CLAT 2026: Exam Dates, Registration, Syllabus, Pattern, Eligibility & Preparation Tips

Introduction to CLAT 2026

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) stands as the most esteemed law entrance examination in India for those aspiring to enroll in undergraduate and postgraduate law programs provided by National Law Universities (NLUs) and other affiliated institutions. Organized by the Consortium of NLUs, the scores from CLAT are broadly recognized for LL.B., LL.M., and integrated law courses. Successfully passing CLAT 2026 can pave the way to premier 5-year integrated law programs and advanced law degrees throughout the nation.

CLAT 2026 Exam Dates

The official notification for CLAT 2026 is released , and the exam will be conducted on December 07, 2025, as CLAT now follows an early exam cycle. Below is the tentative schedule:

Eligibility Criteria for CLAT 2026

UG (LL.B. 5-year Integrated Program):

• Must have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board.

• Minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates).

• No age limit.

PG (LL.M. Program):

• Must hold an LL.B. degree or equivalent from a recognized university.

• Minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).

CLAT 2026 Registration Process

Steps to Apply Online:

1. Visit the official website: consortiumofnlus.ac.in

2. Register with your email ID and mobile number.

3. Fill in personal, academic, and communication details.

4. Upload passport-size photograph and signature.

5. Pay the application fee:

   • General/OBC - ₹4,000/-

   • SC/ST/BPL/PwD - ₹3,500/-

6. Submit the form and download the confirmation page.

CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern

UG Program:

• Mode: Offline (Pen-Paper based)

• Duration: 2 hours

• Total Questions: 120 (MCQs)

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

Sections for UG CLAT:

1. English Language

2. Current Affairs including General Knowledge

3. Legal Reasoning

4. Logical Reasoning

5. Quantitative Techniques

PG Program:

• Mode: Offline

• Total Questions: 120 (MCQs from Core Law subjects)

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

CLAT 2026 Syllabus Highlights

UG CLAT Key Topics:

• English Language: Vocabulary, comprehension, grammar

• Legal Reasoning: Legal principles, current legal issues

• Current Affairs: National & international events, awards, government schemes

• Logical Reasoning: Critical reasoning, puzzles, analytical reasoning

• Quantitative Techniques: Basic arithmetic, ratios, percentages, and data interpretation

PG CLAT Key Topics:

• Constitutional Law

• Jurisprudence

• Contract Law

• Criminal Law

• International Law

Top Law Colleges Accepting CLAT 2026 Scores

National Law Universities (NLUs):

1. NLSIU Bangalore

2. NALSAR Hyderabad

3. WBNUJS Kolkata

4. NLU Jodhpur

5. NLU Delhi (separate exam: AILET, but considers CLAT for LLM)

6. NLU Bhopal

7. NLU Lucknow

Other private law schools like Symbiosis Law School, Alliance School of Law, and Amity Law School also consider CLAT scores for admissions.

CLAT 2026 Preparation Tips

• Start Early: Begin at least 8-10 months before the exam.

• Focus on Legal Reasoning & GK: These sections carry the highest weightage.

• Daily Newspaper Reading: Improves current affairs and legal updates.

• Mock Tests & Previous Papers: Practice time-bound tests for accuracy and speed.

• Join Online Test Series: Helps simulate exam environment.

CLAT Admit Card & Exam Day Guidelines

• Download the CLAT 2026 Admit Card from the official website in November 2025.

• Check details like exam center, reporting time, and roll number.

• Carry admit card, valid ID proof, and a simple pen to the exam hall.

• Avoid electronic gadgets and follow all instructions mentioned on the admit card.

Result & Counseling Process

• Results: To be declared shortly.

• Candidates can download their scorecard from the official portal.

• Merit list & counseling: Based on All India Rank (AIR).

• Seat allotment: Done in multiple rounds for NLUs.

Conclusion

CLAT 2026 opens the door to esteemed NLUs and leading law schools across India. Begin your preparation ahead of time, concentrate on legal reasoning and current events, and consistently engage in mock tests.
By employing the right strategy and maintaining steady effort, you can achieve a high rank and realize your aspiration of a career in law.

Focus, practice, and make CLAT 2026 your success story !