Choosing the right medical entrance exams after Class 12 is the first major step towards building a career in healthcare. While NEET UG is the main examination for admission to MBBS, BDS and AYUSH courses in India, students can also appear for other entrance exams for nursing, pharmacy and allied health programmes. This article provides a clear list of medical entrance exams in India, along with the courses they cover, eligibility requirements, and available options beyond NEET. Students seeking support with NEET preparation can explore SPMandlalans Coaching Centres in Guwahati.
Medical Entrance Exams After 12th: Complete List
Here is a comprehensive list of Medical Entrance Exams After 12th
NEET UG
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate, or NEET UG, is conducted by the National Testing Agency. It is the main entrance exam for admission to:
- MBBS
- BDS
- BAMS
- BHMS
- BUMS
- BSMS
To understand the NEET UG question format, subject distribution and marking scheme, read our guide to the medical entrance paper structure. Students looking for structured preparation can also explore NEET UG exam coaching in Guwahati.
AIIMS BSc Nursing Entrance Examination
- AIIMS conducts a separate entrance examination for admission to its BSc (Hons.) Nursing programme.
- Moreover, this examination is only for nursing and other notified BSc programmes. Admission to AIIMS MBBS is conducted through NEET UG, not through this examination
CUET UG
The Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate is conducted by the NTA for admission to undergraduate programmes offered by participating universities. Therefore, depending on the university, PCB students may use CUET UG scores to apply for courses such as
- BSc Biotechnology
- BSc Biochemistry
- BSc Microbiology
- BSc Biomedical Science
- BSc Life Sciences
- BSc Nutrition
SSUHS Common Entrance Examination
The Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences conducts a Common Entrance Examination for healthcare admissions in Assam. The examination is used for admission to courses such as:
- BSc Nursing
- Diploma in Pharmacy
In 2026, SSUHS CEE also included various courses under Allied and Healthcare Courses. These are:
- Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Bachelor in Medical Radiology and Imaging Technology
- Bachelor of Emergency Medical Technology
- Bachelor in Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology
- Bachelor in Dialysis Therapy Technology
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom)
JENPAS UG
The Joint Entrance Test for Nursing, Paramedical and Allied Sciences Undergraduate, or JENPAS UG, is conducted by the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board. It provides admission to healthcare courses offered by participating institutions in West Bengal, including:
- BSc Nursing
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy
- Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
- Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
- Bachelor of Optometry
- Medical Radiology and Imaging Technology
- Emergency Medical Technology
MHT CET for Pharmacy Courses
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test, or MHT CET, is conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra. It provides admission to pharmacy courses offered by participating institutions in the state, including:
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Students must generally pass Class 12 with Physics and Chemistry, along with Mathematics or Biology. Admission is conducted through the Centralised Admission Process based on the applicable entrance score and eligibility rules After choosing an entrance examination, students can use these medical entrance preparation tips to organise their study schedule, revision and practice tests.
Career Options After Medical Courses Without NEET
Students can build a career in healthcare even without pursuing MBBS or BDS. After completing a recognised nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy or allied health course, they can explore the following career options:
Nurse
Nurses care for patients, assist doctors and monitor treatment. They can work in hospitals, clinics, health centres and home-care services after completing a recognised nursing course.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists prepare and dispense medicines. They also guide patients on their safe use. They can work in hospitals, pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies and research centres.
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists help patients recover from injuries, surgeries and movement problems. They use exercises and physical therapy methods to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Medical laboratory technologists test blood, urine and other samples. Their work helps doctors identify diseases and decide the right treatment.
Radiology Technologist
Radiology technologists operate imaging equipment such as X-ray, CT and MRI machines. They help doctors examine internal organs, bones and tissues.
Optometrist
Optometrists examine eyesight and identify common vision problems. They can prescribe corrective lenses and work in eye hospitals, clinics and optical centres.
Dialysis Technologist
Dialysis technologists operate dialysis machines and assist patients with kidney-related conditions. They usually work under the supervision of doctors and trained nurses.
Nutritionist
Nutritionists create suitable diet plans based on a person’s health and nutritional needs. They can work in hospitals, wellness centres, schools and fitness organisations.
Biotechnology Professional
Biotechnology professionals use biology and technology in areas such as medicine, agriculture and product development. They can find opportunities in laboratories, pharmaceutical companies and research organisations.
Clinical Research Assistant
Clinical research assistants support studies related to medicines, treatments and medical devices. They help maintain records, coordinate study activities and follow research guidelines.
Conclusion
Choosing the right path after Class 12 does not always mean pursuing MBBS or BDS. While NEET UG remains essential for major medical courses, students can also explore nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy and allied health programmes. Understanding Medical Entrance Exams, their eligibility rules, available courses and career scope can help every student make a confident and informed decision about the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which entrance exams can students take after Class 12 for healthcare courses?
The main Medical Entrance Exams include NEET UG, AIIMS BSc Nursing, CUET UG, SSUHS CEE, JENPAS UG and MHT CET. However, each examination covers different courses. Therefore, students should first identify their preferred programme and then check the relevant admission requirements.
Q2. Can students pursue a medical course without qualifying for NEET?
Yes, students can study nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, biotechnology and several allied health courses without NEET. However, admission rules differ between institutions. Moreover, NEET UG remains compulsory for MBBS, BDS and major AYUSH programmes in India.
Q3. How should students choose between different medical entrance examinations?
Students should compare the courses, eligibility rules, syllabus, location and participating colleges before applying. Since different Medical Entrance Exams lead to different careers, they should also consider their interests and long-term goals. Therefore, checking the official admission notification is essential before submitting an application.
This article is written by the SPM & LALAN’S Content Team, a group of skilled writers, researchers, and content strategists passionate about creating accurate, reliable, and student-friendly educational content. Every article is thoroughly researched, fact-checked, and updated to ensure readers receive trustworthy and relevant information. The goal is to help students make informed academic decisions through clear, well-researched, and easy-to-understand content.
