MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Round: Revised Schedule Out, Choice Filling Closes Soon!

Oct 17, 2026Author:Dhuruv Singh
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MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Round: Revised Schedule Out, Choice Filling Closes Soon!
The State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell) has issued a crucial update for aspiring medical and dental students in Maharashtra. Notice No. 27, released on October 16, 2026, details the revised schedule for the MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Vacancy Round 1. This round aims to fill remaining MBBS and BDS seats after the Centralised Admission Process (CAP) Round 3. Candidates must act swiftly as the online choice filling window is now open and will close on October 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM. The first allotment list for this critical round is scheduled for October 19, 2026. All official updates and the revised schedule are available on the dedicated portal, medical2026.mahacet.org.

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Key Dates & Schedule for MAH NEET UG Stray Round

Understanding the updated timeline is crucial for all participating candidates. Here’s a breakdown of the revised schedule:

Activity / ParameterDetails & Schedule
Issue of Notice No. 27 (revised schedule)October 16, 2026
Online choice filling opensOctober 17, 2026
Choice filling and locking closeOctober 18, 2026, 11:59 PM
First stray allotment listOctober 19, 2026
Reporting at allotted collegeOctober 20 to 21, 2026
Final reporting deadlineOctober 21, 2026, 5:30 PM

Who is Eligible for the Stray Vacancy Round?

The Stray Vacancy Round has specific eligibility criteria. Candidates must ensure they meet these requirements before participating:

  • All NEET UG 2026 qualified candidates are eligible to participate.
  • Candidates must have previously registered under the Maharashtra CAP.
  • Candidates currently holding a joined seat from previous rounds are NOT eligible.
  • Fresh choice filling and locking are mandatory for every eligible candidate in this round.

How to Fill Choices & What Candidates Must Verify

The choice filling process is a critical step. Candidates must carefully select their preferred colleges and courses within the stipulated timeframe. Remember, once choices are locked, they cannot be changed.

To make informed decisions, we recommend using the MatchToCollege NEET College Predictor. This tool can help you assess your admission chances based on your NEET 2026 score or rank, guiding you towards the best MBBS and BDS colleges across All India Quota (AIQ) and State Quota.

After choice filling, candidates who are allotted a seat must report to the respective college with all original documents and pay the admission fee. Failure to report by the final deadline of October 21, 2026, 5:30 PM, will result in the cancellation of the allotted seat.

Important Documents to Keep Handy

When reporting to your allotted college, having all necessary documents ready is paramount. Prepare the following original documents along with attested photocopies:

  • NEET UG 2026 Admit Card
  • NEET UG 2026 Scorecard
  • Provisional Allotment Letter (downloaded from the official portal)
  • Class 10 Marksheet & Passing Certificate
  • Class 12 Marksheet & Passing Certificate
  • Domicile Certificate (for Maharashtra candidates)
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Non-Creamy Layer Certificate (if applicable, for OBC candidates)
  • EWS Certificate (if applicable)
  • Medical Fitness Certificate
  • Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, Passport, etc.)
  • Passport-size photographs (as specified)
  • Any other certificates mentioned in the information brochure

Next Steps for Allotted Candidates

If you are successfully allotted a seat in the Stray Vacancy Round, your next immediate step is to report to the designated college. Ensure you carry all original documents for verification and pay the required admission fees within the reporting window (October 20 to 21, 2026).

Adhering to the final reporting deadline of October 21, 2026, 5:30 PM, is critical to secure your admission. Missing this deadline will lead to forfeiture of your seat.

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FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Vacancy Round?

The MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Vacancy Round is conducted by the Maharashtra CET Cell to fill any remaining vacant MBBS and BDS seats after the completion of the Centralised Admission Process (CAP) Round 3. It provides a final opportunity for eligible candidates to secure admission.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in the Stray Vacancy Round?

All NEET UG 2026 qualified candidates who have previously registered under the Maharashtra CAP are eligible. However, candidates who are currently holding a joined seat from any previous rounds are not eligible to participate in this Stray Vacancy Round.

Q: What happens if I don't report to the allotted college by the deadline?

If a candidate fails to report to their allotted college with all required original documents and pay the admission fee by the final deadline of October 21, 2026, 5:30 PM, their allotted seat will be automatically cancelled. There will be no further opportunity to claim that seat.

Q: Where can I find the official revised schedule and updates?

All official updates, including Notice No. 27 and the revised schedule for the MAH NEET UG 2026 Stray Vacancy Round, are published on the State Common Entrance Test Cell's dedicated portal: medical2026.mahacet.org. Candidates should regularly check this website for the latest information.