Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 CAP Round 1 Choice Filling Open from 26-29 August 2026: Check How to Fill Choices & More

The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has initiated the choice filling process for the first round of Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 counselling on August 26, 2026. The last date to submit choices is August 29, 2026. Eligible candidates can submit their preferences for colleges and programmes at medical2026.mahacet.org. Final allotment for Round 1 counselling process for MBBS and BDS 2026-27 is scheduled for 30th August 2026.

This crucial phase follows the release of the final merit list, which includes 35,463 candidates vying for a total of 12,526 seats across government and private medical colleges in Maharashtra. The counselling process, managed by the CET Cell, aims to fill approximately 9,000 MBBS seats and 3,526 BDS seats, marking a significant step in medical and dental admissions for the state.

Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 CAP Round 1: Key Dates

Candidates must adhere to the specified timeline for choice filling and subsequent admission procedures. The complete schedule is as follows:

How to Fill Choices for Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 CAP Round 1

Eligible candidates who have been included in the final merit list must complete their choice filling online through the designated portal. Here is a step by step guide:

1. Go to the official counselling website, medical2026.mahacet.org.
2. Log in using your registered credentials (CET Cell online form number, NEET roll number, etc.).
3. Navigate to the ‘Choice Filling’ section for CAP Round 1.
4. Select your preferred MBBS and BDS colleges and programmes from the available options.
5. Arrange your choices in order of preference.
6. Review all selected choices carefully and confirm your submission before the deadline.

Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 Final Merit List Details

The Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 final merit list, released on August 25, 2026, serves as the definitive roster for candidates eligible for counselling. This complete list includes critical information for each of the 35,463 candidates, such as their NEET All India rank, NEET gender, NEET roll number, CET Cell online form number, candidate name, Non-Resident Indian (NRI) status, specified reservation category, candidature type, and any relevant remarks.

The provisional merit list was initially released on August 15, 2026, followed by a revised provisional list on August 24, 2026, after a grievance submission window.

Maharashtra NEET UG 2026 Counselling: What Next?

Following the conclusion of the choice filling period and the release of the CAP Round 1 allotment list, candidates must act promptly to secure their allotted seats. Those who are satisfied with their allocation must complete the physical reporting and joining process at the respective colleges within the stipulated dates. Failure to report within the deadline may lead to the forfeiture of the allotted seat.

Written by Nishit Kumar

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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