CLAT 2026 Counselling Begins: First Merit List on Jan 7, 2026

The CLAT 2026 counselling process has officially commenced for candidates who qualified the Common Law Admission Test 2026. The Consortium of National Law Universities has opened the counselling registration window, allowing eligible candidates to participate in the centralized seat allotment process for undergraduate and postgraduate law programmes offered by participating NLUs. As per the official schedule, CLAT 2026 counselling registration will remain open until December 27, 2025, while the first CLAT 2026 merit list is scheduled to be published on January 7, 2026. Candidates must complete registration within the deadline to be considered for seat allotment.

CLAT 2026 Counselling Registration and Seat Allotment Process

The CLAT Counselling Process 2026 includes multiple stages such as registration, option selection, seat allotment, payment of confirmation fees, and admission reporting at allotted NLUs. Candidates shortlisted based on CLAT ranks will be required to either freeze, float, or exit their allotted seats within the stipulated timelines. Those opting to freeze or float their seat must pay the prescribed confirmation fee to secure admission or remain eligible for seat upgrades in subsequent rounds. The entire counselling process will be conducted across 5 rounds, ensuring transparent and merit-based allocation of seats.

CLAT 2026 Counselling Schedule and Important Dates

Candidates should carefully track the counselling timeline to avoid missing any critical deadlines. The counselling schedule is based on official notifications released by the Consortium.

Key Instructions for CLAT 2026 Aspirants

Candidates must exercise their options carefully during each allotment round, keeping both preferred NLUs and program availability in mind. Failure to pay the confirmation fee within the specified period may lead to cancellation of the allotted seat. Applicants are also advised to keep all academic and identity documents ready for the admission process. The Consortium may issue further instructions related to additional allotment rounds, vacant seat updates, or reporting guidelines. Regular monitoring of official updates is strongly recommended to stay informed.