NEET Counselling 2026 Reservation Criteria
The NEET UG 2026 Reservation Policy is designed to ensure equitable access to medical education for candidates belonging to different social and economic categories. During the counselling process, eligible candidates can avail reservation benefits based on the category selected in their NEET application form and the supporting documents submitted during verification.
Reservations are applicable for admissions under the 15% All India Quota (AIQ) as per Government of India guidelines, while State Quota reservations are governed by the respective state government’s reservation policies. Candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria and ensure that all required certificates are valid and up to date before participating in the counselling process.
NEET UG 2026 Reservation Percentage
| Category | Reservation Percentage |
|---|---|
| General – Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 10% |
| Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) | 27% |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 15% |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 7.5% |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) | 5%* |
*PwBD reservation is provided horizontally across eligible categories in accordance with prevailing government regulations.
Eligibility for Reservation Benefits
To claim reservation during NEET UG Counselling 2026, candidates must satisfy the eligibility conditions prescribed by the counselling authority. Reservation benefits are generally available only after successful verification of the relevant documents.
Candidates should ensure that:
- The category selected during the NEET application matches the supporting documents.
- Category certificates are issued by the competent authority in the prescribed format.
- Certificates remain valid on the date of counselling and admission.
- State Quota candidates meet the domicile and reservation requirements specified by their respective state counselling authority.
- PwBD candidates possess a valid disability certificate issued by an authorized medical board, wherever applicable.
Failure to produce the required documents during verification may result in admission under the unreserved category or cancellation of the claimed reservation benefit, depending on the applicable counselling rules.
Reservation Under AIQ and State Quota
Reservation policies may differ depending on the counselling category.
15% All India Quota (AIQ)
For AIQ seats, reservation is implemented according to the policies and guidelines issued by the Government of India and administered through the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC).
85% State Quota
Each state counselling authority follows its own reservation policy, which may include additional reservations based on domicile, regional categories, or other state-specific provisions. Candidates are advised to consult the official notification issued by their respective state counselling authority for the latest eligibility criteria.
Important Points Regarding NEET Reservation
Before claiming reservation benefits, candidates should keep the following points in mind:
- Reservation is subject to verification of original documents during counselling and admission.
- Incorrect or incomplete category information may lead to rejection of reservation claims.
- Reservation policies may vary between AIQ and State Quota counselling.
- The applicable reservation percentage and eligibility criteria are determined by the concerned counselling authority and prevailing government regulations.
- Candidates should regularly check official notifications for any updates or changes before each counselling round.
Understanding the NEET UG 2026 reservation criteria in advance can help candidates complete the counselling process smoothly and ensure they receive all benefits for which they are eligible.
