Introduction

Assam’s Department of Medical Education (DME) has officially opened the registration window for the Stray‑Round Counseling (SRC) of the NEET UG exam. This step is a crucial turn in the admission process for aspiring medical and dental students who did not secure a seat in the main counseling round. The online portal, accessible at dme.assam.gov.in, now allows candidates to sign up and potentially claim vacancies in government and private institutions across the state.

For students who were left out in the earlier rounds, SRC offers a second chance to enter prestigious medical colleges. However, the window is tight and the competition remains high, making early action essential.

What Happened?

On October 15, 2026, the Assam DME announced that the Stray‑Round Counseling registration had commenced. This counseling session is specifically designed for NEET UG candidates who either did not qualify for the main counseling or who wish to secure a seat in state institutions. Candidates can register through the state’s dedicated portal and, upon successful registration, will be allocated seats based on their rank and preferences.

Key Details

• Registration Portal: dme.assam.gov.in
• Counseling Type: Stray‑Round Counseling (SRC) for NEET UG
• Eligibility: All NEET UG candidates who have not secured a seat in the main counseling round and meet state norms.
• Seat Allocation: Based on merit, preferences, and availability of seats in MBBS (government and private) and BDS programs.
• Important Dates:
  • Registration Open: 15 October 2026
  • Last Date to Register: 29 October 2026
  • Counseling Sessions: 2–4 November 2026
  • Final Seat Allotment: 15 November 2026
• Documents Required: NEET scorecard, original 10th and 12th certificates, photograph, and any other documents specified on the portal.
• Fees: Standard counseling fees as per state guidelines, with possible fee waivers for economically weaker sections.

The SRC follows the same merit‑based allocation logic as the main counseling, but it operates independently to fill remaining vacancies. Assam’s DME has emphasized that the process will be transparent, with a live tracking feature for seat allotments.

Why This Matters for NEET UG Aspirants

For NEET UG candidates in Assam, the SRC represents a lifeline. The main counseling round often leaves a significant number of seats unfilled, especially in private medical colleges with high demand. The SRC helps bridge this gap, ensuring that deserving students have another avenue to secure an MBBS or BDS seat without having to re‑attempt the NEET exam.

Additionally, the SRC is particularly relevant for students from rural or underprivileged backgrounds who might face logistical challenges in accessing the main counseling venues. By offering an online registration system, Assam DME aims to reduce barriers and promote inclusive access to medical education.

Expert Analysis

Dr. A. Kumar, a former medical admissions consultant, notes that the introduction of SRCs is a strategic move to optimize seat utilization in state institutions. “SRCs help clear remaining vacancies efficiently,” he says. “However, aspirants must be aware that competition in SRC is fierce, as many candidates from across the country often vie for the same limited seats.”

From a policy perspective, SRCs align with the Government of India’s goal of maximizing NEET UG seat utilization across all states. The state’s proactive approach also underscores Assam’s commitment to expanding medical education infrastructure, especially in underserved areas.

What Students Should Do Next

1. Register Early: Log into dme.assam.gov.in on or after 15 October. Gather all required documents beforehand to avoid last‑minute delays.
2. Prepare Documentation: Ensure your NEET scorecard, educational certificates, and photo are ready in the specified formats (PDF, JPEG).
3. Check Eligibility: Verify that you meet the state’s domicile or quota requirements, if applicable.
4. Submit Payment Promptly: Pay the counseling fee through the portal’s secure gateway.
5. Stay Updated: Monitor the portal daily for seat allotments and any changes in schedules.
6. Plan for Interviews (if required): Some institutions may conduct additional interviews or tests; keep an eye on notifications.

Students should also consult the official Assam DME notifications and consider seeking guidance from school counselors or reputable coaching centers to navigate the SRC process effectively.

Final Thoughts

The opening of the Stray‑Round Counseling in Assam marks a significant opportunity for NEET UG aspirants who are still on the hunt for a medical seat. By acting swiftly, staying organized, and keeping abreast of the portal updates, students can maximize their chances of securing an MBBS or BDS position in the state’s respected institutions.

Original Source

For complete details, read the original report:

Shiksha.com (via Google News): https://www.shiksha.com/medicine-health-sciences/articles/assam-neet-stray-round-counselling-registration-begins-dme-assam-gov-in-check-schedule-for-mbbs-and-bds-admission-blogId-244665