Karnataka NEET UG 2026: Stray Vacancy Round Registration Opens

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially commenced the registration process for the online stray vacancy round of the Karnataka NEET UG 2026 counselling. This phase provides a final opportunity for medical and dental aspirants to secure remaining MBBS and BDS seats across various institutions in the state.

Candidates who are interested in participating must complete their registration through the official KEA portal. The authority has confirmed that the application window will remain active until October 16, 2026. It is essential for applicants to verify their eligibility status against the official lists published by the KEA before proceeding with the registration and subsequent choice-filling process.

Counselling Schedule and Application Procedure

Following the registration deadline of October 16, 2026, the counselling process will move into the choice-filling and locking phase. The KEA has scheduled the fresh option entry window to take place from October 16 to October 19, 2026. During this period, candidates are required to log in to the candidate portal to submit and lock their preferred college and course choices.

To participate in the stray vacancy round, candidates should visit the official website at kea.kar.nic.in or cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. Once on the site, students must navigate to the 'Admission' section and select the UG NEET 2026 link. After logging in with their allotted credentials, applicants can access the option entry page to input their preferences. It is mandatory for candidates to click the submit tab to ensure their choices are saved and locked within the stipulated timeframe.

Important Deadlines and Eligibility

In addition to the registration and choice-filling requirements, the KEA has set a deadline for the payment of medical course fees. Eligible candidates must ensure that their fee submission is completed by October 16, 2026. The authority has emphasized that only those who have been verified as eligible are permitted to move forward with the web option entry.

Students are advised to monitor the official KEA website regularly for any further updates or notifications regarding the seat allotment process. As this is the final stage of the counselling cycle, candidates should ensure all documentation and fee payments are finalized before the respective deadlines to avoid any disruption to their admission prospects.