A step-by-step guide to CLAT counselling

The CLAT counselling process is a centralized, online seat allotment system for all National Law Universities (NLUs). It ensures fair and transparent admission for eligible candidates. The process typically takes place in five rounds, and only candidates who meet the cutoff marks are invited to participate.

Key Stages of the CLAT Counselling Process

Registration:
Candidates who meet the cutoff criteria will receive an invitation via email or SMS. They must log in to the CLAT portal on the official website using their registered details to begin the counselling process. The registration is mandatory to participate in seat allotment.
- Important Tip: Ensure that all your personal and exam details are updated correctly when registering for counselling.
- Website: CLAT 2025 official website
Payment of Counselling Fee:
Candidates must pay a non-refundable counselling fee to confirm their participation. The fee is ₹30,000 for general candidates and ₹20,000 for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD candidates. Payments can be made online using debit/credit cards or via NEFT.
- Tip: Double-check payment methods and ensure you receive a confirmation receipt.
NLU Preference List:
After paying the counselling fee, candidates must submit their NLU preferences in order of priority. This step is critical as seat allotment depends on the order of preference and rank.
- Note: In most cases, once submitted, this preference list cannot be changed, so ensure your choices reflect your actual preferences.
- Important Tip: Research NLUs thoroughly before finalizing your preference list.
Seat Allotment:
Based on the candidate’s rank, category, and NLU preferences, a merit list is generated for each round. The seat allotment process takes place over five rounds. Candidates can log in to the CLAT portal to check the status of their seat allotment.
- Tip: Be mindful of round-wise allotments, as candidates can upgrade or freeze their seats during different rounds.

Seat Acceptance Options

After receiving an allotment, candidates have the following options:

Freeze (Accept the Allotted Seat):
Lock in the allotted seat and pay the university fee by the given deadline (e.g., May 14, 2024, for CLAT 2024).
- Tip: If you are satisfied with the seat, opt for this option early to secure your admission.
Float (Apply for Upgrade):
Keep the current allotment while being considered for a higher-preference NLU in future rounds. The fee need not be paid until a seat is frozen.
- Tip: Use this option if you prefer a better NLU but are content with your current allotment.
Exit (Withdraw from the Admission Process):
If you do not wish to proceed with the admission process, you can withdraw entirely. However, be aware that exiting may not allow re-entry into the counselling process.
- Important Note: Always double-check the exit deadlines and associated penalties.

Document Verification

After choosing to freeze a seat, candidates must report to the allotted NLU for document verification. The required documents include educational certificates, ID proof, category certificates (if applicable), and the counselling fee receipt.

Document	Verification Requirement
10th and 12th Marksheets	Original + Photocopies
CLAT Admit Card	Original
Category Certificates	Original for SC/ST/OBC/EWS candidates
Counselling Fee Receipt	Printout required for verification

Tip: Keep both original documents and photocopies ready to avoid delays during verification.

Payment of Admission Fee

Once document verification is completed, candidates must pay the admission fee specified by the NLU. The payment can be made online via bank transfer, debit/credit cards, or other available digital payment options.

Important Tip: Check the individual NLU’s website for details on the fee structure and payment deadlines.

Counselling Fee and Refund Policy

The CLAT counselling fee is non-refundable, except in the following cases:

Full Refund:
Candidates who are not allotted a seat after the fifth and final round or who opt for Exit before the specified deadline are eligible for a full refund.
Partial Refund (₹5,000 deduction):
Candidates who Exit after the deadline or those found ineligible during document verification will receive a refund after a ₹5,000 penalty deduction.

Important Note: The confirmation fee of ₹20,000 is non-refundable, except under special circumstances.

Confirmation and Grievance Redressal

Candidates who have accepted their seat must pay the confirmation fee to lock in their admission. The Grievance Redressal Committee handles any disputes related to the counselling process. Candidates can raise issues after the first two rounds by logging in to their CLAT account.

Tip: Act promptly if you encounter any discrepancies or issues during the counselling process to ensure quick resolution.

Final Steps: Orientation and Induction

After completing the document verification and fee payment process, candidates can attend the orientation and induction program at their respective NLUs. This program helps new students transition into law school life.

Tip: Take advantage of the orientation program to familiarize yourself with the university’s academic and social environment.

Important Tips for CLAT Counselling

Monitor Deadlines:
Keep track of all deadlines for seat acceptance, fee payment, and document submission. Missing a deadline may result in the forfeiture of your seat.
Double-Check Preferences:
Your NLU preference list is crucial for seat allotment. Make sure to prioritize your choices carefully, as it cannot be modified later.
Keep Documents Ready:
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents for verification well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Check NLU Websites:
Each NLU has its own fee structure and rules for admission. Be sure to check the official website of the NLU to which you are allotted for specific instructions.
Stay Updated:
Regularly check the CLAT portal and your email for notifications regarding seat allotment and counselling rounds.

Conclusion

The CLAT counselling process can seem complex, but with a clear understanding of each stage, candidates can navigate it smoothly. By staying organized, keeping track of deadlines, and ensuring all documents are ready, you can secure your place at an NLU and begin your law education journey.