CLAT 2026 Qualified Candidates Await Counselling Registration and Choice Filling Schedule

The CLAT 2026 counselling registration window is officially open for qualified candidates seeking admission to National Law Universities. This comprehensive guide covers the essential deadlines for choice filling, category-wise registration fees, and the step-by-step process for UG and PG aspirants. Ensure you complete your NLU preference list and fee payment before the upcoming cutoff date to secure your seat. Stay informed on the latest allotment rounds and documentation requirements for a smooth admission journey.

Following the declaration of the CLAT 2026 results on December 16, the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) has officially initiated the centralized admission process. For aspirants, this stage is as critical as the exam itself, as it dictates the final seat allotment across the 24 participating NLUs. Qualified candidates who have received invitations via SMS or email must now navigate the online portal to finalize their college preferences and secure their spot in the merit-based selection.

Step-by-Step Registration and Choice Filling Process

The registration process is conducted entirely online through the official Consortium portal. Success in this phase depends on accurate data entry and strategic college selection.

• Portal Login: Candidates must use their registered mobile number and password to access the CLAT 2026 candidate dashboard.
• Preference Selection: Aspirants are required to fill a minimum of 15 NLU preferences for UG courses and at least 5 for PG programs.
• Fee Payment: Registration is only deemed complete after the payment of the non-refundable counselling fee ($₹30,000$ for General and $₹20,000$ for Reserved categories).
• Final Submission: Once the choices are locked after the deadline, no further changes to the NLU preference order will be permitted under any circumstances.

Critical Dates for CLAT 2026 Admission Cycle

Aspirants must adhere strictly to the timeline released by the Consortium to avoid disqualification from the admission rounds.

Key Guidelines for Seat Allotment and Documentation

After each allotment round, candidates are presented with three distinct options: Freeze, Float, or Exit. Understanding these is vital for long-term strategy.

• Freeze Option: Choose this if you are satisfied with the allotted NLU and wish to secure the seat by paying the university fees.
• Float Option: This allows you to hold your current seat while remaining eligible for a higher-preference NLU in subsequent rounds.
• Mandatory Documents: Ensure you have scanned copies of your CLAT 2026 Admit Card, Class 10 & 12 mark sheets, and relevant category/domicile certificates ready for verification.
• Communication: Regularly check the portal as the Consortium will not be responsible for missed deadlines due to technical or communication oversights.

The counselling process serves as the bridge between your hard-earned rank and your future legal career. Aspirants should proactively log in to the official Consortium website to complete their choice-filling and fee payment before the window closes.

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