The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Postgraduate (NEET PG) 2024 Counselling has officially commenced, with the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) initiating the registration process for Round 1 on **September 20, 2024**. Candidates aspiring for postgraduate medical admissions can now access the official registration portal on the MCC's website [mcc.nic.in](http://mcc.nic.in). This marks the beginning of the much-awaited counselling process, which will provide a pathway for thousands of medical graduates to secure postgraduate seats in various medical institutions across India.
### Key Updates from MCC
As of the latest announcements, the MCC has released two crucial updates concerning the NEET PG 2024 counselling:
1. **PwD (Persons with Disabilities) Certificates**: MCC has provided guidelines regarding the submission and verification of PwD certificates. Candidates applying under the PwD category must ensure that they possess valid certificates issued by designated authorities. This is to ensure that students with disabilities receive due consideration during seat allocation.
2. **Conversion of Nationality Status (Indian to NRI)**: The MCC has also issued a notification regarding the process for candidates who wish to change their nationality status from Indian to NRI (Non-Resident Indian). Candidates opting for this conversion must provide necessary documents to substantiate their NRI status, which will make them eligible for seats reserved for NRI candidates.
These updates are pivotal for candidates who fall under these specific categories, as they must complete the necessary procedures before the counselling rounds proceed.
### NEET PG Counselling Process Overview
The NEET PG 2024 Counselling will be conducted in several stages to ensure a fair and transparent allocation of seats. The process includes **three main rounds**:
- **AIQ Round 1**: The first round of counselling for the All India Quota (AIQ) seats has now started. Candidates need to register, pay the required fee, and fill in their choice of courses and institutions.
- **AIQ Round 2**: Candidates who do not secure a seat in Round 1 or who are not satisfied with their allotted seat can participate in Round 2.
- **AIQ Round 3**: This is an additional opportunity for candidates to secure a seat in a postgraduate course.
- **Stray Vacancy Round(s)**: For the leftover seats after the third round, stray vacancy rounds will be conducted. Candidates will have the chance to compete for any remaining seats that have not been filled during the previous rounds.
Each of these rounds offers opportunities for candidates to secure seats in some of the top medical institutions across the country. The counselling process is designed to give candidates multiple chances to be considered for seat allocation.
### Step-by-Step Guide to NEET PG 2024 Counselling
For candidates new to the NEET PG Counselling process or those needing a refresher, here is a step-by-step breakdown of how to participate in the counselling:
1. **Registration**:
- Candidates must visit the MCC official website (mcc.nic.in) and complete the registration process. Personal details such as name, NEET PG roll number, and rank must be entered accurately.
- Registration also requires the payment of a non-refundable registration fee, which varies based on the category of the candidate and the type of seat they are applying for (AIQ or state quota).
2. **Choice Filling and Locking**:
- After registration, candidates will need to fill in their preferred courses and institutions from the list provided by MCC. Choices must be prioritized based on personal preference, and candidates are advised to research the institutions thoroughly before locking in their options.
- Once the choices are locked, they cannot be altered.
3. **Seat Allotment**:
- The MCC will announce the results of the seat allotment based on the candidate’s rank, preferences, and availability of seats. Those who are allotted seats will be notified through the official website.
- Candidates must download the allotment letter from the MCC portal, which will be required during the reporting phase.
4. **Reporting to Allotted College**:
- Candidates who are allotted seats must report to the assigned institution within the given time frame. During this reporting phase, candidates will need to carry all required documents, including the allotment letter, educational certificates, identity proof, and any category-specific certificates.
- Failure to report to the college within the stipulated period will result in the forfeiture of the seat.
5. **Upgradation and Subsequent Rounds**:
- If a candidate is unsatisfied with their seat in the first round, they can opt for the upgradation process and participate in Round 2. If upgraded to a preferred institution or course, they must report to the new institution within the deadline. However, if the candidate wishes to retain their seat, they should decline upgradation.
### Key Dates and Upcoming Schedule
While the registration process has begun, candidates should be vigilant about the upcoming key dates and announcements on the MCC website. The schedule for NEET PG counselling rounds, including the specific deadlines for registration, choice filling, and reporting, will be released soon by the MCC. Candidates are advised to regularly check the website for updates, as missing deadlines could affect their chances of securing a seat.
### Importance of PwD and NRI Updates
For candidates applying under the PwD category, obtaining a valid PwD certificate is a critical step in the counselling process. The certificate must be issued by an authorized medical board to ensure eligibility for seats reserved for persons with disabilities. These candidates must also ensure that they submit the correct documentation during the reporting process, as failure to do so could result in disqualification.
Similarly, for Indian candidates who wish to convert their nationality status to NRI, there are specific guidelines to be followed. The NRI category offers a limited number of seats, which are usually in high demand. Candidates seeking this conversion must submit documents such as proof of NRI status (passport, visa, etc.) and an affidavit verifying their NRI status.
### Stray Vacancy Rounds: Last Chance for Admission
The stray vacancy rounds provide a final opportunity for candidates who were unable to secure a seat in the previous counselling rounds. While competition is fierce for the remaining seats, it offers hope to candidates who are determined to secure a seat in a postgraduate medical course. The stray vacancy rounds are particularly important for students who might have missed deadlines or experienced delays in documentation during earlier rounds.
### Conclusion
As NEET PG 2024 Counselling begins, thousands of medical graduates are eagerly entering the process with the hope of securing admission to their preferred courses and institutions. The MCC’s updates on PwD certificates and nationality conversion add an extra layer of consideration for specific categories of candidates. With three rounds of AIQ counselling and the additional stray vacancy rounds, candidates have multiple opportunities to secure their postgraduate seats.
Candidates are urged to stay informed, adhere to the deadlines, and follow the guidelines meticulously to ensure a smooth and successful counselling experience. As the counselling process unfolds, it will pave the way for the next generation of specialized medical professionals, ready to contribute to the healthcare sector. Keep following the MCC website for real-time updates and information on the NEET PG 2024 Counselling process.
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