ENT Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope
What is ENT
ENT is a specialised branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The course trains students in diagnosis, treatment, surgical techniques, and patient care, preparing them for careers in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.
To pursue an ENT course, students must have completed a medical degree, such as MBBS, from a recognised university. Postgraduate studies, such as an MD or MS in ENT, are common for specialisation. The programme develops clinical, surgical, and diagnostic skills, enabling students to manage complex ENT and head-neck conditions effectively.
With rising ENT-related health issues and advanced surgical treatments, the demand for trained ENT specialists is increasing in India and abroad. Graduates can work in hospitals, private clinics, research centres, and teaching institutions. The course also opens opportunities in hearing care, voice therapy, and advanced surgical procedures for head and neck disorders.
ENT: Highlights
ENT offers numerous academic pathways and career prospects through undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma-level courses. Admissions are typically conducted via national or institutional entrance tests, and fee structures vary based on the course and institution. Below are the key highlights of the course:
Particulars | Values |
|---|---|
Branch Name | ENT (Otolaryngology) |
Degree | UG: MBBS, BSc, Diploma |
Duration | UG: 3–5.5 years |
Eligibility | UG: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
Admission Process | Entrance Examination or Merit-Based |
Entrance Exams | NEET UG, NEET PG, INI CET |
Course Fees | Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 90 lakh |
Top Colleges | AIIMS Delhi, JIPMER Puducherry, CMC Vellore, Armed Forces Medical College |
Career Options | ENT Surgeon, ENT Specialist, ENT Assistant, Research Assistant |
Average Salary | Rs. 8–15 LPA (Depending on role and experience) |
Recruiting Companies | Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, AIIMS, Medanta, Max Healthcare |
Specialisations or Similar
ENT offers several focused areas that allow doctors to gain advanced skills in treating ear, nose, throat, and head & neck conditions. These specialisations prepare professionals for diverse roles in hospitals, clinics, and research. Below are some of the specialisations available in ENT:
Otology and Neurotology | Rhinology and Sinus Surgery |
Laryngology and Voice Disorders | Head and Neck Oncology |
Paediatric ENT | Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery |
Sleep Medicine and Apnea Management | Cochlear Implant and Hearing Rehabilitation |
Allergy and Immunology in ENT | Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery |
Top Private ENT Colleges in India
Several private medical colleges in India offer excellent undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programmes in ENT with modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and hands-on surgical training. These institutions are known for their academic excellence and clinical exposure in otolaryngology. Here are some top colleges offering ENT courses, along with the NIRF Rank and fee structure:
| Top Colleges | NIRF Rank | Fees |
|---|---|---|
3 | Rs. 6.60 Lakhs | |
10 | Rs. 79.20 Lakhs | |
30 | Rs. 35.67 Lakhs | |
35 | Rs. 79.20 Lakhs | |
36 | - | |
37 | - | |
42 | Rs. 96 Lakhs | |
43 | - | |
46 | Rs. 76.41 Lakhs | |
47 | Rs. 19.50 Lakhs |
Note: The fee structure provided above can be for any particular ENT(Diploma/ Degree/PGD).
Top Government ENT Colleges in India
Government medical colleges in India are highly sought-after for ENT specialisation due to their affordable fees, reputed faculty, and extensive clinical training opportunities. These institutions offer strong academic support and access to large patient loads for practical learning. Here are some top government colleges offering ENT courses, along with their fees:
| Top Colleges | NIRF Rank | Fees |
|---|---|---|
1 | Rs. 1,200 | |
2 | Rs. 12,410 | |
4 | Rs. 43,580 | |
8 | Rs. 99,700 | |
13 | Rs. 1,200 | |
14 | Rs. 5,001 | |
16 | - | |
19 | - | |
22 | - | |
23 | - |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of ENT
Eligibility criteria for ENT courses may vary from institute to institute. Students are advised to check individual college requirements before applying. Generally, candidates must meet academic and practical standards to ensure they are prepared for undergraduate or postgraduate ENT training. Below are the eligibility criteria for UG and PG courses:
ENT UG Eligibility
Eligibility criteria for undergraduate ENT courses may differ across institutions. Students are advised to check the official website of the college they wish to apply to for accurate and updated information. Admission depends on academic performance and entrance requirements. Below are the general eligibility criteria for UG courses:
- Students must have completed Class 12 from a recognised board.
- Required subjects include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; Mathematics may be optional.
- Minimum aggregate marks are usually 50 per cent, with some relaxation for reserved categories.
- Some colleges may also require qualifying for a national or state-level medical entrance exam.
- Candidates should be medically fit to pursue clinical training in ENT.
ENT PG Eligibility
Eligibility for postgraduate ENT courses may vary between institutions, so students should always refer to the official college website before applying. Generally, candidates must have completed a medical degree and internship to ensure they are prepared for advanced training. Below are the general eligibility criteria for PG courses.
- Candidates must have completed an MBBS degree from a recognised medical university.
- Completion of a one-year compulsory rotating internship is required.
- Students should have full registration with the Medical Council of India (or the state medical council).
- Some colleges may require qualifying national or state-level entrance exams like NEET-PG.
- Candidates must meet any additional academic or practical criteria set by the institute for specialised ENT training.
Top Entrance Exams for PG ENT Courses
Admission to postgraduate ENT (Otolaryngology) courses in India is primarily through national-level medical entrance examinations. The key exams include NEET PG, AIIMS PG, and other recognised tests. These exams evaluate candidates’ medical knowledge and are crucial for securing admission into reputed medical colleges.
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Exam Date |
|---|---|---|
National Board of Examinations (NBE) | ||
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) | ||
National Board of Examinations (NBE) |
College Predictors VIEW ALL
Scope of ENT in India and Abroad
ENT is a specialised medical field focusing on the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck areas. Graduates can work in hospitals, private clinics, research centres, and teaching institutions. With rising ENT-related health issues, specialists are in demand, offering strong career prospects and growth opportunities.
The ENT field provides diverse opportunities in surgery, diagnostics, and patient care. Professionals can pursue roles in clinical practice, academic research, and wellness centres. Technological advancements and increasing awareness of ENT health have increased the need for trained specialists, making it a rewarding career path in both India and abroad.
Course Subjects
The ENT postgraduate curriculum includes key subjects such as otology, rhinology, laryngology, audiology, head and neck surgery, and skull base surgery. It also covers anatomy, pathology, and diagnostic techniques essential for ENT practice. About the course curriculum and objectives, these are the commonly covered subjects.
Ear | |
Assessment of hearing | Physiology of hearing |
Anatomy, embryology, and ultrastructure of the ear | Temporal bone |
Facial nerve | Eustachian tube anatomy & physiology |
Hearing loss | - |
Nose and Paranasal Sinuses | |
Physiology | Nasal Septum |
Evaluation of the nasal airway | Pathophysiology of the ears and nasal sinuses for diving and flight |
Anatomy & Embryology | - |
Oral Cavity | |
Embryology, Anatomy and Physiology of Salivary Glands | Embryology, Anatomy of the mouth and related Faciomaxillary structure |
Audiology | |
BERA | Tympanometry |
Audiometry & Masking | - |
Larynx and Tracheobronchial Tree | |
Physiology of respiration | Physiology of phonation |
Anatomy and embryology | - |
Apart from the above, subjects are also covered under the Skull Base, Pharynx and Oesophagus, Neck, and Imaging and Radiology.
Careers in ENT
After completing a degree in ENT, graduates can explore a variety of career paths. Although becoming an ENT Specialist is a common choice, the field offers several other rewarding opportunities. Individuals can pursue roles in clinical practice, research, surgery, and more. Some of the prominent job profiles in ENT include:
| Job Profiles | Description |
|---|---|
ENT Specialists diagnose and treat disorders related to the ear, nose, and throat, offering both medical and non-surgical care. They manage conditions such as sinusitis, hearing loss, and throat infections across all age groups. | |
Otolaryngologist | Otolaryngologists are trained medical professionals who handle complex ENT issues involving the head and neck. They often specialise further in areas like paediatric ENT, neurotology, or facial plastic surgery. |
ENT Surgeon | ENT Surgeons perform surgical procedures to treat structural problems or chronic conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat. Their work includes operations such as tonsillectomies, sinus surgeries, and cochlear implants. |
Research Assistant | Research Assistants in the ENT field support scientific studies by collecting data, conducting experiments, and assisting in clinical trials. They contribute to advancements in ENT treatments and diagnostic tools. |
Medical Scientist | Medical Scientists in otolaryngology research new methods to prevent, diagnose, and treat ENT disorders. They often work in laboratories, academic institutions, or pharmaceutical companies, publishing findings in scientific journals. |
Upcoming trends
The field of ENT is rapidly evolving with the integration of advanced technology and research. Innovations in diagnosis, surgery, and personalised treatment are transforming patient care. ENT specialists are now adopting modern tools and techniques to improve precision, recovery, and outcomes across various disorders of the ear, nose, and throat. Below are some key trends in ENT:
- Minimally Invasive and Endoscopic Surgery: Enhanced precision with faster recovery and reduced complications.
- AI and Machine Learning: Smarter diagnostics for voice, hearing, and cancer-related conditions.
- Advanced Cochlear Implants & Hearing Aids: AI-enabled, wireless, and highly adaptive hearing solutions.
- Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Therapy: Potential treatments for nerve damage and sensory loss.
- Tele-Otolaryngology: Remote consultations and follow-ups using telemedicine platforms.
- Personalised Medicine: Genetic-based custom treatments for ENT cancers and chronic illnesses.
Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
ENT graduates have opportunities to work in hospitals, private clinics, research centres, wellness institutes, and healthcare organisations. Employers look for professionals skilled in diagnosis, treatment, and surgical procedures. With growing demand for ENT specialists, graduates can explore diverse roles in clinical practice and research. Below are some of the top recruiters:
Top Recruiters
- Fortis
- Max Healthcare
- AIIMS
- Kasturba Medical College
- Calcutta Medical College
- Gleneagles Global Hospitals India
- Apollo Hospitals
- Kohinoor
Average Salary
Pursuing a career in ENT opens up diverse opportunities across various job roles. Each position comes with distinct responsibilities, growth potential, and salary expectations. Depending on the role and experience level, earnings can vary significantly. Below is an average salary range for some of the key job profiles in ENT.
| Job Profiles | Average Salary (LPA) |
|---|---|
ENT Specialist | Rs. 16.2 LPA |
Otolaryngologist | Rs. 5 LPA |
ENT Surgeon | Rs. 13 LPA |
Research Assistant | Rs. 3.9 LPA |
Medical Scientist | Rs. 8.6 LPA |
Source: AmbitionBox
Required Skillset for ENT
The work of an ENT, much like that of any medical professional, involves several long shifts. They are required to work relentlessly, interact with many patients and colleagues regularly, and stay updated with their knowledge about developments in the field- altogether a potentially taxing fieldwork. To build a successful career in ENT, therefore, one must possess or inculcate a certain set of skills that can go a long way in helping one adjust to the hectic work style. Some of these skills are:
- Clinical diagnosis of ear, nose, and throat conditions
- Surgical proficiency in head and neck procedures
- Strong hand-eye coordination for microsurgery
- Effective communication with patients and healthcare teams
- Critical thinking for quick decision-making
- Problem-solving in emergencies
- Knowledge of head and neck anatomy
- Empathy and patient care skills
- Infection and emergency management
- Teamwork and collaboration in multidisciplinary settings
Course Curriculum for ENT
The ENT curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical training in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and head-neck regions. Students study subjects like anatomy, physiology, pathology, audiology, rhinology, laryngology, and head-neck surgery, developing clinical and surgical skills through hands-on training and hospital rotations.
Postgraduate ENT courses focus on advanced surgical techniques, patient management, and research in specialised areas. The curriculum includes microsurgery, endoscopic procedures, hearing rehabilitation, sleep medicine, and critical care. Practical exposure in hospitals and clinics prepares students with expertise to handle complex ENT conditions, preparing them for careers in hospitals, research, and teaching.
Popular ENT Entrance Exams in India
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: How does an ENT specialist's salary differ when working in the government sector as opposed to working in the private sector?
Answer :
The basic salary earned by an ENT specialist working in a government hospital is roughly around Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000 per month. Working in the private sector, an ENT specialist with the same level of seniority/experience can earn roughly Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 per month.
Question: What types of surgical procedures do ENT doctors perform?
Answer :
While surgery is not necessarily a primary part of their job, ENT doctors can be required to perform certain procedures like tonsil removal, snoring or sleep disorder surgery, sinus surgery, and corrective breathing surgery.
Question: How to study to become an ENT specialist?
Answer :
After completing their Higher Secondary examination, candidates are eligible to pursue an MBBS degree, which is a prerequisite to studying ENT at the postgraduate level. Upon completing the MBBS, students can opt to pursue a Master of Surgery in ENT, following which they are ready to begin a career in Otolaryngology.
Question: Do ENT specialists work long hours?
Answer :
As is true of any medical professional, long hours are an implicit part of the job description. ENT specialists are required to perform treatment procedures, attend meetings, communicate with the ENT team and other colleagues, and many other kinds of work daily. It is therefore not uncommon for an ENT professional's shift to last as long as 12 hours a day.
Question: What is the difference between ENT and Otolaryngology?
Answer :
ENT and Otolaryngology are the same discipline which deals with the ear, nose and throat. The only difference between the two is that ENT is the shorthand and more commonly used term, whereas Otolaryngology is the lesser-known name of the speciality.