion: The candidate must have completed or be in the process of completing a one-year internship at the time of admission.
For DNB (Post MD/MS) Program:
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have an MD/MS degree in a relevant specialty.
• Eligibility for Super-specialty Courses: Only those with MD/MS degrees are eligible to pursue the 2-year DNB program (Super-specialty).
• NEET-PG: Candidates must have qualified NEET-PG for post-graduation.
Admission Process1. Application Submission: o Candidates must apply online for the DNB CET or DNB SS exams via the NBE website. The application process is generally conducted in the form of a registration and document submission process. o Candidates need to fill out the application form, upload required documents, and pay the registration fee. 2. DNB CET/SS Examination: o Candidates must appear for the DNB CET or DNB SS exam, based on their eligibility. o The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and tests the candidate’s knowledge of medical concepts. 3. Result Declaration and Merit List: o The result is declared online, and candidates are ranked according to their scores. A merit list is created based on the exam performance. 4. Counseling and Seat Allotment: o Based on the merit list, candidates are called for counseling, where seats are allotted for various specializations. Counseling may be done online or offline, depending on the procedure set by NBE. o During counseling, candidates select their preferred medical institutions and specialties. 5. Document Verification and Admission: o Candidates must submit required documents for verification, including academic certificates, NEET scores, and ID proofs. o After verification, admission is granted, and the course commences. | ![]() |
1. MBBS Degree or MD/MS Degree (as per the program).
2. NEET-UG/NEET-PG/NEET-SS Scorecard (as applicable).
3. Internship Completion Certificate (for MBBS candidates).
4. Mark Sheets and Passing Certificates (for MBBS/MD/MS degree).
5. Caste Certificate (if applicable).
6. Proof of Date of Birth (Aadhaar card or Birth certificate).
7. Passport-size Photographs.
8. Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.).
The DNB program fee structure varies based on the type of institution (government or private) and the specialization. Below is an estimated fee range:
Category | Government Institutions | private Institutions |
Tuition Fees | ₹30,000 - ₹80,000/year | ₹1,00,000 - ₹2,50,000/year |
Hostel Fees | ₹10,000 - ₹30,000/year | ₹20,000 - ₹50,000/year |
Examination Fees | ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 |
Total Fees | ₹50,000 - ₹1,20,000/year | ₹1,25,000 - ₹3,00,000/year |
The total number of seats available for the DNB program is determined by NBE and is subject to change each year. The seat matrix includes both government and private medical institutions. Generally, the total number of seats for each specialty varies depending on the demand and the availability of faculty and infrastructure at the college.
The cutoff for the DNB program depends on the candidate’s performance in the entrance exam. Typically, top medical colleges have a higher cutoff compared to others. The cutoff for DNB CET and DNB SS is declared after the exam results.
• For DNB CET, the cutoff is usually based on the NEET UG score and DNB SS, the NEET PG score.
Counseling Process:
• The counseling process for DNB admissions is organized by the NBE or other designated authorities.
• Counseling may be done in multiple rounds, depending on seat availability and candidate preferences.
• The candidates must attend counseling in person (or online) for seat allotment.
Some of the top DNB institutions include:
Sno. | College name |
1 | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi |
2 | Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh |
3 | JIPMER, Puducherry |
4 | Christian Medical College, Vellore |
5 | Kasturba Medical College, Manipal |
6 | National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore |
7 | King George’s Medical University, Lucknow |
Bodmas Education offers DNB admission guidance by providing:
• Expert Counseling: Assistance in selecting the best college and specialty based on your preferences and NEET scores.
• Entrance Exam Guidance: Help with NEET-PG/NEET-SS preparation through expert tutors and study material.
• Admission Assistance: From filling out the application to attending counseling and document submission, Bodmas ensures a smooth process.
• Personalized Attention: Tailored guidance to help you clear exams and secure admission in top medical colleges.
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