Ritik Kumar · August 27, 2025 
Introduction
Every year, thousands of medical graduates appear for the NEET PG exam, hoping to secure a seat in MD/MS or DNB programs. While the exam itself is tough, the real challenge often begins after the results—during the counselling process.
The Diplomate of National Board (DNB) programs are conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) and are recognized as equivalent to MD/MS by the National Medical Commission (NMC). With growing respect for DNB training in reputed hospitals, the counselling process has become highly competitive.
In 2025, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) will conduct DNB counselling online. Many students feel overwhelmed by deadlines, documentation, and the fear of making the wrong choice. This guide simplifies the DNB Counselling Process 2025 step by step so you can move forward with confidence.
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step DNB Counselling Process 2025
Step1: Online Registration
The counselling journey begins with online registration on the MCC portal.
Visit the official MCC counselling website.
Use your NEET PG 2025 roll number, application ID, and password to log in.
Fill in personal, academic, and contact details carefully.
Pay the counselling registration fee online (non-refundable).
Why this step matters:
This step ensures your entry into the official system. Missing it means you cannot participate in seat allotment at all.
Pro tip: Keep a scanned copy of documents ready while registering to avoid errors.
Step2: Choice Filling and Locking
Once registered, you move to one of the most important stages—choice filling.
Browse the list of available DNB hospitals and institutions.
Select your preferred specialties and colleges in priority order.
Arrange choices strategically—put your dream college first, followed by safe and backup options.
Review and lock your choices before the deadline.
Why this step matters:
The order of your choices directly impacts your seat allotment. Students often regret not prioritizing their preferred options carefully.
Pro tip: Don’t leave choice filling until the last day; system errors or last-minute confusion can cause missed opportunities.
Step3: Seat Allotment
Seat allotment is an automated process based on rank, category, and preferences.
Round 1 allotment is announced on the MCC portal.
If allotted, download your allotment letter.
You can either accept the seat or opt for upgradation in the next round.
Why this step matters:
This step decides your immediate career direction. Even if you get a seat, weigh the hospital’s reputation, department exposure, and future growth opportunities before finalizing.
Step4: Reporting and Document Verification
After allotment, you must physically report to the hospital or institution.
Key steps during reporting:
Carry original documents and their photocopies.
Submit fees as per the institution’s guidelines.
Complete the document verification process to finalize admission.
Documents Required for DNB Counselling 2025:
NEET PG 2025 Admit Card
NEET PG 2025 Score Card
MBBS Degree/Provisional Certificate
Internship Completion Certificate
Permanent/Provisional Medical Registration Certificate
Category Certificate (if applicable)
8–10 Passport-size Photographs
Allotment Letter (downloaded from MCC portal)
Pro tip: Keep multiple sets of photocopies and scanned versions ready for smooth verification.
Step5: Upgradation and Further Rounds
Not happy with your Round 1 seat? You can participate in further rounds.
Round 2: Fresh choice filling and seat allotment.
Mop-up Round: For unfilled seats after Round 2.
Stray Vacancy Round: Final opportunity to secure leftover seats.
Why this step matters:
Many students secure their dream seats in later rounds. Patience and careful planning often pay off.
DNB Counselling 2025 Timeline
Here’s a sample counselling timeline based on the expected MCC schedule for 2025:
| Step/Activity | Expected Dates (2025) | What You Need to Do |
| NEET PG 2025 Result Declaration | June 2025 | Download your scorecard for counselling |
| Registration for Round 1 | July 2025 (Week 1) | Register on the MCC portal, pay fees |
| Choice Filling & Locking | July 2025 (Week 1–2) | Select and lock preferred seats |
| Round 1 Seat Allotment Result | July 2025 (Week 3) | Check allotment, download letter |
| Reporting for Round 1 | July 2025 (Week 3–4) | Report with documents at allotted hospital |
| Round 2 Registration | August 2025 (Week 1) | Register and refill choices |
| Round 2 Seat Allotment | August 2025 (Week 2) | Download allotment, report if satisfied |
| Mop-up Round | September 2025 | Apply for vacant seats |
| Stray Vacancy Round | September 2025 (end) | Last chance for leftover seats |
(Note: These are expected timelines; students should follow MCC’s official announcements.)
Eligibility Criteria for DNB Counselling 2025
- You must have qualified for NEET PG 2025.
- Completion of MBBS and a one-year compulsory internship is mandatory.
- A valid registration with the Medical Council of India (MCI)/State Medical Council (SMC) is required.
- Foreign nationals can also apply, but must register with MCI after admission.
Factors to Consider During Choice Filling
- Hospital Reputation: DNB training in high-patient-load hospitals provides better clinical exposure.
- Location: Metro hospitals offer networking, but Tier-2 cities may offer a more supportive environment.
- Specialization Availability: Make sure your preferred branch is offered and has experienced faculty.
- Future Growth: Alumni network, super-specialization opportunities, and recognition matter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in DNB Counselling
- Ignoring deadlines: Even a small delay can cost you a seat.
- Not researching hospitals: Don’t choose blindly based on ranking alone.
- Poor choice filling strategy: Random choices reduce the chances of allotment.
- Skipping document verification: Incomplete paperwork can cancel your admission.
- Not planning financially: Some private hospitals may have higher fee structures.
How Career Plan B Helps You
DNB counselling can be confusing, but Career Plan B makes it easier with:
- Personalized Guidance: We analyze your NEET PG rank and suggest the best-fit colleges and hospitals.
- Data-Driven Insights: Our team studies past cut-offs, seat availability, and hospital performance to guide you.
- Smart Seat Selection: We help you prioritize choices for maximum chances of securing your dream specialty.
- Long-term Planning: Career Plan B prepares you for further fellowships, super-specializations, or international pathways.
With Career Plan B, you don’t just fill out counselling forms—you make a strategic career decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How many rounds are conducted in DNB counselling?
Generally, four rounds: Round 1, Round 2, Mop-up Round, and Stray Vacancy Round.
Q2. Can I participate in both MD/MS and DNB counselling?
Yes. MCC conducts a unified counselling process where you can choose between MD/MS and DNB seats.
Q3. Is DNB equivalent to MD/MS in India?
Yes. The National Medical Commission (NMC) recognizes DNB as equivalent to MD/MS, though clinical exposure depends on the hospital.
Q4. What if I don’t report after getting a seat?
You may lose the seat and forfeit the counselling fees. Always report if you want to retain the seat.
Q5. Can I upgrade my DNB seat after Round 1?
Yes. You can choose the upgradation option and participate in subsequent rounds.
Conclusion
The DNB Counselling Process 2025 is a structured yet competitive journey that requires careful planning. From online registration and choice filling to seat allotment and reporting, every step shapes your medical career. The key is to stay alert, meet deadlines, and make informed decisions about hospitals and specializations.
Remember, choosing the right DNB seat is not just about securing admission, it’s about investing in your future as a specialist.
With the expert guidance of Career Plan B, you can avoid common mistakes, optimize your seat selection, and confidently step into the next phase of your medical career.
