KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi – Compare Fees, Ranking, Placements & Facilities

The decision you make regarding MBBS program selection in a competitive world of Indian medical education can make or break your whole career. As NEET UG 2025 results are announced and the counseling process is ongoing, two heavyweights are involved: the well-known All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and the well-known Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal. KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi is one of the main comparisons of NEET aspirants who want to get the best medical training. AIIMS Delhi, the unquestioned monarch of medical education, is prestigious and affordable like none other, whereas KMC Manipal is all flaunt with the best infrastructure and an out bursting campus life. But which one is right for you?
This detailed comparison has disaggregated each of the important factors, such as admissions and fees, academics, and the rest, on the basis of the latest 2025 information. You want to reach the highest ranks, or you need moderate experience, yet you need to read to make an accurate choice.
AIIMS New Delhi
Established in 1956, AIIMS Delhi is India's premier medical institute, consistently ranked 1 in the NIRF 2025 Medical Rankings (and holding the top spot for the fourth consecutive year). It's an autonomous public institution under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, known for its cutting-edge research, world-class faculty, and massive tertiary care hospital. The MBBS program here is a dream for any NEET topper, emphasizing holistic training with a focus on innovation and public health.
- Key Highlights: 132 MBBS seats, sprawling 233-acre campus in South Delhi, affiliated with the world's largest trauma center.
KMC Manipal
Founded in 1953 as part of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), KMC Manipal is one of India's oldest private medical colleges and a deemed university. Ranked 10 in NIRF 2025 and 13 by India Today 2024, it's celebrated for its student-centric approach, international collaborations, and emphasis on practical skills. Located in the serene hills of Manipal, Karnataka, it offers a lush, green campus ideal for focused learning..
- Key Highlights: 250 MBBS seats, 600-acre campus with state-of-the-art labs, affiliated with Kasturba Hospital.
Quick Comparison: KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi
Here is the table of a quick comparison between KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi.
Aspect | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Establishment Year | 1956 | 1953 |
NIRF 2025 Rank | 1 | 10 |
Ownership | Government (Autonomous) | Private (Deemed University) |
MBBS Seats | 132 | 250 |
Campus Size | 233 acres | 600 acres |
Overall Rating | 8.35/10 | 8.79/10 |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Admission Process and NEET Cutoffs (2025)
Admission to both is through NEET UG, but the paths diverge post-exam.
- AIIMS Delhi Admission: Seats are allocated via the centralized AIIMS counseling (INICET portal), separate from MCC. It's hyper-competitive, with only top ranks securing spots. Eligibility: 50% in Class 12 (PCB) + NEET qualification.
- KMC Manipal Admission: Managed through MCC counseling for deemed universities. More seats mean slightly broader access, but still demand high scores. Eligibility: 50% in Class 12 (PCB) + NEET.
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: NEET 2025 Cutoffs
Cutoffs fluctuate yearly based on exam difficulty and applicant pool. For 2025, AIIMS Delhi remains the toughest, while KMC Manipal requires solid but achievable scores.
NEET 2025 Cutoff Table (General Category)
Category/Institute | Marks | Rank | Previous Year (2024) Marks |
AIIMS Delhi (UR) | 686–675 | 1–50 | 720–710 |
KMC Manipal (UR) | 635–620 | 5,000–15,000 | 650–640 |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Fees and Financial Considerations
Cost is a major differentiator. AIIMS is a steal for budget-conscious students, while KMC's private status comes with a premium price tag. Both offer scholarships, but AIIMS edges out with near-zero fees.
MBBS Fees Comparison (2025 Total for 5.5 Years)
Aspect | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Annual Tuition Fee | ₹1,000–₹1,500 | ₹17.8 Lakh |
Total Course Fee | ₹6,075–₹7,740 | ₹70–₹80 Lakh (approx.) |
Hostel + Mess (Annual) | ₹10,000–₹15,000 | ₹1.1–₹1.5 Lakh |
Scholarships Available | Merit-cum-means | Merit-based (up to 50%) |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Curriculum and Academics
Both follow the NMC (National Medical Commission) guidelines for a 5.5-year MBBS (4.5 years academics + 1-year internship). However, delivery styles differ.
Parameter | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Approach | Research-oriented, rigorous, integrated teaching | Competency-based, simulation & skill-focused |
Clinical Exposure | Early clinical exposure, electives in public health | Strong hands-on exposure via skill labs & hospital tie-ups |
Special Features | Problem-based learning, publications, conferences | International modules, ethics training, flexible electives |
Student Rating | 8.88/10 | 9/10 |
Learning Style | Structured, academic & research-focused | Tech-integrated, flexible, modern learning |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Faculty and Research Opportunities
AIIMS leads in prestige-driven research, but KMC offers more mentorship.
Particular | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Faculty | World-renowned (many ICMR awardees) | Experienced, approachable; global ties (e.g., collaborations with Harvard) |
Student-Faculty Ratio | 1:2 | 1:3 |
Research Output | Massive – over 1,000 publications/year | Strong in clinical trials |
Rating (Faculty & Research) | 8.41/10 | 9.06/10 |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Infrastructure and Campus Facilities
Both boast top-tier setups, but KMC's private funding gives it an edge in aesthetics.
- AIIMS Delhi: Massive 2,500-bed hospital, advanced labs, central library (24/7 access). Infrastructure rated 8.5/10, but accommodation 4.5/10 (older hostels). Facilities: Sports, auditorium, shuttle service.
- KMC Manipal: Ultra-modern 2,000-bed Kasturba Hospital, simulation centers, e-classrooms. Infrastructure rated 9.38/10, accommodation 6.61/10. Facilities: Gym, Wi-Fi, and communication center.
Facilities Comparison
Facility | AIIMS Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Hospital Beds | 2,500 | 2,000 |
Labs/Sim Centers | Advanced | Best |
Hostel Quality | Basic | Modern |
Sports/Gym | Yes | Yes (Better) |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Clinical Exposure and Placements/Internships
MBBS internships are mandatory at affiliated hospitals. AIIMS alumni dominate global residencies; KMC grads excel in private practice.
Criteria | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Clinical Exposure | Unmatched exposure at Asia’s busiest hospital; hands-on from Year 2 | Excellent rotations with rural outreach |
PG Placement | 100% placement in PG (NEET-PG top ranks) | 95%+ PG success rate |
Internship Stipend | ₹20,000/month | ₹25,000/month |
Placement Rating | 8.25/10 | 9.15/10 |
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: Campus Life and Extracurriculars
Campus life at AIIMS Delhi and KMC Manipal offers unique experiences, balancing academics with vibrant fests and social opportunities.
Criteria | AIIMS New Delhi | KMC Manipal |
Festivals & Events | Hosts major fests like PULSE (Asia’s biggest med fest) and INFECTION | Balanced mix of cultural fests, sports leagues, and nearby hill-station getaways |
Vibe | Urban, diverse, intense, fast-paced student life | Relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere |
Social Life Rating | 8.63/10 | 9.08/10 |
Conclusion
If you're a NEET topper chasing legacy and affordability, AIIMS New Delhi is unbeatable—it's the gold standard for a reason. But if you value infrastructure, mentorship, and a holistic experience (and can afford it), KMC Manipal offers exceptional value without compromising quality.
Ultimately, KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi is a choice between prestige and affordability versus modern infrastructure and campus vibrancy. Both produce stellar doctors, so align your decision with finances, NEET rank, and lifestyle preferences.
KMC Manipal vs AIIMS New Delhi: FAQs
Ques. What is the main difference in the admission process and NEET cutoffs?
Ans: AIIMS Delhi's admission is managed through a separate AIIMS counseling for top NEET ranks, while KMC Manipal admissions are handled through the MCC counseling for deemed universities, with slightly lower cutoff scores.
Ques. How do the fees compare for the MBBS program?
Ans: AIIMS New Delhi, as a government institution, has highly subsidized fees, making it very affordable. KMC Manipal is a private college, and its fees are significantly higher, reaching up to INR 70-80 Lakhs.
Ques. Which college offers better infrastructure and a more vibrant campus life?
Ans: While both have excellent facilities, KMC Manipal is often praised for its modern infrastructure, aesthetic campus, and active student-centric campus life. AIIMS Delhi offers an urban and diverse, but intense, student experience.
Ques. What are the key distinctions in academics and clinical exposure?
Ans: AIIMS Delhi emphasizes research and academic rigor with unmatched clinical exposure due to its massive hospital. KMC Manipal focuses on practical skills with state-of-the-art labs and international collaborations.
Ques. How do the internship opportunities and alumni networks differ?
Ans: AIIMS Delhi alumni are highly successful in securing top ranks in PG entrance exams. KMC Manipal graduates have a strong network and are well-prepared for global residencies, with high success rates in international exams.