NEET UG 2026 Round 2 Seat Matrix Out: Over 24,000 Total Vacancies Revealed
Medical Counselling Committee releases the Round 2 seat matrix for 15% All India Quota, adding 659 fresh seats alongside thousands of clear and virtual vacancies across top medical institutions.
The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has officially published the seat matrix for Round 2 of the NEET UG 2026 counselling, bringing significant relief and clarity to thousands of medical aspirants across the nation. Candidates seeking admission to MBBS, BDS, and B.Sc. Nursing programs under the 15% All India Quota (AIQ) can now analyze seat availability across participating institutes to fine-tune their preferences.
The updated matrix reveals a substantial influx of opportunities, combining brand-new seat additions with existing vacant seats from the initial round.
Breakdown of Round 2 Seat Availability
The comprehensive matrix categorized by MCC outlines three primary types of seat availabilities to help candidates navigate their choice-filling strategy:
659 Newly Added Seats: MCC has added 659 fresh seats across various medical, dental, and nursing colleges, expanding the overall intake capacity for Round 2.
11,302 Clear Vacancies: These represent seats that remained entirely unallocated or unclaimed after Round 1. High-demand institutions—including AIIMS Patna, AIIMS Raipur, and AIIMS Guwahati—have notable clear vacancies up for grabs.
12,283 Virtual Vacancies: These are seats currently occupied by Round 1 candidates who have opted for an upgrade. Should these candidates secure higher-preference seats in Round 2, their previously held seats will instantly become available to other applicants.
Important Schedule for Round 2
Candidates participating in Round 2 must adhere strictly to the critical dates outlined by the MCC:
| Event | Official Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Window | September 3 – September 8, 2026 |
| Choice Filling Deadline | September 9, 2026 |
| Seat Allotment Processing | September 9 – September 10, 2026 |
| Seat Allotment Result Declaration | September 11, 2026 |
| Reporting to Allotted Colleges | September 12 – September 18, 2026 |
| Data Verification by MCC & Authorities | September 19, 2026 |
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
Candidates are strongly advised to thoroughly review the category-wise seat matrix before finalizing their choices. Incorporating both clear vacancies and virtual vacancies into the choice-locking process maximizes the probability of securing a preferred college or course. Registration remains open until September 8, 2026, on the official MCC portal.
