How to Get BOT Admission in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka States – Complete Guide for 2026

If you are passionate about healthcare and interested in a rewarding career in occupational therapy, pursuing a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT) degree is a great choice. In the southern states of India, namely Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, many reputed colleges offer BOT courses that prepare students for this vital healthcare profession.

In this detailed guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about BOT Admission 2026, including eligibility criteria, admission processes, top colleges in these states, course details, fees, and career prospects. Whether you are looking for BOT Admission in Kerala, BOT Admission in Tamil Nadu, or BOT Admission in Karnataka, this blog covers all essential information to help you start your journey smoothly.

 

What is Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT)?

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is an undergraduate program that trains students to help patients recover and improve their daily living and work skills after illness, injury, or disability. Occupational therapists play a critical role in rehabilitation by developing treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

The BOT course typically lasts 4 to 5 years, including a mandatory internship, and focuses on anatomy, physiology, psychology, and therapy techniques, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

 

Eligibility Criteria for BOT Admission 2026

Before applying for BOT Admission in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka, it’s important to meet the basic eligibility requirements:

  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 (Class 12) or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
  • Mandatory Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are essential subjects in the qualifying examination.
  • Minimum Marks: Generally, candidates need to secure a minimum aggregate of 50% marks in the qualifying exam. For reserved categories such as SC/ST/OBC, the minimum requirement is usually relaxed to 45%.

Meeting these criteria allows you to apply for various BOT programs offered by colleges across these states.

 

Admission Process for BOT Course in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka

Admission procedures vary slightly depending on the state and institution, but here is a general outline of how you can secure BOT Admission 2026:

  1. Entrance Examinations

Most reputed institutions conduct entrance exams to shortlist candidates. Some of the key entrance exams relevant to BOT Admission in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka include:

  • AIIPMR EE (All India Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Entrance Exam)
  • KMCHCOT Entrance Exam (for KMCH College of Occupational Therapy, Tamil Nadu)
  • CMC Vellore Entrance Exam

These exams typically assess knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, along with aptitude for healthcare professions.

  1. Merit-Based Admission

Several colleges also offer direct merit-based admission where selection depends on your 10+2 academic scores. Students with higher marks in PCB subjects stand a better chance under this method.

  1. Application Process

Candidates need to fill out application forms either through the official websites of the colleges or the respective entrance exam portals. Ensure that you carefully provide all required details and upload necessary documents such as:

  • Academic mark sheets
  • Transfer certificates
  • Identity proofs (Aadhar card, Passport, etc.)
  • Passport-sized photographs
  1. Shortlisting and Counseling

Based on your entrance exam performance or merit list, colleges shortlist candidates for counseling sessions or interviews. During counseling, you may be required to select your preferred college and submit admission fees.

  1. Final Admission Confirmation

After document verification and fee payment, the college confirms your admission. Keep all admission-related documents safely for future reference.

 

Top Colleges for BOT Admission in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka

Choosing the right institution can significantly impact your learning experience and career opportunities. Here are some of the well-known colleges offering BOT courses in these states:

Kerala

  • College of Occupational Therapy, National Institute of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (NIPMR)
    Affiliated to Kerala University of Health Sciences, NIPMR is a premier institution offering undergraduate BOT programs with excellent clinical exposure.
  • Department of Occupational Therapy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research
    Known for its advanced curriculum and experienced faculty, this college provides quality education and research opportunities.

Tamil Nadu

  • KMCH College of Occupational Therapy, Coimbatore
    One of the leading colleges offering both BOT and MOT courses, affiliated with The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University.
  • SRM College of Occupational Therapy, Chennai
    Offers both undergraduate and postgraduate BOT programs, affiliated to SRM University with modern facilities.
  • National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai
    Known for its focus on disability rehabilitation, NIEPMD offers BOT courses recognized by the state medical university.
  • Chettinad University, Chennai
    Provides a well-structured BOT curriculum with good clinical training and research prospects.

Karnataka

  • Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal
    Affiliated to Manipal Academy of Higher Education, this college is renowned for its quality education in occupational therapy.
  • S-VYASA University, Bengaluru
    Offers integrated programs in health sciences including occupational therapy, focusing on holistic healing approaches.
  • Srinivas University, Mangalore
    A promising institution with good infrastructure and faculty, offering BOT courses with hands-on training.

 

Course Duration and Fee Structure

The duration of the BOT course usually spans 4 to 5 years, which includes a 6-month mandatory internship or clinical practice to give real-world experience.

The course fee varies from institution to institution and can range from INR 15,000 to INR 80,000 per annum depending on the facilities and reputation of the college.

 

Career Prospects After BOT Course

After completing your BOT degree, various job opportunities await in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, special schools, NGOs, and private clinics. Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping patients regain independence and improve quality of life.

Job Roles:

  • Occupational Therapist
  • Rehabilitation Therapist
  • Pediatric Therapist
  • Geriatric Therapist
  • Mental Health Therapist

Salary:

The starting salary for a fresh BOT graduate ranges between INR 2 to 6 lakhs per annum, which increases with experience and specialization.

Conclusion

Securing BOT Admission 2026 in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka requires understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing for entrance exams, and selecting the right college. Each state offers unique institutions with quality education and training in occupational therapy.

Make sure to check the official websites of colleges for the latest admission notifications and deadlines to stay ahead in the admission process. Pursuing a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy opens doors to a fulfilling career dedicated to improving lives, and these southern states provide excellent platforms to start your journey.

If you need any assistance or have queries about BOT Admission in Kerala, BOT Admission in Tamil Nadu, or BOT Admission in Karnataka, you can get expert guidance and support by contacting:

For Admission Guidance: 9846389369

Start preparing today to secure your seat in one of the top colleges and take the first step towards a rewarding career in occupational therapy.

 

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