Maharashtra NEET UG 2026: Online Stray Vacancy Round Schedule Released

The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has officially released the schedule for the online stray vacancy round of NEET UG 2026 counselling. This phase of the admission process is specifically designed for candidates seeking entry into MBBS and BDS programmes across the state.

Students who have successfully qualified for the NEET UG 2026 examination and are participating in the state-level counselling process are advised to review the updated timeline. The official schedule, which outlines the critical dates for the stray vacancy round, is now accessible to the public through the CET Cell's dedicated portal at medical2026.mahacet.org.

Key Dates and Choice-Filling Procedures

According to the notification issued by the state authorities, the online choice-filling window for the stray vacancy round is scheduled to open on October 15, 2026. Candidates must complete their preferences and submit their forms by the deadline of October 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

The CET Cell has emphasised that this window is a critical period for applicants to finalise their choices for medical and dental colleges. It is essential for all participating students to adhere strictly to these timelines to ensure their applications are considered for the seat allotment process. The official website, cetcell.mahacet.org, serves as the primary source for all updates regarding the merit list and the subsequent seat allotment results.

Important Information for Applicants

The stray vacancy round is a significant stage in the Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 counselling process, providing a final opportunity for eligible candidates to secure a seat in their preferred institutions. As this is an online process, candidates are encouraged to monitor the official portal regularly for any further announcements or notifications regarding the publication of the merit list and the final seat allocation.

Candidates should ensure that all information provided during the choice-filling phase is accurate and reflects their genuine preferences. By following the instructions provided on the official website, students can navigate the final stages of the admission process effectively. All further updates, including the release of the seat allotment results, will be communicated through the official CET Cell channels.