MBBS Admission in Karnataka: Why It’s Your Smartest Career Move
Are you dreaming of becoming a doctor? Then choosing MBBS admission in Karnataka could be the most strategic decision for your future. To begin with, Karnataka is home to some of the most prestigious and NMC-recognized medical colleges in India, offering world-class infrastructure, expert faculty, and unmatched clinical exposure.
Notably, the capital city, Bangalore, isn’t just known as the “Silicon Valley of India”—it’s also a hub for top-ranked private and government medical colleges that attract NEET-qualified students from across the country. In fact, institutions here have a stellar track record of producing skilled, ethical, and globally competent medical professionals.
Moreover, Karnataka’s medical education system is backed by a robust NEET UG counselling framework, managed efficiently by KEA (Karnataka Examination Authority). As a result, students benefit from transparent seat allotment, diverse quota options (including management and NRI quota), and competitive fee structures.
In addition, Karnataka offers unique advantages:
- Over 60+ MCI/NMC-approved medical colleges
- Thousands of MBBS seats across government, private, and deemed universities
- Opportunities to study in cosmopolitan cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore
- Access to mop-up and stray rounds for NEET-qualified students with lower scores
Consequently, even if your NEET UG score isn’t among the highest, Karnataka gives you multiple pathways to fulfill your MBBS dream—without compromising on quality.
In summary, if you’re looking for a medical education destination that balances reputation, opportunity, and affordability, then Karnataka is where your MBBS journey should begin.
Karnataka NEET UG Counselling: Step-by-Step Online Registration Process (KEA)
If you’re planning to pursue MBBS in Karnataka, the first and most crucial step is completing the online registration process for KEA NEET UG counselling. Let’s walk through each step using clear instructions and helpful transition words to guide you seamlessly.
1: Online Registration
To begin with, visit the official KEA website:
👉 https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/
- Once you’re on the homepage, click on the ‘Registration’ link.
- Next, fill in the required details carefully, including:
- Candidate’s Name
- Gender
- Date of Birth
- Category
- Disability Status
- Educational Qualification
- Email ID
- Mobile Number
- Communication Address
- After entering all the information, review your details for accuracy.
- Finally, submit the form to complete your initial registration.
2: Upload Documents
Once you’ve successfully registered, the next step is to upload your documents.
- You’ll be prompted to upload the following files:
- ✅ Recent color photograph with a white background (Size: 20KB–50KB)
- ✅ Signature on white paper using blue/black ink (Size: 10KB–20KB)
- ✅ Other supporting documents (e.g., caste certificate, educational qualifications) combined into a single PDF (Max size: 500KB)
- Furthermore, ensure all files meet the prescribed format and size guidelines to avoid rejection.
3: Preview Uploaded Images
After your documents are uploaded, you must preview them before submission.
- Carefully check that your photograph and signature are visible and correctly placed.
- If anything looks incorrect or unclear, you’ll have the option to re-upload the files.
- Also, confirm that photo and signature placements are not swapped—a common error that can delay your application.
In other words, take your time here to double-check before moving forward.
4: Declaration and Final Submission
Now that all documents are uploaded and verified, it’s time to finalize your submission.
- First, thoroughly review all entered details one last time.
- Then, check the box to accept the declaration.
- After that, click on the ‘Final Submit’ button to lock your application.
- Upon successful submission:
- An application/registration number will be generated.
- You will receive an email and SMS confirmation containing your registration number and login password.
✅ Make sure to save these credentials for all future steps in the counselling process.
5: Application Fee Payment
With your registration complete, it’s time to make the application fee payment.
- Click on the payment link provided on your dashboard.
- Then, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transaction.
- Payment methods include:
- Internet Banking
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- After successful payment:
- Download and save the payment slip for your records.
- Keep in mind that bank/payment gateway charges are to be borne by the applicant.
⚠️ Important: Ensure you complete the payment within the due date to avoid disqualification from the counselling process.
Step-by-Step MBBS Admission Process in Karnataka (KEA NEET UG Counselling)
1: Registration
To begin with, you need to visit the official KEA website for Karnataka NEET UG counselling.
- Then, locate and click on the ‘Registration’ link on the homepage.
- After that, fill in your personal information, such as your name, contact details, and NEET UG 2025 credentials.
- Before proceeding, ensure you verify all entered details carefully.
- Finally, submit the registration form to complete the first step.
2: Document Verification
Once your registration is confirmed, the next step is document verification.
- Soon after, you’ll receive a notification regarding your document verification schedule.
- You must attend the verification session at the designated KEA center.
- During this session, remember to carry the following documents:
- NEET UG 2025 Admit Card and Scorecard
- Class 10th and 12th Mark Sheets & Passing Certificates
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, or equivalent)
- Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Karnataka Domicile Certificate (for government seats)
- Recent Passport-Size Photographs
In short, missing any document may result in disqualification—so double-check your file before arriving.
3: Choice Filling
Once your documents are verified, you’ll gain access to the online choice filling portal.
- Using the login credentials provided, log in to the KEA counselling dashboard.
- Then, start filling in your preferred colleges and MBBS courses in the order of your priority.
- It is advisable to research the colleges thoroughly before ranking them.
- Additionally, don’t forget to save and lock your choices before the official deadline.
Remember, your choices directly influence your seat allotment—so choose wisely!
4: Seat Allotment
After you’ve locked your preferences, the KEA will initiate the seat allotment process.
- Based on your NEET UG 2025 rank, category, and choice preferences, a seat will be allotted.
- Then, visit the KEA portal and log in to check your allotment result.
- If you are satisfied with the allotted seat, you may choose to accept it and proceed with the next step.
- However, if you are not satisfied, you may choose to participate in the next round of counselling.
Furthermore, students who don’t get a seat in the first round can still apply for mop-up and stray vacancy rounds.
5: Reporting to Allotted College
Once you accept the allotted seat, the next step is to report to the respective medical college.
- Make sure to report within the timeframe mentioned by KEA.
- Upon reporting, you will need to pay the admission fee and complete all necessary formalities.
- After successful verification by the college, your admission will be formally confirmed.
In essence, missing the deadline to report can result in cancellation of your allotted seat.
6: Upgradation (Optional)
If you are aiming for a better seat or college, KEA offers an upgradation option.
- You can opt for seat upgradation by participating in the next round of choice filling and allotment.
- Again, follow the same process of choice filling, saving, locking, and reviewing allotment results.
- If you get upgraded, simply report to the new college with the updated allotment letter.
Consequently, this feature helps students maximize their chances of getting into a preferred medical college in Karnataka.
Private Medical Colleges in Karnataka
Private MBBS College , Total Number of MBBS seats intake & MBBS Fees in Karnataka.
| SNo. | Colleges | Intake | Govt. Fees INR | Private Fees INR | NRI Fees INR | Other Fees INR |
| 1.a | BGS Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4286950 | 4286950 |
| 1.b | BGS Medical College, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 2215750 | 3215750 | 3215750 |
| 2. | Dr BR Ambedkar Medical College, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3511950 | 3511950 |
| 3. | East Point Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3611950 | 3611950 |
| 4. | Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4311950 | 4311950 |
| 5. | M S Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 2515750 | 4515750 | 4515750 |
| 6. | Vydehi Institute Of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bangalore | 250 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4411950 | 4411950 |
| 7. | The Oxford Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3611950 | 3611950 |
| 8. | Akash Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3611950 | 3611950 |
| 9. | MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4012700 | 4012700 |
| 10. | Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bangalore | 250 | 154321 | 2241500 | 4541500 | 4541500 |
| 11. | St. Jhons Medical College, Banglore | 150 | 0 | 811285 | 0 | 0 |
| 12. | Dr Chandramma Dayanand Sagar Institute of Medical Edu., Hubli | 150 | 154321 | 2215750 | 3815750 | 3815750 |
| 13. | GR Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | ||
| 14. | Siddhaganga Medical College & Research Institute, Tumakuru | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2662700 | 2662700 |
| 15. | Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences Bellur | 150 | 154321 | 2215750 | 3215750 | 3215750 |
| 16. | Basaveswara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3511950 | 3511950 |
| 17. | JJM Medical College, Davangere | 245 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3911950 | 3911950 |
| 18. | K V G Medical College, Sullia | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3512650 | 3512650 |
| 19. | Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College(MRMC), Gulbarga | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3911950 | 3911950 |
| 20. | SDM College of Medical Sciences & Hospital, Sattur, Dharwad | 150 | 154321 | 2015750 | 3015750 | 3015750 |
| 21. | Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Hospital | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3312700 | 3312700 |
| 22. | SS Institute of Medical Sciences, Davanagiri | 200 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3611950 | 3611950 |
| 23. | S. Nijalingappa Medical College, Bagalkot | 250 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4011950 | 4011950 |
| 24. | Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute Of Medical Sciences and Research, Chikkballapur | 50 | 750 | 2200750 | 3001950 | 3001950 |
| 25. | Sri Chamundeshwari Medical College Hospital & Research Institute, Channapattana | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2702700 | 2702700 |
| 26. | Navodaya Medical College, Raichur | 200 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2736950 | 2736950 |
| 27. | Subbaiah Institute of Medical Sciences, Shimoga | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2911950 | 2911950 |
| 28. | A J Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 4011950 | 4011950 |
| 29. | Srinivas Institute of medical Sciences | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2612700 | 2612700 |
| 30. | Father Mullers Medical College, Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3511950 | 3511950 |
| 31. | Al-Ameen Medical College, Bijapur | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2711950 | 2711950 |
| 32. | Khaja Bandanawaz University – Faculty of Medical Sciences, Gulbarga | 150 | 154321 | 1630715 | 3215750 | 3215750 |
| 33. | Kanachur Institute Of Medical Science, Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3211950 | 3211950 |
| 34. | PES University Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bangalore | 150 | 154321 | 2215750 | 3315750 | 3315750 |
| 35. | S.R. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Center, Bagalkoti | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 2702700 | 2702700 |
| 36. | Sridevi Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Center, Tumakuru | 150 | 154321 | 1200867 | 3861950 | 3861950 |
Total number of MBBS seat in Private Medical Colleges of Karnataka :- 8196
Deemed Medical Colleges in Karnataka
Deemed MBBS College , Total Number of MBBS seats intake & MBBS Fees in Karnataka.
| S.No. | Colleges | Intake | Govt. Fees INR (Karnataka Student) | All India Management Fees INR | NRI Fees INR |
| 1. | Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College,(KLE University) ,Belgaum | 200 | 157371 | 1920000 | 3867500 |
| 2. | JSS Medical college, Mysore | 200 | 154321 | 1986000 | 3500000 |
| 3. | Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore | 250 | 154321 | 1785000 | 3170566 |
| 4. | Kasturba Medical College, Manipal | 250 | 154321 | 1780000 | 4221724 |
| 5. | K S Hegde Medical Academy(NITTE University), Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 1784500 | 2500000 |
| 6. | Sri B.M Patil Medical College(B.L.D.E University), Bijapur | 150 | 154321 | 1900000 | 2500000 |
| 7. | Sri Devaraj URS Medical College, Kolar | 150 | 154321 | 1760000 | 3862792 |
| 8a. | Sri Siddhartha Medical College, Tumkur | 150 | 154321 | 1896000 | 4349521 |
| 8b. | Sri Siddhartha Medical College, T.Begur | 150 | 154321 | 1896000 | 4349521 |
| 9. | Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore | 150 | 154321 | 2300000 | 1st year 5469440 2nd/3rd/4th/5th year 2777450 |
| 10. | Rajarajeswari Medical College & Hospital, Bangalore | 250 | 2350000 | 5500000 |
Total number of MBBS seat in Deemed Medical Colleges of Karnataka :- 2050
Fees in Deemed colleges of India
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Admission in Karnataka (2025)
Academic Qualification
To begin with, candidates must have passed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects.
Furthermore, the minimum aggregate marks required in PCB subjects are as follows:
- General Category: 50%
- OBC/SC/ST (Karnataka State only): 40%
- PWD Candidates (General): 45%
These academic thresholds are crucial for eligibility under both government and private quota seats.
NEET UG Qualification
Next, it is compulsory for all candidates to qualify NEET UG 2025 to be eligible for MBBS admission in Karnataka—regardless of the seat type (government, private, NRI, or deemed).
The minimum NEET percentile required is:
- General Category: 50th percentile
- OBC/SC/ST: 40th percentile
- PWD: 45th percentile
In short, without NEET qualification, no candidate can proceed with the admission process.
Domicile Criteria
For Government Quota Seats (via KEA)
In addition to NEET qualification, candidates applying for government quota seats must satisfy Karnataka domicile norms. Specifically:
- The candidate must be a resident of Karnataka, proven either by a 7-year study certificate or a valid domicile certificate.
- Moreover, either parent must hold Karnataka domicile, or the student should have completed a minimum of 7 years of education in Karnataka, including Class 10 and 12.
- Additionally, special eligibility applies to Kannada medium, Defense, NRI, and Hyderabad-Karnataka (NK region) candidates, as per KEA norms.
For Private/Management Quota Seats
On the other hand, no domicile requirement is needed for private or management quota seats.
- These seats are open to all Indian citizens who have qualified NEET UG.
- Importantly, students from other states are also eligible to apply under this category, including NRI quota in private colleges.
NRI / NRI Sponsored Quota Eligibility
If you’re an NRI or ward of an NRI, or sponsored by a first-degree NRI relative, you are eligible to apply under the NRI quota.
However, NEET UG qualification is still mandatory.
In addition, you must provide valid documentation including:
- Passport
- Visa
- Embassy certificate
- NRI sponsorship affidavit, and others as per KEA/NMC guidelines.
Notably, many private medical colleges in Karnataka offer 15% NRI quota seats, making this a viable option for international applicants.
Age Criteria
Equally important is the age requirement:
- Minimum age: Candidate must be 17 years as of 31st December 2025.
- Maximum age: Currently, there is no upper age limit, based on the latest NMC notification—although this may be subject to ongoing legal review.
Document Requirements at Time of Admission
- NEET UG 2025 Admit Card & Scorecard
- 10th & 12th Marksheets
- Transfer & Conduct Certificate
- Domicile Certificate (for government quota)
- Caste/Income Certificate (if applicable)
- Study Certificate (for local Karnataka students)
- Aadhaar Card / Valid ID
- Passport-size photographs
- NRI-related documents (for NRI seats)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I apply for MBBS admission in Karnataka if I’m not from the state?
Absolutely. While domicile is required for government quota seats, Karnataka’s private medical colleges also offer management quota and NRI quota seats that are open to students from other states.
In fact, many NEET-qualified aspirants from across India successfully secure MBBS seats in Karnataka every year through these categories.
Q2. What is the minimum NEET score required to get MBBS admission in Karnataka?
Generally speaking, the required NEET score depends on the type of seat and college category:
- For government quota seats: A NEET score of 500+ is usually considered safe.
- For private or management quota seats: Scores as low as 130–400 may be accepted in the mop-up or stray vacancy rounds.
Therefore, even students with low NEET scores have real options—if they act strategically.
Q3. Is NEET UG mandatory for MBBS admission in Karnataka?
Yes, definitely. As per NMC and KEA regulations, NEET UG qualification is compulsory for all candidates seeking MBBS admission in Karnataka, whether through government, private, or NRI quota seats.
Q4. How can I participate in Karnataka NEET UG counselling?
To begin with, you need to register on the KEA website during the official counselling window. After registration, you must:
- Complete document verification
- Fill in your college preferences
- Participate in the seat allotment rounds
Once your seat is allotted, you’ll need to report to the college and complete admission formalities.
Q5. What is the process for MBBS admission under the management quota in Karnataka?
First of all, you must qualify NEET UG. After that, you can:
- Apply through KEA for private medical colleges offering management seats
- Or, connect with authorized admission consultants for guidance
In many cases, management quota seats are available in the later rounds (mop-up/stray), especially if your documentation is in order and you apply on time.
Q6. What documents are required during the Karnataka MBBS admission process?
Typically, you will need:
- NEET UG Admit Card & Scorecard
- 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
- Transfer Certificate
- Caste/Income Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate (for government quota)
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport-size photographs
- NRI-related documents (for NRI quota)
Moreover, make sure to carry both originals and photocopies during document verification.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, Karnataka remains one of the most promising and accessible destinations for MBBS aspirants in India—thanks to its large number of private medical colleges, transparent KEA counselling system, and multiple quota options for students of all backgrounds.
Furthermore, whether you’re a high scorer targeting a government college or a NEET-qualified student looking for options under the management or NRI quota, Karnataka offers a fair and strategic path to securing your MBBS seat.
However, timing is critical. From online registration to choice filling and seat allotment, each step must be executed carefully. That’s why many students choose professional guidance—to avoid mistakes and improve their chances.
** If you’re aiming for MBBS admission in Karnataka, don’t wait for cutoffs to surprise you—act now, plan early, and get expert support when needed.