CLAT 2026 Applications Open; Start Your Registration Early Before the October 31 Deadline

CLAT 2026 application process is closing soon The Consortium of NLUs began registration on August 1, 2025, and the final deadline is October 31, 2025. This is your last chance to apply for admission to top National Law Universities (NLUs) for the 5-year integrated LLB and LLM programs. Don't miss this crucial date. Read the comprehensive guide on eligibility, the application steps, and key dates to secure your NLU seat. Apply well before the last date to avoid technical issues.

The countdown has officially begun for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 application process. Aspiring law students targeting India's prestigious National Law Universities (NLUs) must note the final, non-negotiable deadline. As per the latest official notifications from the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), the online application window, which commenced on August 1, 2025, will definitively close on October 31, 2025. With just a few days remaining, candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration immediately to avoid last-minute technical glitches and secure their chance to appear for the exam scheduled for December 7, 2025.

​The CLAT is the premier national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programmes offered by 24 participating NLUs across the country. Missing this deadline means forfeiting the opportunity for the entire academic year 2026-2027. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary details for a smooth application process.

​Essential CLAT 2026 Application Checklist and Eligibility

​A seamless application submission requires candidates to be meticulously prepared with all necessary documents and to verify their eligibility criteria.

• ​Eligibility Criteria: UG (5-Year LLB)
  • ​Educational Qualification: Must have passed or be appearing for the Class 12th or equivalent examination.
  • ​Minimum Marks: A minimum of 45% marks is required for General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI categories, and 40% for SC/ST category candidates.
  • ​Age Limit: As per the latest changes, there is no upper age limit for candidates applying for the UG program.
• ​Required Documents (Scanned Copies):
  • ​Recent Passport-size Photograph (Colour, clear background, specific dimensions).
  • ​Candidate's Signature.
  • ​Relevant Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) if applicable, issued by a competent authority.
  • ​Relevant PWD/Specially Abled Certificate, if applicable.
  • ​Any other requisite supporting documents as mentioned in the official CLAT 2026 notification.
• ​Application Fee Details: 
  • ​General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI Candidates: ₹4,000/- (Rupees Four Thousand Only)
  • ​SC/ST/BPL Candidates: ₹3,500/- (Rupees Three Thousand Five Hundred Only)
  • ​Note: An additional ₹500/- is charged for previous years' question papers, if opted for. The fee must be paid online via credit/debit card or net banking.

​Step-by-Step Guide to Final Online Registration

​Completing the CLAT 2026 registration successfully is a multi-step process that must be followed on the official website: consortiumofnlus.ac.in. Avoid common mistakes by following this concise procedure:

• ​Step 1: New User Registration: Visit the official website, click on the CLAT 2026 tab, and register using a valid mobile number and email ID. This generates a unique registration ID and password.
• ​Step 2: Log In and Application Form Filling: Log in using the generated credentials. Access the application form and meticulously fill in all personal, academic (10th, 12th details), and communication details. Ensure the data matches your official certificates, especially your name and date of birth.
• ​Step 3: Test Centre Preference: Select your preferred three test centres from the provided list. The allotment is subject to availability, so choose wisely and early.
• ​Step 4: Uploading Documents: Upload the scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other mandatory certificates. Pay close attention to the specified file format and size limits for each document to ensure a successful upload.
• ​Step 5: Fee Payment and Final Submission: Review all the entered information and uploaded documents. Proceed to the payment gateway to submit the application fee online. Once payment is successful, the application is deemed complete.
• ​Step 6: Confirmation and Printout: Download and print the confirmation page and the final submitted application form for future reference. This document is crucial for the admission and counselling process.

​Key Dates and Preparation Strategy for CLAT 2026

​The time between the application closure and the exam date is critical for intensive preparation. Aspirants should use the remaining time to solidify their understanding and practice their skills.

• ​Crucial CLAT 2026 Dates to Remember:
  • ​Application Commencement: August 1, 2025
  • ​Application Deadline: October 31, 2025 (Final Date)
  • ​CLAT 2026 Exam Date: Sunday, December 7, 2025 (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
  • ​Admit Card Release (Expected): Mid to Late November 2025
• ​Post-Application Preparation Focus:
  • ​Mock Tests: Dedicate substantial time to taking full-length mock tests under timed conditions to improve speed, accuracy, and time management skills.
  • ​Current Affairs & GK: Revise and update your knowledge on national and international news, historical events of significance, and contemporary issues in Legal Reasoning.
  • ​Exam Pattern: The CLAT 2026 paper will consist of 120 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) to be answered in 120 minutes. Ensure your preparation aligns with the five sections: English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques.
  • ​Negative Marking: Be mindful of the negative marking scheme of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer, encouraging informed choices.

​Conclusion

​The CLAT 2026 application deadline of October 31, 2025, is fast approaching. Law school aspirants must treat this as a final warning. Complete your registration process immediately on the official Consortium website to successfully navigate the first hurdle toward a coveted seat in a National Law University. Procrastination in this matter is a costly error. Secure your candidature today and channel your energy toward mastering the December 7th examination. Best of luck with your final steps.

For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on management entrance exams and courses, check here: Law Exams List.