Should I Pursue a BDS in India or Abroad?

Choosing between pursuing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in India or abroad is a critical decision that is influenced by your future career aspirations and the unique requirements of the dental profession. This decision is not only about choosing a curriculum but also about navigating the complex landscape of professional licensure, academic costs, and potential career outcomes.

Factors to Consider

When making this decision, there are several factors to consider, including intention to migrate, career prospects, and the financial implications of your choice.

Intention to Migrate

The first and most crucial factor is your intention to migrate. If you plan to practice dentistry in a specific country, then the country's dental education system and licensure process should be the primary factors in your decision-making process.

For instance, if your goal is to practice as a dentist in India, then it might be more convenient and cost-effective to pursue a BDS in India. On the other hand, if your intention is to practice abroad, you should choose a medical or dental school in the country you intend to migrate to.

Considering options like the Ukraine and Russia can provide you with excellent education and affordable fees. Both Ukraine and Russia have MCI (Medical Council of India) approved medical and dental colleges offering English-taught programs, which can be highly beneficial for international students.

Career Prospects and Professional Standards

Another important consideration is the career prospects and professional standards in the country you wish to practice. For example, in the United States, you will need to pass examinations like the USMLE for medicine and NBDE for dentistry. These exams are notoriously challenging for Indian graduates and often require citizenship or permanent residency to clear.

If you plan to practice abroad, you should explore options like MBBS in Ukraine or MBBS in Russia. Both countries are popular among Indian students, and the medical education systems in these countries are recognized globally.

Financial Implications

The financial aspect is another significant factor. Private medical colleges in India can be extremely costly, with fees sometimes exceeding Rs. 1 crore. This is a staggering investment that offers a questionable return on investment (ROI).

Choosing an affordable option like MBBS in Ukraine can be a wise decision. The fee structure for MBBS in Ukraine is considerably lower and can be more accessible. Similarly, MBBS in Russia offers the advantage of lower tuition fees and high-quality education.

What to Do if You Have an Intent to Migrate

If you do have an intent to migrate, here are some steps you should consider:

Choose the Right Field: STEM fields like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) offer the best opportunities for migration. However, if you are interested in healthcare, it is advisable to pursue your bachelor's in the country you plan to migrate to. Get Admitted Early: If you want to migrate to the USA, for example, it is better to clear your Dental Admission Tests (DATs) and get admitted into a DDS program instead of trying to qualify as a dentist after getting your bachelor's degree in India. This approach, known as delayed gratification, can be very challenging but holds high returns and value. The same applies to medicine. Take Premed and Pre-Dental Courses: Completing premed and pre-dental courses after 12th grade can be a wise decision before applying to dental or medical schools. Plan for Residency: After completing your bachelor's degree, you can take up licensing exams and hope to find a sponsor for permanent residency (PR) before applying for residencies or dental/medical schools. Consider Non-Clinical Fields: You can also finish your bachelor's degree and move into non-clinical fields like MPH (Master of Public Health), MHA (Master of Health Administration), or MS (Master of Science) and work in 9–5 non-clinical jobs, which may be less paying but associated with lower risks.

What to Do if You Do Not Have an Intent to Migrate

If your intention is not to migrate, you need to be aware of the financial implications of pursuing dental or medical degrees. The return on investment (ROI) for MBBS and BDS degrees in India can be very low. Investing 1 crore in an MBBS degree or 40 lakhs in a BDS degree can result in a poor return on investment.

As a dentist myself, I would strongly advise any 12th-grade student to think twice before choosing dentistry as a career choice, even if the entire degree is free. Dentistry can be highly rewarding, but it is also a challenging and risky career path.

In conclusion, the choice between pursuing a BDS in India or abroad depends on your future goals and willingness to navigate the complex world of international education and professional licensure. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term career aspirations.