Introduction
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, has emerged as a hub for higher education in the field of dentistry. With a growing emphasis on oral healthcare and increasing demand for qualified dental professionals, the state offers a range of BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) colleges catering to various academic and financial backgrounds.
Pursuing BDS from a reputable institution is crucial, as it lays the foundation for a successful career in dentistry—whether in clinical practice, research, academia, or specialization through postgraduate programs like MDS. Uttar Pradesh is home to several well-established and emerging dental colleges recognized by the Dental Council of India (DCI), ensuring that students receive education that meets national standards.
What makes UP a favorable destination for dental education is its balanced mix of government and private colleges offering modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and reasonable tuition fees. Many of these colleges also maintain active placement cells and provide internship opportunities in renowned hospitals and clinics, equipping students with practical experience and industry exposure.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top BDS colleges in Uttar Pradesh for the academic year 2026-27, including details on eligibility, fee structures, faculty, infrastructure, and placement support. Whether you’re a student aiming for a competitive NEET-UG score or a parent researching cost-effective options, this guide will help you make an informed decision about your future in dentistry.
Top BDS Colleges in Uttar Pradesh 2026-27
Below is a list of some of the top DCI-approved BDS colleges in Uttar Pradesh based on academic reputation, infrastructure, affordability, and placement records:
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
Type: Government
Established: 1911
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 70
Fees: Approx. INR 54,900 per annum
Eligibility: NEET-UG qualified, 10+2 with PCB
Highlights: One of the oldest and most prestigious medical universities in India. World-class dental department with advanced clinical exposure.
- Saraswati Dental College, Lucknow
Type: Private
Established: 1998
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 2.5–3.5 lakhs per annum
Placements: Good internship and placement support
Highlights: Offers MDS programs; known for modern infrastructure, clinical exposure, and research facilities.
- Subharti Dental College, Meerut
Type: Private (under Swami Vivekanand Subharti University)
Established: 1996
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 2.8–3.2 lakhs per annum
Placements: Strong alumni network with good placements in private and government sectors
Highlights: NAAC A+ accredited university, recognized for quality faculty and well-equipped labs.
- ITS Dental College, Greater Noida
Type: Private
Established: 2006
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 3–3.5 lakhs per annum
Placements: Active placement cell; tie-ups with reputed hospitals
Highlights: Strong emphasis on research and innovation, recognized for student satisfaction and results.
- DJ College of Dental Sciences & Research, Modinagar
Type: Private
Established: 1999
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 2.5–3 lakhs per annum
Highlights: Good infrastructure with digital labs, experienced faculty, and campus recruitment drives.
- Rama Dental College, Kanpur
Type: Private (under Rama University)
Established: 1996
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 2.5–3 lakhs per annum
Placements: Decent track record in placements and PG admissions
Highlights: Offers both BDS and MDS courses with strong clinical exposure.
- Institute of Dental Studies and Technologies (IDST), Modinagar
Type: Private
Established: 2000
DCI Approved: Yes
Seats: 100
Fees: INR 2.5–3 lakhs per annum
Highlights: Good student-faculty ratio, latest equipment, focused on holistic development.
Eligibility Criteria for BDS Admission in Uttar Pradesh
To gain admission into these colleges, students must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- Educational Qualification:
Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB), and English as core subjects. This ensures students have a strong science foundation necessary for dental studies.
- Minimum Marks:
A minimum of 50% marks in PCB is required for General category students. Those belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories must secure at least 40% marks. This criterion ensures academic competency while offering relaxation for reserved categories.
- Entrance Exam (NEET-UG):
Qualifying the NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Undergraduate) is mandatory for admission to BDS programs in both government and private colleges. NEET ensures a standardized, merit-based selection process across India.
- Age Limit:
The applicant must be at least 17 years old on or before December 31st of the admission year. There is no upper age limit, as per the current NEET-UG guidelines, allowing broader access to dental education.
Fee Structure Overview
The fee structure varies depending on the type of college:
- Government Colleges: INR 50,000 to INR 1 lakh per annum
- Private Colleges: INR 2.5 lakhs to INR 4 lakhs per annum
Note: Additional charges such as hostel, exam fees, and miscellaneous costs may apply.
Career Scope After BDS
Completing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) opens a diverse range of career opportunities, both in India and abroad. Graduates from recognized institutions in Uttar Pradesh or other states can explore several professional paths tailored to their interests and skill sets.
- Clinical Practice:
One of the most common routes is to start a private dental clinic or work in multi-specialty dental hospitals. With rising awareness about oral health in India, demand for skilled dental practitioners is growing steadily.
- Higher Education (MDS):
Many BDS graduates choose to pursue Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) to specialize in fields such as orthodontics, prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, or endodontics. Specialization not only improves career prospects but also opens doors to academic and research opportunities.
- Government Jobs:
Opportunities in the public sector include recruitment through UPSC, State Public Service Commissions, ESIC, or joining the Army Dental Corps. These roles offer job security, good salaries, and additional benefits.
- Research & Teaching:
BDS graduates can enter the academic field by becoming lecturers or researchers in dental colleges or research institutions. This path is ideal for those passionate about teaching or contributing to dental science innovations.
- International Opportunities:
Graduates can also practice abroad by clearing licensing exams like the NBDE (USA), ORE (UK), or ADC (Australia). These certifications enable professionals to build a successful global career in dentistry.