AILET 2026 Exam: Syllabus, Pattern, and Best Preparation Strategies
- Kanishka Makhijani
- Feb 1
- 3 min read
The AILET 2026 Exam (All India Law Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi). It serves as the gateway for admissions into the five-year B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), LL.M., and Ph.D. programs at NLU Delhi. Unlike CLAT, which is accepted by multiple National Law Universities (NLUs), AILET is exclusive to NLU Delhi.
If you're planning to appear for the AILET 2026 Exam, understanding the syllabus, exam pattern, and best preparation strategies is essential for success. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to ace the exam.

AILET 2026 Exam Pattern
Before diving into the syllabus and preparation strategies, let's first understand the structure of the AILET 2026 Exam. The exam pattern plays a crucial role in determining how to prepare effectively.
AILET 2026 UG (B.A. LL.B.) Exam Pattern
Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
English Language | 50 | 50 |
Current Affairs & General Knowledge | 30 | 30 |
Logical Reasoning | 70 | 70 |
Total | 150 | 150 |
Duration: 90 minutes
Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer
Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper)
Unlike CLAT, AILET does not include Legal Aptitude or Mathematics sections for UG aspirants. Logical Reasoning plays a significant role in the AILET 2026 Exam, making it a decisive factor in scoring high.
AILET 2026 LL.M. Exam Pattern
For candidates applying for LL.M. admission at NLU Delhi, the pattern includes:
Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
English Language | 50 | 50 |
Legal Reasoning | 50 | 50 |
Subjective Section (Essay) | 2 (Out of 3) | 50 |
Total Marks: 150
Duration: 90 minutes
Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect answers (Objective section)
The subjective section requires candidates to write essays on contemporary legal issues or law-related topics, testing their analytical and writing skills.
AILET 2026 Ph.D. Exam Pattern
For Ph.D. aspirants, the exam includes:
50 Objective Questions on Research Aptitude and Law (50 marks)
1 Research Proposal (50 marks)
AILET 2026 Exam Syllabus
1. English Language
This section tests vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. The key topics include:
Reading Comprehension
Sentence Correction
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & Phrases
Cloze Test
Para Jumbles
2. Current Affairs & General Knowledge
This section covers:
National & International Events
Indian Polity & Constitution
History & Geography
Important Government Schemes
Sports & Awards
Reading newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, and The Economic Times daily can be highly beneficial.
3. Logical Reasoning
Logical reasoning is the most critical section in the AILET 2026 Exam. Topics include:
Analytical Reasoning
Syllogisms
Blood Relations
Critical Reasoning
Logical Deductions
Statement & Assumption
Practicing previous years’ AILET and CLAT logical reasoning questions will help in mastering this section.
4. Legal Reasoning (For LL.M. & Ph.D.)
For LL.M. aspirants, the legal reasoning section tests knowledge of:
Constitutional Law
Contract Law
Criminal Law
Tort Law
Jurisprudence
Understanding case laws and landmark judgments is essential.
Best Preparation Strategies for AILET 2026
1. Create a Study Plan
A structured study plan covering all sections is crucial. Allocate time based on the weightage of each section, with special focus on Logical Reasoning.
2. Master Logical Reasoning
Since Logical Reasoning holds maximum weightage, practice regularly using books like RS Aggarwal's Logical Reasoning and Universal’s Guide to CLAT & AILET.
3. Read Newspapers Daily
Stay updated with national and international news, legal developments, and important judgments to score well in the GK and Current Affairs section.
4. Take Mock Tests
Regular mock tests and previous years' papers help in understanding the pattern and improving accuracy. Analyze mistakes after each test.
5. Improve Reading Speed
The English section has comprehension-based questions, making reading speed and accuracy important. Practice with editorials from The Hindu and The Indian Express.
6. Strengthen Vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is essential for both English and Legal Reasoning. Use flashcards, apps like Magoosh Vocabulary Builder, and books like Word Power Made Easy.
7. Revise Legal Concepts (For LL.M.)
For LL.M. aspirants, revising key legal subjects and writing structured essays with proper legal reasoning is essential.
Conclusion
The AILET 2026 Exam is one of the toughest law entrance exams in India. Success requires strategic preparation, time management, and regular practice. Focus on Logical Reasoning, stay updated with current affairs, and take regular mock tests to enhance performance. With disciplined preparation, you can secure admission to NLU Delhi and take the first step toward a promising legal career.
Are you preparing for AILET 2026? Share your preparation strategies in the comments!
Hi Kanishka,
Great article! You explained the AILET exam pattern clearly. I liked your tips on focusing on Logical Reasoning and reading The Hindu for current affairs. Your book suggestions are helpful too!
Many top BA LLB colleges in Delhi NCR recommend similar strategies. Thanks for sharing this useful guide!