Mumbai: The Bar Council of India (BCI) has granted one-time conditional approval to BCI-recognised law colleges in Maharashtra to proceed with the MHT CET CAP admission process for the 2026-27 academic year, subject to the concerned college having valid university affiliation.

The decision allows eligible law colleges to continue participating in the Maharashtra State CET Cell's Centralised Admission Process (CAP) for admissions to three-year and five-year LLB programmes.

The MHT CET CAP 2026 process for law admissions is currently underway. The Round 1 college-option filling deadline was extended to August 11, while the Round 1 seat allotment result is scheduled to be announced on August 17. Candidates will be able to check the allotment result through the official Maharashtra State CET Cell website.

BCI Conditional Approval for Maharashtra Law Colleges

The BCI has allowed the concerned law colleges to proceed with the admission process on a one-time conditional basis. However, the approval is subject to the colleges meeting the required regulatory conditions, including maintaining valid university affiliation.

Under the BCI requirements, law colleges are required to submit the prescribed documents and pay all applicable BCI fees and dues. These include course and approval fees, inspection or continuation fees, regularisation fees, late fees, default fees and other legally payable amounts, wherever applicable.

BCI Approval Deadline Extended to August 31

The BCI has extended the deadline for existing Centres of Legal Education (CLEs) to complete and submit applications for renewal of affiliation approval for the 2026-27 academic year.

The extended deadline is August 31, 2026.

The one-time extension follows requests from several universities and law colleges that cited delays in receiving affiliation orders, administrative difficulties and technical issues while completing the approval process.

The extension provides the concerned institutions additional time to complete the required formalities for the 2026-27 academic session.

What Happens if Colleges Fail to Meet BCI Conditions?

The conditional approval will remain subject to compliance with the requirements prescribed by the BCI.

If a college fails to complete the approval process by the stipulated deadline, does not pay the applicable fees or dues, lacks valid university affiliation, submits incorrect information or otherwise fails to comply with the requirements, the BCI may withhold, modify, suspend or withdraw the conditional approval.

The Council may also take further action in accordance with the applicable law and regulations.

BCI Registration Facility for Existing Law Colleges

Existing Centres of Legal Education that have not yet registered for the BCI approval facility can request a registration link by contacting the Council through the designated email addresses mentioned in the notification.

The development is significant for students participating in the MHT CET CAP 2026 law admission process, as the approval status of participating law colleges is an important consideration during the admission and seat-allotment process.

Candidates are advised to check the latest notices issued by the Maharashtra State CET Cell and the concerned law college before accepting an allotted seat or completing admission formalities.