The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has opened a stray vacancy round for NEET-UG candidates seeking admission to MBBS and BDS programmes. This round is designed for eligible candidates who have not yet registered with KEA or who hold a dental seat and wish to upgrade to a medical seat. The process runs across October 2026 with specific windows for registration and seat selection, and participation requires payment of a caution deposit that determines which seat categories you can access.
If you are an unregistered NEET-UG candidate or a dental seat holder seeking a medical seat in Karnataka, you must register between October 13–16 and pay a caution deposit (₹1L, ₹12L, or ₹25L) to participate in the stray vacancy round.
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Unlock My College ListWhat is the KEA UGNEET-26 Stray Vacancy Round?
A stray vacancy round is a final opportunity for candidates to secure admission to remaining unfilled MBBS and BDS seats after the main counselling rounds conclude. In Karnataka's UGNEET-26 process, this round is open to candidates who have not been allotted a seat in any previous KEA round, as well as to dental seat holders who wish to move into a medical programme.
The stray vacancy round is typically smaller in scale than main rounds, but it can still offer genuine opportunities, especially for candidates who narrowly missed out earlier or who are now reconsidering their choice between dental and medical studies. KEA has set clear timelines and deposit requirements to ensure orderly participation and genuine commitment from applicants.
KEA UGNEET-26 Stray Vacancy Round Timeline
The entire stray vacancy process is compressed into a short window in mid-October 2026. Candidates must follow the schedule strictly, as KEA does not typically grant extensions for registration or option entry deadlines.
- New Registration: October 13–16, 2026 — Eligible candidates who have not yet registered with KEA must complete their registration during this window.
- Option Entry: October 16–19, 2026 — After registering and paying the caution deposit, candidates lock their seat preferences during this period.
- Seat allotment and further rounds (if any) will follow KEA's subsequent announcements.
Who is Eligible for the Stray Vacancy Round?
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Eligibility for the stray vacancy round is narrowly defined. You are eligible if you have qualified NEET-UG and have not been allotted any seat in the main KEA UGNEET-26 rounds. Additionally, if you currently hold a dental seat from a previous KEA round, you are eligible to participate in the stray round with the aim of upgrading to a medical seat.
Candidates who have already been allotted a medical seat in any prior KEA round are not eligible to participate. This rule prevents candidates from gaming the system by trying to secure a 'better' medical seat. If you are unsure whether you have been allotted a seat, check the official KEA portal or your allotment letter before attempting to register.
Understanding the Caution Deposit Structure
A caution deposit is a refundable amount you must pay to participate in the stray vacancy round. The deposit amount you choose determines which seat categories you are eligible to apply for. KEA has structured three deposit tiers to allow candidates to match their financial capacity and seat preferences.
The deposit is refundable — you will receive it back after the admission process concludes, whether or not you are allotted a seat. However, you must pay it upfront to proceed with option entry. The deposit amount is not part of your tuition fees; it is purely a participation requirement.
- ₹1,00,000 deposit: Access to Government MBBS seats and all BDS seat categories (Government, Private, Management, NRI).
- ₹12,00,117 deposit: Access to Government and Private MBBS seats, plus all BDS categories.
- ₹25,00,000 deposit: Access to all seat categories — Government, Private, Management, and NRI seats in both MBBS and BDS.
| Caution Deposit Amount | MBBS Seats Available | BDS Seats Available |
|---|---|---|
| ₹1,00,000 | Government only | All categories |
| ₹12,00,117 | Government + Private | All categories |
| ₹25,00,000 | Government + Private + Management + NRI | All categories |
How to Register and Pay the Caution Deposit
The registration process is online through the KEA portal. If you are eligible and have not yet registered, log in to the KEA UGNEET-26 portal during October 13–16 and complete your new registration. You will need your NEET-UG roll number, date of birth, and other basic details.
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After successful registration, you will receive a Verification Slip. Download and save this slip — you will need it to proceed. Next, pay the caution deposit amount of your choice (₹1L, ₹12L, or ₹25L) through the online payment gateway. Payment methods typically include debit card, credit card, and net banking. Once payment is confirmed, you are eligible to enter the option entry window.
Option Entry: Locking Your Seat Preferences
Option entry is the phase during which you rank your preferred seats. Between October 16–19, you log back into the KEA portal and select your preferred colleges and courses in order of preference. The system will allow you to rank seats based on the caution deposit tier you have paid.
It is crucial to complete option entry within the deadline. If you register but do not enter your options by October 19, you will not be considered for allotment. Spend time researching colleges, course structures, and location before entering your options — this is your chance to influence which seat you may receive.
What Happens After Option Entry?
After the option entry window closes, KEA will process all applications and run an allotment algorithm. Seats will be allocated based on your preferences, merit rank, and the availability of seats. KEA will announce the allotment result on its official portal.
If you are allotted a seat, you will be required to report to the college for document verification and admission formalities. Your caution deposit will be refunded after you complete the admission process or if you do not accept the allotted seat. If you are not allotted a seat in the stray vacancy round, your deposit will also be refunded.
Key Considerations for NEET Aspirants
The stray vacancy round is a genuine but limited opportunity. The number of vacant seats is typically small, so competition can still be intense. Do not assume that participating in the stray round guarantees a seat — it is a chance, not a guarantee.
If you are a dental seat holder considering an upgrade to medical, weigh the decision carefully. Medical programmes are longer and more demanding than dental programmes. Ensure that your choice aligns with your career goals and financial situation. If you are an unregistered candidate, this is your last chance to secure a seat in Karnataka through NEET-UG for this year — missing the October 13–16 registration window means you will not be able to participate.
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See My CollegesFrequently asked questions
Who can register for the KEA UGNEET-26 stray vacancy round?
You can register if you have qualified NEET-UG and have not been allotted any seat in the main KEA UGNEET-26 rounds. Additionally, if you currently hold a dental seat from a previous KEA round and wish to upgrade to a medical seat, you are also eligible. Candidates already allotted a medical seat are not eligible.
What are the registration dates for the stray vacancy round?
New registration is open from October 13 to October 16, 2026. If you miss this window, you cannot register for the stray vacancy round. Option entry (seat preference selection) runs from October 16 to October 19, 2026.
What is the caution deposit and why do I need to pay it?
The caution deposit is a refundable amount you must pay to participate in the stray vacancy round. It ensures genuine participation and helps KEA manage seat allocation. The deposit amount you choose determines which seat categories you can apply for. You will receive your deposit back after the admission process concludes, regardless of whether you are allotted a seat.
What are the three caution deposit options and what seats can I access with each?
₹1,00,000 gives access to Government MBBS seats and all BDS categories. ₹12,00,117 gives access to Government and Private MBBS seats and all BDS categories. ₹25,00,000 gives access to all seat categories — Government, Private, Management, and NRI seats in both MBBS and BDS.
Can I change my caution deposit amount after paying?
KEA's guidelines do not explicitly address this. It is best to contact KEA directly or check the official portal for clarification. In most cases, once you have paid a deposit, you are locked into that tier for the stray vacancy round.
What happens if I register but do not enter my seat preferences by October 19?
If you do not complete option entry by October 19, you will not be considered for seat allotment in the stray vacancy round. Your caution deposit will be refunded, but you will miss this opportunity to secure a seat.
Is the stray vacancy round my last chance to get a seat in Karnataka for NEET-UG 2026?
The stray vacancy round is typically the final round for seat allocation in a given year. If you do not secure a seat in this round, you may not have another opportunity through KEA for NEET-UG 2026. However, check KEA's official announcements for any additional rounds or processes.
Will my caution deposit be refunded if I am not allotted a seat?
Yes, your caution deposit is refundable. Whether you are allotted a seat or not, the deposit will be returned to you after the admission process concludes. The refund process and timeline will be communicated by KEA.
If you are an unregistered NEET-UG candidate or a dental seat holder in Karnataka, mark October 13–16 on your calendar for registration and ensure you pay your chosen caution deposit to remain eligible. Complete your option entry by October 19 to have a chance at the remaining vacant MBBS and BDS seats. Monitor the official KEA portal for allotment results and further instructions.
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