The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has published the schedule for the open round of counselling for the Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI CET) 2026. Candidates seeking admission to postgraduate medical courses can now register and submit their choices online until August 3, 2026.
This counselling round will determine seat allocation for MD, MS, DM, MCh, MDS, and MD in Hospital Administration programs based on candidates' INI CET 2026 results, their preferences, seat availability, and reservation policies.
Understanding INI CET and Its Role in Medical Admissions
INI CET is a national-level entrance examination conducted by AIIMS for admission to various postgraduate medical courses across several premier institutes designated as Institutes of National Importance. These courses include Doctor of Medicine (MD), Master of Surgery (MS), super-specialty courses like Doctorate of Medicine (DM), Master of Chirurgiae (MCh), Master of Dental Surgery (MDS), and MD in Hospital Administration.
The exam serves as a centralized gateway for candidates aspiring to pursue advanced medical education at AIIMS and other associated institutes. The counselling process allocates seats based on merit and preferences, ensuring a fair and transparent admission system.
Key Dates and Requirements for the July 2026 Open Round Counselling
- Registration and Choice Filling: July 27 to August 3, 2026, until 5 pm
- Seat Allocation Result Announcement: August 21, 2026
- Online Acceptance of Allotted Seat: August 22 to August 31, 2026, until 11 am
- Reporting at Allotted Institute: August 22 to August 31, 2026, until 11 am
Candidates must submit a security deposit of Rs 3 lakh through electronic fund transfer to a designated State Bank of India account. After payment, transaction details including the UTR or Transaction ID and proof of transfer must be uploaded on the counselling portal. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed only after the counselling concludes and verification is complete. AIIMS has emphasized that no early refund requests or alternative payment methods will be accepted.
Additionally, Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PWBD) candidates who receive a new seat or an upgraded seat must report for disability certificate verification on August 22, 2026, at 9:30 am at the AIIMS registrar office in New Delhi.
Documents Candidates Need for Admission
- Offer letter and seat allotment letter
- Registration slip
- INI CET 2026 admit card
- MBBS examination mark sheets
- MBBS or BDS degree certificate
- Internship completion certificate
- Permanent or provisional registration certificate from Medical Council of India (MCI), Dental Council of India (DCI), or respective State Medical/Dental Councils
- Class 10 certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificate (if applicable)
Why This Counselling Round Is Crucial for Medical Aspirants
The open round counselling offers candidates who missed earlier rounds or those seeking better options a final chance to secure a seat in prestigious medical courses at AIIMS and other Institutes of National Importance. With limited seats and high competition, timely registration and accurate choice filling are critical.
The requirement of a substantial security deposit underscores the seriousness of the admission process and helps prevent seat blocking without genuine intent. The strict deadlines and document verification processes ensure that only eligible candidates proceed, maintaining the integrity of admissions.
For candidates with disabilities, the verification step ensures appropriate accommodations and adherence to reservation policies, promoting inclusivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the last date to register for the INI CET 2026 open round counselling?
A: Candidates can register and fill their choices online until August 3, 2026, by 5 pm.
Q: When will the seat allocation results be announced?
A: The seat allocation results for the open round will be published on August 21, 2026.
Q: What is the security deposit amount and how should it be paid?
A: Candidates must pay a security deposit of Rs 3 lakh via electronic fund transfer to the designated SBI account and upload the transaction details on the counselling portal.
