Last Updated on 11th December 2024

Pathology

MD Pathology Course Overview

MD Pathology Latest updates

  • NEET PG examinations are scheduled on August 3, 2025
  • NEET PG results will be announced on September 3, 2025

Doctor of Medicine in Pathology (MD Pathology) is a 3-year postgraduate medical course that is designed for doctors to learn how to diagnose diseases by testing tissue specimens, blood, and body fluids using laboratory techniques. The MD Pathology syllabus includes histopathology, cytopathology, haematology, and molecular diagnostics. Every year, an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 medical students register for the course.

Candidates need to score 50% marks in MBBS to be eligible to apply for MD Pathology. Entrance exams required are NEET PG and INI CET. MD pathology fee structure for Government colleges ranges between ₹75,000- ₹4 Lakhs per year. The private colleges charge around ₹6 Lakhs - ₹21 Lakhs per annum. The top colleges for MD Pathology include AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, CMC Vellore, MAMC New Delhi.

The top recruiters of MD Pathology are AIIMS, Fortis Healthcare, Max Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Lal PathLabs, Thyrocare Technologies, and Agilus Diagnostics.


MD Pathology: Quick Highlights 2025

The table below contains important information on MD Pathology 

Particulars

Details

Full Form of MD Pathology  Course

Doctor of Medicine in Pathology

MD Pathology  Course Level

Post Graduate

MD Pathology  Course Duration 

3 years

MD Pathology  Course Type

Full time

Application Mode

Online

Entrance Test for MD Pathology  Course 

NEET PG, INI CET

MD Pathology  Fees

Govt colleges-₹1200 -₹1.4 Lakhs

Private Colleges - ₹25 Lakhs-₹91 Lakhs

Top Colleges for the MD Pathology  Course

AIIMS Delhi, CMC Vellore, Madras Medical College 

Job roles after MD Pathology 

General Pathologist, Clinical Pathologist, Anatomical Pathologist

Top Recruiters for MD Pathology 

AIIMS, Fortis Healthcare, Max Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Lal PathLabs, Thyrocare Technologies, and Agilus Diagnostics


MD Pathology: Important Dates and Events 2025

The NEET PG 2025 exams will be conducted on the 3rd of August, and the results are to be out by the 3rd of September 2025. Read below to learn about the MD Pathology important dates.

Upcoming Event

Dates

NEET PG 2025 Admit Card (Tentative)

July 31, 2025

NEET PG 2025 Exam

August 3, 2025

NEET PG 2025 Result (Tentative)

September 3, 2025


FAQs

Ques 1. When will the NEET PG 2025 exams be conducted for MD Pathology?

Ans 1. NEET PG 2025 exams will be conducted on August 3, 2025.


Ques 2. What is the date of the NEET PG 2025 results announcement?

Ans 2. NEET PG 2025 results are scheduled for September 3, 2025.


MD Pathology: Fees

The fees charged by MD Pathology differ a lot. The fees of government colleges are usually minimal, i.e., ₹75,000 to 4.37 Lakhs per annum. The private institutions of the MD Pathology course charge around ₹5.75 Lakhs- ₹21 Lakhs.

College Type 

Annual Fees

Government Colleges

₹75,000 - ₹4.37 Lakhs

Private colleges 

₹5.75 Lakhs - ₹21 Lakhs


FAQs

Ques 1. What is the fee range of MD Pathology in Government colleges?

Ans 1. The fee range of MD Pathology in Government colleges is ₹75,000-₹4.37 Lakhs.


Ques 2. What is the cost of an MD Pathology course in private colleges in India?

Ans 2. The cost of MD Pathology in private colleges in India is around ₹5.75 Lakhs- ₹21 Lakhs.


Why Choose the MD Pathology Course?

The MD Pathology course has multiple advantages, including thorough knowledge of pathological processes, training in subjects like histopathology, gaining real-world clinical skills, and many more. Read below to know why chose the MD Pathology course.

  • The curriculum of the MD Pathology program offers students a thorough knowledge of pathological processes at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. This dual emphasis on both theoretical and practical aspects of pathology offers a solid foundation to students. 
  • Training in histopathology, cytopathology, haematology, clinical pathology, and molecular diagnostics is provided in the program. By the time students leave, they are fully equipped for any lab environment.
  • The course offers students real-world clinical skills as well as practical exposure through experiences like tissue biopsies, lab techniques, and advanced diagnostics. 
  • The MD Pathology course encourages critical thinking skills and the ability to analyse data. The students are given the opportunity to practice through case studies, correlation of laboratory findings with clinical phenomena, and research projects.


MD Pathology: Qualification

For admissions in MD Pathology, the candidates require an MBBS degree from a recognised medical University. Candidates must qualify for the NEET PG scores / INI CET entrance examination for admissions. Read below to learn about the MD Pathology Course Qualification.

Particulars

Details

Basic Qualification

An MBBS degree from a recognized medical college/university

Minimum Marks

At least 50% aggregate in MBBS (some institutes may require 55%)

Internship

Completion of a one-year rotational internship before course commencement

Registration

Valid registration with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the State Medical Council (SMC)

Entrance Exam

Must qualify NEET PG or INI CET (or equivalent national/state-level exam)

Admission Process

Entrance-based, followed by counselling and document verification


MD Pathology: Eligibility Criteria- Category-wise

For admissions to MD Pathology, candidates must have completed a one-year rotational internship. The table below contains detailed MD Pathology eligibility criteria.

Category

Details

General (UR)

  • MBBS degree  
  • Minimum percentile in NEET PG:50
  • Completion of one-year compulsory rotatory internship

OBC

  • MBBS degree 
  • NEET PG minimum percentile:  40th percentile
  • Age relaxation of up to 3 years maximum

SC/ST

  • MBBS degree  
  • NEET PG Qualifying percentile: 40th percentile
  • Age relaxation of up to 5 years ma


MD Pathology: Duration

MD Pathology is a three-year program. In the first year, attention is given to elementary pathology and laboratory techniques; during the second year, subjects covered are system pathology, diagnostics, and autopsy skills; in the third year, the emphasis shifts to diagnosis and research. 


MD Pathology: Admission Process

Candidates need an MCI/NMC-recognised MBBS degree and at least one year's internship as prerequisites for admission into the MD Pathology program. NEET scores are needed for admissions. Some institutions like AIIMS and JIPMER have separate entrance exams (INI CET). After passing the exam, candidates take part in centralised counselling for seat allotments based on merit and personal preferences. Read below to learn important information on MD Pathology course admissions.

Step 1: Candidates must apply for NEET PG entrance exams through the official website and upload all documents 

Step 2: Appear for the exam and check the results.

Step 3: Register for counselling under the state quota or AIQ

Step 4 : Select and lock your preferred colleges.

Step 5:  Seats are alloted based on NEET PG rank 

Step 6: Attend the verification process in the allotted college

Step 7: Pay admission fees for seat confirmation 

Step 8: Begin Classes


MD Pathology: Entrance Exam

For admission to the MD Pathology course, candidates need to qualify NEET PG entrance exam. THE INI CET qualification is required for admission to AIIMS. Here are some details on the MD Pathology entrance exam.

Entrance Exam

Conducting Body

NEET PG

NBE

INI- CET

AIIMS New Delhi 


How to Prepare for NEET UG?

Candidates need strategic preparation to ace the NEET PG Exams. These include understanding exam patterns, creating a timetable, understanding fundamentals, and many more. Read below to learn about NEET PG preparations for the MD Pathology course 

  • Understand the pattern of the Exam very clearly 
  • Master the MBBS topics. This includes  19 subjects covered in the MBBS curriculum, divided into disciplines that are Pre-clinical, Para-clinical, and Clinical.
  • Make a timetable that is realistic and perfectly suited to your own situation. This will help candidates devote appropriate time to each topic
  • Emphasise understanding the fundamental concepts of medicine and do not rely on rote memorisation only.
  • Start from the beginning, basic concepts, then continue detailed subject-wise preparation, and finally finish with an intense revision phase.


Resources to Prepare for NEET UG 2025

The resources for MD Pathology are as follows:

  1. Standard Books
  2. Online resources 
  3. Previous years' question papers


FAQs

Ques 1. What are the entrance exams required for admission to MD Pathology in India?

Ans 1. Candidates have to qualify for NEET PG / INI CET for MD pathology admissions in India.


Ques 2. Does AIIMS conduct any separate entrance exam for MD Pathology?

Ans 2. Yes. AIIMS conducts INI CET exams for MD Pathology course


MD Pathology: Cut-Off

The expected cut-off for NEET PG 2025 is 270 for the UR category, 450 for the SC category, 305 for the ST category, and 305 for the Othe BC category. Read below to know about the MD Pathology cut-off in detail.

Category 

Cut off

OBC

305

SC 

450

ST

305

UR

270


MD Pathology Cut-Off FAQs


Ques 1 . What is the UR category cut-off for MD Pathology?

Ans 1. The UR cut-off for MD pathology is 270.

cut-off

Ques 2. What is the ST category cut-off for MD Pathology?

Ans 2. The st category cut-off for MD Pathology is 305.


MD Pathology: Seats

MD Pathology course seats vary by state. Andhra Pradesh has a total of 135 course seats for MD Pathology. Bihar has around 75 seats. Read below to learn about the wise MD pathology course seat matrix.

State

MD Pathology Seats

Andhra Pradesh

135

Bihar

75

Delhi

111

Gujarat

210

Karnataka

373

Kerala

90

Madhya Pradesh

142

Maharashtra

349

Rajasthan

165

Tamil Nadu

181

Telangana

145

Uttar Pradesh

263

Uttarakhand

78

West Bengal

95


FAQs


Ques 1. How many MD Pathology seats are available in West Bengal?

Ans 1. West Bengal has around 95 MD Pathology seats.


Ques 2. Which Indian state has the highest number of seats for MD Pathology courses?

Ans 2. Maharashtra has the highest number of seats for MD pathology courses. The total no of seats is 349. 


MD Pathology: Syllabus

The MD Pathology course has a structured syllabus. The course is divided into 6 semesters, and each semester focuses on particular areas of pathology. Students learn General Pathology and Pathology Physiology in semester 1. In semester 2, the focus shifts to diagnostic investigations and procedures. The table below contains a detailed MD Pathology syllabus for each semester. 

Semester

Key Subjects & Skills

Semester 1

- Applied Basic Science (cell/tissue structure, function, injury)

- Immunopathology basics

- Cytopathology introduction

- Biostatistics & Clinical Epidemiology

- Basic laboratory techniques

- Biomedical research basics

Semester 2

- Diagnostic investigations & procedures

- Diseases concerning general medicine

- Advanced cytopathology

- Recent advances in medicine

- Laboratory safety, waste management

Semester 3

- Systemic Pathology (organ systems: cardiovascular, respiratory, GI, renal, etc.)

- Surgical Pathology (grossing, tissue processing)

- Autopsy Pathology

- Patient monitoring

- Research project initiation

Semester 4

- Haematology (anaemias, leukaemias, lymphomas)

- Transfusion Medicine (blood banking)

- Laboratory Medicine (quality control, management)

- Ward/OPD patient management

- Research project continuation

Semester 5

- Recent Advances (molecular pathology, cytogenetics, IHC, PCR, FISH)

- Applied aspects (evidence-based pathology)

- Presentations, journal clubs, conferences

- Case presentations & discussions

Semester 6

- Dissertation/thesis submission

- Advanced diagnostic techniques

- PG case presentation skills

- Clinico-radiological & clinicopathological conferences

- Research review and viva prep


MD Pathology: Specialisations 

MD Pathology has various specialisations. These include General Pathology, Systematic Pathology, Haematology, and many more. The table below contains detailed information on MD Pathology specialisations.

Specializations

Details 

Specialisation Area

Focus/Description

General Pathology

Basic mechanisms of disease, cell injury, inflammation, repair, and neoplasia

Systemic Pathology

Disease processes affecting specific organ systems

Haematology

Study and diagnosis of blood disorders, bone marrow examination, and coagulation tests 57.

Histopathology

Microscopic examination of tissue samples for disease diagnosis


Top Universities/Colleges for MD Pathology (India & Abroad)

MD Pathology is taught in multiple colleges/ Universities in India. The course is available in both private and Government medical colleges. Read below to learn about the best Universities / Colleges for MD Pathology courses. 


Top Government Medical Colleges in MD Pathology 

AIIMS Delhi holds the 1st rank and has a fee of ₹2110 per year. The NIRF rank of MMC Madras is 10, and the fee structure is ₹1.64 Lakhs per annum. The table below contains the list of top Government medical colleges in MD Pathology, along with the Rank and fee structure. 

College Name

Rank

Annual Fees 

AIIMS Delhi

1

₹2,110

AIIMS Rishikesh

14

₹2,110

KGMU (King George's Medical University)

19

₹1.64 Lakhs

MMC (Madras Medical College)

10

₹1.5 Lakhs

Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC)

17

₹1.53 Lakhs

AIIMS Bhubaneswar

15

₹1.05 Lakhs


Top Private  colleges for MD pathology

Among the private medical colleges in MD Pathology, CMC Vellore has the lowest fees and the highest rank. The current NIRF Rank of CMC Vellore is 3, and the fee structure is ₹3,600 per annum. Read below for details about other private medical colleges in India that offer MD pathology courses.

College Name

Rank

Annual Fees 

CMC Vellore

3

₹3,600

KMC Manipal

9

₹36.3 Lakhs

Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science

11

₹30 Lakhs

St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences

28

₹19.5 Lakhs

KMC Mangalore

33

₹36.3 Lakhs


Top MD Pathology Colleges Abroad

MD Pathology is offered by numerous colleges worldwide. Here is a list of the Top MD Pathology colleges abroad.

Colleges 

Location

Annual Fees 

Harvard University 

Cambridge, Usa

₹57 Lakhs

The University of Sydney

Sydney, Australia

₹28 Lakhs

King’s College London

London, UK

₹27 Lakhs - ₹51 Lakhs

The University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, USA

₹11 Lakhs

University of Toronto

Toronto, Canada

₹19 Lakhs -₹30 Lakhs


MD Pathology Course: Abroad vs India

MD Pathology abroad and MD in India differ in various aspects. The program duration in India is 3 years, whereas the duration of programs abroad differs as per the location. To know more about MD Pathology Abroad vs India, check the table below.

Aspect

India

Abroad (e.g., USA)

Program Duration

3 years full-time

Residency: USA: 3–4 yrs; UK: Core 2–3 yrs + Specialty - 5 yrs

Eligibility

MBBS + NEET PG (≥55%)

MBBS+ country-specific entrance exams

Australia -AMC

USA- USMLE

Canada- MCCEE

Tuition Fees

Govt: ₹75,000- ₹4.37 per year

Private: ₹5.7 Lakhs- ₹21 Lakhs per annum

USA- ₹11  Lakhs- ₹1.10 crores per year 

UK- ₹19 lakhs- ₹60 Lakhs per year.

Australia-₹23 Lakhs- ₹31 Lakhs

Career Prospects

Hospital labs, teaching, diagnostics, and some fellowship options

Broad subspecialty opportunities, academic posts, clinical pathologist, laboratory director


FAQs


Ques 1. What are the entrance exams required for MD Pathology in the USA?

Ans 1. Candidates have to qualify USMLE exams to get admission in the MD Pathology program.


Ques 2. What is the duration of MD Pathology in the USA

Ans 2. The total duration of MD Pathology in the USA is 2-3 years.


Scope/Career Options After MD Pathology 

Multiple career options exist after the MD Pathology course. These include a consultant pathologist, a Laboratory director, a Research scientist, and many more. Read below to learn about career options after an MD in Pathology.

Career Option

Description

Consultant Pathologist

Diagnose diseases via lab investigations; may work independently or in a team

Laboratory Director

Manage and supervise clinical laboratories

Research Scientist

Conduct research in disease mechanisms, diagnostics, or treatments

Teaching Faculty/Professor

Teach pathology to medical students and conduct academic research

Forensic Pathologist

Perform autopsies, determine the cause of death in legal/medico-legal cases

Cytopathologist

Specialise in cellular diagnosis (e.g., cancer)

Clinical Pathologist

Oversee clinical lab testing (blood, urine, etc.)

Pharma Industry Roles

Work in drug safety, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, R&D

Fellowship/Super-specialization

Pursue DM or fellowships in subspecialties (e.g., Hematopathology, Molecular Pathology)

Diagnostic Lab Owner/Entrepreneur

Start and manage private diagnostic laboratories

Medical Writer/Consultant

Prepare scientific documents and provide consultancy on medical diagnostics


Top Recruiters/Placement Companies

MD pathology graduates are often hired by multiple recruiters. The top recruiters of MD Pathology include:

  • AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)
  • Fortis Healthcare
  • Max Healthcare
  • Apollo Hospitals
  • Dr. Lal PathLabs
  • Thyrocare Technologies
  • Agilus Diagnostics


MD Pathology: Salary Package

Salary package for the MD Pathology course varies as per job role. The salary of a medical examiner ranges between ₹5 LPA and ₹6.3 LPA. Read below to learn about the MD Pathology course's salary package for different job roles.

Job Roles

Salary (Per Annum)

Medical Examiner

₹4,00,000

Medical Pathologist 

₹5,00,000

Veterinary Clinical Pathologists

₹12,00,000


 FAQs


Ques 1. What is the duration of the MD Pathology course in India?

Ans 1. The duration of the MD Pathology course in India is 3 years


Ques 2. What are the specialisations of MD Pathology courses?

Ans 2. The specialisations of the MD Pathology course include General Pathology, Clinical Pathology, Anatomical Pathology, and many more.


Ques 3. What are the top colleges for MD Pathology in India?

Ans 3. The top colleges for MD Pathology in India are CMC Vellore, AIIMS Delhi, Madras Medical College, and many more.

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