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What is DNB: Eligibility Criteria, Specializations, Career Opportunities 2025
Introduction to DNB
The Diplomate of National Board (DNB) is a postgraduate degree in medicine awarded by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, on completion of three-year training in any of 30 broad specialties
This postgraduate degree, awarded by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), is called the Diplomate of the National Board. The list of recognised qualifications awarded by the NBEMS in various broad specialties and super-specialtie, as approved by the Government of India , is included in the First Schedule of the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956.
After the completion of the course, candidates have various opportunities to work as specialists in diverse genres of medicine. They can choose to become Paediatricians, Anaesthesiologists, Broad Specialists, and Super Specialists like Nephrologists, Orthopaedics, Cardiologists, Neurologists, and much more.
Why Study the DNB Course?
- Holding a Diplomate of National Board in Medical can open up various career opportunities, including academic positions, specialized clinical roles, and leadership positions in healthcare institutions.
- DNB in Medicine adheres to rigorous standards set by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), ensuring high-quality education and training. The curriculum is designed to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.
- DNB in Medicine offers flexibility in terms of specialty choice and training locations. Candidates can choose from various specialities and pursue training in accredited hospitals across India.
- DNB in Medicine is widely recognized across India as well as internationally.
Importance of DNB
- Diplomate of National Board holders can pursue super-specialty courses (DM/MCh) or go into academics and teaching (especially after clearing additional eligibility criteria like a teaching experience or pursuing Diplomate of National Board from teaching hospitals).
- They are eligible for jobs in government, private, and abroad
- DNB is recognized across India and by many international medical councils and institutions.
- It holds equal value to MD/MS degrees in terms of academic and clinical competence.
- The standardized curriculum and strict assessment ensure rigorous training
- DNB institutions are often located in tier-2 or tier-3 cities, helping improve healthcare access in underserved regions.
Eligibility Criteria
- The students who have passed their MBBS degree from a recognized college or university with an aggregate of 50% marks are only eligible for admission in the DNB course.
- The candidates seeking admission must have passed their CET-NBE for the Diplomate of National Board exam.
- The candidates who have completed their MBBS from universities other than those in India, i.e., from foreign universities, can also seek chances of Diplomate of National Board course admission.
- The students should complete their one-year rotating internship before applying for admission to DNB.
- The students have to obtain a medical degree with a permanent registration certificate issued by the MCI to sign up for the program of the National Board.
Admission Process 2025
- MBBS graduates for general DNB, PG degree holders for super-specialty DNB.
- Apply online via the NBE website with the required documents.
- NEET PG for the general Diplomate of the National Board
- Based on NEET PG scores and seat availability.
- Merit-based allocation through counselling.
- Document verification, seat allotment, and fee payment.
Diplomate of National Board Courses
The Diplomate of National Board courses provide the knowledge about the various intricacies they can face while working in the field for the candidates. The various specializations, like those of Surgeon, Anesthesiologist, Paediatric, Orthopaedics, Neurologists, Cardiologists, Nephrologists, and many more imparted to students with various skills involved in techniques and procedures through practical and theoretical classes and journals of reputed medical practitioners.
Top Colleges providing the DNB course
- Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi
- P.D. Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai
- Lisie Medical Institution, Kochi
- St. Stephen’s Hospital, New Delhi
- Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, New Delhi
- Indraprastha Apollo Hospital
- Holy Family Hospital
- Batra hospital
DNB Course Structure
First Year: Basics of Medical Sciences and core subjects.
Second Year: Advanced training in a chosen speciality.
Third Year: Intensive clinical practice, thesis submission, and final exams
Fee Structure
| Particulars | DNB | DM |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years | 3 years |
| Course Fee | Up to INR 1.1 lakh | INR 5,000 – INR 20 Lakh |
| Entrance exams | NEET PG | GATE, UGC NET, CSIR NET, GPAT, etc |
| Average Salary | Up to INR 35 lakh | INR 3.3 LPA – INR 40 LPA |
Conclusion to DNB
In conclusion, it can be said that the Diplomate of the National Board (DNB) offers a valuable and recognized postgraduate medical training path, comparable to MD/MS, with wide career opportunities and clinical exposure, making it a strong option for medical graduates seeking specialization.
Diplomate of National Board is widely recognized in India and internationally, demonstrating a high level of competence and expertise.
FAQs
Is DNB equivalent to MD/MS?
Yes, the Government of India and Medical Council of India (now NMC) recognize DNB qualifications as equivalent to MD/MS degrees for all purposes, including teaching and practice.
What are the eligibility criteria for DNB?
You must have an MBBS degree and have qualified the NEET-PG entrance exam to apply for DNB courses.
What is the duration of a DNB course?
- Primary DNB (after MBBS): 3 years
- Post-Diploma DNB: 2 years
- Direct 6-year courses (like Neurosurgery): 6 years
What is the difference between DNB and MD/MS?
DNB is usually pursued in accredited private hospitals, while MD/MS is typically offered in medical colleges. Assessment in DNB is more centralized and standardized.
Are DNB doctors eligible for teaching posts?
Yes, but in medical colleges, only DNBs from institutions with more than 500 beds are eligible for faculty posts, as per NMC norms.
What is the exit exam for DNB?
The DNB Final exam includes theory and practical exams. A pass in both components is necessary to be awarded the DNB degree.
