10 Things Every CLAT Aspirant Must Know Before Applying

1. Purpose of CLAT Exam

CLAT stands for Common Law Admission Test. It is an important exam for students who want to study law from an NLU in India. 

CLAT helps students get into the top law schools called National Law Universities (NLUs). These universities offer great education and opportunities in the field of law.

The purpose of CLAT is to test students’ knowledge and skills in different subjects like English, General Knowledge & Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. 

By passing CLAT, students can secure a place in one of the NLUs and start their journey to become successful lawyers.

2. Importance Dates of CLAT Exam

Knowing the important dates for CLAT exam is crucial for every aspirant. It helps you plan your CLAT preparation, ensure you do not miss any deadlines, and stay organized throughout the application process. 

Being aware of these dates allows you to prepare in advance and avoid last-minute stress.

CLAT 2027

If you are currently in class 11th or planning to appear for CLAT 2027, knowing the important dates well in advance can help you strategize your preparation. 

Event	Dates
CLAT 2027 Exam Date	6 December 2026 (Sunday)
CLAT Registration Start Date	1 August 2026
CLAT Registration Last Date	31 October 2026
Last Date for Fee Payment	October 2026
CLAT Admit Card Release Date	3rd Week of November 2026
CLAT 2027 Result Announcement Date	3rd Week of December 2026

3. CLAT Eligibility Criteria

Understanding the eligibility criteria for CLAT is important to ensure you meet all the requirements before applying:

Criteria	Details
Educational Qualification	Completed 10+2 or equivalent exam from a recognized board
Minimum Marks for General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI	At least 45% marks in 10+2 or equivalent exam
Minimum Marks for SC/ST Categories	At least 40% marks in 10+2 or equivalent exam
CLAT Age Limit	No upper age limit
Appearing Candidates	Candidates appearing in the qualifying exam in March/April are also eligible to apply

4. Documents Required to Apply for CLAT 2027

Having all the necessary documents ready is important for a smooth application process. Here are the documents you will need to apply for CLAT:

Document	Details
Photograph	Recent passport-sized color photograph
Signature	Scanned copy of the candidate’s signature
Date of Birth Proof	Birth certificate or Class 10 mark sheet with date of birth
Qualification Proof	Class 12 or equivalent exam mark sheet or certificate
Category Certificate (if applicable)	SC/ST/OBC certificate
PwD Certificate (if applicable)	Certificate for Persons with Disabilities
Domicile Certificate (if applicable)	Certificate proving domicile status for state quota reservations
NRI/PIO/OCI Certificate (if applicable)	Certificate for NRI/PIO/OCI candidates
BPL Certificate (if applicable)	Below Poverty Line certificate

5. CLAT Exam Pattern 2027

Knowing the CLAT exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. It helps you understand the structure of the exam, types of questions, and distribution of marks. This knowledge allows you to focus on each section according to its weightage and manage your time better during the exam.

Particulars	Details
Mode of Exam	Offline (Pen and paper-based)
Exam Duration	2 hours (120 minutes)
CLAT Subjects	5 Sections: – English Language – Current Affairs, including General Knowledge – Legal Reasoning – Logical Reasoning – Quantitative Techniques
Question Paper Language	English
Type of Questions	Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs)
Total Marks	120
Marking Scheme	+1 marks for every correct answer -0.25 marks for every wrong answer

Checkout the CLAT Marking Scheme.

6. What if Two Candidates Get the Same Score in CLAT?

If two candidates get the same score in CLAT, a tie-breaking procedure is used to determine their ranks. Here are the steps followed to resolve ties:

1. Higher Marks in Legal Aptitude: The candidate with higher marks in the Legal Aptitude section is given a higher rank.
2. Age Factor: If the tie persists, the candidate who is older in age is given a higher rank.
3. Random Draw: If the tie still remains unresolved, a computerized random draw of lots is conducted to determine the higher rank.

Important CLAT Questions for Practice:

CLAT Legal Reasoning Questions	CLAT Logical Reasoning Questions
CLAT English Questions	CLAT GK Questions

7. CLAT Selection Process

The selection process for CLAT involves several steps to ensure that candidates are evaluated and admitted fairly to the participating National Law Universities (NLUs):

• Candidates appear for the CLAT exam on the scheduled date.
• Results are announced on the official CLAT website.
• Based on the scores, a merit list and rank list are prepared. The merit list includes the names of candidates who have qualified for the next stage.
• Qualified candidates must register for the counseling process. Candidates fill in their choices for NLUs based on their preferences and ranks.
• Seats are allotted to candidates based on their ranks, choices filled, and availability of seats.
• Provisional allotment lists are released, and candidates must accept the allotted seat or apply for an upgrade in subsequent rounds.
• Candidates who accept the allotted seat must pay the counseling and admission fees within the specified time. Failure to pay the fees results in the cancellation of the allotted seat.
• Candidates must report to the allotted NLU for document verification.
• Required documents include educational certificates, category certificates (if applicable), and other relevant documents.
• After successful document verification and fee payment, candidates are granted final admission.

Key resources to explore after your CLAT exam:

CLAT Result	CLAT Answer Key
CLAT Marks vs Rank	CLAT Rank Predictor
CLAT Counselling	CLAT Admit Card
CLAT Toppers	CLAT 2026 Question Paper
CLAT College Predictor

8. Number of NLUs for CLAT

There are 27 NLUs in India accepting CLAT score for admission to their law programs. Below is a list of all these National Law Universities (NLUs):

Sr. No.	Full Name of NLU	City/State
1	National Law School of India University	Bengaluru
2	NALSAR University of Law	Hyderabad
3	National Law Institute University Bhopal	Bhopal
4	West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences	Kolkata
5	National Law University Jodhpur	Jodhpur
6	Hidayatullah National Law University	Raipur
7	Gujarat National Law University	Gandhinagar
8	Gujarat National Law University, Silvassa Campus	Silvassa
9	Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University	Lucknow
10	Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law	Punjab
11	Chanakya National Law University	Patna
12	National University of Advanced Legal Studies	Kochi
13	National Law University Odisha	Odisha
14	National University of Study and Research in Law	Ranchi
15	National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam	Assam
16	Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University	Visakhapatnam
17	Tamil Nadu National Law University	Tiruchirappalli
18	Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai	Mumbai
19	Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur	Nagpur
20	Maharashtra National Law University, Aurangabad	Aurangabad
21	Himachal Pradesh National Law University	Shimla
22	Dharmashastra National Law University	Jabalpur
23	Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University	Haryana
24	National Law University, Tripura	Agartala
25	Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University (RPNLU)	Prayagraj
26	India International University of Legal Education & Research (IIULER)	Goa

9. CLAT Mock Tests Importance

One of the most effective ways to prepare for CLAT is by regularly taking CLAT mock tests and solving previous year papers. 

Here’s why they are so important:

a. Familiarity with Exam Pattern:

Mock tests and previous year papers of CLAT help you understand the structure of the exam, types of questions, and the distribution of marks. This familiarity reduces anxiety and boosts confidence.

Try Free CLAT Mock Test now!

b. Time Management:

Practicing with timed CLAT mock tests teaches you how to manage your time during the actual exam. It helps you allocate appropriate time to each section and improve your speed.

c. Identifying Weak Areas:

By reviewing your performance in mock tests and previous year question papers of CLAT, you can identify your weak areas. This allows you to focus your efforts on improving those specific topics.

d. Improving Accuracy:

Regular practice helps improve accuracy by reducing the chances of making mistakes. You learn to read questions carefully and avoid common pitfalls.

e. Building Stamina:

The CLAT exam is two hours long, and taking full-length mock tests helps build the mental and physical stamina needed to stay focused throughout the exam duration.

f. Tracking Progress:

Mock tests provide a clear picture of your progress over time. By comparing your scores from different tests, you can track improvements and adjust your study plan accordingly.

g. Boosting Confidence:

Solving previous year papers of CLAT and scoring well in mock tests boosts your confidence. It gives you a sense of readiness and helps reduce exam-day jitters.

10. Financial Planning

Financial planning is an important aspect of preparing for CLAT and your subsequent legal education. Proper planning ensures that you can focus on your studies without worrying about financial constraints. 

a. CLAT Exam Fees:

The application fee for CLAT varies for different categories. Ensure you have the required amount ready when applying.

• General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI candidates: ₹4,000
• SC/ST/BPL candidates: ₹3,500

b. Coaching and Study Material:

If you opt for coaching, factor in the cost of tuition fees. CLAT coaching fees can range from ₹40,000 to ₹100,000 depending on the institute and duration.

Purchase of CLAT study materials, books, and online resources should also be budgeted.

c. University Fees:

Tuition fees for NLUs can range from ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year. Check the specific fee structure of the NLU you aim to join.

Other fees include hostel fees, mess charges, library fees, and miscellaneous expenses.

d. Scholarships:

Look for scholarships offered by coaching institutes. For example, Law Prep Tutorial’s CLAT scholarship test helps you win up to 100% scholarship. 

e. Education Loans:

Many banks offer education loans for higher studies. Research the loan options, interest rates, and repayment terms. Ensure you have a co-signer (usually a parent or guardian) and understand the loan application process.

f. Budgeting:

Create a detailed budget that includes all potential expenses. Track your spending and adjust your budget as needed to avoid overspending.

Wrapping Up:

CLAT preparation requires careful planning and dedication. By understanding the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, important dates, and financial planning, you can approach your preparation with confidence. 

Regular practice with CLAT mock tests and previous year papers is essential. For a full preparation strategy, consider joining the CLAT Online Coaching by Law Prep Tutorial. It is the number 1 institute in India for CLAT preparation and produces toppers every single year. 

Previous Year Papers of CLAT

Below are the PDFs of previous year question papers of CLAT with answers, which you can download for FREE:

CLAT 2026 Question Paper	CLAT 2025 Question Paper
CLAT 2024 Question Paper	CLAT 2023 Question Paper
CLAT 2021 Question Paper	CLAT 2020 Question Paper