The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has released the information bulletin and counselling scheme for National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Master of Dental Surgery (NEET MDS) counselling 2026. Candidates can now check the eligibility rules, counselling process, fee structure and seat allotment guidelines.The counselling will cover 50% All India Quota (AIQ) seats, 100% seats in participating Deemed Universities and seats in relevant Central Universities and Institutes.MCC will conduct four rounds of counselling: Round 1, Round 2, Round 3 and the AIQ stray vacancy round.
NEET MDS counselling 2026: Round-wise process
The information bulletin does not mention the calendar dates for the individual counselling rounds. The process for each round will include the following:
- Round 1: Candidates will have to register, pay the required fee, fill and lock their choices. Seat allotment will then be conducted, followed by publication of the result and physical reporting at the allotted college.
- Round 2: Eligible candidates can register afresh, fill their choices and participate in seat allotment. Candidates can also seek an upgrade from their earlier allotted seat, wherever applicable.
- Round 3: The round will include seat allotment, with physical reporting being mandatory for candidates who are allotted a seat.
- Stray vacancy round: Eligible candidates will be allowed to register afresh and fill their choices. Seats will then be allotted online.
NEET MDS counselling 2026 fee details
Candidates taking part in the counselling process will have to pay a non-refundable registration fee and a refundable security deposit.
| Category | Registration fee | Security deposit | Total payable |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIQ – UR/EWS | Rs 1,000 | Rs 25,000 | Rs 26,000 |
| AIQ – SC/ST/OBC/PwD | Rs 500 | Rs 10,000 | Rs 10,500 |
| Deemed Universities – all categories | Rs 5,000 | Rs 2,00,000 | Rs 2,05,000 |
The security deposit may be forfeited in certain situations. This can include failure to join a seat allotted in Round 2 or later rounds, or cancellation of admission due to specified reasons.
What are freeze and float options?
Candidates who are satisfied with their allotted seat and do not want an upgrade can choose the freeze option. Such candidates will have to physically report to the allotted institute to complete the joining process.Candidates who want to try for an upgraded seat in the next round can choose the float option. They can complete the required document verification online without physically visiting the allotted institute at that stage.Candidates should also upload clear scanned copies of all mandatory documents on the MCC counselling portal.MCC will publish the counselling schedule and other latest updates on its official website. Candidates are advised to check the official website regularly for further announcements.
