What is AIAPGET and what streams does it cover?

AIAPGET (All India AYUSH Post Graduate Entrance Test) is the national entrance examination for admission to MD/MS programs in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Yoga & Naturopathy (AYUSH) disciplines. It is conducted by NTA on behalf of the Ministry of AYUSH. Each stream (Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Yoga & Naturopathy) has its own question paper based on the respective undergraduate curriculum. A candidate can apply for only one stream based on their qualifying degree (BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, or BNYS). AIAPGET score is used for admissions to central government AYUSH institutions and some state institutions.

Which colleges admit through AIAPGET?

AIAPGET is used for admissions to central government AYUSH institutions including the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) Jaipur, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) Jamnagar, National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM) Bengaluru, and National Institute of Siddha (NIS) Chennai. Many state governments and private deemed universities also use AIAPGET scores or conduct their own state AYUSH PG entrance exams. State Ayurveda Medical Colleges with PG programs (like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh) have significant seat availability.

What is the MD Ayurveda (MD-Ayu) program like?

MD Ayurveda is a 3-year postgraduate program with specializations in Ayurvedic Samhita & Siddhanta, Dravyaguna, Rasashastra, Sharira Kriya, Panchakarma, Kayachikitsa, Stri-roga & Prasuti Tantra, Kaumarabhritya, Shalya Tantra, Shalakya Tantra, and Swasthavritta & Yoga. The program combines classical Ayurvedic knowledge with contemporary biomedical sciences. MD Ayurveda graduates can practice as Ayurvedic specialists, work in AYUSH hospitals, teach in Ayurveda colleges, or pursue research in AYUSH. The growing global interest in Ayurveda has also opened international opportunities in wellness tourism and Ayurvedic research.

What is the stipend for MD Ayurveda/AYUSH PG students?

Stipends for AYUSH PG students are generally lower than allopathic (MBBS-based) PG programs. At central government AYUSH institutions, stipends range from approximately Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month. State government AYUSH PG institutions may offer Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month. Private AYUSH colleges may have minimal or no stipend. The Ministry of AYUSH has been working to improve stipend structures for AYUSH PG trainees. Additionally, AYUSH practitioners are recruited in government AYUSH dispensaries and hospitals across all states through state PSC examinations.

Is AYUSH a good career option in India?

AYUSH careers have significant government support with a dedicated Ministry of AYUSH and increasing budget allocations. Government AYUSH hospitals, dispensaries, and National AYUSH Missions provide employment opportunities. Private practice, wellness centers, panchakarma clinics, and Ayurvedic product companies also employ AYUSH graduates. International opportunities exist in yoga teaching, Ayurvedic wellness consultancy, and herbal medicine research. However, clinical pay scales and public recognition are lower compared to allopathic medicine. Candidates passionate about traditional medicine systems and holistic healthcare find AYUSH rewarding both professionally and personally.