The Government of Kerala has officially approved a revised seat matrix for Dr. Somervel Memorial CSI Medical College, Karakonam, Thiruvananthapuram for the 2026-27 academic year. The college now offers 200 MBBS seats — an increase of 50 seats from the previous allocation. This is a significant expansion that opens more opportunities for NEET UG 2026 candidates applying through Kerala's KEAM counselling system. The revised matrix breaks down the 200 seats across community, NRI, AIQ (All India Quota), and government-reserved categories. If you are a NEET UG 2026 candidate eligible for Kerala counselling, this college is now a larger option in your choice list.
Dr. Somervel Medical College, Karakonam now has 200 MBBS seats (50 newly added) for 2026-27, with 100 community seats, 30 AIQ seats, 24 open seats, 6 NRI seats, and 40 government-reserved seats.
What is this notice about?
This is an official Government Order (G.O. No. 265/2026/H&FWD) issued by Kerala's Health & Family Welfare Department on 9 September 2026. It approves a revised (increased) seat matrix for MBBS admissions at Dr. Somervel Memorial CSI Medical College, located in Karakonam, Thiruvananthapuram.
The college previously had a smaller intake. This order increases the total MBBS seats from the earlier number to 200 seats for the 2026-27 academic year. This is not a new college — it is an existing government-aided medical college in Kerala — but the number of seats available has been expanded.
This order is binding on the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala, which conducts KEAM counselling. The revised seat matrix will be used for all NEET UG 2026 counselling rounds for this college. If you are applying to Kerala medical colleges through KEAM, you must know this college's new seat breakdown to make informed choices.
The complete revised seat matrix for Dr. Somervel Medical College
The Government Order specifies exactly how the 200 MBBS seats are divided across different categories. Each category has a specific purpose and eligibility criteria. Understanding this breakdown is essential because your eligibility for a seat depends on which category you fall into.
The seat distribution is final and approved by the state government. These numbers will be used in all counselling rounds — first round, second round, and any subsequent rounds — for this college in 2026-27.
| Category | Number of Seats | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Community seats | 100 | For candidates belonging to Kerala's recognized communities (SC, ST, OBC, Muslim, Ezhava, etc.). Up to 50% of total seats can be community seats. |
| NRI (Non-Resident Indian) | 6 | For Indian citizens living abroad or their children. Limited to 15% of total seats. NRI seats are typically filled on a first-come, first-served basis and may have different fee structures. |
| AIQ (All India Quota) — Open | 24 | For any Indian citizen (regardless of domicile) competing on an all-India basis. These 24 seats are unreserved (open category). Filled through NEET UG merit across India. |
| AIQ (All India Quota) — Community | 30 | For candidates from reserved communities (SC, ST, OBC) competing on an all-India basis. These are part of the 15% AIQ allocation. |
| Government seats (reserved per state norms) | 40 | Seats reserved for candidates meeting Kerala's government reservation policy. This includes SC, ST, OBC, and other state-specific reservations. |
Who is eligible to apply for these seats?
To be eligible for any seat at Dr. Somervel Medical College through KEAM counselling, you must first have qualified NEET UG 2026 and obtained a valid NEET score. The college does not conduct its own entrance exam — admission is entirely merit-based on NEET UG rank.
Beyond NEET qualification, eligibility depends on which category of seat you are applying for. Community seats are for candidates with valid community certificates issued by Kerala authorities. AIQ seats are open to all-India candidates. NRI seats require proof of NRI status. Government-reserved seats follow Kerala's state-level reservation policy.
You must also meet the age and educational qualification criteria set by the National Medical Commission (NMC) for MBBS admission — typically, you must have passed 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and meet the age requirement (usually 17 years at the time of admission).
- Valid NEET UG 2026 score
- Passed 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Meet age eligibility (as per NMC guidelines)
- For community seats: valid community certificate from Kerala
- For AIQ seats: Indian citizenship
- For NRI seats: proof of NRI status
- For government-reserved seats: meet Kerala's reservation criteria
What are community seats and who can apply?
Community seats (100 out of 200) are reserved for candidates belonging to Kerala's recognized communities. These include Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Muslim, Ezhava, and other state-recognized communities. To claim a community seat, you must have a valid community certificate issued by the competent authority in Kerala.
The community certificate must be issued by the District Collector or the Tahsildar of your district in Kerala. It must clearly state your community and sub-group (if applicable). A certificate issued by any other authority or from another state will not be accepted for Kerala counselling.
If you have a valid community certificate, you will be ranked within the community merit list for these 100 seats. Your NEET score determines your rank within your community. The top-ranked candidates in each community will be allotted seats in order of merit.
- Must belong to a Kerala-recognized community (SC, ST, OBC, Muslim, Ezhava, etc.)
- Must have a valid community certificate from Kerala District Collector or Tahsildar
- Certificate must clearly state community and sub-group
- Ranked by NEET score within community merit list
- 100 seats available across all communities
What are AIQ seats and how do they work?
AIQ stands for All India Quota. These are 54 seats (24 open + 30 reserved for SC/ST/OBC) that are filled on an all-India basis, not restricted to Kerala domicile. This means a candidate from any state in India can compete for these seats based on their all-India NEET rank, regardless of where they studied or where their parents live.
The 24 open AIQ seats are unreserved — any candidate (from any state, any community) can apply based on their all-India NEET rank. The 30 reserved AIQ seats are for candidates from SC, ST, and OBC communities competing on an all-India basis. These are filled through the national-level counselling process conducted by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) or the state's designated authority.
AIQ seats are typically filled in a separate counselling round or through a separate merit list based on all-India NEET ranking. If you are a non-Kerala candidate or a Kerala candidate competing on an all-India basis, you may be eligible for these seats. Check the KEAM or MCC counselling schedule to understand when and how AIQ seats are filled.
- 54 total AIQ seats: 24 open + 30 reserved (SC/ST/OBC)
- Open to candidates from any state in India
- Filled based on all-India NEET rank, not state rank
- Not restricted by domicile or state of residence
- Filled through national or state-level AIQ counselling process
What are NRI seats and who qualifies?
NRI seats (6 seats) are reserved for Non-Resident Indians — Indian citizens who are living abroad or their children. The exact definition of NRI and the documents required to prove NRI status are typically specified in the KEAM counselling prospectus or the college's admission guidelines.
NRI seats are usually filled on a first-come, first-served basis rather than by merit rank. This means the first eligible NRI candidates to register and pay the fee during the NRI counselling window will be allotted these seats. NRI seats often have a different fee structure — typically higher fees than domestic seats, sometimes in foreign currency or at international rates.
If you believe you qualify as an NRI, you must check the KEAM counselling portal or contact the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala for the exact definition, required documents (passport, visa, proof of residence abroad), and the NRI counselling schedule.
- 6 seats reserved for Non-Resident Indians
- Typically filled on first-come, first-served basis
- May have higher fees than domestic seats
- Requires proof of NRI status (passport, visa, residence proof)
- Check KEAM portal for exact NRI definition and documents
What are government-reserved seats?
Government-reserved seats (40 seats) are filled according to Kerala's state-level reservation policy. These seats are reserved for candidates meeting the state's criteria for SC, ST, OBC, and other backward classes as defined by Kerala law. The exact breakdown of these 40 seats across different reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, etc.) is determined by Kerala's reservation norms.
These seats are separate from the community seats mentioned earlier. Government-reserved seats follow the state's official reservation policy and are filled through the state-level KEAM counselling process. Your eligibility for these seats depends on your community certificate and your NEET rank within the reserved category.
The 40 government-reserved seats are filled in order of NEET merit within each reserved category. If you have a valid community certificate and qualify for a reserved category, you will be ranked within that category's merit list, and seats will be allotted to top-ranked candidates.
- 40 seats reserved per Kerala's state reservation policy
- Includes SC, ST, OBC, and other state-recognized reserved categories
- Filled through state-level KEAM counselling
- Requires valid community certificate
- Filled by NEET merit within each reserved category
Open seats and unreserved category
The seat matrix shows 24 open seats under the AIQ (All India Quota) category. These are unreserved seats available to any candidate (any community, any state) based on all-India NEET merit. However, the notice does not explicitly mention additional 'open' seats outside the AIQ allocation.
In Kerala's KEAM system, the term 'open' typically refers to unreserved seats available to general category candidates or any candidate not claiming a community or reserved category seat. The 24 open AIQ seats serve this purpose on an all-India basis.
If you are a general category candidate (no community certificate or not claiming a reserved category), you will compete for the open seats available in the college. Your NEET rank determines your position in the merit list for open seats.
- 24 open seats available under AIQ (All India Quota)
- Unreserved — available to any candidate
- Filled by all-India NEET merit rank
- For general category or candidates not claiming reserved category
How does this revised seat matrix affect KEAM counselling?
This revised seat matrix is now the official allocation for Dr. Somervel Medical College in all KEAM counselling rounds for 2026-27. When you log into the KEAM counselling portal and view the college's available seats, you will see these 200 seats broken down by category. The counselling system will use this matrix to allot seats to candidates based on their rank, category, and choices.
The increase from the previous number to 200 seats means more opportunities for candidates. If you were previously ranked just outside the cutoff for this college, the additional 50 seats may bring your rank within the allotment range. However, the exact cutoff will depend on the number and merit of candidates applying in each category.
This order is binding on the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations and the Admission Supervisory Committee. No further changes to this seat matrix are expected unless another Government Order is issued. You can rely on these numbers when making your college choices during counselling.
- 200 seats now official for all KEAM counselling rounds 2026-27
- Visible in KEAM portal under Dr. Somervel Medical College
- 50 additional seats increase chances for candidates
- Cutoff will be determined by merit and number of applicants
- No further changes expected unless new Government Order issued
Important dates and next steps
This Government Order was issued on 9 September 2026. It is effective immediately and will be used in all KEAM counselling rounds starting from the first round. There is no separate application deadline for this college — you apply through the KEAM counselling portal during the counselling registration window.
The exact dates for KEAM counselling registration, choice filling, and seat allotment are announced separately by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala. You must check the KEAM official website (cee.kerala.gov.in) or the KEAM counselling portal for the current counselling schedule.
Once counselling begins, you will register, fill your choices (including Dr. Somervel Medical College if interested), and wait for the merit list and allotment results. The college code for Dr. Somervel Medical College is SMC — use this when searching for the college in the KEAM portal.
- Government Order issued: 9 September 2026
- Effective immediately for all KEAM counselling rounds
- No separate application — apply through KEAM portal
- Check cee.kerala.gov.in for KEAM counselling dates
- College code: SMC
- Register, fill choices, and await allotment through KEAM
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not assume you are eligible for community seats without a valid community certificate. A certificate from another state, an old certificate, or a certificate that does not clearly state your community will be rejected. Obtain your community certificate from the Kerala District Collector or Tahsildar well before counselling begins.
Do not confuse AIQ seats with state-quota seats. AIQ seats are for all-India candidates and are filled based on all-India NEET rank, not state rank. If you are a Kerala candidate competing on a state-quota basis, you will not be eligible for the 54 AIQ seats — you will compete for the 100 community seats or 40 government-reserved seats (if eligible) or the open seats within the state quota.
Do not miss the KEAM counselling registration window. Even though this college now has 200 seats, you must register and fill your choices during the official counselling period. Late registrations are typically not accepted. Mark the KEAM counselling dates on your calendar and register on time.
Do not ignore the college code (SMC) when searching for this college in the KEAM portal. Using the wrong code or searching by name alone may lead to confusion. Always verify the college code before filling your choice.
- ⚠️ Community certificate must be from Kerala District Collector/Tahsildar and clearly state community
- ⚠️ AIQ seats are all-India merit-based, not state-quota
- ⚠️ Register for KEAM counselling on time — late registrations not accepted
- ⚠️ Use correct college code (SMC) in KEAM portal
- ⚠️ NRI seats may have different fees and eligibility — check KEAM prospectus
- ⚠️ Government-reserved seats require valid community certificate
2 minute · Free preview
Which MBBS colleges can your NEET rank actually get?
See the real colleges your rank can reach — every state and All India Quota — with official closing ranks and the exact fee for each seat.
See My CollegesFrequently asked questions
How many MBBS seats does Dr. Somervel Medical College now have?
Dr. Somervel Medical College, Karakonam now has 200 MBBS seats for the 2026-27 academic year. This is an increase of 50 seats from the previous allocation. The 200 seats are divided into: 100 community seats, 30 AIQ reserved seats (SC/ST/OBC), 24 AIQ open seats, 6 NRI seats, and 40 government-reserved seats.
When was this revised seat matrix approved?
The revised seat matrix was approved by the Government of Kerala on 9 September 2026 through Government Order No. 265/2026/H&FWD issued by the Health & Family Welfare Department. It is effective immediately and will be used in all KEAM counselling rounds for 2026-27.
What is the college code for Dr. Somervel Medical College in KEAM?
The college code for Dr. Somervel Memorial CSI Medical College, Karakonam is SMC. Use this code when searching for the college in the KEAM counselling portal.
Can I apply for community seats if I don't have a Kerala community certificate?
No. Community seats are reserved for candidates with a valid community certificate issued by the Kerala District Collector or Tahsildar. A certificate from another state or issued by any other authority will not be accepted. If you do not have a Kerala community certificate, you can only apply for open seats or AIQ seats (if eligible).
What is the difference between AIQ seats and community seats?
Community seats (100) are for Kerala-domiciled candidates with valid community certificates, filled by state-level merit. AIQ seats (54 total: 24 open + 30 reserved) are for all-India candidates, filled by all-India NEET merit rank, and are not restricted by domicile. If you are a non-Kerala candidate, you can only apply for AIQ seats, not community seats.
Are NRI seats filled by merit or first-come, first-served?
NRI seats (6 seats) are typically filled on a first-come, first-served basis, not by merit rank. The first eligible NRI candidates to register and pay the fee during the NRI counselling window will be allotted these seats. NRI seats may have higher fees than domestic seats. Check the KEAM counselling prospectus for exact NRI eligibility and fee details.
How do I apply for these seats?
You must apply through the KEAM counselling portal (cee.kerala.gov.in). First, you must have a valid NEET UG 2026 score. Then, register for KEAM counselling during the official registration window, fill your choices (including Dr. Somervel Medical College if interested using code SMC), and wait for the merit list and seat allotment. There is no separate application for this college.
Will the cutoff for this college change because of the 50 additional seats?
The cutoff may change because of the additional 50 seats, but it depends on the number and merit of candidates applying. Generally, more seats can lower the cutoff, meaning candidates with slightly lower ranks may get allotted. However, the exact cutoff will only be known after the merit list is released by KEAM.
Is this college a government college or private college?
Dr. Somervel Memorial CSI Medical College, Karakonam is a government-aided medical college in Kerala. It is not a fully government college, but it is recognized and regulated by the state. Admission is through KEAM counselling based on NEET UG merit.
What documents do I need to prove NRI status for NRI seats?
The exact documents required to prove NRI status are specified in the KEAM counselling prospectus or the college's admission guidelines. Typically, you may need a passport, visa, proof of residence abroad, or other documents confirming your NRI status. Check the KEAM official website or contact the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala for the complete list of required documents.
Can I change my choice of college after filling it in KEAM?
The KEAM counselling portal typically allows candidates to modify their choices during the choice-filling window. Once the choice-filling window closes, you cannot change your choices. Check the KEAM counselling schedule for the exact dates when you can edit your choices.
What if I don't get allotted a seat in the first round?
If you are not allotted a seat in the first round, you can participate in subsequent counselling rounds (second round, third round, etc.) if they are conducted. In later rounds, seats vacated by candidates who did not report or who withdrew become available. You can fill fresh choices in each round. Check the KEAM counselling schedule for the dates of subsequent rounds.
Dr. Somervel Medical College, Karakonam now offers 200 MBBS seats for 2026-27 — a significant increase that expands your options. To apply, you must have a valid NEET UG 2026 score and register through the KEAM counselling portal (cee.kerala.gov.in) during the official counselling window. Use the college code SMC when filling your choices. Ensure you have the correct community certificate (if claiming community seats) and check the KEAM counselling schedule for registration and allotment dates. Do not miss the registration deadline — late applications are not accepted.
Plan your admission with free AI tools
Turn your NEET score into a rank, then into the exact colleges you can get.