The CLAT 2026 Counselling Process has officially started and plays a crucial role in securing admission to top National Law Universities (NLUs). Every serious law aspirant must clearly understand the counselling steps, deadlines, and seat allotment system to avoid mistakes.
At Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy, we guide students through every stage of CLAT—from preparation to final admission—ensuring you don’t lose your dream seat due to small errors.
CLAT 2026 Counselling Process: Key Highlights
- Counselling registration starts from 17 December 2025
- Last date to apply: 27 December 2025
- Total rounds: 5 rounds
- First allotment list: 7 January 2026
- Mode: Online only
- Fee: ₹30,000 (General), ₹20,000 (Reserved)
CLAT 2026 Counselling Dates
| Event | Date |
| Registration Start | 17 Dec 2025 |
| Last Date | 27 Dec 2025 |
| Round 1 Allotment | 7 Jan 2026 |
| Round 2 | 22 Jan 2026 |
| Round 3 | 5 Feb 2026 |
| Round 4 | 2 May 2026 |
| Final Round | 15 May 2026 |
These deadlines are strict. Missing even one step in the CLAT 2026 counselling process can result in seat cancellation.
What is CLAT 2026 Counselling Process?
The CLAT 2026 counselling process is the official admission procedure where candidates are allotted seats in NLUs based on:
- CLAT Rank
- Category
- NLU Preferences
You must:
- Register online
- Fill preference list
- Pay counselling fee
- Participate in allotment rounds
Your rank becomes your actual seat only after completing counselling.
CLAT 2026 Counselling Fees
| Category | Fee |
| General | ₹30,000 |
| Reserved | ₹20,000 |
This fee is used to block your seat temporarily and is adjusted later.
Check this-How Many Candidates Appear for CLAT Exam?
Step-by-Step CLAT 2026 Counselling Process
Step 1: Login & Registration
Login to the official portal and start your CLAT 2026 counselling process registration.
Step 2: Fill NLU Preferences
- Minimum 15 choices (UG)
- Minimum 5 choices (PG)
Always arrange preferences wisely.
Step 3: Pay Counselling Fee
Payment must be successful to complete registration.
Step 4: Track Allotment Lists
Check each round carefully and respond within deadlines.
Step 5: Choose Freeze / Float / Exit
- Freeze – Accept seat
- Float – Wait for better option
- Exit – Leave counselling
Step 6: Upload Documents
Ensure all documents are correct and clear.
Step 7: Pay University Fee
Final step to confirm your admission.
CLAT 2026 Seat Allotment Process
The CLAT 2026 counselling process follows:
- Rank-based allocation
- Category reservation
- Preference order
Your preference list directly impacts your seat.
Freeze vs Float vs Exit (Important Concept)
Freeze
- Finalise your seat
- No further rounds
Float
- Keep seat + upgrade chance
- Valid till Round 4
Exit
- Withdraw completely
5 Rounds in CLAT 2026 Counselling Process
- Round 1 – Initial allotment
- Round 2 – Reallocation
- Round 3 – Upgradation
- Round 4 – Vacant seats filled
- Round 5 – Final allotment
Documents Required
- CLAT Scorecard
- Class 10 & 12 Marksheet
- ID Proof
- Category Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
- Passport Photos
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filling wrong preferences
- Missing deadlines
- Uploading incorrect documents
- Not understanding Freeze/Float
- Ignoring official updates
These mistakes can cost your NLU seat.
Check this for more resources-NLU Delhi admission details
Why Choose Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy for CLAT?
At Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy, we provide:
- Expert CLAT mentorship
- Personalised counselling strategy
- Updated study material
- Rank-based guidance
FAQs
1. When does CLAT 2026 counselling start?
It starts from 17 December 2025.
2. What is the counselling fee?
₹30,000 for General and ₹20,000 for reserved categories.
3. How many rounds are there?
There are 5 rounds in total.
4. Can I change preferences later?
No, changes are not allowed after deadline.
5. What happens if I miss a deadline?
You may lose your seat and be removed from the process.
6. Is counselling fee refundable?
Yes, depending on rules and stage of withdrawal.
Check this-CLAT Exam Pattern 2027
Final Words
The CLAT 2026 counselling process is as important as the exam itself. A good rank alone is not enough—you must make smart decisions during counselling.
With expert guidance from Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy, you can maximise your chances of getting into a top NLU.
