ENT Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope
What is ENT
Otolaryngology, also referred to as ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat), is the medical speciality focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. It combines both surgical and non-surgical expertise, making it a dynamic field within modern medicine. Medical professionals who specialise in this field are known as Otolaryngologists or ENT specialists.
With growing awareness of ENT-related conditions, including hearing loss, sinus issues, throat infections, voice disorders, and head and neck cancers, the demand for trained ENT professionals continues to rise. The field also incorporates advanced technologies like endoscopy, microsurgery, and laser treatments to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes.
Apart from surgical interventions, otolaryngology also emphasises rehabilitation therapies for hearing and speech disorders, allergy management, and preventive care for upper respiratory infections. Students enrolled in ENT programmes gain extensive theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, preparing them to manage a diverse range of head and neck conditions.
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. ENT specialists are in high demand across public and private healthcare facilities.
| 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 |
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 their approximate fee structure.
| Top Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 54.34 Lakhs | |
Rs. 76.41 Lakhs | |
Rs. 30 Lakhs | |
Rs. 6.60 Lakhs | |
Rs. 79.20 Lakhs | |
Rs. 19.50 Lakhs | |
Rs. 23.01 Lakhs | |
Rs. 5,000 | |
Rs. 63.75 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1.09 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 | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 1,200 | |
Rs. 1,200 | |
Rs. 1,200 | |
Rs. 57,370 | |
Rs. 94,500 | |
Rs. 2.05 Lakhs | |
Rs. 97,500 | |
Rs. 1.08 Lakhs | |
Rs. 39,000 | |
Rs. 1 Lakh |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of ENT
Postgraduate studies in ENT require candidates to have completed their basic medical education. To be eligible for an MS in ENT, students must meet certain academic and practical criteria, ensuring they are well-prepared for advanced training in this specialised field.
- Completion of Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Mathematics optional)
- Possession of an MBBS degree from a recognised institution
- Completion of a mandatory one-year rotating internship
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 | Conducing Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
National Board of Examinations (NBE) | ||
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) |
College Predictors VIEW ALL
Scope of ENT in India and Abroad
ENT is a widely popular specialisation in medicine, not only in India but also abroad. Advanced technology has been introduced in the field, which has now vastly increased the scope of super-specialisation in ENT, which includes rhinology, otology, cochlear implants, phono-surgery, sinusitis, sleep apnoea, and facial plastics.
After completing an MS in ENT, candidates are eligible to work in private or government hospitals as practitioners. With sufficient experience, they can move on to establish their own clinic.. Another option available to candidates is to join a research programme to contribute to the advancement of the field.
ENT specialists are in high demand everywhere due to their work with delicate, sensitive tissues. Many candidates who have completed their education in ENT in India have set up successful practices abroad.
Course Fees ENT
| Minimum Fees | Maximum Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Government | Private | Government | |
| PG |
---
Data not available
|
60.00 K
M.S. in ENT at Command Hospital Air Force, Bangalore
|
---
Data not available
|
60.00 K
M.S. in ENT at Command Hospital Air Force, Bangalore
|
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. With regards to 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
ENT or Otolaryngology is a medical and surgical speciality that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck. It offers a diverse range of sub-specialisations, allowing professionals to address both common and complex conditions affecting these interconnected areas. Specialisation options within ENT include:
- Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – This focuses on treating facial trauma, congenital deformities, and maxillofacial conditions through corrective surgical procedures.
- Paediatric Otolaryngology – Specialists address ENT disorders in children, such as hearing impairments, chronic ear infections, cleft lip repairs, and cochlear implant surgeries.
- Head and Neck Oncology – This area involves managing cancers, performing endocrine surgeries, and conducting reconstructive procedures post-tumour removal.
- Neurotology – Focused on the inner ear and related neurological issues, this field deals with conditions like vertigo, balance disorders, and skull base surgery.
After completing their education, graduates can start their careers in both private and public healthcare institutions. With sufficient experience, many professionals open their own ENT clinics or work independently as visiting surgeons in multiple hospitals.
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. 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
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 Specialist | 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. |
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 delicate 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 the anatomy of the head and neck regions
- Empathy and patient care skills
- Ability to manage infections and emergencies
- Teamwork and collaboration within multidisciplinary settings
Course Curriculum for ENT
A course in ENT aims to provide students with the comprehensive knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical grounding required to become competent otolaryngologists. It prepares them to handle ENT-related healthcare needs across all levels, stay updated with medical advancements, and communicate effectively while adhering to professional standards and healthcare policies. Key competencies include:
- Proficiency in ENT practices across healthcare settings
- Understanding of research methodology
- Awareness of recent advancements in ENT
- Recognition of ENT-specific health needs
- Commitment to medical ethics and national health policies
- Strong communication with patients, families, and communities
Popular ENT Entrance Exams in India
NEET PG
Exam Date: 03 Aug, 2025
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.
