Candidates Continue to Await Registration and Choice-Filling Instructions after CLAT 2026
Published 25 Dec 20253 min read454 Views
The centralized admission process is currently in its most critical phase. Candidates who have received invitations based on their merit ranks must complete their registration to remain eligible for the five rounds of allotment.
- Registration Window: The portal remains open until December 27, 2025 (10:00 PM).
- Mandatory Fee: General category candidates must pay ₹30,000, while reserved categories pay ₹20,000.
- Invitation Basis: Only candidates who have received an official invite via SMS or email can participate in the online portal registration.
Navigating NLU Preference and Choice-Filling
The choice-filling process is not merely a formality; it is the definitive factor in seat allocation. Candidates often struggle with the "Update NLU Preferences" tab, which requires a strategic ranking of universities.
- Minimum Choices: UG aspirants must select at least 15 NLUs, while PG candidates must list at least 5.
- Flexibility: Preferences can be edited multiple times until the December 27 deadline, after which the list is locked permanently.
- Seat Matrix Awareness: Candidates should consult the latest category-wise seat distribution before finalizing their top five picks.
CLAT 2026 Counselling Key Dates
| Event | Date & Time |
| Registration & Fee Payment Deadline | December 27, 2025 (10:00 PM) |
| First Allotment List Publication | January 7, 2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Round 1 Confirmation Fee Window | Jan 7 – Jan 15, 2026 |
| Second Allotment List Publication | January 22, 2026 |
Next Steps for Law Aspirants
As the deadline approaches, the priority for every aspirant should be the accuracy of their digital profile. Once the first allotment list is released on January 7, the options to Freeze, Float, or Exit will determine the trajectory of your legal career.
- Freeze: Selecting this means you are satisfied with the seat and will pay the university fee.
- Float: You accept the seat but wish to be considered for a higher preference in the next round.
- Exit: You choose to withdraw from the entire NLU admission process for 2026.
Given the short window remaining, candidates should immediately log in to the official Consortium portal to verify their preference list and ensure the registration fee payment status is marked as 'Successful'.