CLAT 2026 Exam Date (Out): Registration, Syllabus, Eligibility, Pattern & Preparation Tips
The CLAT 2026 exam date has finally been announced!
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 is scheduled to be conducted on 7th December 2025 (Sunday) from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in offline (pen-and-paper) mode.
Initially, there was a clash between CLAT 2026 and AILET 2026, as both exams were planned for the same day. However, NLU Delhi has now rescheduled the AILET 2026 exam date to 14th December 2025, giving aspirants a valuable week’s gap to prepare for both important law entrance exams.
In this detailed blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about CLAT 2026 — including the exam date, registration process, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and most importantly, expert preparation tips to help you ace the CLAT 2026 and secure admission to your dream NLU.
What is CLAT 2026?
CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted for admission to undergraduate (LLB) and postgraduate (LLM) law programs offered by the 22 National Law Universities (NLUs) across India.
The CLAT exam assesses a candidate’s reading ability, logical reasoning, legal aptitude, and analytical skills through comprehension-based multiple-choice questions (MCQs). It aims to identify students with strong critical thinking and interpretation skills — essential qualities for a successful legal career.
The Consortium of National Law Universities (CNLU) organizes the CLAT every year, with one NLU acting as the conducting body on a rotational basis.
Thinking about building a career in law? Before you start your journey, read our detailed guide on What You Need to Know Before Pursuing a Law Degree
CLAT 2026 Highlights
To help you get a quick overview, here are the key highlights of the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 at a glance:
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) |
| Exam Level | National-Level Entrance Exam |
| Frequency | Once a Year |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen and Paper Based) |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) |
| Exam Date | 7th December 2025 (Sunday) |
| Exam Timing | 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for Correct Answer, -0.25 for Incorrect Answer |
| Medium of Exam | English |
| Participating NLUs | 22 National Law Universities (Except NLU Delhi) |
| Official Website | https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in |
CLAT 2026 Exam Dates
The Consortium of National Law Universities (CNLU) has officially released the CLAT 2026 exam schedule. As per the notification dated 20th July 2025, the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 will be held on 7th December 2025 (Sunday) from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in offline (pen-and-paper) mode.
This year’s schedule provides students ample time to prepare, especially since AILET 2026 has been postponed to 14th December 2025, avoiding any clash between the two top law entrance exams.
Candidates appearing for CLAT 2026 should keep track of the complete timeline — from the application process to result declaration — to avoid missing any crucial deadlines.
| Event | Date | Status |
| CLAT 2026 Notification Release | 20 July 2025 | Released |
| Application Form Start Date | 1 August 2025 | Active |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 October 2025 | Active |
| Admit Card Release | 3rd Week of November 2025 | Expected |
| CLAT 2026 Exam Date | 7 December 2025 (Sunday) | Confirmed |
| Provisional Answer Key | 8–9 December 2025 | Expected |
| Final Answer Key | 3rd Week of December 2025 | Expected |
| Result Declaration | 3rd Week of December 2025 | Expected |
| Counselling Begins | Last Week of December 2025 | Expected |
CLAT 2026 Exam Day Schedule
Reporting Time: 1:00 PM onwards
Exam Time: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
Documents Required: Admit Card and a Valid Photo ID
CLAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements set by the Consortium of National Law Universities (CNLU). The eligibility criteria vary slightly for Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) law programs.
Below is a detailed overview of the CLAT 2026 eligibility criteria including educational qualifications, minimum marks, and age limit.
For Undergraduate (UG) – BA LLB (5-Year Integrated Law Program)
| Particulars | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Candidates must have completed **Class 12 (10+2)** or an equivalent examination from a recognized board |
| Minimum Marks Required | 45% marks** for *General / OBC / PWD / NRI / PIO / OCI* candidates. **40% marks** for *SC / ST* candidates |
| Appearing Candidates | Students appearing in **Class 12th (2025)** are also eligible to apply, provided they produce proof of passing at the time of admission. |
| Age Limit | There is **no upper age limit** for appearing in CLAT 2026. |
For Postgraduate (PG) – LLM Program
| Particulars | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Candidates must have completed an LLB or equivalent law degree from a recognized university or institution |
| Minimum Marks Required | 50% marks** for *General / OBC / PWD / NRI / PIO / OCI* candidates. **45% marks** for *SC / ST* candidates |
| Appearing Candidates | Final-year LLB students can also apply, subject to submission of the qualifying degree at the time of admission |
| Age Limit | No age restriction** for CLAT PG applicants |
CLAT 2026 Application Process
The CLAT 2026 application process has begun, and aspiring candidates can apply online through the official CLAT website: consortiumofnlus.ac.in. Candidates must carefully follow the steps to ensure a successful application submission.
The application window is open from 1st August 2025 to 31st October 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for CLAT 2026
Visit the Official Website
Go to https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in and navigate to the CLAT 2026 application portal.
Register an Account
Create an account using your name, valid email ID, and mobile number. A verification link or OTP will be sent for account activation.
Fill in Personal and Academic Details
Enter your personal information, educational qualifications, and other required details carefully.
1) Upload Required Documents
2) Upload scanned copies of:
3) Recent passport-sized photograph
4) Signature
Other relevant certificates or documents
5) Select NLU Preferences
6) Choose the NLUs you wish to apply to in order of preference.
Pay the Application Fee
The CLAT 2026 application fee can be paid via:
1) Credit/Debit Card
2) Net Banking
3) UPI
4) Submit the Application
Review all details carefully and submit the form. Download and save the confirmation receipt for future reference.
CLAT 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / OBC / PWD / NRI / PIO / OCI | ₹4,000 |
| SC / ST / BPL | ₹3,500 |
CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
| Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Type | MCQs |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct, -0.25 for incorrect |
| Medium | English |
UG CLAT Sections
1) English Language
2) General Knowledge & Current Affairs
3) Legal Reasoning
4) Logical Reasoning
5) Quantitative Techniques
PG CLAT Sections
1) Constitutional Law
2) Other Law Subjects (Contracts, Family Law, Torts, etc.)
CLAT 2026 Syllabus Overview
| Section | Major Topics |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Para Jumbles |
| Current Affairs & GK | Constitution, Economy, Awards, Reports, Government Schemes |
| Legal Reasoning | Contracts, Torts, Criminal Law, Family Law, Legal Issues |
| Logical Reasoning | Arguments, Inference, Syllogisms, Analytical Reasoning, Puzzles |
| Quantitative Techniques | Percentages, Ratios, Time-Speed-Distance, Profit & Loss, Data Interpretation |
CLAT 2026 Preparation Tips
Here are some effective and practical strategies that will help you clear CLAT 2026 with confidence:
1. Understand the Exam Thoroughly
Start by analyzing the exam pattern, syllabus, weightage, and previous year papers. This will help you identify the sections that require more focus and effort. Understanding the structure of the exam is the first step toward effective preparation.
2. Master Reading Comprehension
Since CLAT is heavily passage-based, develop strong reading and comprehension skills.
1) Read quality English newspapers daily such as The Hindu, The Indian Express, or The Economist.
2) Practice summarizing long passages to improve both comprehension and retention.
3) Focus on understanding arguments, tone, and inference.
3. Ace Current Affairs
Cover at least 12 months of current affairs prior to the exam. Pay special attention to:
1) National and international events
2) Government schemes and policies
3) Legal developments
4) Environmental news and reports
5) Make concise notes for regular revision.
4. Strengthen Legal Reasoning
Avoid rote memorization of laws. Instead:
1) Understand legal principles conceptually.
2) Practice applying them to case-based or situational questions.
3) Work on identifying the correct application of principles in varied contexts.
5. Take Mock Tests Regularly
1) Attempt at least 25–30 full-length mock tests before the exam.
2) Analyze your performance after each test.
3) Focus on accuracy, time management, and question selection.
4) Identify weak areas and work on them systematically.
6. Prioritize Revision
1) Keep short notes handy for last-minute revision.
2) Revise key concepts regularly to ensure long-term retention.
3) Do not ignore frequently asked or high-weightage topics during your final phase.
7. Stay Calm and Consistent
Consistency is the real key to success in CLAT. Maintain a steady pace, follow your schedule, and avoid burnout. Stay calm, positive, and disciplined throughout your preparation journey.
CLAT 2026 FAQs
Q1. What is the official exam date for CLAT 2026?
CLAT 2026 will be held on 7th December 2025 (Sunday) from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Q2. When will the registration for CLAT 2026 end?
The last date to apply for CLAT 2026 is 31st October 2025.
Q3. How many NLUs participate in CLAT 2026?
A total of 22 National Law Universities (NLUs) participate in CLAT, except NLU Delhi, which conducts its own exam — AILET.
Q4. What is the marking scheme for CLAT 2026?
+1 mark for every correct answer
–0.25 mark for every incorrect answer
Q5. Is there any age limit for CLAT 2026?
No, there is no upper age limit to appear for CLAT 2026.
Q6. How can I prepare effectively for CLAT 2026?
Build a daily reading habit (newspapers, editorials, and legal articles).
Solve previous years’ question papers regularly.
Take mock tests to improve accuracy and time management.
Final Words
The countdown for CLAT 2026 has officially begun!
The exam is scheduled for 7th December 2025, and now is the perfect time to begin structured preparation to secure a strong score and achieve your dream of becoming a successful lawyer.
Stay focused, study smartly, and — most importantly — remain consistent.
Consistency is the ultimate secret to cracking CLAT and earning a seat at your dream NLU.
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