Students across India are currently waiting for the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) to open the registration for the NEET MDS 2026 exam. This is a very important test for anyone who wants to become a specialist doctor in dentistry. According to recent updates from the board, the official notification and the application link are expected to appear on the official website very soon.
As of today, February 23, 2026, the board has already confirmed that the exam will take place on May 2, 2026. This means that graduates have roughly two months to finish their studies and complete all the necessary paperwork. Historically, the board allows for a three-week window to fill out forms, so students are advised to keep their documents ready. Being proactive is the best way to ensure a smooth submission process without last-minute technical glitches.
Eligibility and Important Documents Needed
Before you can fill out the application form, you must make sure you meet the rules set by the Dental Council of India. Only those who hold a valid BDS degree are allowed to apply for this postgraduate entrance test. A major rule for this year is the internship deadline; all candidates must complete their one-year rotatory internship by May 31, 2026.
- BDS Degree: You must have passed your final year exams from a dental college recognized by the government.
- Internship Certificate: If you are still working as an intern, you need a formal letter from your college dean stating you will finish by May 31.
- ID Proof: Keep your Aadhaar card or Voter ID ready, as you will need the number for the initial registration steps.
- Digital Photos: You will need a clear, recent passport-size photo and a scanned copy of your signature in JPG format.
| Category | Application Fee (Estimated) | Mode of Payment |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹3,500 | Online (Debit/Credit/UPI) |
| SC / ST / PWD | ₹2,500 | Online (Debit/Credit/UPI) |
The NBEMS will release a document called the "Information Bulletin" very soon. This booklet will contain the final dates for the correction window and result declaration. It is highly recommended to download this from the official NBE portal as soon as it becomes available to the public.
How to Apply and Exam Pattern
Applying for the exam is a simple process that happens entirely online. Once the notification is officially out, you will first need to create a user ID and password on the portal. After that, you can log in to fill in your personal details, college marks, and choose your preferred city for the exam center.
- The Exam Type: It is a computer-based test consisting of 240 multiple-choice questions.
- Timing: You will be given exactly 3 hours (180 minutes) to complete the entire paper.
- Marking: You will get 4 marks for every right answer, but 1 mark will be taken away for every wrong answer.
- Syllabus: The questions will cover all the subjects you studied during your four years of the BDS course.
Because there is negative marking, graduates should be very careful while choosing their answers. If you are not sure about an answer, it is often safer to leave it blank. Many successful students suggest practicing with "mock tests" on the NBEMS website to get used to the online exam environment and the ticking clock.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Final Countdown
In conclusion, the wait for the NEET MDS 2026 registration window is almost over. All dental graduates should spend this time gathering their academic certificates and checking the official news daily. Once the notification is live, try to submit your application in the first few days. This often helps you get an exam center in your own city, as centers are given on a "first-come, first-served" basis.
- Stay Updated: Follow only the official NBEMS website to avoid being misled by fake news on social media.
- Verify Internship: Check with your college office to ensure your internship completion certificate will be issued before the May 31 deadline.
- Daily Revision: Focus on high-weightage subjects like Oral Surgery and Periodontics to boost your score.
The journey to earning your Master of Dental Surgery degree starts with this one single registration. Take your time to fill it out correctly, and always double-check your spelling before clicking the "Submit" button for the final time.