The JoSAA counselling process will begin on 3rd June 2025. The counselling process helps students get into some of the top colleges in India including IITs, NITs and IIITs. After the JoSAA counselling process has finished, students will have the chance to take part in the CSAB counselling procedure which takes place after. This article highlights the key differences between the JoSAA and CSAB counselling processes. Knowing the differences and which one to participate in is very important for students to make better decisions about their colleges.
Overview on JoSAA and CSAB
On the surface, the JoSAA and CSAB can seem similar counselling processes for students. Before going into the differences between the two, it is important to have a basic understanding of both.
JoSAA
The Joint Seat Allocation Authority conducts this counselling process. This is mainly for getting students into top IITs and NITs in the country. The JoSAA counselling process usually consists of 6 rounds. This counselling process is mainly for students who clear the JEE Mains and JEE Advanced examinations. It is mandatory for all students who clear the JEE examination to undertake this counselling to get into good colleges.
CSAB
The Central Seat Allocation Board conducts these special rounds of counselling after the JoSAA counselling process ends. These rounds mainly aim to fill any leftover seats from the JoSAA counselling process. CSAB mainly conducts 2 to 3 rounds of counselling. Students who missed or did not participate in the JoSAA seat allotment process are eligible to participate in the CSAB counselling process.
Differences between JoSAA and CSAB Counselling
Provided below is an overview highlighting the key differences between the two counselling processes. It is very important students understand these differences when registering for the counselling procedures.
The differences are as follows:
Students can read more on the JoSAA counselling process here.
Conclusion: Which One Applies to You?
Ideally, students should mainly aim to participate and get their seat allotments in the JoSAA counselling process itself. There are significantly more seats available with more rounds to participate in. Participating in the JoSAA seat allotment process also allows students to have the chance to get into top IITs in India.
However, the CSAB counselling process is equally important. If a student is not satisfied with their JoSAA seat, was not allotted a seat or missed the JoSAA counselling process in general, they should participate in the CSAB counselling procedure. Doing so will ensure that students can secure a seat. However, students should not forget the negatives of the CSAB process including the overall lack of seats, no participation of IITs, lack of flexibility and no refunds.
To conclude, all students should ideally aim to clear and secure seats in the JoSAA counselling process. This includes better chances and opportunities. However, if a student is not satisfied with their seat allotted through the JoSAA, they should take part in the CSAB counselling procedure.
Read more on the mistakes during the JoSAA counselling process here.