NEET UG Counselling 2026 Starts August 4

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has announced that the first round of counselling for admission to MBBS and other undergraduate medical courses under the All India Quota (AIQ) will begin on August 4.

The academic session for the 2026-27 batch will commence on September 8. This year, the counselling process has undergone some significant changes. Candidates who have been allotted a seat and opted for an upgrade in subsequent rounds will no longer have to physically report to the allotted college to complete admission formalities.

Their admission will remain valid in the counselling system while they participate in subsequent rounds, subject to the applicable counselling rules. The MCC has also introduced an online resignation facility, allowing candidates to resign their allotted seat through the MCC counselling portal.

This facility is available wherever permissible under the counselling rules and within the prescribed timelines, without the need for physical submission at the allotted institution. Additionally, candidates seeking NRI reservation in deemed universities can upload their documents online through the counselling portal.

The academic session for undergraduate medical courses will begin on September 8, even as counselling for subsequent rounds continues for vacant seats. The first round of AIQ counselling for deemed and central universities will be held from August 4 to August 17.

The last date for joining is August 22, according to the schedule shared by the MCC. The changes introduced by the MCC aim to make the counselling process more convenient and efficient for candidates.

The MCC's decision to allow online resignation and document upload is expected to reduce the administrative burden on candidates and institutions. The start of the academic session on September 8 will also provide clarity on the timeline for the upcoming batch of undergraduate medical students.

The NEET UG counselling process is a crucial step for candidates seeking admission to medical courses in India. The MCC's announcements and schedule provide important information for candidates to plan their next steps.

In conclusion, the NEET UG counselling 2026 is set to begin on August 4, with the academic session commencing on September 8. The changes introduced by the MCC are expected to streamline the counselling process and provide a better experience for candidates.