What is CLAT counselling?
CLAT counselling is the official seat allocation process organized by the CLAT Consortium. It’s through this centralized system that candidates are offered seats in undergraduate and postgraduate law programs across NLUs and affiliated colleges.
Your rank, category, and college preferences will all influence where you end up studying. That’s why understanding this process is just as important as preparing for the exam itself.
Who can participate in CLAT counselling 2025?
Only candidates who appear in the CLAT 2025 merit list are eligible to participate. The merit list is released shortly after the results are declared. If you’ve cleared the exam and meet the cutoff for any NLU, you’re eligible to register for counselling.
Note: Failing to register on time or missing the deadlines can disqualify you from the seat allotment rounds—even if you scored well.
CLAT counselling 2025: step-by-step process
Here’s how the counselling process typically unfolds:
1. Online registration
You’ll need to log in to the official CLAT Consortium portal and register for counselling. A counselling fee is required (usually refundable if you don’t accept a seat).
2. Choice filling
List your preferred NLUs and courses based on your CLAT rank and category. Order matters, so be strategic and realistic when arranging your choices.
3. Seat allotment
In each round, seats are allocated based on your merit rank and preferences. You may receive one of three options:
- Accept the seat and freeze it
- Accept with an upgrade (if a better preference becomes available)
- Decline and exit the process
4. Fee payment
If you accept a seat, you’ll need to pay a part of the admission fee within a given deadline to confirm your spot.
5. Document upload
After payment, upload the required documents for verification. Failing to submit documents on time may result in seat cancellation.
6. Final admission
Once your documents are verified, the allotted NLU will contact you for the final admission process, which includes reporting to campus and paying the remaining fees.
Important dates to remember for CLAT counselling 2025 (tentative)
Although the official dates for CLAT 2025 counselling are yet to be announced, here’s a general timeline based on previous years:
- CLAT 2025 result declaration: January 2025
- Counselling registration begins: Mid-January 2025
- First seat allotment list: Late January 2025
- Fee payment and document upload: Within 4–5 days of allotment
- Subsequent rounds: February to March 2025
Keep checking the CLAT Consortium’s official website for timely updates once the final schedule is published.
Documents required for CLAT counselling
Be sure to keep scanned and physical copies of the following documents ready:
- CLAT 2025 admit card
- CLAT 2025 scorecard
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
- Domicile certificate (if applicable)
- Caste/category certificate (for reserved categories)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Identity proof (Aadhar card, passport, or voter ID)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Character certificate or transfer certificate from your last institution
Each NLU may request specific documents, so always cross-check with the college’s official guidelines once you receive a seat offer.
Tips for a smooth counselling experience
- Double-check your preferences before final submission. You can’t edit them after locking.
- Set reminders for deadlines to avoid disqualification.
- Choose colleges wisely based not only on rank but also on faculty, fees, and campus location.
- Keep documents scanned and organized in clearly named folders.
- Use reliable internet access during registration and upload.
And don’t forget to check your CLAT exam centre and syllabus details so that you’re fully prepared for future opportunities, such as reattempts or PG courses.
Final thoughts: stay alert and follow the process carefully
CLAT counselling isn’t just about filling out forms—it’s about shaping your future in law. Missing a step or misunderstanding a rule can cost you your dream seat. That’s why it’s essential to approach this phase with the same focus and seriousness as your CLAT exam preparation.
Stay updated, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure about any part of the process. Sign up at GoFillForm and get instant alerts, expert guidance, and step-by-step support throughout the 2025 CLAT counselling and admission season. Make every step count!
