CLAT Revised Result 2025: Can You Miss First Preference NLU in the Revised Merit List? Check Details

How Candidates Can Miss their First Preference NLU in the Revised Result?

There is a real possibility that candidates can miss their first choice in the NLU preference list in the revised result. The SC has revised the answers to four questions in the CLAT answer key. The Delhi HC earlier has revised the answer to one question which is also upheld by the SC. Together these five questions can lead to a negative marking of up to 4.25 marks.

A decrease of 4.25 marks in the worst case scenario can cause a significant decline in one’s rank and admission chances at a particular NLU.

Downward Shift in Rank in Revised Merit List

The table given below shows how ranks between 1000 to 15000 can shift downward in the CLAT 2025 merit list, if a candidate loses 4.5 marks in the revised result. The data shows that a candidate’s rank can go down by as much as 3600 places in the revised merit list.

The scale of downward movement in ranks is comparatively higher at lower rank levels than higher ranks. This is due to the high level of competition in the lower ranks where even one mark can make a big difference of 1000 ranks.

Negative Shift in Ranks in Worst Case

What Candidates Can Do?

In case a candidate does not get the first preference NLU, then they can wait it out as there will be multiple rounds of CLAT counselling. Candidates should choose the “Float” option in the counselling process, if they are allotted an NLU that is not their first preference. Candidates who choose the float option have to pay the prescribed confirmation fee. Since, there are multiple rounds there is a possibility that a vacancy may arise at the most preferred NLU.

Additionally, candidates can also look at private law colleges that accept CLAT 2025 scores. In addition to the participating NLUs, the list of CLAT colleges also includes over 65+ participating law schools.