CLAT 2026: Everything You Need to Know About the Exam

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT 2026) is the most important entrance exam for students aspiring to pursue a career in law. Conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), the CLAT exam is the gateway to securing admission into the top law schools in India. With thousands of students competing each year, it is essential to have a well-structured preparation strategy to crack the exam.

This blog provides an in-depth guide on CLAT 2026, covering all aspects such as eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, important dates, preparation strategies, and expert tips to help you excel.

What is CLAT?

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT exam) is a national-level law entrance exam conducted annually for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs offered by 24 NLUs and other affiliated law colleges. The CLAT 2026 exam is expected to witness a large number of applicants due to its increasing popularity and the growing demand for legal education in India.

Why is CLAT Important?

1. Admission to Prestigious NLUs – Clearing CLAT 2026 gives you the opportunity to study at India’s top National Law Universities (NLUs).

2. Career Opportunities – A degree from an NLU opens up various career paths, including litigation, corporate law, judicial services, and more.

3. Scholarship and Financial Aid – Many NLUs offer scholarships and financial assistance based on CLAT scores.

   
   

CLAT 2026: Important Dates

While the official notification for CLAT 2026 is yet to be released, based on previous trends, here are the tentative dates:

Event	Tentative Date
Release of Notification	July 2025
Start of Online Registration	August 2025
Last Date to Apply	November 2025
Admit Card Release	December 2025
CLAT 2026 Exam Date	December 2025
Result Declaration	January 2026
Counseling and Admission	January – March 2026

It is crucial to keep track of these dates and ensure timely completion of the registration process.

Eligibility Criteria for CLAT 2026

For UG (LLB) Program

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) from a recognized board.

• Minimum Marks Required:

  • General/OBC/PWD/NRI candidates – 45%

  • SC/ST candidates – 40%

• Age Limit: No upper age limit for appearing in CLAT exam.

For PG (LLM) Program

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed an LLB degree from a recognized university.

• Minimum Marks Required:

  • General/OBC/PWD/NRI candidates – 50%

  • SC/ST candidates – 45%

• Age Limit: No upper age limit.

  
  

CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The CLAT exam follows a specific pattern for both UG and PG courses. Understanding the exam pattern is essential for effective preparation.

CLAT UG 2026 Exam Pattern

Section	Number of Questions	Weightage
English Language	22-26	20%
Current Affairs & General Knowledge	28-32	25%
Legal Reasoning	28-32	25%
Logical Reasoning	22-26	20%
Quantitative Techniques	10-14	10%
Total	120 questions	120 marks

• Duration: 2 hours

• Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer

CLAT PG 2026 Exam Pattern

Section	Number of Questions	Weightage
Constitutional Law	60	50%
Other Law Subjects (Jurisprudence, Contract, Torts, Criminal Law, International Law, etc.)	60	50%
Total	120 questions	120 marks

• Duration: 2 hours

• Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer

CLAT 2026 Syllabus

1. English Language

• Reading Comprehension

• Vocabulary-based questions

• Sentence correction

• Para jumbles

2. Current Affairs & General Knowledge

• National & International Events

• Government Schemes & Policies

• Legal Developments

• Sports & Awards

3. Legal Reasoning

• Legal principles

• Case laws and judgments

• Application of legal concepts

4. Logical Reasoning

• Blood relations

• Syllogisms

• Statements & assumptions

• Puzzle-based questions

5. Quantitative Techniques

• Data interpretation

• Percentages & Ratios

• Time & Work

• Probability

How to Prepare for CLAT 2026?

1. Create a Study Plan

• Divide the syllabus into daily, weekly, and monthly targets.

• Allocate more time to weaker areas.

• Revise regularly.

2. Read Newspapers Daily

• Focus on editorial sections for vocabulary and comprehension skills.

• Stay updated with legal news and national events.

3. Practice Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

• Attempt at least 20-30 full-length mock tests.

• Analyze mistakes and improve.

4. Join a Coaching Institute (If Needed)

• Coaching institutes provide expert guidance and structured study materials.

• Some of the best coaching centers include:

  • Law Prep Tutorial

  • Career Launcher

  • CLAT Possible

5. Improve Time Management Skills

• Solve questions within a set time limit.

• Prioritize sections based on strengths.

Best Books for CLAT 2026 Preparation

Section	Recommended Books
English Language	Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
General Knowledge	Manorama Yearbook, The Hindu Editorials
Legal Reasoning	Universal’s CLAT Guide
Logical Reasoning	Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey
Quantitative Techniques	Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal

CLAT 2026 Admit Card & Exam Day Guidelines

• Admit Card Release: The admit card for CLAT 2026 will be available on the official website.

• Documents Required:

  • Printed admit card

  • Valid ID proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)

• Exam Day Guidelines:

  • Reach the center at least 30 minutes before the exam.

  • Do not carry electronic gadgets, books, or notes.

  • Follow all COVID-19 guidelines if applicable.

Conclusion

The CLAT exam is one of the most competitive law entrance tests in India, and thorough preparation is key to success. With the right strategy, consistent effort, and effective time management, you can secure a seat at one of the top NLUs through CLAT 2026.

Stay dedicated, practice regularly, and follow a structured approach to maximize your chances of success. Best of luck with your Common Law Admission Test preparation!