Karnataka NEET UG 2026: KEA allows candidates without seats to participate in stray vacancy round, check details

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has extended the deadlines for the Karnataka National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026 stray vacancy round for medical and dental seats.Candidates who do not currently hold a medical seat can also participate in the seat allotment process by paying the prescribed medical course fee, according to the updated information shared by KEA.The extension comes after several candidates requested an opportunity to participate in the stray vacancy round despite not holding a medical seat.Karnataka NEET UG 2026: Revised deadlinesCandidates seeking to participate in the stray vacancy round must complete the required steps within the revised timeline.According to the information provided by KEA, eligible candidates can pay the prescribed medical course fee by October 19, 2026, at 11 am.The deadline for filling in choices for seat allotment has also been extended to October 19, 2026, at 1 pm.Candidates should visit the official KEA website, cetonline.karnataka.gov.in, to check the latest instructions and updates regarding the counselling process.How to fill choices for Karnataka NEET UG 2026 stray vacancy roundCandidates participating in the stray vacancy round should enter their preferred medical or dental colleges and courses through the KEA counselling portal.They can follow these steps to submit their choices:Visit the official KEA website at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.Open the UGNEET-2026 stray vacancy round option-entry link.Log in using the required credentials.Check the available medical and dental seats.Select the preferred colleges and courses.Arrange the choices in order of preference, placing the most preferred option first.Review the choices and make any necessary changes before submitting them.Submit the choices and save or print the confirmation page for future reference.Candidates must enter fresh choices for the stray vacancy round. Preferences submitted during earlier counselling rounds will not be considered.Candidates are advised to complete the fee payment and choice-filling process before the revised deadlines and regularly check the official KEA website for further updates.Get the latest Education News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.