After completing 12th grade, students interested in pursuing a career in nursing in India typically choose between B.Sc Nursing and GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery). Here’s a breakdown of both options: BSc and GNM nursing courses.


1. B.Sc Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

📘 Overview:

  • A 4-year undergraduate degree course.
  • Prepares students for professional nursing practice.
  • Recognized by the Indian Nursing Council (INC).

🎓 Eligibility:

  • 12th passed with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).
  • Minimum aggregate: 45–50% (varies by institution).
  • English must be a core subject.
  • Age: Minimum 17 years at the time of admission.

📋 Admission Process:

  • Through entrance exams (national/state/university level).
  • Some common entrance exams:
    • NEET-UG (some states/universities)
    • AIIMS Nursing
    • JIPMER Nursing
    • State-level exams like Kerala KEAM, MHT-CET, etc.

💼 Career Opportunities:

  • Registered Nurse
  • Staff Nurse
  • Nurse Educator
  • Public Health Nurse
  • Nurse Practitioner (with further study)

2. GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery)

📘 Overview:

  • A 3-year diploma course + 6 months internship.
  • Focuses on midwifery and general patient care.

🎓 Eligibility:

  • 12th passed in any stream (preferably with PCB).
  • Some states require Science with Biology.
  • Minimum marks: 40–45% (varies).
  • Age: 17–35 years.

📋 Admission Process:

  • Merit-based or entrance exam, depending on the institute/state.
  • State-level counseling often applies.

💼 Career Opportunities:

  • Staff Nurse
  • Community Health Worker
  • Midwife
  • Ward Nurse

📊 B.Sc Nursing vs GNM: Key Differences

FeatureB.Sc NursingGNM
Duration4 years3 years + 6 months internship
LevelUndergraduate DegreeDiploma
Career ScopeBroader, higher positionsEntry-level nursing roles
Higher StudiesM.Sc Nursing, Nurse PractitionerCan do Post Basic B.Sc Nursing
Salary PotentialHigher starting salariesModerate

👩‍⚕️ Which One to Choose?

  • Choose B.Sc Nursing if:
    • You want a long-term professional career.
    • You’re eligible for science-based programs.
    • You aim for higher studies or government jobs.
  • Choose GNM if:
    • You want a quicker entry into the nursing workforce.
    • You didn’t have Biology in 12th or lower marks.
    • You’re open to upgrading via Post Basic B.Sc Nursing later.
    • BSc and GNM nursing courses.