Martha Divakar · February 20, 2026 
INTRODUCTION
Have you completed a diploma in a paramedical field like Medical Laboratory Technology, Radiology, or Operation Theatre and wondered how to upgrade to a full B.Sc. degree without starting from scratch? Lateral entry in allied health sciences offers exactly that: a faster pathway to a bachelor’s degree, better job roles, and long-term career growth in India’s booming healthcare sector.
Allied health sciences courses, including B.Sc. programs in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT), Radiology and Imaging, Operation Theatre Technology, and more, support doctors by handling diagnostics, therapy, and patient care. With the healthcare industry growing rapidly (India needs millions more skilled professionals per NCAHP estimates), diploma holders often seek degree upgrades for promotions, higher pay, and specialization.
This guide covers everything: what lateral entry means, popular courses, eligibility, admission steps for 2026, benefits, and reliable sources.
What Is Lateral Entry in Allied Health Sciences?
Lateral entry allows eligible diploma holders to join directly into the second year (or third semester) of a B.Sc. allied health sciences program. Instead of the standard 4-year duration (3 years academic + 1-year internship), you complete it in about 3 years.
This route bridges diplomas (typically 2 years after 10+2 or 3 years after 10th) to degrees, aligning with NCAHP‘s push for standardized education under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021. Many state universities and private institutions offer it, though availability varies.
For example, Karnataka’s KEA guidelines explicitly allow lateral entry for allied health courses after a relevant diploma, and similar provisions exist in Odisha (DMET), Rajasthan (RUHS), and NCAHP model curricula.
Popular Allied Health Sciences Courses Offering Lateral Entry
Several B.Sc. programs commonly provide lateral entry, especially for matching diploma fields.
B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) Lateral Entry
One of the most sought-after options. Focuses on lab diagnostics, sample analysis, and pathology. Diploma in MLT (DMLT) holders often enter year 2. High demand in hospitals and diagnostic labs.
B.Sc. Medical Radiology and Imaging Technology (MRIT/RIT)
Involves X-rays, CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Relevant diplomas (e.g., DMRT) qualify for lateral entry in many institutions, per the MoHFW model curriculum.
B.Sc. Operation Theatre & Anaesthesia Technology
Covers surgical assistance, sterilization, and anesthesia support. Diploma in OT Technology enables direct 2nd-year admission in states like Karnataka and Odisha.
B.Sc. Cardiac Care Technology / Perfusion Technology
Specialized in heart monitoring and perfusion during surgeries. Lateral entry is available after relevant diplomas in select universities.
B.Sc. Renal Dialysis Technology / Emergency & Trauma Care
Focuses on kidney treatment or emergency response. Growing fields with lateral options in government and private colleges.
Other Options
Some offer B.Sc. Optometry, Physiotherapy (BPT lateral in allied streams), or Microbiology with lateral provisions after aligned diplomas.
Eligibility Criteria for Lateral Entry
Requirements vary by state/university but generally include:
- Completion of 10+2 (Science stream with PCB) and a 2-year (or 3-year) diploma in the relevant allied health/paramedical field from a recognized board/institution.
- Minimum marks: Usually 45-50% aggregate in diploma (relaxations for reserved categories in government seats).
- Specific matching: The Diploma must align with the B.Sc. course (e.g., DMLT for B.Sc. MLT lateral entry).
- Age: Often 17-35 years at admission.
- Note for 2026: While direct UG entries increasingly require NEET-UG (per NCAHP 2026-27 guidelines), lateral entry is typically merit/diploma-based or via separate state processes (check official notifications).
Always verify on university/state portals, as NCAHP drafts emphasize relevant diplomas for lateral entry to the 2nd year.
Admission Process for Lateral Entry 2026
The process is state-specific and often online:
- Check Notifications: Monitor official sites like dmetodisha.gov.in , cetonline.karnataka.gov.in (KEA), ruhsraj.org , or university portals (e.g., RGUHS, Manipal) for 2026 lateral entry announcements (usually mid-year).
- Apply Online: Submit the form with diploma marks, certificates, and fees.
- Merit/Entrance: Mostly merit-based on diploma scores; some states have counselling or minor tests.
- Counselling & Seat Allotment: Attend rounds for government/private seats.
- Documents: 10th/12th marksheets, diploma certificate, migration, ID proof, photos.
Examples: DMET Odisha runs combined counselling with lateral provisions; KEA Karnataka publishes allied lateral guidelines.
Tentative 2026 timeline: Applications July-September; counselling October onward.
Benefits of Choosing Lateral Entry Route
- Time & Cost Savings: Skip year 1, finish faster, and enter the workforce sooner.
- Career Boost: A Degree opens supervisory roles, higher salaries (e.g., lab technologist to supervisor), and postgraduate options (M.Sc.).
- Practical Edge: Your diploma experience gives an advantage in clinical training.
- Real example: A DMLT holder via lateral entry in B.Sc. MLT can quickly advance to lab in-charge in diagnostics chains.
In a sector facing shortages, this route accelerates your contribution to healthcare.
How Career Plan B Helps
Exploring lateral entry in allied health sciences or unsure which course fits your diploma background?
Career Plan B provides
- Personalized career counselling
- Psycheintel and career assessment tests
- Admission guidance
- Detailed career roadmapping
to align your skills with the best B.Sc. options and future growth in this dynamic field.
Have any doubts?
📞 Contact our expert counsellor today and get all your questions answered!
FAQs
- What is the difference between direct entry and lateral entry in allied health sciences?
Direct entry is for 12th pass-outs starting year 1 (often NEET-based from 2026-27 per NCAHP). Lateral entry is for diploma holders joining year 2.
- Is lateral entry available in all allied health courses?
No, it’s common in MLT, Radiology, OT, Dialysis, etc., but it depends on the state/university.
- What diploma qualifies for B.Sc. MLT lateral entry?
Typically a 2- or 3-year DMLT from a recognized board/institution.
- How to find official notifications for 2026 lateral entry?
Visit NCAHP.abdm.gov.in , state DME sites (e.g., dmetodisha.gov.in , kea.kar.nic.in), or university portals regularly.
- Can I pursue lateral entry in government colleges?
Yes, many government seats via state counselling (e.g., DMET Odisha, KEA Karnataka) offer lateral options.
Conclusion
Lateral entry in allied health sciences is a smart, efficient way for diploma holders to earn a B.Sc. degree, gain advanced skills, and accelerate careers in high-demand fields like diagnostics, imaging, and critical care.
Match your diploma to the right course, meet eligibility (relevant diploma + marks), follow official processes, and use verified sources like NCAHP and state DMEs.
Start today and visit official websites for 2026 notifications or seek expert guidance to map your path. In India’s expanding healthcare landscape, upgrading via lateral entry isn’t just an option; it’s a strategic step toward a fulfilling, impactful career.
