The Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) is set to release the CLAT 2026 Counselling First Merit List on January 7, 2026. Candidates who successfully registered for counselling will be able to check their seat allotment status on the official website — consortiumofnlus.ac.in.
This announcement is crucial for CLAT 2026 UG and PG aspirants, as the first merit list marks the beginning of the formal admission process for the academic year 2026–27 across participating NLUs.
CLAT 2026 First Merit List: Key Details at a Glance
Important Highlights of CLAT 2026 Counselling
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | CLAT 2026 First Merit List |
| Exam Name | Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) |
| Conducting Body | Consortium of National Law Universities |
| Academic Session | 2026–27 |
| Programmes Offered | 5-Year Integrated LLB, LLM |
| Levels | Undergraduate (UG) & Postgraduate (PG) |
| Exam Date | December 7, 2025 |
| First Merit List Date | January 7, 2026 |
| Official Website | consortiumofnlus.ac.in |
The merit list will be released separately for each NLU, allowing candidates to check their institution-wise allotment.
How to Check CLAT 2026 Counselling First Merit List
Step-by-Step Guide to Download Seat Allotment Result
Candidates can follow the steps below to check the CLAT 2026 first allotment list:
- Visit the official website at consortiumofnlus.ac.in
- Click on the CLAT 2026 counselling login link
- Enter your registered mobile number and password
- Submit the details to access your dashboard
- The CLAT 2026 first merit list/allotment status will appear on the screen
- Download and save the allotment result for future reference
What to Do After CLAT 2026 First Merit List?
Freeze, Float, or Withdraw: Options Explained
Candidates who are allotted a seat in the first merit list must choose one of the following options within the stipulated time:
- Freeze: Accept the allotted seat and confirm admission by paying the required fee.
- Float: Accept the current seat but remain open for upgradation in the next merit lists.
- Withdraw: Exit the counselling process and forgo the allotted seat.
Candidates opting for Freeze or Float must complete the fee payment to confirm participation in further rounds.
CLAT 2026 Counselling Schedule: Admissions Timeline
First Merit List Admission Window
- Admission Against First Merit List: January 7 to January 15, 2026
- Candidates must complete all required formalities, including document verification and fee payment, within this period.
Failure to act within the timeline may lead to cancellation of the allotted seat, which will then be offered to candidates in subsequent merit lists.
Why This Update Is Important for CLAT Aspirants
The release of the first merit list sets the tone for the entire counselling process. It helps candidates assess:
- Their chances of securing a preferred NLU
- Potential upgradation in future lists
- Strategic decisions between freeze and float options
All CLAT 2026 aspirants are advised to regularly monitor the official website and keep login credentials handy to avoid last-minute issues.