The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has released the official results for NEET PG 2026, the entrance examination for postgraduate medical courses (MD, MS, DNB) across India. The exam was held on August 30, 2026, with a re-examination conducted on September 5 for candidates affected by a power failure at one test centre in Jaipur. Over 2.65 lakh doctors competed for limited PG seats. Understanding the topper scores, qualifying cutoffs by category, and how your rank translates to admission chances is essential as you prepare for counselling.
The qualifying cutoff for General/EWS candidates is 262 marks (50th percentile); SC/ST/OBC candidates need 226 marks (40th percentile); your rank and score determine which college and speciality you can secure during PG counselling.
NEET PG 2026 Topper Scores and Top 20 Ranks
The candidate ranked All India Rank (AIR) 1 secured 641 marks out of a maximum of 720, setting the benchmark for the highest performance in NEET PG 2026. The top 20 candidates scored between 614 and 641 marks, a relatively narrow band that reflects the competitive nature of the examination. The second-ranked candidate scored 633 marks, an 8-mark gap from the topper, while the 20th-ranked candidate scored 614 marks.
For NEET PG aspirants, these topper scores provide a realistic ceiling for what is achievable. While scoring above 640 is exceptional and typically secures a seat at a premier government medical college in a competitive speciality, the majority of successful candidates score between 400 and 550 marks. The topper list is published with application sequence numbers and roll numbers to ensure transparency and allow candidates to verify results through the official NBEMS portal.
- AIR 1: 641 marks (roll number 26661005596)
- AIR 2: 633 marks
- AIR 3: 626 marks
- AIR 4–7: 625 marks each (four candidates tied)
- AIR 8: 621 marks
- AIR 9–11: 620 marks each (three candidates tied)
- AIR 20: 614 marks
| Rank | Score (out of 720) | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 641 | 1 |
| 2 | 633 | 1 |
| 3 | 626 | 1 |
| 4–7 | 625 | 4 |
| 8 | 621 | 1 |
| 9–11 | 620 | 3 |
| 12 | 619 | 1 |
| 13 | 618 | 1 |
| 14 | 617 | 1 |
| 15–18 | 616 | 4 |
| 19 | 615 | 1 |
| 20 | 614 | 1 |
Qualifying Cutoffs for MD, MS, DNB and PG Diploma Admission
NBEMS has announced category-wise qualifying cutoffs that determine eligibility for admission to Doctor of Medicine (MD), Master of Surgery (MS), Diplomate of National Board (DNB) Direct 6-Year programmes, and Postgraduate Medical Diploma courses. These cutoffs are expressed as percentiles and corresponding raw marks, and they apply uniformly across all government and participating private medical colleges in India.
For General and Economically Weaker Section (EWS) candidates, the qualifying cutoff is set at the 50th percentile, equivalent to 262 marks out of 720. This means that to be eligible for PG admission, a General/EWS candidate must score at least 262 marks. Candidates with disabilities (PwBD) in the General category have a relaxed cutoff of 45th percentile (244 marks). For SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates within reserved categories, the cutoff is 40th percentile, or 226 marks.
Scoring above the qualifying cutoff does not guarantee a seat; it only makes you eligible to participate in PG counselling. Your actual admission depends on your rank, the number of available seats in your chosen speciality, and the college's merit list. Candidates who score below the qualifying cutoff for their category are not eligible for admission and cannot participate in counselling.
- General/EWS: 262 marks (50th percentile) — minimum to qualify
- General PwBD: 244 marks (45th percentile) — relaxed cutoff
- SC/ST/OBC (including PwBD): 226 marks (40th percentile) — most relaxed cutoff
- Cutoffs apply to MD, MS, DNB Direct 6-Year, and PG Diploma courses
- Qualifying cutoff ≠ admission guarantee; rank and seat availability determine final admission
| Category | Percentile | Qualifying Marks (out of 720) |
|---|---|---|
| General/EWS | 50th | 262 |
| General PwBD | 45th | 244 |
| SC/ST/OBC (including PwBD) | 40th | 226 |
Exam Participation: August 30 Main Exam and September 5 Re-Examination
A total of 2,63,544 candidates appeared for the main NEET PG 2026 examination held on August 30, 2026. However, candidates taking the test at the iON Digital Zone (iDZ) centre in Sitapura, Jaipur, experienced an internal power failure that prevented them from completing the examination. To ensure fairness, NBEMS conducted a re-examination for the affected candidates on September 5, 2026, at the same Jaipur centre. A total of 2,416 candidates appeared in the re-examination.
This incident highlights the importance of NBEMS's contingency planning and commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process. Candidates who appeared in the re-examination were evaluated on the same question paper and scoring criteria as the main exam, ensuring that their ranks are directly comparable. The combined result includes candidates from both the August 30 and September 5 sittings, with ranks assigned based on actual marks and applicable tie-breaking criteria.
- Main exam (August 30, 2026): 2,63,544 candidates
- Re-examination (September 5, 2026): 2,416 candidates (Jaipur centre only)
- Total candidates evaluated: 2,65,960
- Power failure at Jaipur centre prompted re-exam
- Both exams used identical question papers and scoring
What Your NEET PG Score Means for Counselling and College Selection
Your NEET PG rank and score directly influence which medical colleges and specialities are available to you during PG counselling. Counselling is conducted state-wise and all-India, with seats allocated based on merit rank. A higher rank (lower number) gives you priority in choosing from available seats. For example, a candidate ranked AIR 100 will have access to more premium colleges and specialities than a candidate ranked AIR 5,000, even if both have qualified.
Candidates in the 600+ score range (roughly AIR 1–500) typically secure seats at top government medical colleges in competitive specialities like Radiology, Ophthalmology, or Dermatology. Those scoring 400–500 marks (roughly AIR 1,000–10,000) can expect seats at mid-tier government colleges or premier private institutions in moderately competitive branches. Candidates scoring 262–350 marks (just above the General cutoff) may secure seats at peripheral government colleges or private colleges in less competitive specialities like Pathology or Microbiology.
During counselling, you will be asked to rank your preferred colleges and specialities in order of choice. The counselling algorithm then matches your rank with available seats, starting from your highest preference. Understanding the historical cutoff trends for your desired speciality and college is crucial for making informed choices during counselling.
- Higher rank = access to premier colleges and competitive specialities
- Score 600+: Top government colleges, competitive branches (Radiology, Ophthalmology, etc.)
- Score 400–500: Mid-tier government or premier private colleges
- Score 262–350: Peripheral government or private colleges, less competitive branches
- Counselling is merit-based; your rank determines your turn to choose
- Tie-breaking criteria (age, performance in MBBS, etc.) apply when scores are identical
When to Expect Scorecards and Final Answer Keys
NBEMS has committed to publishing the detailed scorecards and final answer keys for NEET PG 2026 on or before October 1, 2026, on the official NBEMS website. The scorecard will show your raw score, percentile, rank, and category-wise position. The final answer key will allow you to verify your answers against the official key and understand any discrepancies.
Once the scorecard is available, you should download and save it immediately. This document is essential for counselling registration, college admission, and future reference. If you believe there is an error in your score or rank, NBEMS typically provides a window to file objections or request a re-evaluation. Check the official website for any notification regarding objection procedures after the scorecard release.
- Scorecards and answer keys: on or before October 1, 2026
- Available on the official NBEMS website
- Scorecard includes raw score, percentile, rank, and category position
- Download and save your scorecard immediately upon release
- Check for objection/re-evaluation procedures if you suspect an error
How Tie-Breaking Works When Multiple Candidates Score the Same Marks
The NEET PG 2026 results show that several candidates scored identical marks—for instance, four candidates scored 625 marks (ranks 4–7), and three scored 620 marks (ranks 9–11). When candidates have the same raw score, NBEMS applies pre-defined tie-breaking criteria to assign distinct ranks. These criteria typically include age (older candidates ranked higher), performance in the MBBS final examination, and other factors specified in the NEET PG regulations.
Understanding tie-breaking is important because even a one-rank difference can affect your counselling priority, especially in competitive specialities where seats are limited. If you are tied with other candidates, your final rank will depend on how you fare against them on the tie-breaking criteria. This is why maintaining a strong MBBS academic record is valuable—it can serve as a tie-breaker in competitive exams like NEET PG.
- Tie-breaking applies when two or more candidates score identically
- Common tie-breakers: age (older candidates ranked higher), MBBS final exam performance
- Tie-breaking criteria are pre-defined and applied uniformly
- Even a one-rank difference can affect counselling priority
- Your MBBS academic record may influence your final rank
Next Steps: Counselling Registration and College Preference Filling
After the scorecard is released, the next critical phase is PG counselling. NBEMS will announce the counselling schedule, which typically includes registration, choice filling (ranking your preferred colleges and specialities), and seat allocation rounds. You must register for counselling using your NEET PG roll number and password within the specified deadline. Missing the registration window means you forfeit your chance at admission, regardless of your rank.
During choice filling, you will be presented with a list of available seats at various colleges and specialities. You must rank these options in order of your preference. The counselling algorithm will then allocate seats based on your rank and your preference order. It is crucial to research colleges, specialities, and historical cutoff trends before filling your choices. Many candidates benefit from consulting senior doctors, alumni, and online forums to understand the reputation, infrastructure, and career prospects of different colleges and branches.
After seat allocation, you will be required to report to your allotted college, submit original documents, and complete the admission process. Some seats may be available in subsequent rounds if candidates do not report or if seats remain vacant. Stay alert to counselling notifications and deadlines to avoid missing opportunities.
- Register for counselling within the announced deadline using your roll number
- Fill your college and speciality preferences in order of choice
- Research colleges and branches before preference filling
- Counselling algorithm allocates seats based on rank and preference order
- Report to your allotted college with original documents to complete admission
- Subsequent rounds may offer additional seats if vacancies arise
Understanding Your Percentile vs. Your Rank
NEET PG results report both your raw score and your percentile. Your percentile indicates what percentage of candidates scored equal to or below your score. For example, if you are in the 90th percentile, it means 90% of candidates scored at or below your marks. However, your All India Rank (AIR) is your actual position in the merit list—if you are AIR 500, exactly 499 candidates scored higher than you.
The qualifying cutoffs announced by NBEMS are expressed as percentiles (50th, 45th, 40th), not as ranks. This is because percentiles are category-independent and allow NBEMS to set a uniform standard across all candidates. Once you know your percentile, you can determine whether you have qualified. Your rank, on the other hand, is what matters for counselling—a lower rank (e.g., AIR 100) is better than a higher rank (e.g., AIR 5,000).
- Percentile = percentage of candidates scoring at or below your marks
- Rank (AIR) = your exact position in the merit list
- Qualifying cutoffs are set as percentiles (50th, 45th, 40th)
- Your percentile determines if you qualify; your rank determines your counselling priority
- Lower rank number = higher priority in counselling
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
What is the highest score in NEET PG 2026, and what does it mean for me?
The highest score in NEET PG 2026 is 641 out of 720, achieved by the AIR 1 candidate. This represents exceptional performance. For most aspirants, scoring above 600 is considered excellent and typically secures admission to a top government medical college in a competitive speciality. However, the majority of successful candidates score between 300 and 550 marks. Your own score should be evaluated against the qualifying cutoff for your category and historical cutoff trends for your desired college and speciality.
What is the minimum score I need to qualify for PG admission?
The minimum qualifying score depends on your category. For General/EWS candidates, the qualifying cutoff is 262 marks (50th percentile). For General candidates with disabilities (PwBD), it is 244 marks (45th percentile). For SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates within reserved categories, it is 226 marks (40th percentile). Scoring at or above your category's cutoff makes you eligible for counselling, but does not guarantee a seat.
How many candidates took NEET PG 2026, and what are my chances of getting a seat?
A total of 2,65,960 candidates appeared for NEET PG 2026 (2,63,544 on August 30 and 2,416 on September 5). The number of available PG seats across India is approximately 30,000–35,000 (including MD, MS, DNB, and PG Diploma courses). This means roughly 10–13% of candidates will secure a seat. Your chances depend on your rank, category, and the specialities and colleges you choose during counselling.
What does it mean if multiple candidates have the same score?
When multiple candidates score identically, NBEMS applies tie-breaking criteria to assign distinct ranks. These criteria typically include age (older candidates ranked higher) and MBBS final examination performance. For example, four candidates scored 625 marks in NEET PG 2026 and were assigned ranks 4–7 based on tie-breaking. Even a one-rank difference can affect your counselling priority, so understanding tie-breaking is important.
When will I get my scorecard, and what should I do with it?
NBEMS will release scorecards on or before October 1, 2026, on the official NBEMS website. Your scorecard will show your raw score, percentile, rank, and category position. You must download and save it immediately. The scorecard is required for counselling registration and college admission. If you believe there is an error in your score or rank, check the official website for objection procedures after the scorecard release.
How does my NEET PG rank affect my choice of college and speciality?
Your rank determines your priority in counselling. A higher rank (lower number) gives you access to more premium colleges and competitive specialities. For example, AIR 100 candidates can typically choose from top government colleges and specialities like Radiology or Ophthalmology, while AIR 10,000 candidates may be limited to mid-tier colleges or less competitive branches. During counselling, you rank your preferred colleges and specialities, and the algorithm allocates seats based on your rank and preference order.
What happens if I score above the qualifying cutoff but do not get a seat?
Qualifying above the cutoff makes you eligible for counselling, but does not guarantee a seat. Seat allocation depends on your rank, the number of available seats in your chosen specialities, and your preference order during counselling. If you do not secure a seat in the first round, you may get an opportunity in subsequent rounds if seats remain vacant or if candidates do not report. Additionally, you can explore private medical colleges or consider appearing for NEET PG again the following year.
Is there a re-examination or objection process if I believe my score is wrong?
NBEMS typically provides a window to file objections or request re-evaluation after the scorecard is released. Check the official NBEMS website for notifications regarding objection procedures. If you believe there is an error in your score, rank, or answer key, you can file a formal objection within the specified timeframe. NBEMS will review your objection and issue a revised scorecard if warranted.
What is the difference between the 50th, 45th, and 40th percentile cutoffs?
These percentiles represent different qualifying standards for different categories. The 50th percentile (262 marks) is the highest standard, applied to General/EWS candidates. The 45th percentile (244 marks) is a relaxed standard for General candidates with disabilities. The 40th percentile (226 marks) is the most relaxed standard, applied to SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates within reserved categories. These percentiles ensure that candidates from all categories have a fair opportunity to qualify based on their relative performance.
When does PG counselling begin, and what documents do I need?
NBEMS will announce the counselling schedule separately. Typically, counselling begins 2–4 weeks after result declaration. For counselling registration, you will need your NEET PG roll number, password, and scorecard. For college admission after seat allocation, you will need original documents including your MBBS degree, mark sheets, medical registration certificate, and identity proof. Start gathering these documents now to avoid delays during the admission process.
With NEET PG 2026 results now declared, your immediate priority is to download your scorecard when released (by October 1), verify your score and rank, and begin researching colleges and specialities aligned with your rank. Register for counselling promptly when the schedule is announced, and use the time before preference filling to make informed choices based on historical cutoff data and career aspirations. Stay alert to all NBEMS notifications to avoid missing critical deadlines.
Plan your admission with free AI tools
Turn your NEET score into a rank, then into the exact colleges you can get.