Physiotherapy Course After 12th: Eligibility, Fees, Qualifications & How to Become a Physiotherapist in India

Do you know that India’s physiotherapy sector was worth about $1 billion in 2022? In the next few years, this sector is expected to reach nearly $1.9 billion  by 2030.

These figures help you understand quickly how important physiotherapy is going to be in the near future and why it is counted among the most in-demand jobs in healthcare even today.

Choosing a physiotherapy course after 12th prepares you to help patients move again, ease their pain, and improve their physical function. Physiotherapy is a good option if you want to work in healthcare but don't want to go the usual MBBS or BDS route.

If you are planning to pursue a profession in physiotherapy, here is all you need to know.

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a branch of healthcare that helps people regain and restore their physical functions. It helps identify and treat various conditions that affect the flexibility or movement of a person.

Physiotherapy involves different methods or techniques such as physical exercises and electrotherapy. Physiotherapists use these techniques to support recovery in their patients. Future injuries and better health can be promoted with the help of physiotherapy.

If these details grab your interest and you want to know how to become physiotherapist after 12th in India, you should first check the required eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for Physiotherapy Courses After 12th

You must meet the physiotherapy eligibility requirements to enrol on a physiotherapy course of your choice.

Academic Requirements

A pass in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as compulsory subjects. The minimum percentage required is typically 50%.

While most institutes do not require entrance exams for BPT, several may consider entrance exam performance.

Admission Process

Admission to a physiotherapy course after 12th is possible through any of the following methods:

You can choose to study physiotherapy after 12th in the form of various courses.

Types of Physiotherapy Courses After 12th

You can choose from a range of courses depending on how quickly you want to earn a physiotherapy qualification in India and enter this field.

Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)

This is a comprehensive 4.5-year undergraduate programme that includes a six-month clinical internship. You study subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and various rehabilitation methods to build strong clinical competence.

Also read “Unveiling Medical Specialities: Cardiology vs. Orthopaedics vs. Neurology”.

Diploma in Physiotherapy

A 2 to 3-year diploma introduces you to essential physiotherapy techniques and patient care practices.

Certification Courses

The certification courses are mostly 6 months to 2 years in duration. You can choose a certification course based on a particular area, such as sports physiotherapy or orthopaedic physiotherapy. Choosing certification courses improves your chances of employability.

Apart from these courses, you can also pursue additional qualifications as you advance in your physiotherapy career.

What are the Various Physiotherapy Degrees in India?

Do you want to know about the various physiotherapy qualifications or degrees that help you get significant job opportunities? If yes, check the details below.

1. The Diploma in Physiotherapy will help you get entry-level jobs like physiotherapy assistants or technicians in hospitals and clinics.
2. With a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT), you can work as a licensed physiotherapist in hospitals, sports centres, rehab units, and your own private practice.
3. Master of Physiotherapy (MPT) lets you focus on areas like orthopaedics, neurology, or sports physiotherapy and move up to higher-level jobs or teach.
4. A PhD degree opens doors to research, teaching, consulting, and advanced clinical practice.

Physiotherapy Courses Fees

While the fee for these courses may vary by institute, the table below gives you a quick idea of the same.

Now let us take a quick look at the essential steps for how to become physiotherapist after 12th in India.

How can You Become a Physiotherapist in India?

Are you looking for steps to become a physiotherapist in India? If so, the steps below provide the proper guidance you need.
1. Pass your Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The typical percentage needed in Class 12 is 50%.
2. After that, sign up for a BPT programme at a reputed college or university.
3. Pass relevant entrance exams like NEET, state CETs, or entrance tests for specific universities. You can also opt for the direct admission route.
4. After you graduate, you can sign up with the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP). However, it’s not a legally mandatory requirement to practice in India.
5. Consider pursuing a Master of Physiotherapy (MPT) or a PhD to move up in your career.
You can work as a clinical, sports, paediatric, or geriatric physiotherapist after getting your degree in physiotherapy. With an MPT, you can also work in research and academics, or even start your own practice.

Conclusion

A career in physiotherapy after 12th allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives while building a rewarding profession. If you are passionate about healthcare, starting this journey after 12th grade opens up a diverse range of opportunities. Focus on assessing eligibility, preparing for entrance exams, choosing the right course, and selecting a reputable school.

Kickstart your physiotherapy career with the well-structured Bachelor of Physiotherapy programme at theSchool of Allied Health Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University). Gain practical experience, expert guidance, and a strong academic foundation to become a skilled physiotherapist.

FAQs

Q1: Does physiotherapy need NEET?

A1: No, NEET is not necessary for physiotherapy courses in India.

Q2: Is physiotherapist a good career?

A2: Yes, for sure. There are stable jobs, different places to work, and career options in both India and other countries for physiotherapists.

Q3: What is the salary of BPT in India?

A3: In India, the average monthly salary for a BPT graduate is ₹18,203 . Depending on where you work, how much experience you have, and what skills you have, this could vary significantly.

Q4: Does physiotherapy have scope?

A4: Yes, physiotherapy has a lot of opportunities in India and other countries. The need for skilled physiotherapists keeps growing because more people are becoming aware of their health, sports culture and lifestyle issues.

Q5: What is the entrance exam for physiotherapy?

A5: Entrance exams for physiotherapy include national-level exams such as NEET, state-level CETs like KCET and university-based or institute-specific exams.

Q6: Is NEET marks required for physiotherapy?

A6: NEET is not mandatory for many physiotherapy courses in India. Admission is usually based on merit, university-specific entrance exams, or state-level tests, depending on the institution.