CLAT 2026 Registration, Exam Pattern, and Eligibility Criteria
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national-level entrance examination in India, conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs). It facilitates admissions to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs across 22 NLUs and various affiliated institutions.
CLAT 2026 Registration:
The registration process for CLAT 2026 is anticipated to commence in July 2025, with the application window remaining open until November 2025. Prospective candidates can complete their applications online through the official CLAT website.
Steps to Register:
- Visit the Official Website: Access the Consortium of NLUs’ official portal.
- Register: Provide your name, email address, and mobile number to create a new account.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in personal, academic, and contact details as required.
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and any other necessary documents in the specified formats.
- Select Preferences: Choose your preferred NLUs and exam centers.
- Pay Application Fee: The fee is ₹4,000 for General/OBC candidates and ₹3,500 for SC/ST candidates, payable online.
- Submit Application: Review all entered information and finalize your application.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Undergraduate Courses:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
- Minimum Marks: At least 45% for General/OBC candidates and 40% for SC/ST candidates.
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for CLAT UG applicants.
- Postgraduate Courses:
- Educational Qualification: Applicants should hold an LL.B. degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
- Minimum Marks: 50% for General/OBC candidates and 45% for SC/ST candidates.
- Age Limit: No upper age limit is specified for CLAT PG candidates.
Exam Pattern:
- Mode: Offline (pen-and-paper).
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Type of Questions: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
- Total Questions: 120.
- Marking Scheme: Each correct answer awards 1 mark; each incorrect answer incurs a penalty of 0.25 marks.
Section-wise Distribution:
- English Language: 22-26 questions (approximately 20% of the paper).
- Current Affairs, including General Knowledge: 28-32 questions (approximately 25%).
- Legal Reasoning: 28-32 questions (approximately 25%).
- Logical Reasoning: 22-26 questions (approximately 20%).
- Quantitative Techniques (Mathematics): 10-14 questions (approximately 10%).
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official CLAT website for updates on registration dates, detailed eligibility criteria, and any changes to the exam pattern. Thorough preparation, including familiarization with the exam structure and consistent practice, is essential for success in CLAT 2026.