NEET PG 2025 Stray Vacancy Round Schedule Released: Registration Choice Filling and Locking Details

• Feb 16, 2026
• Admin

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has officially announced the start of the NEET PG 2025 stray vacancy round, bringing a final opportunity for eligible candidates to secure postgraduate medical seats for the academic year 2025. As per the latest schedule, the registration process for the stray round will begin on February 16, 2026, through the official MCC portal.

This round is crucial for aspirants who were unable to secure a seat in previous rounds of NEET PG counselling or are looking for better allotment options. Here is a complete breakdown of the schedule, important dates, and guidelines candidates must follow.

NEET PG 2025 Stray Round: Important Dates

According to the officially released schedule, the key dates are as follows:

Candidates must strictly adhere to these deadlines, as no extension is generally granted in the stray vacancy round of NEET PG counselling.

What Makes the Stray Vacancy Round Important?

The stray vacancy round is the final phase of centralized counselling conducted by MCC for:

• 50% All India Quota (AIQ) seats
• Deemed Universities
• Central Universities
• Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS)

This round is conducted after the completion of Round 3 counselling and aims to fill remaining vacant seats. It is especially beneficial for candidates who:

• Did not get a seat in earlier rounds
• Were not allotted their preferred specialty
• Have become newly eligible due to seat resignations

However, candidates must note that choices filled in previous rounds will not be considered valid. Fresh choice filling is mandatory for participation in this round.

Registration Process for NEET PG 2025 Stray Round

The registration for NEET PG 2025 stray round is conducted online through the official MCC portal. Candidates need to:

1. Log in using their existing NEET PG credentials
2. Complete fresh registration (if required)
3. Pay the applicable counselling fee
4. Fill and lock choices carefully

It is essential to double-check all entered information before final submission; as incorrect details may lead to disqualification.

Key Guidelines Candidates Must Follow

Before participating in the stray vacancy round of NEET PG counselling, candidates should keep the following points in mind:

1. Fresh Choice Filling is Mandatory

Earlier submitted preferences will be considered invalid. Candidates must re-enter their preferred colleges and specialties.

2. No Upgradation After Allotment

If a seat is allotted in the stray round, the candidate must join the allotted institute. There is no option for further upgradation.

3. Strict Reporting Timeline

Candidates allotted a seat must report to the respective institute within the specified dates (February 22–28, 2026). Failure to report may result in cancellation of the seat and possible penalties.

4. Document Verification

Original documents including NEET PG admit card, rank letter, MBBS degree certificate, internship completion certificate, identity proof, and other required documents must be carried at the time of reporting.

Seat Allotment Process Explained

The seat allotment in NEET PG 2025 stray round will be conducted based on:

• NEET PG rank
• Availability of vacant seats
• Reservation policies
• Choices filled by the candidate

The allotment result will be published online on February 21, 2026. Candidates must download their allotment letter from the portal.

Why Candidates Should Act Quickly

The stray vacancy round is often the last opportunity to secure a PG medical seat under centralized counselling. As seat availability is limited and competition remains high, candidates should:

• Research available seat matrix carefully
• Prioritize realistic preferences
• Lock choices before the deadline
• Keep all documents ready in advance

Timely decision-making plays a critical role in successful participation in NEET PG counselling.

Final Thoughts

The announcement of the NEET PG 2025 stray vacancy round schedule marks an important phase in the ongoing admission process. With registration starting from February 16, 2026, candidates must stay alert and proactive.

As this is the concluding stage of centralized NEET PG counselling, careful planning, accurate choice filling, and prompt reporting are essential. Aspirants should regularly check official updates and ensure they do not miss any deadline.

This final opportunity could define your postgraduate medical journey — prepare wisely and act without delay.