April 25, 2025 
3 Min 
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❓ NEET Counselling: AIQ vs State Quota – What’s the Difference?
If you’ve qualified NEET UG 2025, congratulations! But cracking the exam is just the beginning—navigating the counseling process smartly is equally important. One of the most confusing aspects is understanding the difference between All India Quota (AIQ) and State Quota counseling. Here’s a simple breakdown:
🌐 What is All India Quota (AIQ)?
The All India Quota refers to 15% of total MBBS/BDS seats in government medical/dental colleges across India (excluding Jammu & Kashmir initially). These seats are open to all NEET-qualified candidates nationwide.
Key Features of AIQ:
- Conducted by: Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) at mcc.nic.in
- Eligibility: Open to all NEET-qualified candidates
- Seat Coverage: 15% of Govt. medical/dental colleges + special institutions
- Includes:
- 100% seats of BHU, AIIMS, JIPMER
- 100% AMU and Jamia Millia Islamia (with 5% internal quota)
- 85% seats of DU/IP University colleges
- 15% IP quota seats of ESIC
- Rounds: 4 rounds (Round 1, Round 2, Mop-Up, Stray Vacancy)
🏛️ What is State Quota?
The State Quota covers 85% of government seats within each state and 100% of private college seats. Reserved primarily for state-domiciled students.
Key Features of State Quota:
- Conducted by: State counseling authorities
- Eligibility: Must fulfill state domicile/residency criteria
- Seat Coverage:
- 85% of Govt. seats
- 100% of private seats (including management/NRI quota)
- Reservation: Follows state-specific policies (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/Local categories)
⚖️ AIQ vs State Quota – Detailed Comparison
| Aspect | All India Quota (AIQ) | State Quota |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Share | 15% of Govt. seats | 85% Govt. + 100% Private |
| Eligibility | All India candidates | State domicile required |
| Counseling Body | MCC (Central) | State Authorities |
| Reservation Policy | Central norms | State-specific rules |
| Application | Single registration | Separate per state |
| Colleges Included | Govt., AIIMS, JIPMER, Central Univs. | State Govt. & Private Colleges |
| Rounds | 4 rounds | Varies (usually 3-4) |
💡 Should You Apply for Both?
- Maximize Options: Increases chances of securing a good seat
- Home State Advantage: Better colleges possible through state quota with same rank
- Nationwide Access: AIQ opens doors to top institutes like AIIMS/JIPMER
❌ Common Misconceptions Clarified
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| “Low rank means no chance in AIQ” | Many get seats in Mop-Up/Stray rounds |
| “Can’t apply for both” | You should apply for both if eligible |
| “Private colleges under AIQ” | Private seats only through state counseling |
📄 Essential Documents
- NEET Admit Card & Rank Letter
- 10th & 12th Mark Sheets
- Domicile Certificate (state quota)
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Photo ID (Aadhar/PAN/Passport)
- Passport-size photos
🎯 Strategic Advice
- Register for both AIQ and your state quota
- Track all counseling schedules
- Prepare documents in advance
- Participate in all rounds including mop-up
Pro Tip: Your state quota might offer better options than AIQ for the same rank due to domicile reservations.
🔗 Important Links
- MCC Official Portal: https://mcc.nic.in
- NEET 2025 Updates: https://neet.nta.nic.in
- State Counseling Portals: Check your state medical education website
Note: Always verify information from official sources as policies may change.
