Top 15 Medical Colleges in Karnataka: Admissions & Fees

Medical aspirants in India often look to Medical Colleges in Karnataka as it houses several important and renowned healthcare institutions. Karnataka state has a strong system of Medical Colleges, both public and private which supply valuable education with state-of-the-art equipment, dedicated professionals and in-depth exposure to real-world medicine. Because there are more than 70 medical institutions located in cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli and Mangalore, Karnataka is a great state for studying MBBS and postgraduate medicine. 

They continue to ensure their academic requirements are high and their fees are not too much, so medical education is possible for students with varying incomes. The state stands out for its well-developed healthcare system, as well as for research and innovation and these are big draws for thousands of medical students.

Navigating MBBS Admissions in Karnataka

Overview of Medical Education in Karnataka

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) manages the medical education system in Karnataka, with regulation from the National Medical Commission (NMC). The state offers 85% of its medical seats to those who live there and 15% through the All India Quota (AIQ). Because Medical Colleges in Karnataka are affiliated with Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), they all have uniform protocols for courses and exams.

In the past decade, the state has boosted its medical infrastructure by building new government colleges in parts where they are needed. Because of this expansion, more seats are available and quality remains high, so Karnataka is admired as a popular place for medical students in the region.

The Admission Process

NEET Qualification:

National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is needed for all medical admissions and candidates from various backgrounds must achieve a certain minimum score.

KEA Counselling:

Karnataka Examinations Authority runs state-wide counselling sessions for 85% of the state quotas. The sessions include document checking, completing choice list forms and securing allotted seats.

Document Verification:

Original copies of NEET scorecard, academic results, domicile certificates, category certificates and medical certificates must be provided by candidates in the counselling.

Fee Payment:

Once nominated, students must arrange to pay the required fees according to the schedule set by the government which is significantly lower in government colleges.

Reporting Requirements:

All students are required to attend the colleges they were allocated, finish registration and orientation within due dates and only then begin their academic year.

Top Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka

1. Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute

In 1955, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) started as Karnataka’s most prominent medical school, praised for its learning and healthcare services. This outstanding government college, based in Bangalore’s city center, keeps holding its place as one of India’s best medical schools and remains a top choice among Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka. Victoria Hospital, which is one of the largest in the country, is run by the institution for students to gain clinical experience in different branches of medicine.

BMCRI’s network of distinguished alumni has leading doctors, scientists, and healthcare administrators from around the world. Emphasis on research-based education is given at the college, using top class laboratories and current teaching approaches to support students in readying for the realities of medical practice.

Key Highlights

• Infrastructure: Modern lecture halls, well-equipped laboratories, extensive library facilities, and advanced simulation centers for hands-on training experiences.
• Clinical Exposure: Attached Victoria Hospital with over 1,500 beds offers diverse patient cases across all medical specialties and super-specialties.
• Research Opportunities: Active research programs in various medical fields with regular publication in national and international journals.
• Faculty Excellence: Highly qualified professors and associate professors with extensive clinical experience and academic credentials.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS)

MBBS Seats: 250

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹2,69,325 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): 1337 for the general category, 3279 for EWS, 2998 for OBC, and 11677​ for SC

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Premier government medical college with extensive clinical exposure and research opportunities at affordable fees.

2. Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences, Belagavi

The Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) strives to provide the area in North Karnataka with excellent medical education as well as medical care. As one of the respected Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka, this institute has turned into a well-equipped medical training center with knowledgeable and experienced staff. BIMS keeps its ties with the community by being involved in various health initiatives and serving rural areas. Because the college is in Belagavi, students can see and study a wide range of health problems. For its efforts in educating qualified medical staff, BIMS has become known for its comprehensive education that links theory with hands-on experience.

key highlights

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS)

MBBS Seats: 150

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹2,96,010 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 663, OBC: 550+, SC: 490+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Focus on rural healthcare and community medicine with strong regional healthcare network connections.

3. Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences, Bidar

Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) was formed in the northeastern region of Karnataka to ensure that rural locations get the medical professionals they need. As one of the Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka, the institute focuses on practical exercises and medical education that helps students face different healthcare situations. BIMS has established ties with healthcare organizations close to where the students are, giving many opportunities for fieldwork and learning.

The college offers specific courses in rural medicine and public health which prepares graduates to address healthcare problems in rural areas. Because of its state-of-the-art infrastructure and skilled faculty, BIMS keeps being a major contributor to health workforce development in Karnataka.

Key Highlights

• Rural Medicine Focus: Specialized training programs in rural healthcare delivery and primary medical care systems.
• Field Experience: Extensive community postings and rural health center attachments for practical exposure.
• Affordable Education: Government subsidized fees making quality medical education accessible to economically disadvantaged students.
• Regional Healthcare: Active involvement in district health programs and epidemic control measures.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 100

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹68,500 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 600+, OBC: 530+, SC: 470+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Specialized focus on rural healthcare with extensive community medicine exposure and practical training.

4. Chamrajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences, Chamarajanagar

Chamrajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences is a proof of the government’s efforts to educate rural Karnataka youth in medicine and to support the health of people in the southern regions. As one of the Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka, the institute was set up to help provide medical support in distant and semi-urban regions by giving community-oriented medical teachings. The college is in close contact with the district health authorities to teach students about actual public health work.

The curriculum in CIMS puts emphasis on preventive care and primary healthcare, helping students deal with regional health concerns. Because of its strategic placement, students learn about the different social and economic factors affecting the health of people who live in rural areas.

Key Highlights

• Community Integration: Strong partnerships with local health centers and primary healthcare facilities for student training.
• Preventive Focus: Emphasis on preventive medicine and public health approaches to healthcare delivery.
• Government Support: Substantial government backing ensuring modern facilities and qualified faculty recruitment.
• Regional Development: Active contribution to regional healthcare infrastructure development and capacity building.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 100

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹69,800 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 590+, OBC: 520+, SC: 460+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Strong community medicine focus with extensive primary healthcare exposure in rural settings.

5. Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical College, Gulbarga

The ESIC Medical College Gulbarga is owned by the Employees State Insurance Corporation and teaches students with a main focus on occupational health and industrial medicine. As one of the specialized Government Medical Colleges in Karnataka, college courses are designed to help medical students develop knowledge about challenges to health in workplaces and various types of occupational diseases.

The college’s advanced facilities and well-trained teachers help students get a well-rounded education at affordable tuition costs. Because the institution is paired with ESIC hospitals, students have the chance to practice occupational health and industrial medicine. Because of this concentration, industrial and occupational health graduates become highly sought after in both industry and healthcare.

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Key Highlights

• Occupational Health: Specialized training in industrial medicine and occupational health management systems.
• ESIC Network: Access to extensive ESIC hospital network providing diverse clinical exposure opportunities.
• Modern Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities including advanced laboratories and simulation centers for practical training.
• Specialized Faculty: Expert faculty with extensive experience in occupational medicine and industrial health practices.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 150

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹109,850 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 630+, OBC: 560+, SC: 500+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Specialized focus on occupational health and industrial medicine with ESIC hospital network access.

6. Gadag Institute of Medical Sciences, Gadag

Gadag Institute of Medical Sciences educational goal is to meet the healthcare training needs of the people in North Karnataka. Training at the institute focuses on preparing doctors and staff who can manage the health problems of people living in rural and semi-urban areas. In GIMS, practical experience and learning how to help the community play a major role which helps students become skilled and aware clinical workers.

The college supports both innovative amenities and less expensive tuition which allows people from all financial levels the opportunity to attend. Experienced staff and a broad curriculum at GIMS help build Karnataka’s healthcare personnel in rural parts of the state.

Key Highlights

• Regional Healthcare: Strong focus on addressing regional healthcare needs and challenges in North Karnataka.
• Practical Training: Extensive hands-on training in clinical settings with emphasis on primary healthcare delivery.
• Community Engagement: Active participation in community health programs and rural healthcare initiatives.
• Modern Facilities: Well-equipped laboratories, library, and clinical training areas supporting comprehensive medical education.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 100

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹71,500 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 610+, OBC: 540+, SC: 480+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Regional healthcare focus with strong community medicine emphasis and affordable quality education.

7. Government Medical College, Mysore

In 1967, Government Medical College Mysore started, becoming a renowned government medical institution in Karnataka for academic success and outstanding healthcare. Being in the city of Mysore, the college mixes values from the past with modern medical teaching. One of its functions is running K.R. Hospital which is one of the largest teaching hospitals in South India, allowing students to gain extended skills in various medical subjects. GMC Mysore has built a reputation by producing scientists and medical service experts used across the world. The college promotes doing medical research and publishes articles by students.

Key Highlights

• Historic Legacy: Long-standing tradition of medical excellence with distinguished alumni network worldwide.
• Comprehensive Hospital: K.R. Hospital with over 1,200 beds providing diverse clinical exposure opportunities.
• Research Environment: Active research culture with opportunities for student participation in medical research projects.
• Cultural Heritage: Located in Mysore, offering students rich cultural experience alongside medical education.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 200

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹66,500 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 640+, OBC: 570+, SC: 510+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Historic medical institution with comprehensive clinical exposure and strong research culture in cultural city.

8. Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences, Gulbarga

Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences is known for providing top medical education in North Karnataka to create skilled healthcare workers there. Institute members focus on teaching students how to control and handle local medical problems. Modern buildings and facilities are kept at GIMS, while the school tries to keep tuition fees within reach for all students. Public health systems are introduced to students by the college which works in collaboration with local health authorities. The school’s highly qualified instructors and rich curriculum play a major role in improving the healthcare workforce in North Karnataka’s neglected areas.

Key Highlights

• Community Focus: Strong emphasis on community medicine and public health approaches to healthcare delivery.
• Regional Service: Active participation in district health programs and rural healthcare initiatives.
• Modern Infrastructure: Well-equipped teaching facilities and laboratories supporting comprehensive medical education.
• Affordable Education: Government subsidized fees ensuring accessibility for economically disadvantaged students.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 150

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹72,800 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 615+, OBC: 545+, SC: 485+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Strong community medicine focus with extensive public health exposure and regional healthcare integration.

9. Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan

Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences shows the government’s dedication to giving quality medical education in rural Karnataka and helping the Hassan district and its surroundings. The institute prepares trainees to work in both rural and urban healthcare, either at local hospitals or health clinics. HIMS values hands-on learning and getting students involved in community activities so they learn both medical and social skills. While offering world-class medical education at reasonable costs, the college has state-of-the-art infrastructure for its students from different economic backgrounds.

Key Highlights

• Rural Healthcare: Specialized training in rural medicine and primary healthcare delivery systems.
• Community Integration: Strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities and community organizations.
• Practical Exposure: Extensive field training in rural health centers and community health programs.
• Modern Facilities: Well-equipped laboratories and clinical training areas supporting comprehensive medical education.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 100

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹70,800 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 605+, OBC: 535+, SC: 475+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Rural healthcare specialization with extensive community medicine exposure and practical field training.

10. Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubli

Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) Hubli is considered a top medical institution in North Karnataka, crafted to offer people in the area quality educational and health services. Its reputation is based on academic accomplishment, up-to-date building facilities and effective clinical training. With teaching at a large center, KIMS gives medical students exposure to different medical cases and fields. Innovation and research are important at the college which motivates faculty and students to engage in medical research projects. Because of its important place in Hubli, KIMS acts as a hub for healthcare in North Karnataka.

Key Highlights

• Academic Excellence: Consistently high academic standards with excellent university examination results and placement records.
• Large Hospital: Extensive teaching hospital facilities with over 1,000 beds across multiple specialties and departments.
• Research Culture: Active research environment with regular publications and participation in national medical conferences.
• Regional Hub: Serves as major healthcare referral center for North Karnataka districts.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 200

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹68,200 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 635+, OBC: 565+, SC: 505+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Premier North Karnataka medical institution with extensive clinical exposure and strong research culture.

Top Private Medical Colleges in Karnataka

1. Kasturba Medical College, Udupi

The medical college in Udupi which began in 1953, is regarded as a top private school under the Manipal Academy of Higher Education. While it stands apart from the private Medical Colleges in Karnataka, the university is famous for retaining high standards in education and having up-to-date infrastructure which draws students from many countries. The college has a variety of comprehensive healthcare areas where students get exposure to different medical specialties.

At the KMC Udupi, emphasis is given to research and innovation, as faculty is actively involved in testing and publishing medical research. Being located by the coast gives the institution special opportunities for marine and tropical medicine research. Because of the college’s good industry links and successful placements, KMC Udupi helps its graduates achieve top careers worldwide in medicine.

Key Highlights

• Global Recognition: International accreditation and recognition from various medical councils worldwide enabling global career opportunities.
• Research Excellence: State-of-the-art research facilities with active participation in national and international research collaborations.
• Modern Infrastructure: Advanced simulation labs, well-equipped libraries, and comprehensive clinical training facilities.
• Industry Connections: Strong partnerships with healthcare organizations providing internship and career opportunities.

Affiliation: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Deemed University)

MBBS Seats: 200

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹23,50,000 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 580+, Management: 400+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Globally recognized medical education with strong research culture and international career opportunities.

2. Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru

The college which was established in 1955, is still part of the Manipal Academy and continues its excellent tradition in medical education. The college has developed into a well-equipped medical school with staff members who have years of experience. There are several hospitals managed by KMC Mangaluru, giving students the opportunity to learn in many medical fields. The program stresses teaching medical knowledge as well as allowing students to practice and do research. Being in Mangaluru, a coastal city, the college allows students to study tropical medicine and explore maritime health.

Key Highlights

• Comprehensive Healthcare: Multiple teaching hospitals providing extensive clinical exposure across all medical specialties.
• Research Opportunities: Active research programs with regular publications in national and international medical journals.
• Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories, simulation centers, and comprehensive library resources.
• Coastal Medicine: Unique opportunities for tropical and maritime medicine studies due to coastal location.

Affiliation: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Deemed University)

MBBS Seats: 150

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹24,75,000 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 590+, Management: 420+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Comprehensive medical education with coastal medicine specialization and strong research opportunities.

3. Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belagavi

KLE Academy of Higher Education founded Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Belagavi, which has set standards for private medical colleges in North Karnataka since 1963. While it is a leading private institution, it competes closely with the private Medical Colleges in Karnataka in terms of quality education and infrastructure. The college now includes state-of-the-art facilities and seasoned medical teachers. JNMC has comprehensive hospitals that offer doctors and students exposure to many areas of medical practice.

It centers its medical education on community development, so that students can tackle the healthcare challenges found in the region. Because of its strong research background and links with industry, students at JNMC receive a thorough medical education and opportunities for their careers.

Key Highlights

• Community Focus: Strong emphasis on community medicine and regional healthcare challenges.
• Extensive Facilities: Large teaching hospital complex with comprehensive medical and surgical departments.
• Research Culture: Active research programs with faculty and student participation in medical research projects.
• Regional Impact: Significant contribution to North Karnataka’s healthcare infrastructure and workforce development.

Affiliation: KLE Academy of Higher Education & Research (Deemed University)

MBBS Seats: 200

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹18,50,000 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 520+, Management: 380+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Community-oriented medical education with strong regional healthcare focus and research opportunities.

4. St. Johns Medical College, Bengaluru

One of India’s most respected private medical colleges, St. Johns Medical College Bengaluru, started in 1963 to bring excellence to medical education and healthcare. The university always adheres to strong academic and ethical principles in medical care. SJMC runs many health care centers, giving students a wide range of clinical insights in all specialties and super-specialties.

It prefers to teach students in a way that combines medical science, humanitarian values and responsibility to society. Because of its excellent research culture and worldwide respect, SJMC trains students to be leaders in global health.

Key Highlights

• Academic Excellence: Consistently high academic standards with excellent university examination results and placement records.
• Ethical Values: Strong emphasis on medical ethics and humanitarian values in healthcare practice.
• Research Environment: Active research culture with faculty and students participating in national and international research projects.
• Comprehensive Care: Multi-specialty hospital providing extensive clinical exposure and patient care experience.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 200

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹22,50,000 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 600+, Management: 450+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Prestigious medical education with strong ethical foundation and comprehensive healthcare exposure.

5. JJM Medical College, Davangere

Started in 1965, JJM Medical College Davangere is an important private medical college in central Karnataka. The institution provides well-planned medical education using recent equipment and experts as teachers. JJMMC owns teaching hospitals where students get clinical experience in different medical fields.

Students in the institution gain practical experience and are involved in community activities to be ready for different healthcare situations. Because JJMMC has lower fees than other private colleges, middle-class families can send their children there for quality education in medicine.

Key Highlights

• Affordable Education: Relatively lower fees among private medical colleges making quality education accessible.
• Practical Training: Strong emphasis on hands-on clinical training and practical medical skills development.
• Community Engagement: Active participation in community health programs and rural healthcare initiatives.
• Modern Facilities: Well-equipped laboratories and clinical training facilities supporting comprehensive medical education.

Affiliation: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka

MBBS Seats: 150

Approximate Fees (MBBS): ₹15,75,000 per annum

NEET Cut-off (Previous Year Trends): General: 480+, Management: 350+

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Affordable private medical education with strong practical training and community engagement focus.

Comparison Table of Medical Colleges in Karnataka

College Name	Type	MBBS Seats	Annual Fees	NEET Cutoff (General)	Location
Bangalore Medical College	Government	250	₹65,780	650+	Bangalore
Government Medical College, Mysore	Government	200	₹66,500	640+	Mysore
Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubli	Government	200	₹68,200	635+	Hubli
Kasturba Medical College, Udupi	Private	200	₹23,50,000	580+	Udupi
St. Johns Medical College, Bengaluru	Private	200	₹22,50,000	600+	Bangalore
Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belagavi	Private	200	₹18,50,000	520+	Belagavi
Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences	Government	150	₹70,200	620+	Belagavi
ESIC Medical College, Gulbarga	Government	150	₹1,09,850	630+	Gulbarga

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medical College

• Academic Reputation: Study the reputation of the college, check the professors’ credentials, review tests and grades from the university and investigate achievements of former students.
• Infrastructure Facilities: Check the laboratories, access to medical resources, conditions in the hospital, hostels and what amenities you will have on campus during your medical studies.
• Clinical Exposure: Check the teaching hospital’s size, the range of patients seen, the range of specialty clinics and how many and which training opportunities are available for students.
• Fee Structure: Review the total costs of attending college which should include tuition, hostel fees, examinations charges and other costs, to evaluate if attending is possible.
• Location Preferences: Focus on climate, the culture of the place, internet access, cost and distance from your own home when picking colleges you want to attend.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Karnataka

• NEET Qualification: The minimum recommended percentiles for NEET-UG are General (50th), OBC/SC/ST (40th) and PwD (45th) as advised by the NMC.
• Academic Requirements: Having Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English in your 10+2 and scoring an overall mark of at least 50% (40% for particular categories).
• Age Limitations: The candidate has to be at least 17 years old and not more than 25 years old (30 for reserved categories).
• Domicile Status: To be considered for the state quota seats with exact residency guidelines, you have to present a Karnataka domicile certificate and the necessary documentation.

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Conclusion

So many students flock to Medical Colleges in Karnataka because the academic level is high, fees remain affordable and there is a wide variety of practical training. Because of the variety of famous government and private colleges in this area, students from different academic and financial backgrounds have choices in their medical education.

Both government and private medical colleges in Karnataka make it possible for many to gain a quality medical education at affordable prices. Preparing students for several jobs in health care by stressing community medicine, research and practical skills, helps meet the country’s need for healthcare workers and improves regional medical facilities.

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FAQs

What is the NEET passing score for admission to Medical Colleges in the state of Karnataka?

NEET admissions are generally needed to be higher for government colleges than for management quota seats in private colleges which can be less than 700.

How many MBBS seats there are in medical colleges throughout Karnataka.

Karnataka grants entry to students for about 12,500+ MBBS seats in government, private and deemed medical universities every year.

How much do you have to pay in fees for studying in government medical colleges in Karnataka?

The government college fees for medicine are ₹65,780 to ₹1,09,850 yearly which is much lower than private colleges.

What paperwork is needed for admission to medical college in Karnataka?

The necessary documents are the NEET scorecard, your academic certificates, a domicile certificate, category certificate, medical fitness certificate and photographs.

When do the counselling sessions for Karnataka medical colleges take place?

Karnataka Examinations Authority starts conducting medical counselling in August–September after how results of NEET are declared.