NEET-SS Special Stray Vacancy Round 2026: Cut-off Lowered to 30 Percentile

NEET-SS Special Stray Vacancy Round 2026

The Government of India has informed the Supreme Court regarding a proposed reduction in the qualifying percentile for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Super Speciality (NEET-SS) to ensure the utilization of vacant medical seats.

Key Highlights

• Revised Cut-off: Qualifying percentile reduced from 50th to 30th percentile.
• Total Vacancies: 1,857 super-speciality medical seats.
• Impact: Approximately 6,000 additional candidates are expected to become eligible.
• Purpose: To fill seats remaining vacant after the second round of counselling via a Special Stray Vacancy Round.

Eligibility Criteria

• Candidates must have appeared for the NEET-SS exam.
• Must meet the revised 30th percentile threshold.
• Only candidates who have not yet joined a seat in previous NEET-SS rounds are eligible.
• Note for TN Candidates: Tamil Nadu in-service candidates should follow separate state-level updates for 40 specific seats.

How to Check Eligibility (Once Active)

1. Visit the official MCC counselling website.
2. Navigate to the notice for the "Special Stray Vacancy Round".
3. Log in using your NEET-SS roll number and registration credentials.
4. Verify your percentile against the new 30% cut-off.

Important Disclaimer

This update is based on a proposal submitted by the Centre to the Supreme Court. Candidates are strongly advised to wait for the formal MCC notification regarding final dates, fees, and application processes.