CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) 2026 : Apply Now

CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a lawyer? Do you watch courtroom dramas and imagine yourself arguing cases, defending justice, or working with corporate giants? If yes, then CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) is your first step toward making that dream a reality.

CLAT is India's most important law entrance examination. It's the key that opens doors to the country's most prestigious law universities. Every year, thousands of students across India take this exam, hoping to secure a seat in top law schools that can shape their legal careers.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about CLAT - from what it is and why it matters, to how you can prepare for it and what opportunities it can create for your future.

Introduction to CLAT

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is one of the most prestigious national-level entrance examinations in India for students aspiring to build a career in law. Conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), CLAT is the gateway to 5-year integrated BA LL.B and 1-year LL.M programs offered by 27 NLUs across the country, along with several other top private law colleges.

Every year, over 70,000+ students compete for a limited number of seats, making CLAT one of the most competitive entrance exams in India. Apart from NLUs, various public and private universities also accept CLAT scores for admission to their law programs.

If you are planning to appear for CLAT 2025, this detailed guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, preparation tips, important dates, and top colleges.

Highlights of CLAT 2026

Exam Name: Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)
Conducting Body: Consortium of NLUs
Exam Level: National
Exam Frequency: Once a year
Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper)
Courses Offered: 5-Year Integrated BA LL.B & LL.M
Total Participating NLUs: 27
Official Website: https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in

CLAT 2026: Important Dates

Here are the key dates for students appearing in the CLAT 2026 exam:

Notification Release: 20 July 2025
Application Start Date: 1 August 2025
Last Date to Apply: 31 October 2025
Application Correction Window: October 2025 (tentatively)
Admit Card Release: Mid-November 2025 (tentatively)
CLAT 2026 Exam Date: 7 December 2025, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Provisional Answer Key: Early December 2025 (tentatively)
Final Answer Key: Mid-December 2025 (tentatively)
Result & Counselling: Mid to Late December 2025 (tentatively)

CLAT 2026: Overview

Important details and instructions for CLAT 2026 aspirants:

Exam Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper-based exam)
Application Submission: Online via the NLUs Consortium website → consortiumofnlus.ac.in
Exam Duration: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Timing for PWD Candidates: Extra 40 minutes likely → 2:00 PM to 4:40 PM
Number of Participating NLUs: 24 National Law Universities
For NRI Candidates:
- Must appear for CLAT 2026 if seeking admission through CLAT rankings
- Also required to apply directly to the concerned NLU
Seat Allotment & Admission Offers: Provisional and not guaranteed until completion of the admission process

CLAT 2026: Registration Fee

The registration fee for CLAT 2026 varies based on the candidate's category:

General / OBC Category: ₹ 4,000/-
SC / ST / PwD / BPL Category: ₹ 3,500/-

Note:

The fee is non-refundable.
Payment can be made online via credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI through the Consortium of NLUs website.
Candidates must complete the payment to successfully submit the application form.

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What is CLAT?

CLAT stands for Common Law Admission Test. Think of it as the "JEE for law students" - just like JEE is the gateway to engineering colleges, CLAT is the gateway to law colleges in India.

The Basics

Full Form: Common Law Admission Test
Type: National-level entrance examination
Purpose: Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs
Conducting Body: Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs)
Frequency: Once a year (usually in May)
Mode: Online (computer-based test)

Why Was CLAT Created?

Before CLAT existed, different law schools had their own separate entrance exams. Students had to appear for multiple tests, which was time-consuming and expensive. CLAT was introduced in 2008 to create a single, standardized test that could be used by all major law universities for admissions.

Types of CLAT Exams

CLAT has two main categories:

1. CLAT UG (Undergraduate)

For: Students who have completed 12th grade
Course: 5-year integrated BA LLB, BBA LLB, B.Com LLB, or BSc LLB
Age Limit: General category - no upper age limit; SC/ST - no upper age limit
Minimum Qualification: 10+2 with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates)

2. CLAT PG (Postgraduate)

For: Students who have completed LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
Course: 1-year or 2-year LLM (Master of Laws)
Age Limit: No upper age limit
Minimum Qualification: LLB degree with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST candidates)

Universities That Accept CLAT Scores

CLAT scores are accepted by 22 National Law Universities (NLUs) across India. These are some of the most prestigious law institutions in the country:

Top National Law Universities

Tier 1 NLUs

National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore - Often considered the best law school in India
National Law University (NLU), Delhi - Located in the capital, excellent for internships and placements
The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata - Known for its rigorous academic program
Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, IIT Kharagpur - Specialized in intellectual property law
Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar - Strong in corporate law and arbitration

Other Prominent NLUs

Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur
National Law University Odisha (NLUO), Cuttack
National Law University and Judicial Academy (NLUJA), Assam
Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna
National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi

What Makes These Universities Special?

Faculty: Experienced professors and visiting faculty from legal practice
Infrastructure: Modern libraries, moot courts, and research facilities
Placement: High placement rates with top law firms and corporate houses
Alumni Network: Graduates working in Supreme Court, High Courts, and leading companies
International Exposure: Exchange programs and collaborations with foreign universities

CLAT UG Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Let's break down the CLAT UG exam structure:

Exam Details

Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
Time per question: 1 minute on average
Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, -0.25 for wrong answer
Language: English
Mode: Computer-based test (online)

Subject-wise Distribution

1. English Language (28-32 questions)

What it tests: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar Question types:

Comprehension passages with questions
Fill in the blanks
Synonyms and antonyms
Grammar corrections
Sentence rearrangement

Why it matters: Legal profession requires excellent English skills for drafting, reading cases, and communication.

2. Current Affairs including General Knowledge (35-39 questions)

What it tests: Knowledge of recent events, history, politics, geography, economics Question types:

Current events from past 1-2 years
Static general knowledge
Awards and honors
Books and authors
Sports and entertainment
Government schemes and policies

Sources: Newspapers, magazines, government websites, current affairs compilations

3. Legal Reasoning (28-32 questions)

What it tests: Basic legal principles, logical reasoning, legal awareness Question types:

Legal principles with fact situations
Constitution of India basics
Legal maxims and terms
Landmark judgments
Rights and duties
Legal procedures

Important note: No prior legal knowledge required - principles are provided in questions

4. Logical Reasoning (28-32 questions)

What it tests: Analytical and logical thinking abilities Question types:

Syllogisms
Blood relations
Arrangements and seating
Logical sequences
Analogies
Puzzles and games
Assumptions and conclusions

5. Quantitative Techniques (13-17 questions)

What it tests: Basic mathematics up to Class 10 level Question types:

Arithmetic: Percentages, profit-loss, time-speed-distance
Algebra: Simple equations and inequalities
Geometry: Basic concepts
Data interpretation: Charts, graphs, tables
Statistics: Averages, ratios, proportions

Level: Class 10 mathematics - not too complex calculations

CLAT PG Exam Pattern

For students planning to pursue LLM after completing their LLB:

Exam Structure

Duration: 2 hours
Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
Marking: +1 for correct, -0.25 for incorrect
Sections: Constitutional Law, Jurisprudence, Administrative Law, Contract Law, Tort Law, Criminal Law, Property Law, Company Law, Public International Law, Tax Law, Environmental Law, Family Law, Labour Law

CLAT 2025 Syllabus (UG Program)

1. English Language

Comprehension passages
Vocabulary & grammar
Synonyms, antonyms
Sentence correction
Idioms & phrases

2. Current Affairs & General Knowledge

National & International events
Government policies
Sports, awards, books
Important legal developments

3. Legal Reasoning

Understanding legal passages
Application of laws
Principles & facts-based questions

4. Logical Reasoning

Analytical reasoning
Critical thinking
Statement & assumption-based questions

5. Quantitative Techniques

Basic arithmetic (Class 10 level)
Percentages, ratios, averages
Data interpretation

How to Apply for CLAT ?

Visit the official website: https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in
Click on “CLAT 2025 Registration”
Fill in personal and academic details
Upload necessary documents
Pay the application fee:
- General/OBC: ₹4,000
- SC/ST/BPL: ₹3,500
Submit the form and download the confirmation page.

Top 24 NLUs Accepting CLAT 2025 Scores

NLSIU, Bengaluru
NALSAR, Hyderabad
WBNUJS, Kolkata
NLU, Jodhpur
GNLU, Gandhinagar
NLIU, Bhopal
HNLU, Raipur
RMLNLU, Lucknow
RGNUL, Patiala
CNLU, Patna
NUALS, Kochi
DSNLU, Visakhapatnam
TNNLU, Tiruchirappalli
MNLU, Mumbai
MNLU, Nagpur
MNLU, Aurangabad
DNLU, Jabalpur
HPNLU, Shimla
DNLU, Ranchi
NLU, Odisha
NLU, Assam
NLU, Tripura
GNLU Silvassa
NLU, Sonepat

Best Private Colleges Accepting CLAT Scores

Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat
ICFAI Law School, Hyderabad
Amity Law School, Noida
KIIT School of Law, Bhubaneswar
Christ University, Bangalore

CLAT 2025 Cut-Offs (Expected)

NLU Bengaluru : 1 – 150
NALSAR Hyderabad : 151 – 400
WBNUJS Kolkata : 401 – 900
NLU Jodhpur : 901 – 1200
GNLU Gandhinagar : 1201 – 1600
NLIU Bhopal : 1601 – 2000

How to Prepare for CLAT

Success in CLAT requires systematic preparation, consistent effort, and smart study strategies. Here's a comprehensive preparation guide:

1. Understanding Your Starting Point

Self-Assessment

Before starting preparation, evaluate:

Your current knowledge level in each subject
Strengths and weaknesses
Available time for preparation
Target NLU and required scores

Setting Realistic Goals

If you're starting in Class 11: 18-24 months preparation
If you're starting in Class 12: 12-18 months preparation
If you're a dropper: 6-12 months intensive preparation

2. Subject-wise Preparation Strategy

English Language Preparation

Daily routine:

Read newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express, Times of India)
Read magazines (Outlook, India Today, Frontline)
Solve vocabulary exercises
Practice grammar rules
Read novels and legal documents

Key tips:

Focus on legal language and terminology
Improve reading speed without losing comprehension
Practice summarizing passages
Learn root words to understand difficult vocabulary

Current Affairs and General Knowledge

Sources:

Daily newspapers (essential!)
Monthly current affairs magazines
Government websites for schemes and policies
Yearbooks like Manorama or Arihant
Online current affairs websites

Organization:

Maintain monthly current affairs notes
Create topic-wise compilations
Review and revise regularly
Connect current events to legal implications

Legal Reasoning Preparation

Study materials:

Legal aptitude books by A.P. Bhardwaj or Legal Edge
Basic law books for understanding concepts
Previous year CLAT papers
Mock tests and practice questions

Approach:

Understand basic legal principles
Learn to apply principles to given facts
Practice identifying key legal issues
Study Constitution basics thoroughly

Logical Reasoning Strategy

Types to focus on:

Strengthen areas you find easiest first
Gradually work on difficult question types
Practice time management for each type
Develop shortcuts and techniques

Daily practice:

Solve at least 20-30 logical reasoning questions
Time yourself strictly
Analyze mistakes thoroughly
Learn from explanation videos or books

Quantitative Techniques Preparation

Mathematics review:

Revise Class 10 mathematics thoroughly
Focus on speed and accuracy
Practice mental calculations
Use shortcuts and tricks

Data Interpretation:

Practice reading charts and graphs quickly
Learn to estimate and approximate
Focus on accuracy over complex calculations

3. Study Plan and Time Management

Sample Daily Schedule (for Class 12 students)

Morning (2 hours): English + Current Affairs reading
Afternoon (2 hours): Legal Reasoning + Logical Reasoning
Evening (1 hour): Quantitative Techniques
Night (1 hour): Revision and mock test analysis

Weekly Schedule

Monday-Friday: Regular study as per daily schedule
Saturday: Full-length mock test + analysis
Sunday: Revision, weak area practice, and rest

4. Mock Tests and Practice

Importance of Mock Tests

Time management: Learn to complete exam in 2 hours
Question analysis: Understand CLAT question patterns
Performance tracking: Monitor improvement over time
Exam simulation: Reduce anxiety on actual exam day

Mock Test Strategy

Take at least 2-3 mock tests per week
Analyze every test thoroughly
Identify pattern in mistakes
Work on time management for each section
Don't just focus on scores, focus on learning

Best Books and Resources for CLAT

English Language

Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis - Essential for vocabulary
Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
High School English Grammar by Wren & Martin
Newspapers and magazines (daily reading essential)

Current Affairs and General Knowledge

Manorama Yearbook - Comprehensive GK coverage
Pratiyogita Darpan - Monthly current affairs
Chronicle IAS Academy monthly magazines
GKToday website for daily current affairs

Legal Reasoning

Legal Aptitude for CLAT by A.P. Bhardwaj
Legal Awareness and Legal Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe
Universal Guide to CLAT by Arihant Publications
Constitution of India by D.D. Basu (for basic understanding)

Logical Reasoning

A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT by Nishit Sinha
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

Quantitative Techniques

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
Class 10 NCERT Mathematics books

Online Resources

CLAT Possible - Mock tests and study materials
Career Launcher - Online courses and tests
Unacademy - Video lectures and live classes
LegalEdge - CLAT-specific preparation platform

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Preparation Mistakes

Starting too late: Don't underestimate the competition
Ignoring English: Many students focus only on reasoning and ignore language skills
Skipping current affairs: Daily reading is non-negotiable
Over-emphasizing one subject: Maintain balance across all sections
Not taking enough mock tests: Practice is crucial for time management

2. Exam Day Mistakes

Poor time management: Don't spend too much time on difficult questions
Not reading instructions carefully: Understand marking scheme and rules
Panic: Stay calm even if questions seem difficult
Random guessing: Be strategic about which questions to attempt
Technical issues: Familiarize yourself with computer-based testing

3. Strategy Mistakes

Perfectionism: Don't aim to solve every question - aim for maximum correct answers
Comparison with others: Focus on your own preparation journey
Information overload: Stick to standard books and resources
Neglecting health: Maintain physical and mental well-being during preparation

Career Opportunities After CLAT

Success in CLAT opens doors to numerous exciting career opportunities in the legal field and beyond:

1. Legal Practice

Litigation

Civil Lawyer: Handle property disputes, family matters, contracts
Criminal Lawyer: Defend or prosecute criminal cases
Constitutional Lawyer: Work on constitutional matters and public interest litigation
Appellate Lawyer: Specialize in appeals before High Courts and Supreme Court

Corporate Law

Corporate Lawyer in Law Firms: Work with top firms like AZB & Partners, Khaitan & Co
In-house Counsel: Legal advisor within companies
Mergers & Acquisitions: Handle corporate deals and transactions
Securities Law: Work with stock exchanges and financial regulations

2. Judicial Services

District Judge: Through state judicial service examinations
High Court Judge: Through elevation from district judiciary or direct appointment
Supreme Court Judge: Appointed by President of India

3. Government Services

Indian Legal Service (ILS): Legal advisor to Government of India
Advocate General: Legal advisor to state governments
Additional Solicitor General: Represent government in Supreme Court
Legal positions in IAS/IPS: Many civil servants have law backgrounds

4. Corporate Careers

Company Secretary: Handle corporate compliance and governance
Compliance Officer: Ensure companies follow laws and regulations
Legal Manager: Manage legal affairs of corporations
Contract Manager: Handle commercial contracts and agreements

5. Alternative Careers

Legal Journalism: Write for legal publications and newspapers
Legal Academia: Teach law in universities and colleges
Legal Research: Work with think tanks and research organizations
International Organizations: UN, World Bank, WTO, etc.
Legal Technology: Work with legal tech companies and startups

6. Entrepreneurship

Start Your Own Law Firm: Build your legal practice
Legal Consulting: Provide specialized legal advice
Legal Tech Startup: Create technology solutions for legal industry
Alternative Dispute Resolution: Become mediator or arbitrator

Salary Expectations and Growth

Starting Salaries (Fresh Graduates)

Top Law Firms: ₹15-25 lakhs per annum
Corporate In-house: ₹8-15 lakhs per annum
Government Services: ₹6-12 lakhs per annum
Individual Practice: Variable, depends on cases and clients

Mid-Career (5-10 years)

Senior Associates in Firms: ₹25-50 lakhs per annum
Corporate Legal Heads: ₹20-40 lakhs per annum
Government Senior Positions: ₹15-25 lakhs per annum
Successful Individual Practice: ₹20 lakhs+ per annum

Senior Level (10+ years)

Partners in Law Firms: ₹50 lakhs to several crores
General Counsel: ₹50+ lakhs per annum
Senior Government Officials: ₹25-50 lakhs per annum
Judicial Officers: ₹20-40 lakhs per annum

Tips for Success

Academic Excellence

Maintain Good Grades: Don't just focus on CLAT, keep your 12th grade percentage high
Participate in Activities: Debates, moot courts, legal awareness programs
Read Extensively: Develop a habit of reading newspapers, legal journals, and books
Learn Additional Skills: Computer skills, languages, research methodologies

Personal Development

Communication Skills: Essential for legal profession
Critical Thinking: Develop analytical abilities
Ethical Values: Understand the importance of professional ethics
Networking: Build relationships with seniors, professors, and peers

Long-term Vision

Specialize Early: Think about which area of law interests you most
Continuous Learning: Law keeps evolving, stay updated
Professional Development: Join bar associations, attend seminars
Mentorship: Find experienced lawyers who can guide your career

Conclusion

CLAT is not just an entrance examination; it's your first step toward a rewarding career in law. The legal profession offers diverse opportunities, intellectual challenges, and the chance to make a real difference in society. Whether you dream of arguing cases in the Supreme Court, advising multinational corporations, or fighting for social justice, CLAT can set you on the right path.

Success in CLAT requires dedicated preparation, consistent effort, and smart strategy. The competition is tough, but with the right approach and determination, you can achieve your goal of studying in India's top law schools.

Remember that becoming a lawyer is not just about passing CLAT or graduating from a prestigious NLU. It's about developing the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation needed to serve justice and society. The legal profession demands integrity, hard work, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

As you embark on your CLAT preparation journey, stay focused on your goals, maintain a balanced approach to studying, and don't forget to take care of your physical and mental health. The path may be challenging, but the destination is worth every effort you put in.

Your legal career awaits – and it all begins with CLAT. Start your preparation today, stay consistent, and remember that every successful lawyer was once a student preparing for their entrance exam, just like you are now.

Good luck with your CLAT preparation! The legal world needs dedicated, passionate, and capable professionals like you to uphold justice and serve society. Make your preparation count, and take the first step toward your dream legal career.

CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) 2026 : Apply Now

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