The stray vacancy round for NEET PG 2026 reaches a critical point today as the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) officially closes the choice locking window at 11:55 PM. With nearly 2,980 PG medical seats still up for grabs across India, this final round represents the last opportunity for candidates to secure an MD/MS/DNB seat this admission cycle.
Why Today Matters More Than Any Other Day in the NEET PG 2026 Counselling Cycle
The stray vacancy round is often considered the most unpredictable yet most rewarding stage of postgraduate medical admissions. With many high-demand seats resurfacing due to withdrawals, non-reporting, or upgradation, today’s window can change the trajectory of hundreds of medical careers.
MCC has opened the choice locking period from 4 PM to 11:55 PM. This allows candidates to finalise and freeze their preferences. Missing this window means losing all remaining chances for PG admission this year.
What Happens After You Lock Your Choices?
Seat Processing Begins Tomorrow
MCC will begin seat allotment processing on February 20, 2026, using the locked choices of all eligible candidates.
Final Results on February 21, 2026
Candidates can expect their allotment results on February 21, 2026. Historically, this round sees unexpected allotments due to reshuffled, leftover, or high-value seats reopening.
Reporting Window: February 22–28
Those allotted seats must report to their colleges between February 22 and 28, 2026, for document verification and fee payment. Non-reporting at this stage results in complete forfeiture of the seat.
The Bottom Line: A Final Chance That Should Not Be Missed
With nearly 3,000 seats still vacant and just hours left before the deadline, today’s choice locking window is career-defining. Even candidates with earlier low ranks may now find opportunities they didn’t expect.
This is the moment to act decisively and secure the best possible seat in the final and most consequential round of NEET PG 2026 counselling.
