CLAT 2026 Exam Overview: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, and Preparation
- Kanishka Makhijani
- Jan 9
- 4 min read
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is the most prominent entrance examination for law aspirants in India. Conducted annually by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), the test serves as a gateway to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs at 22 NLUs and other participating institutions. For students targeting CLAT 2026, understanding the exam's nuances is vital to crafting a successful preparation strategy. This blog provides an in-depth overview of the exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation tips.
CLAT 2026: Key Dates
The official notification for CLAT 2026 is expected to be released in the second half of 2025. Below is a tentative timeline to help you plan your preparation:
Release of Notification: August 2025
Start of Application Process: August 2025
Last Date to Apply: November 2025
Admit Card Release: December 2025
CLAT 2026 Exam Date: December 2025
Results Announcement: January 2026
Stay updated with announcements from the official CLAT Consortium website to avoid missing any important deadlines.
CLAT Eligibility Criteria
Before diving into preparation, ensure you meet the CLAT Eligibility Criteria:
For Undergraduate Programs
Candidates must have completed Class 12 or an equivalent examination with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates).
Students appearing in their Class 12 exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply, provided they meet the minimum marks requirement at the time of admission.
For Postgraduate Programs
Applicants must hold an LLB degree or an equivalent qualification with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).
Final-year LLB students are also eligible to apply, subject to meeting the eligibility requirements during admission.
There is no upper age limit for either UG or PG programs, ensuring broad accessibility for all candidates.
CLAT Exam Pattern
Understanding the CLAT Exam Pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The exam pattern differs slightly for UG and PG programs:
For Undergraduate (UG) CLAT
Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 2 hours
Sections:
English Language
Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
Legal Reasoning
Logical Reasoning
Quantitative Techniques
Marking Scheme:
+1 mark for each correct answer
-0.25 marks for each incorrect answer
For Postgraduate (PG) CLAT
Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 2 hours
Focus Areas: Constitutional law, jurisprudence, and other core law subjects.
Marking Scheme: Similar to the UG pattern.
The UG exam emphasizes comprehension and reasoning skills, while the PG exam assesses in-depth legal knowledge.
CLAT 2026 Syllabus
1. English Language
Focus on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. Practice passages and questions that test your ability to infer and analyze.
2. Current Affairs and General Knowledge
Stay updated with current events, legal developments, and general knowledge. Topics may include:
National and international events
Important awards and honors
Historical and geographical facts
3. Legal Reasoning
This section evaluates your understanding of legal principles and their application. It includes passages followed by questions on:
Legal concepts
Case laws
Logical application of laws
4. Logical Reasoning
Practice questions that test your ability to identify patterns, logical sequences, and arguments. Topics include:
Analogies
Syllogisms
Critical reasoning
5. Quantitative Techniques
Focus on basic mathematics concepts from Class 10, such as:
Arithmetic
Ratios and proportions
Time, speed, and distance
Data interpretation
Recommended Best Books for CLAT
Using the Best Books for CLAT ensures that you prepare with high-quality, comprehensive resources. Here are some top recommendations:
English Language:
"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis
"High School English Grammar and Composition" by Wren & Martin
Current Affairs and General Knowledge:
"Manorama Yearbook"
Daily newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express
Legal Reasoning:
"Legal Aptitude for the CLAT and Other Law Entrance Examinations" by A.P. Bhardwaj
Logical Reasoning:
"Analytical Reasoning" by MK Pandey
Quantitative Techniques:
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by RS Aggarwal
Preparation Tips for CLAT 2026
1. Create a Study Plan
Allocate time for each section and stick to a disciplined study routine. Ensure your plan includes time for revision and mock tests.
2. Practice Regularly
Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam's difficulty level and question types.
Take online mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
Identify sections where you are struggling and dedicate extra time to improve them. Seek help from mentors or coaching institutes if required.
4. Stay Updated
Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online portals to stay informed about current affairs and legal developments.
5. Time Management
Practice solving questions under timed conditions to enhance your time management skills during the exam.
Exam Day Tips
Reach Early: Arrive at the exam center well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Read Instructions Carefully: Go through the question paper instructions thoroughly before starting.
Prioritize Sections: Attempt easier sections first to secure maximum marks quickly.
Avoid Guesswork: Answer only those questions you are confident about to minimize negative marking.
Conclusion
CLAT 2026 is a highly competitive exam that requires thorough preparation and a focused approach. By understanding the CLAT Exam Pattern, meeting the CLAT Eligibility Criteria, and studying with the Best Books for CLAT, you can maximize your chances of success. Start your preparation early, stay consistent, and practice regularly to secure admission to your dream law school.
Good luck with your CLAT 2026 journey!
Comments