The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has opened registration for NEET UG 2026 counselling, which facilitates admissions to MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH Nursing courses across India. This counselling process is divided into two main streams: the All India Quota (AIQ) managed by MCC and state-level counselling conducted by individual states and union territories. The distinction between these two is crucial for candidates seeking admission to government and private medical colleges.
How NEET UG Counselling Works: AIQ and State Quotas Explained
The MCC oversees counselling for 15% of seats under the All India Quota. These seats include government medical and dental colleges, 100% of MBBS and BDS seats at AIIMS and JIPMER, as well as seats in central universities such as Delhi University, Banaras Hindu University, and Aligarh Muslim University. Additionally, seats in ESIC medical colleges and deemed universities fall under this AIQ counselling.
In contrast, the remaining 85% of seats are allocated through state counselling. Each state or union territory manages its own counselling schedule, registration process, eligibility criteria, reservation policies, and merit lists. State counselling covers government medical and dental colleges within the state, state universities, private medical and dental colleges, including self-financed and NRI quota seats.
Key Facts About NEET UG Counselling 2026
- AIQ counselling is conducted by MCC under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
- State counselling is organized by respective state governments or designated authorities.
- NEET-qualified candidates can apply for both AIQ and state counselling if they meet eligibility requirements.
- State counselling requires candidates to fulfill domicile and other eligibility conditions set by the state.
- Reservation policies differ: AIQ follows central government and participating university rules, while state counselling follows state-specific reservation policies.
- Registration for AIQ counselling is open until August 7, 2026, through the MCC official portal.
- Separate counselling is conducted by the All India Ayush Central Counselling Committee (AACCC) for AIQ seats in BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and BHMS courses.
- Candidates seeking admission to BSc (Hons) Nursing, BSc, and Allied Health programs under the 15% Veterinary Council of India quota and Military Nursing Service BSc Nursing will have seats allotted based on their NEET UG rank.
Why Understanding These Counselling Processes Matters for Aspirants
Knowing the difference between AIQ and state counselling is essential for NEET UG candidates to maximize their chances of admission. The AIQ offers a centralized platform for competing for seats across the country, including prestigious institutions like AIIMS and JIPMER. However, the limited 15% seat share means competition is intense.
State counselling provides access to the majority of seats but requires candidates to meet specific state criteria, including domicile requirements. This means students must carefully review each state's eligibility rules and reservation policies before applying. Additionally, the timing and registration windows for AIQ and state counselling differ, so candidates must stay informed to avoid missing deadlines.
For courses like AYUSH and Nursing, separate counselling committees and quotas add another layer of complexity. Aspirants should be aware of these nuances to navigate the admission process effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can NEET-qualified candidates apply for both AIQ and state counselling?
A: Yes, candidates who qualify NEET and meet the eligibility criteria can apply for both AIQ and state counselling processes, but they must register separately within the respective deadlines.
Q: What percentage of seats are available through AIQ counselling?
A: AIQ counselling covers 15% of seats in government medical and dental colleges, 100% of seats in AIIMS and JIPMER, and seats in central universities and deemed institutions.
Q: Who conducts counselling for AYUSH courses like BAMS and BHMS?
A: The All India Ayush Central Counselling Committee (AACCC) conducts separate AIQ counselling for AYUSH courses, while state counselling authorities manage state quota seats for these programs.
