CLAT 2026 Counselling Enters Next Rounds; Upgradation and Seat Movement Expected

As of January 30, 2026, the CLAT 2026 counselling process is entering its subsequent rounds of allotment. Candidates are eagerly awaiting the third and fourth lists to witness significant seat movement across the 24 participating National Law Universities. This report explores the "Float and Freeze" options, the process for institutional upgradation, and the revised fee payment deadlines for the 2026-28 academic session.

The Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) is currently overseeing the transition into the third and fourth rounds of the CLAT 2026 counselling process. Following the completion of the second allotment list formalities earlier this week, the focus of law aspirants has shifted toward the potential for institutional upgradation. As of today, January 30, the centralized portal is being updated with the latest vacancy data, setting the stage for significant seat movement across the top NLUs as candidates vacate lower-preference seats for higher-ranked institutions.

Mechanics of Seat Movement and Upgradation

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) counselling is a dynamic process where a single vacancy at a top-tier university like NLSIU Bengaluru can trigger a chain reaction of shifts throughout the entire merit list.

• The Float Option: Candidates who have accepted an allotment but wish to remain eligible for a higher-preference NLU in the next rounds are utilizing the 'Float' option. This allows them to secure their current seat while keeping the door open for an upgrade.
• Freeze and Exit: Conversely, those satisfied with their current allotment are choosing the 'Freeze' option, effectively concluding their participation in the counselling cycle to prepare for the upcoming semester.
• Upgradation Logic: Institutional upgradation occurs automatically if a vacancy opens in a candidate's higher-preference choice. In 2026, the Consortium has streamlined this process to ensure that seat movement is reflected in real-time on the student dashboard.
• Confirmation Fee: To participate in these subsequent rounds, candidates must have paid the non-refundable seat acceptance fee, which serves as a commitment to the admission process.

Revised Timelines and Reporting Protocols

As the counselling enters its final stages, the Consortium has issued updated guidelines regarding the reporting deadlines and the submission of original documents to the respective universities.

• Third Allotment List: The much-anticipated third list is expected to be released by the first week of February, showcasing the first major wave of vacancies from the "Float" pool.
• Document Verification: Once a seat is finalized through the "Freeze" option, candidates must undergo physical or digital document verification at the allotted NLU, including the submission of CLAT 2026 scorecards and 10+2 certificates.
• Waitlist Dynamics: The 2026 cycle has seen a higher-than-average volume of movement in the middle-tier NLUs, as students balance offers from private law schools with their CLAT rankings.
• Fee Payment Deadlines: The deadline for the balance university fee payment for the second round of allotments is January 31, 2026, after which the remaining seats will be marked as vacant for the next rounds.

CLAT 2026 Counselling Snapshot

The following table outlines the key components and expected timelines for the ongoing NLU admission cycle.

Conclusion

The current phase of CLAT 2026 counselling represents a critical period of adjustment for the country's future legal professionals. The transition into the next rounds of allotment highlights the efficiency of the centralized system in managing seat movement across diverse geographic locations. As the month of January concludes, the focus remains on the strategic use of the float option to achieve the best possible institutional upgradation. While the initial rounds focused on high-percentile achievers, the subsequent lists will be vital for candidates on the waitlist to secure their place in the 2026-28 batch. The successful navigation of these counselling rounds is the final hurdle in a journey that began with the national entrance exam in late 2025.