The State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, has released the provisional seat matrix for Cap Round 3 of NEET-PG 2026 counselling (dated 09.02.2026). This matrix shows the exact number of seats available across 60+ government and private medical colleges in Maharashtra for MD, MS, and DNB broad-speciality courses. The matrix is broken down by category (General, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, VJ, NT, Orphan, Minority, Institution Quota, and NRI), and includes both regular and PWD (Person with Disability) seats. Candidates who have qualified for Cap Round 3 must use this matrix to understand seat availability before filling their online preference form. Seats are subject to change based on court orders, government directives, and increased intake notifications.
This provisional seat matrix for Cap Round 3 shows all available MD, MS, and DNB seats across Maharashtra colleges by category and specialty—use it to plan your preferences before the online form closes.
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Unlock My College ListWhat is the Cap Round 3 Seat Matrix?
The Cap Round 3 seat matrix is an official list of all postgraduate medical seats available in Maharashtra for the 2025–26 academic year. 'Cap' stands for Competent Authority Quota—seats that the state fills through its own counselling process, as opposed to seats filled by individual colleges or other authorities.
This matrix is 'provisional,' meaning the numbers may change. Seats can increase if colleges receive permission to add more intake, or decrease if court orders or government decisions require it. The notice explicitly states that candidates who want to apply for seats that may become available in later rounds should include those specialties in their preference form now, in case they materialise.
The matrix covers 60+ colleges across Maharashtra, including government medical colleges (GMCs), private medical colleges, and deemed universities. It lists every specialty offered at each college—from Anaesthesia and Surgery to Radiology, Psychiatry, and niche fields like Emergency Medicine, Geriatrics, and Palliative Medicine.
How to Read the Seat Matrix: Categories and Quotas Explained
The matrix uses abbreviations for different reservation categories. Understanding these is critical because your eligibility depends on your caste, tribe, or other status. Here is the complete key:
**General Quota (G):** Open to all candidates, regardless of caste or background. **SC:** Scheduled Caste. **ST:** Scheduled Tribe. **OBC:** Other Backward Class (non-creamy layer). **EWS:** Economically Weaker Section (general category, but with income ceiling). **VJ:** VJ(A) — a specific OBC sub-group in Maharashtra. **N1, N2, N3:** NT(B), NT(C), NT(D) — different NT (Nomadic Tribe) categories. **SE:** SEBC (Socially and Educationally Backward Class). **ORP:** Orphan (A/B). **ORC:** Orphan-C. **Min:** Minority (religious minority institution quota). **IQ:** Institution Quota (seats reserved for the college's own institution). **NRI:** Non-Resident Indian.
Each college row shows two sub-rows: **G** (General/unreserved seats) and **P** (PWD/Person with Disability seats). PWD seats are reserved for candidates with a disability of 40% or more, as per the Persons with Disabilities Act. A PWD seat in a category (e.g., SC-PWD) is filled only by a PWD candidate from that category.
The matrix also shows **In-Service Quota** seats—these are reserved for doctors already employed in government health services. If you are not in-service, you cannot apply for these seats.
- G = General/unreserved seats
- P = PWD (Person with Disability) seats
- SC, ST, OBC, EWS, VJ, N1–N3, SE = Reserved categories
- ORP, ORC = Orphan categories
- Min = Minority institution quota
- IQ = Institution Quota
- NRI = Non-Resident Indian seats
- In-Service Quota = For government-employed doctors only
Which Colleges Are Included?
The matrix covers 60+ colleges across Maharashtra, including all major government medical colleges (GMCs) in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, and other cities, as well as private medical colleges and deemed universities. Major colleges include Grant Government Medical College Mumbai, L.T. Medical College Mumbai, B.J. Government Medical College Pune, Government Medical College Nagpur, and many others.
The matrix also includes newer colleges and those with specialised offerings. For example, some colleges offer niche specialties like Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Diabetology, which may not be available at all institutions. Check the matrix carefully to see which colleges offer your preferred specialty.
- Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Aurangabad, Amravati, Kolhapur, Solapur, Dhule, Jalgaon, and other cities
- Private medical colleges and deemed universities across Maharashtra
- Colleges offering both broad-speciality (MD/MS/DNB) and niche specialties
How Many Seats Are Available in Total?
The grand total at the end of the matrix shows **1,237 seats** available across all colleges in Cap Round 3. This includes all categories, both regular and PWD seats, and both General and In-Service quotas. The breakdown is approximately: 341 General quota seats, 53 SE/SEBC seats, 48 EWS seats, 255 OBC seats, 87 SC seats, 51 ST seats, and smaller numbers in other categories.
However, not all 1,237 seats may be filled in this round. Seats remain vacant if no eligible candidate accepts them, or if candidates withdraw. Vacant seats may be carried forward to the next round or cancelled depending on state policy.
- Total seats in Cap Round 3: 1,237
- Includes all categories, colleges, and specialties
- Seats are provisional and subject to change
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Important Dates and Deadlines
The seat matrix was released on **09.02.2026** (9 February 2026). This is the date printed on the official document. However, the notice does not specify the exact dates for the online preference form submission, choice locking, or allotment in this matrix document alone.
Candidates must check the official CET Cell website (statecetcell.mahacet.org) or the admission portal for the exact schedule for Cap Round 3. Typically, after a seat matrix is released, the preference form opens within a few days, and candidates have 2–3 days to fill and lock their choices. Allotment usually follows within a week.
**Do not miss the preference form deadline.** If you do not submit your preferences by the deadline, you will not be considered for allotment in that round, even if you are eligible.
- Seat matrix released: 09.02.2026
- Check CET Cell website for preference form dates
- Preference form submission is mandatory to be considered for allotment
- Missing the deadline means no allotment in that round
How to Use the Seat Matrix to Fill Your Preferences
The seat matrix is your roadmap for filling the online preference form. Here is the step-by-step process:
**Step 1: Identify your category.** Find your caste/tribe/status in the matrix legend. For example, if you are SC, look for the SC column. If you are PWD-SC, look for the SC-PWD row.
**Step 2: Search for your preferred specialty.** Scan the matrix for the specialty you want (e.g., Surgery, Radiology, Paediatrics). Note which colleges offer it and how many seats are available in your category.
**Step 3: Check seat availability.** For each college-specialty combination, see if there is at least 1 seat in your category. A blank cell or '0' means no seat is available for you in that combination.
**Step 4: Rank colleges and specialties.** In the online preference form, you will rank your choices in order of preference. The system will allot you the highest-ranked choice for which you are eligible and for which a seat is available. Rank colleges and specialties strategically: put your most desired choice first, but also include backup options.
**Step 5: Lock your preferences.** Once you have filled all your choices, lock the form before the deadline. You cannot change your preferences after locking.
- Identify your category (SC, ST, OBC, EWS, VJ, NT, PWD, etc.)
- Search for your preferred specialty in the matrix
- Check which colleges offer it and how many seats are available in your category
- Rank your choices in order of preference in the online form
- Include backup options in case your first choice is not available
- Lock your preferences before the deadline
Key Traps and Common Mistakes to Avoid
**Trap 1: Confusing General Quota with General Category.** The 'General Quota' column in the matrix includes seats for all candidates (SC, ST, OBC, EWS, etc.) who are eligible for unreserved seats. However, if you belong to a reserved category (SC, ST, OBC), you should apply for seats in your category column, not the General Quota column. Applying for General Quota when you are eligible for a reserved seat may result in a lower rank and no allotment.
**Trap 2: Ignoring PWD Seats.** If you are a PWD candidate, you have two options: apply for PWD seats (which are easier to get) or apply for general seats (which are more competitive). Many PWD candidates miss PWD seats because they do not check the 'P' row in the matrix. Always check both options.
**Trap 3: Not Including Backup Choices.** The matrix shows that many specialties have very few seats (1–3 seats per college). If you only rank your first choice and it is not available, you will not be allotted anything. Always include 5–10 backup choices, even if they are not your first preference.
**Trap 4: Misreading the In-Service Quota.** In-Service Quota seats are only for doctors employed in government health services. If you are not in-service, do not rank these seats—you will not be eligible, and your preference will be wasted.
**Trap 5: Missing the Preference Form Deadline.** The matrix is released, but the preference form has a separate deadline. If you do not submit your preferences by that deadline, you will not be allotted any seat, even if you are eligible. Mark the deadline on your calendar and submit well before it closes.
**Trap 6: Assuming Seats Will Increase.** The notice says seats 'may' become available in later rounds due to increased intake. Do not assume this will happen. Plan your preferences based on the seats shown in this matrix, not on hopes of future increases.
- Do not confuse General Quota with General Category—apply for your reserved category if eligible
- Check PWD seats if you are a PWD candidate
- Include multiple backup choices; do not rank only your first preference
- Do not rank In-Service Quota seats unless you are in-service
- Submit your preferences before the deadline—missing it means no allotment
- Do not assume seats will increase; plan based on current matrix
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What Happens After You Submit Your Preferences?
After the preference form closes, the CET Cell runs an allotment algorithm. The algorithm ranks all candidates by their NEET-PG score (highest first) and allots each candidate the highest-ranked choice for which they are eligible and for which a seat is available. This is called 'merit-based allotment.'
Once allotment is declared, you will receive a seat allotment letter showing which college and specialty you have been allotted. You must then report to that college on the specified date with all required documents (MBBS degree, NEET-PG admit card, allotment letter, etc.) to confirm your seat. If you do not report by the deadline, your seat will be cancelled and offered to the next eligible candidate.
If you are not satisfied with your allotment, you can participate in the next round (Mop-Up Round or further rounds) by filling a new preference form. However, you will lose your current seat if you do so.
- Allotment is merit-based: highest NEET-PG score gets first choice
- You will receive an allotment letter showing your college and specialty
- You must report to the college by the deadline with required documents
- Failure to report results in seat cancellation
- You can participate in the next round if unsatisfied, but you lose your current seat
Seats by Specialty: Which Are Most Competitive?
The matrix shows that some specialties have far fewer seats than others. **Most competitive (fewest seats):** Anaesthesia, Surgery, Radiology, Paediatrics, and Psychiatry typically have 1–3 seats per college. **Moderately competitive:** Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, and Pathology have 2–4 seats per college. **Less competitive (more seats):** Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, and Pharmacology have more seats because they are pre-clinical or para-clinical subjects.
If you are aiming for a highly competitive specialty like Surgery or Radiology, you will need a very high NEET-PG score. If your score is moderate, consider including less competitive specialties in your preference list to increase your chances of allotment.
- Most competitive: Anaesthesia, Surgery, Radiology, Paediatrics, Psychiatry (1–3 seats per college)
- Moderately competitive: Medicine, OBG, Ortho, Pathology (2–4 seats per college)
- Less competitive: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Pharmacology (more seats available)
Seats by College: Which Colleges Have the Most Seats?
The matrix shows that larger, older government medical colleges have more seats. For example, Grant Government Medical College Mumbai has 49 seats, G.S. Medical College Mumbai has 46 seats, and L.T. Medical College Mumbai has 39 seats. Newer private colleges and smaller government colleges have fewer seats (10–30 seats).
If you are aiming for a government college, focus on the major GMCs in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, which have the most seats and the widest range of specialties. If you are open to private colleges, check the matrix for colleges in your preferred city or region.
- Largest colleges: Grant GMC Mumbai (49 seats), G.S. Medical College Mumbai (46 seats), L.T. Medical College Mumbai (39 seats)
- Government colleges generally have more seats than private colleges
- Newer private colleges have fewer seats but may offer niche specialties
Reserved Category Seats: How Many Are Available?
The matrix shows the total number of seats available for each reserved category across all colleges. **SC seats:** 87 total. **ST seats:** 51 total. **OBC seats:** 131 total. **EWS seats:** 48 total. **VJ seats:** 19 total. **NT seats (N1, N2, N3 combined):** 14 total. **SEBC seats:** 53 total.
If you belong to a reserved category, your competition is only with other candidates in that category. For example, if you are SC, you are competing with approximately 87 SC seats across all colleges. This is much less competitive than the General Quota, which has 341 seats but is open to all candidates.
However, reserved seats are often filled by candidates with lower NEET-PG scores than General Quota seats. This is because the merit list is separate for each category. If you are SC and your score is 500, you may get a better seat than a General candidate with a score of 550, because you are ranked within the SC merit list, not the overall merit list.
- SC seats: 87 total across all colleges
- ST seats: 51 total
- OBC seats: 131 total
- EWS seats: 48 total
- VJ seats: 19 total
- NT seats: 14 total
- SEBC seats: 53 total
- Reserved category candidates compete only within their category, not with all candidates
What If Seats Change Before the Preference Form Opens?
The notice states that the seat matrix is 'provisional' and subject to change. Seats can increase if colleges receive permission to add more intake, or decrease if court orders or government decisions require it. If seats change after this matrix is released but before the preference form opens, the CET Cell will release an updated matrix.
Always check the official CET Cell website (statecetcell.mahacet.org) for any updates or revised matrices before filling your preferences. Do not rely solely on this matrix if more than a few days have passed since it was released.
- Seat matrix is provisional and subject to change
- Check CET Cell website for any updated matrices before filling preferences
- Seats may increase due to new intake permissions or decrease due to court orders
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See My CollegesFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between the General Quota and the General Category?
The 'General Quota' column in the matrix shows unreserved seats that are open to all candidates. The 'General Category' refers to candidates who do not belong to any reserved category (SC, ST, OBC, etc.). If you are SC, ST, or OBC, you should apply for seats in your category column, not the General Quota column, because you are eligible for reserved seats. Applying for General Quota when you are eligible for a reserved seat may result in a lower rank and no allotment.
I am a PWD candidate. Should I apply for PWD seats or general seats?
You have both options. PWD seats are reserved for PWD candidates and are typically easier to get because there is less competition. General seats are open to all candidates and are more competitive. Most PWD candidates apply for PWD seats first (as their top choices) and include general seats as backup options. Check the 'P' row in the matrix for PWD seats available in your category.
How many seats are available in total in Cap Round 3?
The grand total is 1,237 seats across all colleges, categories, and specialties. This includes all General, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, VJ, NT, SEBC, Orphan, Minority, Institution Quota, and NRI seats, both regular and PWD. However, not all seats may be filled if no eligible candidates accept them.
What does 'In-Service Quota' mean, and am I eligible for it?
In-Service Quota seats are reserved for doctors already employed in government health services (e.g., ASHA workers, ANMs, or government hospital doctors). If you are not employed in a government health service, you are not eligible for In-Service Quota seats. Do not rank these seats in your preference form, as you will not be allotted them.
I did not find my preferred specialty at my preferred college in the matrix. What should I do?
Not all colleges offer all specialties. Check the matrix to see which colleges offer your preferred specialty. If no college offers it, or if all available seats are in categories you are not eligible for, you will need to either choose a different specialty or a different college. Include backup options in your preference form to increase your chances of allotment.
When do I need to fill my preferences, and what happens if I miss the deadline?
The seat matrix was released on 09.02.2026, but the preference form has a separate deadline. Check the CET Cell website for the exact dates. If you do not submit your preferences by the deadline, you will not be considered for allotment in Cap Round 3, even if you are eligible. You can only participate in the next round (Mop-Up or further rounds).
How is allotment decided? Will I get my first choice?
Allotment is merit-based: candidates are ranked by their NEET-PG score (highest first), and each candidate is allotted the highest-ranked choice for which they are eligible and for which a seat is available. You will get your first choice only if you have a high enough score and if a seat is available in your category. That is why it is important to include multiple backup choices.
What does 'provisional' mean? Can the seat matrix change?
Yes, the seat matrix is provisional and subject to change. Seats can increase if colleges receive permission to add more intake, or decrease if court orders or government decisions require it. Always check the CET Cell website for any updated matrices before filling your preferences. Do not assume the numbers in this matrix will remain the same.
I am SC. How many SC seats are available in total?
There are 87 SC seats available across all colleges and specialties in Cap Round 3. You will compete only with other SC candidates for these seats, not with all candidates. This means your competition is much less than for General Quota seats, and you may get a better seat with a lower NEET-PG score compared to a General candidate.
What should I do after I receive my allotment letter?
After allotment is declared, you will receive an allotment letter showing your college and specialty. You must report to that college on the specified date with all required documents (MBBS degree, NEET-PG admit card, allotment letter, etc.) to confirm your seat. If you do not report by the deadline, your seat will be cancelled and offered to the next eligible candidate. If you are unsatisfied with your allotment, you can participate in the next round, but you will lose your current seat.
Which specialties are most competitive, and which are less competitive?
Most competitive specialties (fewest seats): Anaesthesia, Surgery, Radiology, Paediatrics, and Psychiatry (1–3 seats per college). Moderately competitive: Medicine, OBG, Orthopaedics, and Pathology (2–4 seats per college). Less competitive (more seats): Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, and Pharmacology. If your NEET-PG score is moderate, include less competitive specialties in your preference list to increase your chances of allotment.
Can I change my preferences after I lock them?
No, you cannot change your preferences after you lock the form. Once locked, your preferences are final and will be used for allotment. Make sure you are satisfied with your choices before locking. If you want to change your preferences, you can only do so in the next round (Mop-Up or further rounds), but you will lose your current seat if you do.
The Cap Round 3 seat matrix is your essential guide for filling the online preference form. Study it carefully, identify your category and preferred specialties, and rank your choices strategically. Remember: the matrix is provisional, so check the CET Cell website for any updates before submitting your preferences. Do not miss the preference form deadline—it is your only chance to be considered for allotment in this round. If you have questions, contact the CET Cell directly or visit statecetcell.mahacet.org.
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