Preparing for the CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) is a crucial step for students aiming to study law at top National Law Universities (NLUs) in India.
Knowing the important things about CLAT can make a big difference in your preparation and success. Here, we will discuss the 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 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 2025
| Event | Date |
| CLAT 2025 Exam Date | 1 December 2024 (Announced) |
| CLAT Registration Start Date | 1 July 2024 (Expected) |
| CLAT Registration Last Date | 31 October 2024 (Expected) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 31 October 2024 (Expected) |
| CLAT Admit Card Release Date | November 2024 (Expected) |
| CLAT 2025 Result Announcement Date | Dec 2024 or Jan 2025 |
CLAT 2026
If you are currently in class 11th or planning to appear for CLAT 2026, knowing the important dates well in advance can help you strategize your preparation.
| Event | Expected Dates |
| CLAT 2026 Exam Date | December 2025 |
| CLAT Registration Start Date | July 2025 |
| CLAT Registration Last Date | October 2025 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | October 2025 |
| CLAT Admit Card Release Date | November 2025 |
| CLAT 2026 Result Announcement Date | Dec 2025 or Jan 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 |
| 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
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
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 |
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:
- Higher Marks in Legal Aptitude: The candidate with higher marks in the Legal Aptitude section is given a higher rank.
- Age Factor: If the tie persists, the candidate who is older in age is given a higher rank.
- Random Draw: If the tie still remains unresolved, a computerized random draw of lots is conducted to determine the higher rank.
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.
8. Number of NLUs for CLAT
There are 24 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 |
| 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 |
9. Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers are Most Important in Preparation
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:
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!
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.
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.
Improving Accuracy:
Regular practice helps improve accuracy by reducing the chances of making mistakes. You learn to read questions carefully and avoid common pitfalls.
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.
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.
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.
To help you prepare effectively, we have shared the collection of CLAT previous year question papers.
Checkout CLAT previous Year papers of 15 years.
CLAT Previous Year Questions
CLAT Legal Reasoning Questions
CLAT Logical Reasoning Questions
CLAT Quantitative Techniques Questions
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.
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
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.
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.
Scholarships:
Look for scholarships offered by coaching institutes. For example, Law Prep Tutorial’s CLAT scholarship test helps you win up to 100% scholarship.
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.
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 online coaching for CLAT by Law Prep Tutorial. It is the number 1 institute in India for CLAT preparation and produces toppers every single year.
Free Resources for CLAT Preparation
Use the following free CLAT preparation resources by Law Prep Tutorial: