NEET Counselling Rounds Explained 2026: Round 1, 2, Mop-Up & Stray
NEET counselling is conducted in multiple rounds to ensure all available seats are filled. This guide explains each NEET counselling round in 2026 and how to participate.
Overview of NEET Counselling Rounds
Round | Purpose | When | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
Round 1 | Initial seat allocation | Jul-Aug | Largest seat pool |
Round 2 | Upgradation + leftover seats | Aug-Sep | Can upgrade to better college |
Mop-Up | Fill remaining vacancies | Sep | One-time registration |
Stray Vacancy | Last minute seat filling | Sep-Oct | Spot round |
Round 1: Initial Seat Allotment
Key Details
- **Available seats:** Maximum seats (AIQ + state)
- **Registration:** All eligible candidates
- **Allotment:** Based on merit and preferences
- **Free exit:** Can resign without penalty
What to Do
- Register on MCC or state portal
- Fill all eligible college choices
- Lock choices before deadline
- Check allotment result
- If allotted: Download letter and report
Round 2: Upgradation Round
Key Details
- **Available seats:** Leftover + new seats
- **Registration:** Open to new and existing applicants
- **Upgradation:** Yes — can move to better college
- **Free exit:** Not applicable after reporting
Upgradation Rules
- If you accept Round 1 seat → can participate in Round 2
- If upgraded → previous seat released automatically
- If not upgraded → keep current seat
Mop-Up Round
Key Details
- **Available seats:** Leftover seats after Round 2
- **Registration:** One-time, fresh registration possible
- **Free exit:** No
- **Open to:** Anyone who hasn't secured a seat
Strategy
- List all available colleges
- Include lower-preference options
- Must report if allotted
Stray Vacancy Round
Key Details
- **Available seats:** Small number of leftover seats
- **Mode:** Usually spot round
- **Competition:** Low but unpredictable
- **Open to:** All eligible unallotted candidates
Tips
- Check MCC/state website daily
- Be ready to decide quickly
- Have documents ready for immediate reporting
Comparison of Rounds
Aspect | Round 1 | Round 2 | Mop-Up | Stray |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Seat availability | Maximum | Reduced | Limited | Minimal |
Free exit | Yes | Limited | No | No |
Fresh registration | Yes | Auto for some | Yes | Yes |
Upgradation | First choice | Yes | No | No |
Competition | Highest | High | Medium | Low |
How to Decide Which Round to Target
High NEET Rank (Top 10,000)
- Target Round 1 for best colleges
- Use Round 2 for upgradation if needed
- Mop-Up and Stray usually not needed
Mid NEET Rank (10,000-1,00,000)
- Participate in Round 1 for available options
- Actively use Round 2 for betterment
- Keep Mop-Up as backup
Lower NEET Rank (1,00,000+)
- Round 1 may not yield good options
- Round 2 and Mop-Up are your best chances
- Monitor Stray Vacancy for last-minute seats
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Expert Guidance?
Understanding NEET counselling rounds is essential for a successful admission strategy. Participate in as many rounds as possible, use upgradation wisely, and keep trying until the very end. For personalised round-by-round counselling guidance, .