Understanding AIQ Counseling in NEET 2017: Choices and Eligibility

There is a common misconception surrounding AIQ counseling during the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) 2017, with some believing that only the top 15 students are automatically entitled to these seats. This article aims to clarify some common doubts regarding AIQ counseling and the eligibility criteria for participation.

The Myth of Top 15 Eligibility for AIQ Counseling

It is important to note that there is no exclusive rule stating that only the top 15 students from the NEET 2017 are eligible for the 15 AIQ (All India Quota) seats. In fact, the eligibility criteria for this year's AIQ counseling have been liberalized for students in the general category. Any student who scores above 131 out of 720 can participate in the AIQ counseling. Merely participating in the counseling does not guarantee a seat, as it is a competitive process based on specific rankings.

Evaluating Eligibility: The Case of NEET 2017

For reference, last year, the closing rank for the general category in AIQ counseling was 5849. However, the number of students who were eligible and participated in the counseling was significantly higher, often exceeding 20,000. This shows that while the cutoff can be a significant barrier, there is still an opportunity for many students to participate. The key to success lies in the actual counseling ranks, which will be determined based purely on the individual scores achieved.

Exploring College Options Open for AIQ Counseling Participants

One of the most common questions that arise is the availability of college options for students who are eligible to participate in AIQ counseling. The good news is that there are no restrictions on what options a student can fill in. While the competition for specific colleges and courses is intense, every option remains open until a student gets a seat based on their performance. Therefore, students can strategically fill in their options and increase their chances of securing a seat in any of the eligible institutions.

Impact of Ranks on College Placement

The final and perhaps most critical factor in securing a seat is the rank on which a student is placed during the counseling. Unlike in other competitive exams, the ranking in the AIQ counseling is crucial as it directly influences the allocation of seats. Once a student gets a college based on their rank, they are not required to wait for a later round of counseling or face the risk of missing out on a seat altogether.

Conclusion: Clearing the Air on AIQ Counseling

In conclusion, the myth of only the top 15 students being eligible for AIQ counseling in NEET 2017 is debunked. Any student scoring above 131 out of 720 is eligible to participate, and there are no restrictions on the options that can be filled in. The success of a student in AIQ counseling ultimately depends on their performance in the counseling process. Therefore, strategic planning, focus, and good performance are key to securing a seat in one of the prestigious institutions.

Thank you for your question and we hope this clears up any confusion regarding the AIQ counseling in NEET 2017.