CLAT Admission Process 2024

Are you a prospective law student gearing up for the CLAT exam?

Exciting times lie ahead as you take your initial stride towards a rewarding legal career!

However, before delving into your exam preparations, it’s crucial to grasp the intricacies of the CLAT admissions process.

Here are key considerations to bear in mind:

• CLAT admissions are merit-based, with a rank list formulated according to your exam performance.
• The admission process entails online registration, completion of application forms and the submission of pertinent documents.
• Following result announcements, you’ll engage in the counselling process to select your preferred college.

Seems straightforward, doesn’t it?

Yet, the CLAT admissions process harbours numerous subtle aspects that warrant your attention.

Therefore, keep reading to uncover all the vital information you need to ensure a place in your coveted law school through the CLAT Admissions pathway!

What is the CLAT Admission Process? 

The process of counselling and seat allocation for LLB and LLM programs is facilitated through the Centralised Online Counselling system. The CLAT Admission Procedure encompasses five distinct steps. Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:

Step 1: First Indicative List

Simultaneous with the online result announcement, the CLAT Rank List will also be made available. The merit list will be unveiled on the official website. The initial list for CLAT Counselling will be declared based on both merit and applicant preferences, taking into account the exam scores.

Step 2: Payment of Counselling Fee and College/University Selection

Individuals whose names appear on the CLAT Merit List are eligible to partake in the Admission process. This step involves the payment of the counselling fee and the selection of the preferred institute. As per the schedule set forth by the conducting authorities, an amount of INR 50,000 needs to be paid.

Upon successful payment of the admission fee, candidates are required to make one of the following choices:

• ‘Lock’ – After remitting the CLAT admission fee, candidates must confirm their chosen NLU. Once the choice is locked, the seat will be reserved for the candidate and won’t be available for further seat allotment.
• ‘Upward Shifting’ – As the name implies, this option is exercised when an applicant wishes to switch to a higher-preference institute. Opting for this will result in seat allotment in higher-tier colleges based on preferences filled in the CLAT Application Form.

Step 3: Second Indicative List

Following fee payment, CNLU will release the second admission list for candidates who have secured seats in the CLAT Participating Colleges. The examining authority will also release a waitlist of selected candidates to fill any vacancies left by dropouts.

Candidates on the waitlist are also required to pay the admission fee of INR 50,000. In case an applicant decides to withdraw, INR 10,000 will be deducted from the previously paid admission amount.

Step 4: Publication of the Third List of Selected Candidates

The third admission list will be published, featuring the names of waitlisted candidates from the second round. Another set of waitlisted candidates will be listed separately. Those on the waitlist must complete the choice-filling process and pay the admission fee during this second round.

Step 5: Admission Formalities at Allotted College/University

The final stage of the CLAT Admission Process involves visiting the allotted participating college to fulfill admission formalities. Candidates who have been selected through the CLAT Exam need to pay the remaining balance of the admission fee.

The documents required for CLAT admission include the CLAT Application Form, Admit Card, Score Card, Class 10th and 12th Marksheets, relevant certificates (such as caste and special ability certificates), NRI-related documents if applicable, domicile proof, the call letter issued by the CLAT authority and recent passport-sise photographs.

Should a candidate fail to secure CLAT admission, the entire sum of INR 50,000 paid will be forfeited.

FAQs on CLAT Admission Process

How many stages constitute the CLAT Admission process?

The procedure consists of 5 major stages: Registration, Selection of NLUs, Seat Allotment, Fee Payment and reporting to the designated NLU.

How is the announcement made for CLAT seats?

CLAT Seats are announced separately for different categories including General, SC, ST, OBC and PwD. The seat allotment occurs over three rounds and the respective NLUs possess the authority to modify the total seat count or distribution prior to the final allotment.

How can I determine my eligibility for CLAT admission?

Your eligibility for CLAT admission is determined by whether you achieve the CLAT Cut Off score. Meeting this cutoff makes you eligible for the subsequent admission process.

What is the significance of the CLAT rank list in the admissions process?

The CLAT rank list holds great importance as it’s a reflection of your performance in the exam relative to other candidates. Your rank determines your position in the merit order, which plays a pivotal role in securing admission to your preferred law school.

Can you elaborate on the counseling process after CLAT results are announced?

Certainly! After the CLAT results are announced, you’ll need to participate in the counseling process. During this phase, you’ll have the opportunity to choose the law school of your preference from the available options based on your rank. This step helps match candidates with their desired institutions.

Are there any specific documents I need to submit during the CLAT admissions process?

Yes, various documents are required to complete the CLAT admissions process. These typically include your CLAT Application Form, Admit Card, Score Card, Class 10th and 12th Marksheets, relevant certificates (such as caste and disability certificates if applicable), domicile proof, and other necessary documents depending on specific requirements.

What happens if I’m on the waitlist for a particular law school?

If you’re on the waitlist for a law school, it means that although you were not initially allotted a seat in that school, there’s a chance you might secure one if other candidates withdraw or decline their offers. You’ll be required to pay the admission fee as per instructions, and if a vacancy arises, you could be offered a seat.