

Established in 2007, the Indira Gandhi Institute of Dental Science (IGIDS) in Kothamangalam is affiliated with the Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS) and holds the necessary approval from the Dental Council of India (DCI), which is crucial for any dental program. While it may not feature in the top national NIRF rankings, it is a well-regarded institution in the state, recognized with an 'A' grade accreditation by NAAC for its educational standards. The institute primarily focuses on dental education, with its flagship course being the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). It also offers postgraduate MDS programs across several specializations. Admission to the BDS course is strictly based on the NEET-UG score, with seat allotment managed through the centralised counselling conducted by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala. For the 2026 academic year, the annual tuition fee for the government quota seats in the BDS program is projected to be approximately INR 4.8 lakhs, exclusive of other charges. Unlike engineering colleges, dental institutes have a different career trajectory for graduates. After completing the four-year course, students undertake a mandatory one-year paid rotatory internship. Based on projections for 2025, IGIDS interns can expect a monthly stipend of around INR 25,000. Upon graduation, most students either pursue higher studies for an MDS degree or join private hospitals and dental clinics. For those entering the workforce directly, the average starting salary in 2026 is expected to be in the range of INR 4 to 6 LPA, depending on the role and location.