The legal profession has always been a beacon for those aspiring to make a difference in society, pursue intellectual rigour, or secure a thriving career. For students in India aiming to step into the world of law, the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a crucial milestone. But what is CLAT, who is it for, and how can you confidently prepare?
This blog covers everything you need to know about the CLAT, including exam details, eligibility, syllabus, and what it means for your future in law.
What is the CLAT?
The complete form of CLAT is the Common Law Admission Test, a national-level entrance exam conducted annually by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs). This exam opens the door to 24 prestigious National Law Universities (NLUs) in India and over 61 private law colleges. Candidates can pursue 5-year integrated LLB (UG) and one-year LLM (PG) programs through this exam, making it one of India’s most competitive and sought-after law entrance tests.
- Organizing Body: Consortium of NLUs
- Frequency: Once a year (usually in December)
- Courses: 5-year integrated undergraduate law programs (LLB) and one-year postgraduate programs (LLM)
Why is the CLAT Important?
The CLAT is not just another entrance exam but a gateway to some of India’s best legal institutions. Here are some key reasons why the CLAT matters:
- Access Top NLUs: Secure admission to reputed NLUs like NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad, and WBNUJS Kolkata, which are known for their excellent academic programs and career prospects.
- PSU Recruitment: Postgraduate CLAT scores are also considered for legal positions in renowned Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like ONGC and Coal India.
- Wide Acceptance: Over 60 private and self-financed law schools in India accept CLAT scores for admissions.
Who Can Apply for CLAT?
CLAT eligibility varies depending on the program—undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG). Below is a breakdown of the requirements:
Eligibility for CLAT UG (LLB):
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their Class 12 or equivalent with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates).
- Age Limit: No age limit.
- Purpose: Admission to 5-year integrated LLB courses.
Eligibility for CLAT PG (LLM):
- Educational Qualification: Candidates need an LLB degree (3-year or 5-year) with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).
- Purpose: Admission to LLM programs and legal PSU jobs.
CLAT Exam Details
Before preparing, it’s essential to understand the exam format. Here’s a snapshot of the exam structure for both UG and PG levels:
| Exam Feature | CLAT UG | CLAT PG |
| Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Questions | 120 MCQs | 120 MCQs |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect answers | +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect answers |
| Language | English | English |
CLAT UG Syllabus Breakdown
| Sections | Percentage Weightage (Approx.) | Details |
| English Language | 20% | This module incorporates excerpts from news articles, journalistic sources, and non-fiction texts to evaluate students’ comprehension skills. Questions may also focus on legal terminology or related information. |
| Current Affairs (GK) | 25% | This section evaluates applicants’ knowledge of static general information and national and international events. |
| Legal Reasoning | 25% | This section assesses the candidates’ ability to identify and apply legal concepts to resolve issues based on the provided information and assumptions. |
| Logical Reasoning | 20% | Examiners assess patterns, logical connections, and the ability to identify and correct flawed arguments. Questions may include syllogisms, logical progressions, and analogies. |
| Quantitative Techniques | 10% | This section assesses candidates’ proficiency in applying mathematical procedures, including algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and data interpretation. It also evaluates their ability to extract and interpret information from passages or questions. |
CLAT PG Syllabus Breakdown
| Sections | Main Topics |
| Sec A – Constitutional Law | Legislative power – procedure, privilegesJudicial power – organisation of the judiciary, the jurisdiction of SC of India,Federal Idea – Nature of Indian Polity, co-operative federalismFreedoms of Inter-state Trade and CommerceImpact of Emergency on center-state Relations |
| Sec B – Contract, Torts, Criminal Law, International Law, IPR and Jurisprudence | Elements of crime: Actus Reus, Mens Rea, group liability, abetment, criminal conspiracy, exceptions, attempt to commit offences; offences against public tranquillity; offences against the body – culpable homicide, murder, hurt, grievous hurt, wrongful confinement, wrongful restraint, criminal force, assault, abduction, kidnapping, rape, and unnatural offences. Classification of torts: trespass, nuisance, defamation, liability for misstatements, negligence. Formation, validity, discharge, and performance of contracts; remedies and quasi-contracts under the Indian Contract Act-1872 and the Indian Specific Relief Act-1963. Definition, origin, and development of international law; its sources, subjects, and relationship with municipal law; state recognition and succession; international rivers, canals, sea, air, and outer space law; nationality, statelessness, jurisdiction, immunity, extradition, asylum, diplomatic relations, treaties, war, contraband, blockades, legal effects of war, dispute resolution, state responsibility, retorsion, reprisals, armed interventions, and the United Nations role. Nature, scope, and key laws of IPR: Trademarks Act 1999, Patents Act 1970, Copyright Act 1957, and IPR in an international context. Legal methods, the Indian legal system, fundamental legal theories: Analytical positivism, Kelsen’s pure theory, Hart’s and Austin’s definitions of law, Holland’s and Salmond’s views, and approaches to jurisprudence – Historical, sociological, economic (Marx and Engels), and realist (American and Scandinavian). |
| Sec C – Law topics and Contemporary issues | Key constitutional provisions, recent judgments, case law, amendments, legal issues, and facts. |
How to Prepare for CLAT?
Success in the CLAT exam depends not only on hard work but also on strategy. Here are six crucial steps to maximize your preparation:
- Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
Familiarize yourself with each section of the syllabus. Focus heavily on reading comprehension, current affairs, and logical Reasoning.
- Build Strong Reading Habits
Given the exam’s focus on comprehension, practice reading newspapers, magazines, and legal journals daily.
- Master Time Management
With 2 hours to complete a lengthy question paper, efficient time division is vital. Regular mock tests can help you improve your pacing.
- Solve Previous Year’s Papers
Practising past papers will familiarize you with question patterns, help spot trends, and sharpen your speed and accuracy.
- Use Quality Study Materials
Invest in highly-rated books and materials for CLAT preparation, like legal aptitude guides and logical reasoning workbooks.
- Take Mock Tests Regularly
Mock tests are indispensable for assessing your preparation. Analyze your performance after each test to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement.
What Sets CLAT Apart?
- The extensive syllabus makes it one of the most challenging law entrance exams.
- Provides access to India’s top-tier NLUs, ensuring unmatched education and career prospects.
Why Choose Law as a Career?
A legal education doesn’t just train you for a job—it builds critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Whether you aim to become a corporate lawyer, advocate for human rights, or climb the ranks in the judiciary, law offers versatile career paths.
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The Common Law Admission Test is your gateway to a promising career in law. Still, it requires preparation, perseverance, and access to the right resources. For law aspirants seeking expert guidance, Tarkashastra offers unique support to help you ace the CLAT exam.
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- Tailored CLAT preparation courses.
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FAQs Answered
- What Is CLAT?
CLAT, or the Common Law Admission Test, is a national-level entrance exam conducted in India for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs offered by 24 National Law Universities (NLUs) and several private institutions.
- What Is the Full Form of CLAT?
The complete form of CLAT is the Common Law Admission Test.
- Who Conducts CLAT?
The exam is conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), an organization comprising the participating NLUs. Each year, a different NLU takes the lead in organizing the test.
- What Programs Can I Apply for Through CLAT UG & CLAT PG?
You can apply for the 5-year integrated UG law programs, such as BA LLB, BBA LLB, etc., and one-year PG law programs like LLM offered by NLUs and various affiliated institutions.
- How Do I Apply for CLAT?
You can apply for CLAT online through the official website of the CLAT Consortium. Fill out the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee to complete the process.
- What Is the Eligibility Criteria for CLAT?
Candidates must have completed class 12 (or equivalent) for UG programs with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST). Candidates must hold an LLB degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST) for PG programs. There is no upper age limit for CLAT.
- What Subjects Are Covered in the CLAT UG Exam?
The CLAT UG exam includes five areas:
- English Language
- Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
- Legal Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Techniques
- What Is the Exam Pattern of CLAT UG?
The CLAT UG exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), while the PG exam also has 120 questions. Each correct answer awards one mark and a 0.25 mark penalty for incorrect answers.
- When Is CLAT Conducted?
CLAT is usually conducted once a year, typically in December. However, the exact date may vary, so candidates should watch the official announcements.
- What Is the CLAT Exam Fee?
The application fee for CLAT is ₹4,000 for General/OBC/PwD/NRI candidates and ₹3,500 for SC/ST/BPL candidates.
- Can I Attempt CLAT Multiple Times?
Yes, there is no restriction on the number of attempts for CLAT as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
- How Is CLAT Scored?
CLAT is scored out of 120 (UG) and 120 (PG). Correct answers fetch one mark each, and incorrect answers result in a deduction of 0.25 marks. The final score determines your rank and eligibility for admission.
- What Is the Selection Process for CLAT?
After the results are declared, candidates are allotted seats based on their merit rank in the CLAT exam and their preference for institutions during counselling.
- What Are Some Top Universities Accepting CLAT Scores?
CLAT scores are accepted by 24 NLUs, including NLSIU Bengaluru, NALSAR Hyderabad, and NLU Delhi (via AILET), along with more than 60 private law colleges.
- Is There Any Reservation for SC/ST/OBC Candidates in CLAT?
All NLUs provide reservations per their policies for SC/ST/OBC candidates, state residents, and other specified categories. Details are provided in each NLU’s official admission notification.
For further assistance or clarity, visit the official CLAT website or contact the CLAT Consortium office.
