NMC Releases Revised MBBS Seat Matrix for 2026-27 Academic Year

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has officially released a revised seat matrix for undergraduate MBBS courses for the 2026-27 academic year. This latest update confirms a total of 140,214 MBBS seats available across the country, a figure that excludes seats at Institutes of National Importance (INIs). The revised list reflects the most recent approvals granted for the establishment of new medical colleges as well as increases in the annual intake capacity of existing institutions.

This updated data follows the initial seat matrix published by the commission in July. The adjustments are the result of decisions made by the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB), alongside rulings from the 1st Appeal Committee of the NMC and the 2nd Appeal Committee of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). These changes are intended to ensure that the seat count accurately represents the current capacity approved under the provisions of the National Medical Commission Act, 2019.

Guidelines for Counselling and Institutional Compliance

The NMC has issued clear directives to counselling committees, mandating that they strictly adhere to the approved seat matrix during the admission process. Committees are instructed to ensure that the number of seats displayed during choice filling corresponds exactly with the latest official figures. Should any discrepancies or deviations be identified, the commission has ordered that these matters be referred immediately to the MARB for formal clarification. Furthermore, institutions are explicitly prohibited from admitting students to seats that exceed the number approved and notified by the board.

Medical colleges have also been advised to verify their specific details within the updated matrix, including their name and approved annual intake. If an institution identifies any errors or omissions, they are required to notify the President or Director of the MARB promptly. The commission has warned that any admission of students beyond the approved capacity will be treated as a violation of the National Medical Commission Act and its associated regulations.

Important Considerations for NEET UG 2026 Candidates

For students participating in the NEET UG 2026 counselling process, the revised seat matrix serves as a critical reference for determining college preferences. While this document provides the current approved intake, the NMC has clarified that the matrix is subject to further revision. Future decisions by appeal committees or other competent authorities could lead to additional modifications in the seat count.

Consequently, candidates are encouraged to consult the latest seat matrix published by the NMC alongside the specific seat information provided by their respective counselling authorities at the time of choice filling. By relying on the most current documentation, students can ensure their preferences are aligned with the latest approved capacity for the 2026-27 academic session.