CLAT
About CLAT
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national level entrance exam for admissions to
undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs offered by 24 National Law
Universities in India. CLAT is organized by the Consortium of National Law Universities,
comprising representative universities. Several affiliate universities and organizations also use
the CLAT exam for admissions and recruitment respectively.
All admissions to the 5-year integrated LL.B. and LL.M. programs shall be through the CLAT.
Aspiring law students must clear this exam to secure their place in some of the top schools in the
country.
CLAT tests candidates on English, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. With negative marking and a competitive structure, CLAT is the gateway to top law schools in India, making it essential for aspiring lawyers to prepare strategically.
General Structure of CLAT – UG Exam
The exam consists of 5 main sections that test different areas of aptitude. Here’s a
detailed breakdown:
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 28-32 | 1 | 28-32 |
| Current Affairs & GK | 35-39 | 1 | 35-39 |
| Legal Reasoning | 35-39 | 1 | 35-39 |
| Logical Reasoning | 28-32 | 1 | Joshua K. Porter |
| 28-32 | 13-17 | 1 | 13-17 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
- Language: All the questions will be in English.
- Time Management: With 150 questions in 2 hours, time management is crucial. You’ll have approximately 48 seconds per question.
- Negative Marking: Be mindful of the negative marking scheme. -0.25 for each incorrect answer. If you're unsure of an answer, it's better to leave the question unattempted rather than guessing.
CLAT-UG Syllabus & Subjects
1. English Language
- Focus: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and understanding of complex texts.
- Types of Questions:
- Passage-based questions (focused on comprehension, tone, meaning, etc.)
- Vocabulary (meaning of words, context-based usage)
- Grammar (sentence correction, error spotting)
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Understanding the main idea, theme, and structure of the passage
- Inference-based questions
- Vocabulary and contextual understanding
- Grammar concepts such as subject-verb agreement, tenses, active-passive voice, etc.
Approximate Weightage: 20-25% of the total paper.
2. Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
- Focus: Awareness of recent events, both national and international, along with general knowledge of important historical, political, and cultural topics.
- Types of Questions:
- Questions based on current affairs (both news and events)
- Static general knowledge (important historical facts, leaders, etc.)
- International relations, economics, and government policies
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Newspapers and magazines (like The Hindu, The Economic Times, etc.)
- Recent national and international events
- Awards, sports events, and government policies
Approximate Weightage: 25-30% of the total paper.
3. Legal Reasoning
- Focus: Understanding legal principles and reasoning. This section tests your ability to think critically and apply legal concepts to specific situations.
- Types of Questions:
- Hypothetical legal problems or situations, testing your ability to apply principles of law to real-world scenarios.
- Questions related to basic legal principles (such as contract law, tort law, etc.)
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Legal propositions (basic law-related concepts such as contracts, torts, criminal law, etc.)
- Case laws, judgments, and legal concepts
- Reasoning skills in identifying correct legal solutions
Approximate Weightage: 25-30% of the total paper.
4. Logical Reasoning
- Focus: Testing your reasoning abilities, particularly in terms of logical deduction and pattern recognition.
- Types of Questions:
- Critical reasoning (evaluating arguments, identifying assumptions, etc.)
- Logical puzzles, syllogisms, and analogies
- Logical sequences and patterns
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Deductive reasoning
- Syllogisms (drawing logical conclusions)
- Identifying fallacies in arguments
- Puzzles and arrangements
Approximate Weightage: 20-25% of the total paper.
5. Quantitative Techniques
- Focus: Basic mathematics and data interpretation skills.
- Types of Questions:
- Arithmetic calculations (ratios, averages, percentages, etc.)
- Basic algebra and geometry
- Interpretation of data from graphs, pie charts, and tables
- Simple probability and mensuration
Approximate Weightage: 10-15% of the total paper.
CLAT Eligibility :
Educational Qualification
- Must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
- General/OBC/PwD/NRI/PIO/OCI: 45%
- SC/ST: 40%
Age Limit
- No upper age limit for appearing in CLAT UG
Nationality
- Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs are eligible.
- Foreign nationals can also apply but usually through the NRI quota
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare for CLAT?
Preparation time varies per individual, but a dedicated study plan spanning 6-12 months is generally recommended.
Is CLAT an online exam?
No, CLAT 2026 will be conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based).
What are the age and qualifying marks eligibility criteria for appearing in CLAT?
There is no upper age limit. Candidates must have secured at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates) in their 10+2 or equivalent examination.
Can I apply for CLAT in offline mode?
No, applications must be submitted online only
Can I take the CLAT in Class XI?
No, CLAT is intended for students who have completed or are appearing in their Class XII examination.
What documents do I need to upload for filling the CLAT application form?
You need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph, signature, and relevant certificates for reservation or domicile claims, if applicable.