About 26,00,000 candidates registered for NEET 2026, up from 22,76,000 in 2025 — roughly a 14% increase. This rise in registrations is expected to push the NEET 2026 cutoff OBC SC ST for government MBBS seats higher, according to entrance exam figures.
NEET 2026 cutoff OBC SC ST: expected ranks for government colleges
For admissions to government medical colleges, expected closing ranks are higher than last year. OBC candidates may need a rank around 26,500–28,000 , while EWS candidates are likely in the 30,000–31,500 range.
SC and ST expected closing ranks are notably lower on the merit list: SC around 1,35,000–1,40,000 , and ST around 1,62,000–1,66,000 . For comparison, government closing ranks in 2025 were OBC 27,421 , EWS 30,921 , and SC 1,39,123 .
NEET 2026 cutoff OBC SC ST: expected marks and qualifying percentile
Expected marks based on trend analysis put the OBC cutoff at about 528–535 marks; this range is cited as a safe OBC score for government MBBS seats. EWS marks are expected around 523–530 , SC around 442–448 , and ST around 427–433 .
The NEET qualifying percentile for OBC/SC/ST categories remains 40% , the minimum threshold to be eligible for rank-based seat allocation.
What this means for candidates and counselling
More applicants usually mean cutoffs shift upward across categories, so candidates near the previous-year cutoffs should prepare for tighter competition. If you are OBC and score in the 528–535 band, your chances for a government MBBS seat look stronger; SC and ST candidates typically need to meet the marks ranges above to be competitive in central or state counselling.
Counselling opening ranks from past years show movement across rounds; earlier rounds close at stronger marks and ranks. Expect final cutoffs to settle only after official counselling rounds begin and seats are allocated.
Key numbers to note now: registrations ~ 26,00,000 , qualifying percentile 40% , safe OBC marks 528–535 , SC marks 442–448 , ST marks 427–433 , and expected OBC rank 26,500–28,000 . Monitor official exam authority announcements for the final merit list and counselling schedule.