CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)

About the exam

CLAT UG is used for admission to five-year integrated programmes such as BA LLB, BBA LLB and B.Com LLB at participating NLUs. Many private law schools and some public-sector organisations also use CLAT scores.

The exam is comprehension-based: most questions follow passages that test reading, reasoning and application. It does not require prior knowledge of law. For the career itself, see Lawyer.

Who takes this exam

• Students in Class 11–12 from any stream who are interested in law
• Students seeking admission to National Law Universities
• Students also considering related tests such as AILET or state law entrance exams

Eligibility (general)

• Class 12 or equivalent, with minimum marks set by the Consortium (with relaxation for reserved categories)
• Students appearing for Class 12 in the exam year can apply
• No upper age limit under current rules
• Each NLU has its own domicile reservation and category rules

Exam pattern

Syllabus overview

There is no fixed textbook syllabus. The skills tested are reading speed and comprehension, reasoning, awareness of current affairs and basic numeracy. Regular reading of a good newspaper and editorial content is one of the most effective forms of preparation.

The exam has a fixed duration with a single sitting, marks for correct answers and a deduction for wrong answers. Check the current pattern notice for the number of questions and marking scheme.

Courses and institutions it leads to

Most NLUs participate in CLAT; National Law University Delhi admits through its own exam, AILET. Many private universities and state law colleges accept CLAT scores or run their own tests. See Career Options After Class 12 Arts / Humanities and Career Options After Class 12 Commerce for how law fits with each stream.

How the process usually works

1. RegisterApply online through the Consortium's portal during the application window.
2. Take the examPen-and-paper test at designated centres, as per recent practice.
3. Answer key and resultProvisional answer key, objections, final key and merit list.
4. Centralised counsellingRegister for counselling, rank NLU preferences and pay the counselling fee.
5. Seat allotmentSeats are allotted in rounds; accept, lock or upgrade as per the rules and pay fees on time.

How to prepare

1. Read dailyBuild reading speed and comprehension with editorials, long-form articles and quality non-fiction.
2. Track current affairsMaintain monthly notes on major events; understand context, not just headlines.
3. Practise passage-based reasoningSolve legal and logical reasoning passages regularly and review why each answer is right.
4. Take full mock testsTime management across sections is critical in a passage-heavy paper.

After the result

Choose NLUs by considering reputation, faculty, location, fees, internships and your career goals. Keep other offers — AILET, state law tests, private universities — in view until your seat is confirmed.

Remember that practising as an advocate later requires enrolment with a State Bar Council and passing the All India Bar Examination.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Treating CLAT as a memory test instead of a reasoning test
• Neglecting current affairs until the last months
• Ignoring the negative marking
• Applying only to NLUs without backups
• Not checking domicile reservations at state NLUs

Alternatives and backup options

• AILET for National Law University Delhi
• State law entrance tests such as TS LAWCET, AP LAWCET and MH CET Law
• University-specific law tests
• A three-year LLB after graduation

Frequently asked questions