NEET UG 2026 counselling: The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has introduced major changes in the online counselling process for NEET UG and postgraduate medical admissions from the current academic session. The new measures aim to simplify admission procedures, reduce physical paperwork and make the counselling system more transparent for medical aspirants.The updates were communicated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to state counselling authorities ahead of the NEET UG 2026 counselling process. The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) also informed candidates that MCC will begin counselling shortly and highlighted the key changes introduced in the system.
No physical reporting required for candidates seeking upgrades
Under the revised counselling process, candidates who receive a seat allotment and select the “Upgrade” or “Willing to Upgrade” option in subsequent rounds will no longer need to physically report to the allotted college only for completing admission formalities.Their allotted seat will remain protected in the counselling system while they participate in further rounds, subject to the existing MCC counselling rules. The change is expected to reduce unnecessary travel and paperwork for candidates waiting for better seat options.
Seat resignation facility moved online
MCC has introduced an online resignation facility for candidates who wish to leave their allotted seats, wherever resignation is permitted under counselling guidelines.Candidates will now be able to submit resignation requests through the MCC counselling portal within the specified deadline. They will not be required to visit the allotted medical college physically for submitting resignation documents.The facility will be available only according to the applicable rules and timelines announced for each counselling phase.
NRI quota applicants can upload documents online
Candidates seeking NRI reservation benefits in deemed universities will now be able to upload their required documents directly through the MCC counselling portal.Earlier, document submission procedures for NRI quota applications involved additional coordination. The new online facility has been introduced to make the verification process more accessible and organised for applicants.
MCC conducts training for states and medical colleges
To ensure smooth implementation of the updated counselling system, MCC has started orientation and training programmes for stakeholders involved in medical admissions.Training sessions were conducted for State Directorate of Medical Education authorities in May and June 2026. A separate training session for medical institutions was organised on July 27, 2026, with additional sessions planned for government and private medical colleges.
Information on seats and fees to support choices
MCC has also highlighted the importance of providing candidates with clear information about available seats and institutional fee structures.MCC conducts counselling for 15% All India Quota (AIQ) seats and 100% seats in deemed and central universities under NEET UG. Since most medical seats are managed by respective states and Union Territories, authorities have been asked to ensure that details regarding seats and fees are easily available to candidates.
Key MCC counselling changes at a glance
Candidates preparing for NEET UG 2026 counselling should follow official MCC notifications and keep required documents ready before registration and choice-filling stages begin.
