The MCC NEET UG 2025 Round 2 counselling has begun, offering another crucial chance for students aiming to secure an MBBS seat. This round is especially important for candidates who missed out in Round 1 or are looking for an upgrade. A well-planned strategy during choice filling can significantly improve the chances of admission to top medical colleges across India.

AIQ vs State Quota Counselling

Before filling choices, aspirants should clearly understand the difference between All India Quota (AIQ) and State Quota:

• AIQ (MCC Counselling): Covers 15% of government seats nationwide along with 100% seats in AIIMS, JIPMER, central universities, and deemed universities.
• State Quota: Reserves 85% of government seats for state domicile candidates and includes 100% seats in state private colleges.
• Rounds: AIQ has four rounds (Round 1, Round 2, Round 3, and Stray Vacancy), while states usually conduct 2–3 rounds.
• Fees & Bonds: Government AIQ seats have lower fees, whereas deemed universities charge ₹20–35 lakh per year. Many states impose compulsory service bonds under the state quota.

Note: Participate in both AIQ and State counselling if eligible to maximize opportunities.

Round 2 Strategy Based on Rank

• Top Ranks (up to 30,000 AIR): Target upgrades in AIQ (AIIMS, JIPMER, BHU) while keeping state quota as backup.
• Mid Ranks (30,000-75,000 AIR): Balance between AIQ (for deemed or select govt. seats) and state quota options.
• Lower Ranks (75,000-1,20,000+ AIR): Focus on state quota seats; keep AIQ only as backup if you can afford deemed university fees.

Note: No free exit is allowed after Round 2. Candidates who leave allotted seats will lose their security deposit.

Eligibility for Round 2

Candidates are eligible under the following conditions:

• Registered in Round 1 but were not allotted a seat.
• Allotted a seat in Round 1 but did not join (Free Exit).
• Joined a Round 1 seat and opted for an upgrade.
• Resigned the Round 1 seat within the stipulated deadline.
• Applying as a new candidate in Round 2.

All candidates must submit fresh choices in Round 2. Round 1 preferences do not carry forward.

Step-by-Step Guide for Choice Filling

1. Visit mcc.nic.in and log in with your NEET UG roll number and password.
2. Go to Choice Filling & Locking for Round 2.
3. Select MBBS colleges and arrange them in order of preference.
4. Save choices regularly to avoid technical errors.
5. Lock and confirm choices before the deadline (OTP required).
6. Download the locked choices PDF for reference.

If a candidate does not lock the choices, the system will automatically lock the last saved list at the deadline.

Upgradation and Exit Rules

• Upgrade: If a higher-preference seat is allotted in Round 2, the Round 1 seat will be automatically cancelled.
• No Upgrade: If no new allotment is made, the Round 1 seat will be retained.
• Free Exit: Permitted only in Round 1.
• Exit with Forfeiture: In Round 2, failure to join the allotted seat will result in forfeiture of the security deposit and loss of eligibility for subsequent AIQ rounds.
• Resignation After Joining Round 2: Permitted, but the security deposit will be forfeited and additional restrictions may apply.
• Mop-Up Round: After Round 2, MCC counselling continues only for deemed and central universities. AIQ government seats are transferred back to the respective states.

Candidates satisfied with their Round 1 seat should list only higher-preference options in Round 2 to avoid losing a secured seat.

Round 2 is often a make-or-break stage for MBBS aspirants. With a balanced list of dream, realistic, and safe colleges, timely choice locking, and participation in both AIQ and state counselling, candidates can maximize their chances of admission.