The CLAT 2026 Counselling Process is the final and most critical phase for law aspirants to secure a seat in one of the 24 participating National Law Universities (NLUs). For the 2026-27 academic session, the process is already in an advanced stage, with the third allotment list recently released. The Consortium of NLUs conducts this process entirely online, inviting candidates based on their merit rank. Understanding the transition between rounds and the financial implications of your choices is key to navigating the admission cycle successfully.
CLAT 2026 Counselling Direct Link
Only candidates who received an official invitation via SMS or email are eligible to participate in the registration and seat allotment portal.
- Official Website: consortiumofnlus.ac.in
- Direct Portal Login: Participate in CLAT 2026 Counselling Here
Highlights
Quick facts about the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process:
- Mode: Centralized Online Counselling
- Total Rounds: 5 Scheduled Rounds
- Registration Fee: ₹30,000 (General) / ₹20,000 (SC/ST/OBC/BC/EWS/PWD)
- Seat Confirmation Fee: ₹20,000 (Non-refundable)
- Selection Criteria: Rank, Category, and NLU Preference List
CLAT 2026 Counselling Schedule
The following table outlines the complete timeline for all five rounds of the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process:
| Event | Official Date & Time |
| Counselling Registration Window | Dec 17 – Dec 27, 2025 |
| First Allotment List | January 7, 2026 |
| Second Allotment List | January 22, 2026 |
| Third Allotment List | February 5, 2026 |
| University Fee Deadline (R1-R3) | April 24, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Fourth Allotment List | May 2, 2026 |
| Fifth and Final Allotment List | May 15, 2026 |
| Final University Fee Deadline (R4-R5) | May 30, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
How to Participate in CLAT Counselling
Follow these steps to complete your registration for the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process:
- Validate Invite: Log in to the portal and check if you have been invited to participate.
- Update Preferences: Review and confirm your NLU preference list (Minimum 15 for UG, 5 for PG).
- Pay Registration Fee: Pay the applicable fee (₹30k/₹20k) via the online payment gateway.
- Upload Documents: Ensure scanned copies of your 10th/12th marksheet and category certificates are uploaded.
- Exercise Options: After each allotment, choose between Freeze, Float, or Exit.
Understanding Freeze, Float, and Exit Options
Making the right choice after a seat is allotted is the core of the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process:
- Freeze: You are 100% satisfied with the allotted NLU. You lock the seat, pay the confirmation fee, and exit further rounds.
- Float: You accept the current seat but wish to be considered for a higher-preference NLU in the next round. You must pay the ₹20,000 confirmation fee to keep this option active.
- Exit: You withdraw from the process entirely. Your current seat is forfeited, and you will not be considered for any future rounds.
Mandatory Documents for Verification
During the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process, you must have the following soft copies ready:
- CLAT 2026 Admit Card and Scorecard.
- Class 10th & 12th Marks Sheets (Provisional allowed if original is awaited).
- Character Certificate and Transfer/Migration Certificate.
- Caste/Category/Domicile Certificate (if claiming reservation).
Important Links
- Official CLAT 2026 Counselling Instructions PDF
- NLU-wise Seat Matrix & Reservation Policy
- Refund Rules for Counselling Fee
- CLAT 2027 Preparation Roadmap
FAQs on CLAT 2026 Counselling Process
Q1. Is the counselling registration fee refundable? Yes, if you are not allotted a seat after 5 rounds, the fee is fully refunded. If you “Exit” before May 8, 2026, it is also fully refunded. After this date, ₹5,000 is deducted.
Q2. What happens if I miss the registration deadline? If you did not register by December 27, 2025, you cannot participate in any of the five allotment rounds of the CLAT 2026 Counselling Process.
Q3. Do I have to pay the ₹20,000 Confirmation Fee in every round? No, you only pay the Seat Confirmation Fee once. If you choose “Float” and get upgraded, the fee is adjusted toward your new NLU.
Q4. When is the last date to pay the full University Fee? For candidates who “Freeze” their seats in Rounds 1, 2, or 3, the deadline to pay the remaining balance to the NLU is April 24, 2026.
Conclusion
The CLAT 2026 Counselling Process requires vigilant tracking of deadlines. With the major university fee deadline for the first three rounds approaching on April 24, ensure your finances are in order. Missing a payment window can lead to the immediate cancellation of your hard-earned seat. Stay focused, and good luck with your NLU admission!
