CLAT Exam: All Details & Guide for Beginners

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs in India. Conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), CLAT serves as the gateway to some of the most prestigious law schools in the country. If you aspire to build a career in law, understanding the nuances of this exam is essential. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of the CLAT 2026 exam, offering insights for beginners and helping you prepare effectively.

What is the CLAT Exam?

CLAT is an aptitude-based exam that evaluates a candidate's comprehension, reasoning, and legal acumen. It is primarily aimed at students who wish to pursue:

Undergraduate Programs (LLB): A five-year integrated law program like BA LLB, BBA LLB, BCom LLB, or BSc LLB.
Postgraduate Programs (LLM): A one-year specialized master's degree in law for those who have already completed an LLB.

The CLAT score is accepted not only by the 24 National Law Universities but also by several private and state law colleges across India.

Key Highlights of CLAT 2026

Exam Conducting Body

The exam is organized by the Consortium of National Law Universities, which rotates the responsibility among its member NLUs. The consortium also ensures a standardized and transparent examination process.

Exam Mode

CLAT 2026 will be conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode. Candidates will mark their answers on an OMR sheet.

Language

The question paper will be available in English only.

Duration

The exam duration is 2 hours (120 minutes).

Frequency

CLAT is held once a year. For 2026, it is expected to be conducted in December 2026, as part of the updated schedule to accommodate academic calendars.

Eligibility

Undergraduate:

Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their Class 12th or equivalent with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates).
Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for CLAT UG.

Postgraduate:

Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their LLB degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).
Age Limit: No upper age limit applies for CLAT PG as well.

Exam Pattern for CLAT 2026

CLAT UG (Undergraduate Level)

The UG exam is designed to test a candidate's ability to comprehend and analyze complex information. The key details of the UG exam pattern are:

Total Marks: 120
Number of Questions: 120
Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Sections:
- English Language
- Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
- Legal Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Techniques
Marking Scheme:
- +1 for each correct answer
- -0.25 for each incorrect answer

Section-Wise Weightage

English Language: Approximately (20% of the paper). Focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar.
Current Affairs & General Knowledge: Around (25%). Covers national and international events, awards, and static GK.
Legal Reasoning: About (25%). Assesses understanding of legal principles and their application.
Logical Reasoning: Roughly (20%). Includes puzzles, syllogisms, and critical reasoning.
Quantitative Techniques: Around (10%). Focuses on basic mathematics, graphs, and data interpretation.

CLAT PG (Postgraduate Level)

The PG exam assesses advanced legal knowledge and understanding of core law subjects. The details are:

Total Marks: 120
Number of Questions: 120
Question Type: MCQs based on comprehension passages.
Sections:
- Constitutional Law
- Jurisprudence
- Administrative Law, Contract Law, Torts, and other core areas
Marking Scheme:
- +1 for each correct answer
- -0.25 for each incorrect answer

Syllabus Overview for CLAT 2026

Undergraduate Level

1. English Language

Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms
Grammar and Sentence Correction
Passage-based questions

2. Current Affairs and General Knowledge

Recent news and developments
Important awards, sports events, and personalities
Indian and world history
Economics and environment-related issues

3. Legal Reasoning

Legal principles and facts
Analytical application of legal rules
Legal maxims and terminology

4. Logical Reasoning

Critical reasoning and argumentation
Syllogisms and logical puzzles
Analytical reasoning problems

5. Quantitative Techniques

Basic arithmetic (Class 10 level)
Profit and loss, percentages, ratios
Graph and data interpretation

Postgraduate Level

1. Constitutional Law

Fundamental Rights
Directive Principles
Judiciary, Parliament, and Executive

2. Jurisprudence

Schools of Law
Legal theories and principles

3. Other Core Areas

Law of Contracts
Law of Torts
Criminal Law
Family Law

Preparation Strategy for CLAT 2025

1. Understand the Exam Pattern

Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and marking scheme. Practice mock tests to get comfortable with the pattern.

2. Develop a Study Plan

Divide your preparation into manageable segments. Allocate specific time for each section and stick to the schedule.

3. Read Newspapers Daily

For Current Affairs and English, regularly reading newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express can improve vocabulary and general knowledge.

4. Practice Legal Reasoning

Solve case studies and learn to apply legal principles. Refer to past years’ question papers for practice.

5. Work on Speed and Accuracy

Time management is crucial in CLAT. Practice mock tests and time-bound exercises to enhance speed without compromising accuracy.

6. Take Mock Tests

Enroll in online or offline mock test series. Analyze your performance after every test to identify and improve weak areas.

7. Refer to Standard Study Material

English: Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
Legal Reasoning: Legal Aptitude for the CLAT and Other Law Entrance Examinations by A.P. Bhardwaj
Logical Reasoning: RS Aggarwal’s reasoning books
Mathematics: Class 10 NCERT

Tips for Beginners

Start Early: Begin preparation at least 10-12 months before the exam.
Stay Consistent: Regular study is more effective than last-minute cramming.
Seek Guidance: Join coaching classes or seek mentorship if needed.
Revise Regularly: Regular revision helps retain information.
Stay Updated: Keep track of the latest news, legal developments, and exam notifications.

Registration Process for CLAT 2026

1. Application Form

The application process for CLAT 2026 will be available on the official website of the Consortium of NLUs. Candidates need to:

Register using an email ID and phone number.
Fill out personal, academic, and communication details.
Upload required documents like photograph, signature, and caste certificate (if applicable).

Exam Day Guidelines

Carry Admit Card: Download it from the official website.
Reach Early: Arrive at the center at least an hour before the reporting time.
Carry Essentials: Photo ID, pens, and admit card are mandatory.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to the invigilator's instructions strictly.

Career Opportunities After CLAT

Graduates from NLUs enjoy excellent career prospects, including:

Corporate Law: Join top law firms or multinational corporations.
Judiciary: Appear for judicial services exams to become a judge.
Civil Services: Use your legal background to excel in administrative services.
Litigation: Build a career as an advocate practicing in courts.
Academia and Research: Contribute to legal education and research.

Conclusion

The CLAT exam is a stepping stone for a fulfilling career in law. Whether you aim to specialize in corporate law, litigation, or legal research, success in CLAT opens doors to unparalleled opportunities. With consistent preparation, a strategic approach, and the right resources, you can ace the CLAT 2026 and secure admission to your dream law school.

Take the first step today—prepare smart, stay focused, and let your legal aspirations take flight!