NEET UG vs. NEET PG: What’s the Real Difference?
- April 1, 2025
- Dr.Nithin Sebastian
- 0


NEET UG vs. NEET PG: What's the Real Difference?
By Dr.Nithin Sebastian
Are there any differences between NEET UG and NEET PG? This is one of the common queries searched online. Despite the aspirants, most of the people think that there is only one NEET exam that is applicable for enrolling in all the medical courses. Through this blog, you will get a clear picture of it with expert guidance. The National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET) decides whether a medical aspirant is eligible for medical school in India. However, this journey has two phases: NEET undergraduate and NEET postgraduate. Each level has its own set of requirements and problems. Understanding the difference between NEET UG and PG might be difficult for the parents and other groups of people who are from entirely different fields of study if not focused clearly, when it comes to NEET examinations especially, PG NEET coaching. Let us examine more and get more insights.
What is NEET UG?
NEET UG expands to NEET for undergraduate courses, and is applicable for medical courses like MBBS, BDS, and other allied courses in India. One should get a good score in NEET UG to be admitted to esteemed medical institutes in India. The following are the eligibility criteria for the examination:
- The aspirant should have completed +2 with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as subjects.
- Candidates must have passed the 12th grade with a minimum aggregate of 50%, while those in the SC/ST category require at least 40%, and PwD candidates need 45%.
- Age must be over 17 years old.
Though the criteria vary based on age and other qualifications, the exam pattern is based on the 11th and 12th syllabi, with a strong focus on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Career Paths After NEET UG
After passing NEET UG, you are welcomed with a wide range of career options that can transform your life to another level. Here are the common career paths after NEET UG:
- MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)
This most desired option for aspirants is a 5.5-year course (including a 1-year internship) that helps to pursue a career as a doctor (general practitioner or specialist after PG studies)
- BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
A 5-year program (including a 1-year internship) details dentistry and oral health. Graduates can practice as dentists or pursue MDS for specialization.
- BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery)
BAMS is a 5.5-year course with an internship aimed at Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and herbal treatments. Ayurvedic doctor, researcher, or wellness consultant are the career options.
- BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery)
A 5.5-year program including an internship. It is a Homeopathy-based treatment with natural remedies and Graduates can practice as homeopathic doctors or researchers.
- BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery)
A 5.5-year course, including an internship, specializes in Unani medicine, an ancient healing system. Graduates can work as Unani practitioners or researchers.
- Veterinary Sciences (BVSc & AH)
A 5.5-year course to become a veterinary doctor involving animal healthcare, surgery, and disease prevention.
- Nursing (BSc Nursing)
A 4-year undergraduate course primarily based on patient care, hospital management, and medical assistance. Career options include working in hospitals, clinics, and the healthcare sector.
- BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy)
A 4.5-year course including an internship includes physical therapy, rehabilitation, and pain management. The graduates can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice.
- Paramedical Courses
Various options like:
- BSc Radiology – Imaging and X-ray technology.
- BSc Medical Lab Technology – Diagnostic tests and lab work.
- BSc Operation Theatre Technology – Assisting in surgical procedures.
- BSc Dialysis Technology – Specializing in dialysis care.
- Pharmacy (BPharm)
A 4-year program focusing on drugs, medicine production, and patient care. Career opportunities in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and research.
- BSc Courses in Allied Medical Sciences
Options include:
- BSc Biotechnology
- BSc Microbiology
- BSc Biochemistry
- BSc Genetics
- BSc Forensic Science
- Hospital & Healthcare Management
Courses like Bachelor’s in Hospital Administration (BHA) or MBA in Healthcare and graduates can get management roles in hospitals and healthcare institutions.
- Research & Academics
After the completion of MBBS, BDS, or BSc programs, students can pursue research (MSc/PhD). Opportunities in medical research, biotech companies, and academia.
- Government & Defence Services
Opportunities in AFMC (Armed Forces Medical College) for MBBS graduates. Various government healthcare positions via UPSC, AIIMS, and state exams.
- Medical Coding & Medical Writing
Courses available after BSc or MBBS that give career options in medical documentation, insurance processing, and research-based writing.
Difference between NEET PG and NEET UG
NEET UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduates) is a national-level entrance exam for students who aspires to pursue undergraduate medical courses such as MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BUMS, and other healthcare-related programs in India. It is mandatory for admission to medical colleges across the country.
NEET PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates) is conducted for medical graduates who have completed their MBBS and wish to pursue postgraduate medical programs (MD/MS/Diploma courses).
The main diff between NEET UG and PG is the dynamic and adaptable learning style for the National Eligibility and Entrance Tests at the undergraduate and graduate levels. NEET UG’s main objective is to assess an applicant’s mastery of basic ideas; therefore, a study of the 10+2 curriculum with subject knowledge about biology, chemistry and physics is required. Technology, consistent practice, and a study plan help candidates create a learning environment.
On the other hand, NEET PG promotes a change in perspective in favor of a very targeted and clinical approach. It differs from ini cet neet pg and is widely accepted in every medical institution. In this case, adaptive learning includes reading medical literature, honing clinical reasoning abilities, and keeping up with developments in the chosen field. According to the transition from broad knowledge in NEET undergraduate to specialized knowledge in NEET postgraduate, medical candidates must adopt a flexible strategy.
NEET PG Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility for NEET PG aspirants is as follows:
- Hold an MBBS degree, have completed a year-long internship, and be open to pursuing a master’s, doctoral, or postgraduate degree.
- Submit a permanent or temporary MBBS registration from the Medical Council of India or the State Medical Council.
- There is no upper age limit.
NEET PG vs NEET UG
Features | NEET UG | NEET PG |
Controlling Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) | National Board of Examination (NBE) |
Level | Undergraduate level | Postgraduate level |
Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; Age limit may apply | MBBS degree; Completion of internship required |
Exam Frequency | Once a year | Once a year |
Purpose | Entrance exam for undergraduate medical courses (MBBS/BDS/ BAMS/BHMS/BUMS/ BVSc & AH/ BPT/B.Sc. Nursing/ B. Pharm/Allied Health courses. | Entrance exam for postgraduate medical courses (MD/MS/DNB/Diploma) |
Influence of Your UG Foundation on NEET PG
When it comes to pursuing a career in medicine, NEET UG and NEET PG are not just tests; they are both life-changing experiences that mold students into specialists. But one should know the difference between NEET UG and PG. Kottayam Academics is here to support your NEET PG journey with expert coaching.
Selecting the appropriate course necessitates a thorough comprehension of the particular needs at every stage, especially when you are preparing for the NEET PG examination..Due to its stellar reputation for postgraduate education, coaching with Bhatia DBMCI can be effective, and Kottayam Academics offers Bhatia Classes for all doctors who have the spark to pursue higher studies. Don’t wait any longer—if you are a PG NEET aspirant, think wisely, pick the best option, and be prepared for the next NEET exam with confidence!

Dr.Nithin Sebastian
Dr. Nithin Sebastian, an MBBS graduate from Government Medical College, Kozhikode, with an MDP from IIM Kozhikode, is the Director of DBMCI Kottayam Academics Milestone Learning Spaces. He is dedicated to guiding future doctors, combining medical expertise with leadership to enhance medical education.