Common Queries About Maharashtra Vacant Seats Counselling

Still confused about how the leftover MBBS seats in Maharashtra get filled after all the main NEET UG rounds? You’re not the only one. Many students have questions about the stray vacancy round, like who’s allowed to apply, how it works, and what steps to follow. This section clears up those doubts and helps you make the right move at this last and most important stage of the admission process.

What Is Vacant Seats Counselling?

Vacant Seats Counselling is the last phase of the MBBS admission process in Maharashtra to fill seats that remain unallocated after all rounds of regular counselling, so that no Government or Private Medical College should waste.

It may include the following rounds: 

• Mop-Up Rounds: These are conducted centrally by the State CET Cell for filling remaining seats after Round 2.
• Institutional Level Rounds: Remaining vacancies are filled through institutional rounds.
• Spot Admissions (If Announced): Some spot admission seats are allotted at the last moment by the institute, usually without any prior lists for allotments.

In this phase, the seats are allotted to the eligible NEET qualified candidates on a strict merit-cum-availability and category eligibility basis.

Read More: How to Apply for MBBS Admission in Maharashtra?

Who Can Participate in Vacant Seats Counselling?

Vacant Seats Counselling is open to a specific set of candidates. Participation depends on the type of round and the guidelines issued by the State CET Cell of Maharashtra. Typically, the following types of candidates are eligible for the Vacant seat counselling round:

• Registered candidates who did not get any seat in the previous counselling rounds.
• Students who were allotted a seat but later cancelled or surrendered their seats.
• Fresh candidates (not registered in earlier rounds), only if permitted by the official notification.
• Candidates who have:
• Qualified NEET-UG 2025
• Valid domicile of Maharashtra (for government/quota seats)
• Fulfilled other eligibility and document requirements

Always read the latest circulars from the CET Cell for updated rules on eligibility, especially for institutional or spot rounds.

What Are Institutional Level Rounds?

Institutional Level Rounds are the final counselling phases conducted directly by individual medical colleges to fill MBBS seats that remain vacant after the centralised mop-up round.

Here’s what candidates need to know:

• Apply separately to each participating college, as there is no central portal for this round.
• Carry all original documents along with multiple photocopies for verification.
• Be physically present at the college as per the schedule, and late arrivals may not be entertained.
• No prior allotment list of admissions is usually based on real-time merit among present candidates.

What are the required Documents for Vacant Seats Counselling?

To participate in the Vacant Seats or institutional-level counselling rounds for MBBS admission in Maharashtra, candidates must carry the following original documents along with at least 2–3 sets of self-attested photocopies:

 Required Documents:

•  NEET UG 2025 Admit Card
•  NEET UG 2025 Scorecard
•  Maharashtra Domicile Certificate
•  10th & 12th Standard Mark Sheets
•  10th & 12th Passing Certificates
•  Nationality Certificate (or School Leaving Certificate mentioning nationality)

 If Applicable:

• Caste/Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/Other applicable categories)
• Caste Validity Certificate (for reserved category candidates)
• Migration Certificate (for students from boards other than the Maharashtra State Board)
• Gap Certificate (if there’s a gap in education after 12th)

Read More: Top 15 MBBS Colleges in Maharashtra (Government & Private)

What is the fee Structure and Refund Policy?

Depending on the college (government or private) and category (General, SC/ST/OBC, EWS, etc.), the total fees change. For Institutional Level Rounds, many institutes ask the fee to be paid through a demand draft or in cash at the time of final confirmation of admission. Government colleges operate under a fixed fee structure laid down by the state; however, private colleges may charge a higher fee.

Refund Policy: Each college has a refund policy upon seat cancellation or withdrawal. Always read the refund policy thoroughly before confirming your admission, especially in the case of private institutions. Normally, if a candidate applies for cancellation before a stipulated deadline, a partial/full refund will be processed. If they miss the cancellation deadline, fees may not be refundable.

Important Tips for Vacant Seats Counselling

• Try to keep 3-4 copies of all your documents, be it physical or digital, to allow for hassle-free verification. 
• Look out for the latest updates and notifications every day on the college’s websites and official portals.
• Prepare yourself for sudden trips, spot admissions may involve an unplanned college visit at any time.

Who to Contact for Help?

• State CET Cell Helpdesk: For official counselling queries and technical support.
• Admission Offices of Respective Colleges: For institution-specific questions and admissions.
• Verified NEET Counselling websites like Select Your University for support, tips, and updates. 

When will the Maharashtra MBBS vacant seats counselling 2025 start?

1. Announcement Timing: Those exact dates for Maharashtra MBBS vacant seats counselling 2025 will be announced after the completion of the Mop-Up Round counselling by MCC and Maharashtra State authorities.
2. Expected Period: Usually, it is between September 2025 and some time after all previous rounds have been finalised.
3. Authority Involved: The counselling for vacant seats is conducted by the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Maharashtra, in coordination with the MCC’s Mop-Up round schedule.
4. Notification Release: The notification for vacant seat counselling will include the start date, registration process, fee details, and other important guidelines.
5. Preparation Tip: Keep all your important documents ready and stay updated with official announcements to ensure you don’t miss the counselling registration window.

Can I participate in vacant seats counselling for both government and private medical colleges?

Generally, the vacant seats counselling includes both government and private medical colleges. During this Round, seats under the state quota in both types of colleges are available. Candidates may opt for their choice of both government and private colleges while registering. 

Is there any provision in Maharashtra MBBS admissions for spot round counselling? 

Yes, spot round counselling is sometimes held after the vacant seat counselling. If seats are still left unfilled after the main rounds, a spot round may be organized to fill them. However, this round only happens if there are vacant seats available at that stage.

What if I want to withdraw from the allotted seat during vacant seats counselling?

• Candidates must follow the official withdrawal procedure specified by the Maharashtra CET Cell.
• It is important to adhere to deadlines to avoid penalties or forfeiture of fees.
• To withdraw your admission, you usually need to submit a formal application or withdrawal form within the given deadline.

Where can I get official updates for the Maharashtra MBBS vacant seats counselling 2025?

• Official updates and notifications are published on the Maharashtra State CET Cell website:
  https://cetcell.mahacet.org
• Updates may also be available through authorised counselling portals and official social media channels.
• Candidates should regularly check these sources to stay informed about counselling dates and procedures.

Conclusion

Getting familiar with the Maharashtra MBBS Vacant Seats Counselling 2025 process can greatly impact your medical admission success. By understanding the eligibility criteria, important dates, and required documents for the Stray Vacancy Round, you reduce the risk of errors and missed deadlines. Stay updated through official CET Cell notifications, respond quickly, and ensure timely action to make the most of this final opportunity to secure your MBBS seat in Maharashtra.