Nursing is a hands-on clinical career caring for patients across hospitals, clinics and community health settings. The main entry qualification is a four-year B.Sc Nursing degree, after which graduates register with a state nursing council to practise.
B.Sc Nursing
After 12th · 4 years
Admission is usually through NEET UG, a state entrance examination or a merit list based on 12th marks, depending on the institution and state.
Registration with a State Nursing Council
After the degree · On completion of the course
Registration is required before practising as a registered nurse.
M.Sc Nursing
Optional further study · 2 years
Leads to teaching, administration and specialist practice.
Diploma or certificate in a clinical area
Optional · 6 months to 2 years
Areas include critical care, dialysis and operation theatre technology.
A pass in 12th (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry and Biology is the usual requirement for B.Sc Nursing. Some states admit candidates from the Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics stream for certain nursing programmes. Minimum marks and admission rules are set by the State Nursing Council and the individual institution, so confirm the current requirement before applying.
Typical duration: 4 years (B.Sc Nursing)
₹20,000 – ₹2,00,000 per year
Indicative annual tuition range for government and private institutions. Actual fees vary by institution and scholarship. An estimate only.
Practising as a registered nurse in India requires registration with the relevant State Nursing Council after completing a recognised nursing programme.
Can boys apply for B.Sc Nursing?
Most nursing programmes in India admit both male and female candidates, though a small number of institutions may restrict admission. Check the specific college prospectus.
Is GNM or B.Sc Nursing better?
B.Sc Nursing is a degree programme and generally opens more doors for postgraduate study and teaching. GNM is a diploma route. Availability and admission rules differ by state.
Awaiting verification against an official source
EduLandmark has not yet confirmed this information against an official source. Confirm the details on the official website before you rely on them.
Nursing roles exist across the public and private health system and in community health programmes, with clear progression into specialty practice, teaching and hospital administration. Shift work is part of most clinical roles.
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