NMC Releases Updated MBBS Seat Matrix for 2026-27, Issues Counselling Directives

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has published an updated seat matrix for undergraduate MBBS courses for the academic year 2026-27, reflecting permissions granted for new medical colleges and higher annual intake at existing institutions. The matrix, issued through a public notice dated September 10, is current as on September 1, 2026, and covers MBBS seats excluding Institutes of National Importance.

The updated list incorporates approvals from the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB), the NMC's first Appeal Committee and the second Appeal Committee of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The Commission has stated that the matrix may be revised if the Appeal Committees or any other competent authority take subsequent decisions. Any such revision will be posted on the NMC website and must be taken into account by the Medical Counselling Committee and state counselling authorities during counselling and admission.

Counselling committees have been asked to refer any discrepancy or deviation in the approved matrix to the MARB for clarification. They have also been directed not to allow admissions against seats beyond the number approved and notified by the MARB.

Medical colleges have been advised to check their institutional details in the seat matrix and report any discrepancies or omissions to the President or Director of the MARB, preferably before counselling starts. For 2026-27, admissions are to be made only against seats approved and notified by the MARB, as amended from time to time.

The NMC has cautioned colleges against admitting students beyond their sanctioned annual intake, noting that such admissions would amount to non-compliance with the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 and applicable regulations, and could invite regulatory and penal action.

Private medical colleges that have received permission to establish a new MBBS college or increase their intake but have not yet submitted the required Electronic Bank Guarantee have been asked to furnish it in favour of the Director, MARB, NMC, within seven days of the notice. The details of the guarantee must also be sent by email to the concerned NMC officials. The Letter of Permission will be issued by the MARB only after the guarantee has been received, verified and found to be in order.