Karnataka NEET PG Stray Vacancy Round 2026 Released

Overview

Securing a post-graduate medical seat is a hectic and challenging process that involves exams, registrations, and various rounds of counselling. For candidates who cleared NEET PG 2026 but haven’t yet obtained their preferred specialisation in Karnataka, there’s good news: the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has announced the Stray Vacancy Round Schedule.

The Stray Vacancy Round is the final stage of NEET PG counselling. Its main purpose is to fill the remaining vacant seats in Government, Private, and DNB (Diplomate of National Board) quotas that were not taken during Round 1, Round 2, or Mop-up rounds.

In Karnataka, KEA oversees this process. This year, there are reportedly over 800 PG medical seats and 14 DNB seats still available across various colleges and hospitals. Being the last stage of the 2026 admission process, the Stray Vacancy Round is fast-paced and highly competitive, making it a critical opportunity for candidates to secure their desired seat.

In short, this round gives aspirants one last chance to grab a PG medical seat in Karnataka before the academic year begins.

Key Highlights

*Last Chance: This is the final official opportunity to secure admission for the 2026 session.

*New Registrations Allowed: Karnataka often provides a last window for candidates who qualified in NEET PG but haven’t registered with KEA yet.

*Mandatory Deposit: A substantial caution deposit is required to take part, ensuring only serious candidates apply.

*Document Verification in Person: Candidate must visit the KEA, Bangalore, physically for the verification of their documents.

Schedule/Timeline

The schedule to get admission is extremely tight. Missing a single deadline could mean losing your seat.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in this round, candidates must satisfy the following:

 * NEET PG 2026 Qualified: Must meet the revised qualifying percentile.

 * No Seat Holding: Candidates who have already been allotted and joined a seat in previous rounds (State or All India Quota) are generally ineligible.

 * KEA Registration: Candidates must be registered with KEA and have a valid Verification Slip.

Admission Process

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Registration & Verification

New users must register on the KEA portal. If you are already registered but haven't verified your documents, you must visit KEA, Bangalore, in person with your original documents.

Step 2: Caution Deposit

Candidates must pay a Caution Deposit (typically ₹7,00,000 for medical seats). This amount is adjusted against the tuition fee if a seat is allotted or refunded if no seat is given. Warning: If you are allotted a seat and fail to join, this deposit is usually forfeited.

Step 3: Option Entry (Choice Filling)

Log in to the portal and enter your preferences. Since this is the last round, it is advisable to enter as many options as you are genuinely willing to join.

Step 4: Allotment & Reporting

Once the result is declared, download your admission order after paying the remaining fee. Physically report to the college with your original documents and the KEA admission order before the 5:30 PM deadline on March 12th.

Important Instructions

 * Original Documents: Keep at least 3 sets of photocopies along with your originals (MBBS degree, Internship certificate, State Medical Council registration, etc.).

 * OTP Authentication: Ensure your registered mobile number is active, as OTPs are required for choice locking and reporting.

 * Face Verification: KEA has implemented face verification at the reporting stage to ensure transparency and prevent seat blocking.

Official Links

 * KEA Official Website: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/

 * PGET 2026 Portal: Direct Registration Link

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

The Karnataka NEET PG Stray Vacancy Round is usually conducted in a very short time frame and can feel stressful for many candidates. Decisions have to be made quickly, and there is very little room for delay or mistakes. However, this round also offers a valuable opportunity. With 817 seats available, many students still have a strong chance to secure a postgraduate medical seat and move one step closer to becoming a specialist in their chosen field.

Since the process moves quickly, it is important to stay fully prepared. Make sure all your required documents are arranged and ready in advance so that you do not face last-minute issues. You should also ensure that your finances are prepared, especially for paying the required caution deposit and other fees within the given time. Most importantly, carefully follow the schedule and instructions provided by KEA. Missing deadlines or failing to complete any step on time can result in losing your opportunity. Proper planning, alertness, and timely action can help you make the most of this important chance.