The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) is set to close the Choice-4 exit facility for Karnataka NEET UG 2026 Round 2 counselling today, September 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Candidates who wish to withdraw from the state counselling process must submit their decision before the deadline. Once this exit window closes, KEA will process the vacant seats and re-run the Round 2 allotment algorithm to prepare a revised seat allotment list.

What is Choice-4 in KEA Counselling?

It is vital for candidates to understand that Choice-4 is not a regular choice-filling option. Instead, it acts as a post-allotment exit window.

This option is specifically designed for candidates who have been provisionally allotted a seat in Karnataka Round 2 but have also secured a seat through the MCC All India Quota (AIQ) Round 2. If a candidate prefers to join their MCC-allotted college, exercising Choice-4 allows them to exit Karnataka state counselling smoothly without retaining a seat unnecessarily.

Background: The 11,626 Provisional MBBS Seats

On September 11, KEA announced the provisional seat allotment result, provisionally allocating 11,626 MBBS seats alongside 2,689 BDS choices.

However, this list was not the final allotment. Because several candidates hold seats in both state and national level rounds, many are expected to surrender their KEA provisionally allotted seats by selecting Choice-4.

Important Distinction: The 11,626 MBBS seats listed on September 11 represents a provisional status. The actual seat counts will adjust once Choice-4 submissions are completed.

Why is KEA Re-Running the Round 2 Seat Allotment?

The most critical aspect of today’s update is what happens after the 5:00 PM deadline.

When candidates opt for Choice-4, their provisionally allotted seats are officially released back into the seat matrix. To ensure no medical or dental seat goes to waste, KEA will re-run the Round 2 seat allotment.

During this re-run:

Seats surrendered by Choice-4 users will be allocated to next-in-line eligible candidates based on merit and filled preferences.

Candidates who did not get their top-tier college in the provisional list may experience an upgrade in their allotted college or course.

What Should Candidates Do Before 5 PM Today?

Evaluate Dual Allotments: If you hold both MCC AIQ and KEA state provisional seats, decide which seat you wish to retain.

Select Choice-4 Only to Exit: If you choose the MCC seat, log in to the portal and complete the Choice-4 exit process before 5:00 PM today.

If You Want the KEA Seat: Do not select Choice-4. Follow the standard post-allotment guidelines issued by KEA for seat confirmation and fee payment.

For official updates and to submit your choice, visit the official portal: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.