MBBS admission in Karnataka is conducted through a centralized counselling process managed by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). Admission is strictly based on the NEET-UG score and follows guidelines set by the National Medical Commission (NMC).

This guide provides a complete overview of the counselling process, eligibility criteria, and rules for non-Karnataka candidates.

Karnataka MBBS Counselling Process 2026

The counselling process is conducted online and includes multiple structured stages:

1. Registration

Candidates must register on the official KEA portal, fill in personal and academic details, and upload required documents.

2. Document Verification

KEA verifies eligibility through online or designated verification centers. Only verified candidates are allowed to proceed further.

3. Option Entry (Choice Filling)

Candidates select preferred medical colleges and courses based on their NEET rank and eligibility.

4. Seat Allotment

Seats are allotted in multiple rounds:

1. Round 1
2. Round 2
3. Mop-up Round
4. Stray Vacancy Round

Allotment is based on NEET rank, preferences, category, and seat availability.

5. Fee Payment and Reporting

Candidates must pay the prescribed fee and report to the allotted college within the stipulated timeline to confirm admission.

Can Students from Other States Apply?

Yes, candidates from outside Karnataka can participate in Karnataka MBBS counselling, but with specific limitations:

1. Eligible to register through KEA using NEET score
2. Not eligible for 85% state quota (government seats)
3. Eligible for:
   
   • Private medical college seats (management quota)
   • NRI quota seats

Additionally, 15% All India Quota (AIQ) seats in Karnataka government colleges are open to all candidates but are filled separately through the Medical Counselling Committee.

Non-Karnataka students can participate, but primarily for private and NRI seats.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Admission in Karnataka 2026

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

NEET Qualification

Qualifying NEET-UG 2026 is mandatory:

1. General: 50th percentile
2. OBC/SC/ST: 40th percentile
3. PwD: 45th percentile

Academic Qualification

1. Must have passed 10+2 (or equivalent)
2. Subjects required: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English

Minimum Marks in PCB

1. General: 50%
2. OBC/SC/ST: 40%
3. PwD: 45%

Age Criteria

1. Minimum age: 17 years as of 31 December 2026

Nationality

1. Indian citizens, NRIs, and eligible OCI candidates can apply

KEA Registration

1. Mandatory to register on the KEA portal to participate in counselling

Important Conditions

1. Karnataka domicile is required for admission under the government quota
2. Non-domicile candidates are limited to private, management, or NRI quota seats
3. Valid and updated certificates must be produced during counselling

Key Takeaway

MBBS admission in Karnataka is a structured and transparent process based on NEET merit. While the state offers opportunities to both Karnataka and non-Karnataka candidates, the type of seats available depends heavily on domicile status and category eligibility.

Candidates are advised to complete documentation in advance and carefully plan their choice filling strategy to maximize admission chances.