Maharashtra NEET UG 2026: Stray Vacancy Round Schedule Revised for MBBS and BDS

The State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell) of Maharashtra has officially released a revised schedule for the online stray vacancy rounds concerning MBBS and BDS admissions for the 2026 academic session. This update impacts candidates currently participating in the state’s NEET UG counselling process, specifically regarding the timelines for seat allotment, choice filling, and physical reporting.

According to the latest notification, the CET Cell has extended the deadline for physical joining for the first stray vacancy round. Furthermore, the authority has introduced a completely updated timeline for the second and third stray vacancy rounds, necessitating that candidates stay informed about the new procedural requirements to ensure their participation remains valid.

Key Updates to the Counselling Schedule

A critical instruction for all applicants is that any preferences or choices submitted during the initial online stray vacancy round will now be considered null and void. Candidates are required to adhere to the newly established timelines to maintain their eligibility for seat allocation in the subsequent phases of the counselling process.

For the ongoing first stray vacancy round, the deadline for physical reporting has been extended. Candidates must complete their joining process, which includes the submission of all original documents and the payment of requisite fees, by 5:30 PM on October 22, 2026. The CET Cell has clarified that fee payments can be processed at the respective allotted colleges using a Demand Draft (DD) or through NEFT and RTGS banking modes.

Revised Procedures for Subsequent Rounds

The CET Cell has overhauled the schedule for the remaining stray vacancy rounds to streamline the admission process for Group A courses, which include MBBS and BDS. With the first round reporting deadline now set for October 22, students are advised to monitor the official portal for the specific dates regarding choice filling and seat allotment for the second and third rounds.

As the counselling process moves forward, participants should ensure they have their documentation prepared in accordance with the state’s admission guidelines. The CET Cell’s decision to revise these dates is intended to facilitate a more structured transition through the final stages of the NEET UG 2026 admission cycle. Students are encouraged to check the official website regularly for any further announcements or detailed breakdowns of the updated calendar.