CLAT 2026 Application: Dates, Process & AILET Clash

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 for LL.M (PG) and 5-year LL.B (UG) programs is scheduled for Sunday, 7th December 2025, 2-4 PM, and registration opens 1st August - 31st October 2025.

What makes this year unusual is that AILET 2026 (for NLU Delhi) is also set for the same date and time! (7th Dec., 2–4 PM), marking the first-ever exact clash between these two major exams. That leaves students targeting both UG/PG NLUs and NLU Delhi in a tight spot. AILET was announced back on 17 June 2025, and both bodies open registrations on the same day, so you can atleast apply for each. Here's everything you need to know.

What is CLAT?

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national-level entrance exam for law courses in India. It is for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs at 24 National Law Universities (NLUs). The Consortium of National Law Universities manages the exam. Many other universities and organisations also use the CLAT exam for admissions. For the academic year 2025-2026, all admissions to 5-year integrated LL.B. and LL.M. programs will be through CLAT 2026.

CLAT 2026: Important Dates

Listed below are key dates for students taking the CLAT 2025 exam.

CLAT 2026: Overview

Here are some important details and instructions regarding CLAT 2025 that every CLAT aspirant must know.

For more details about the 24 NLUs, you can check their e-brochures on the Consortium website. NRI candidates must take the CLAT 2026 for NLUs that are admitted through CLAT rankings and should also apply directly to the NLU. Remember, seat allotment and admission offers are provisional and do not guarantee admission.

What is the Registration Fee for CLAT 2026? 

The registration fee for CLAT 2025 for different categories is mentioned in the table below.

How To Register For CLAT Exam 2026?

To apply for the CLAT 2025 exam, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the official CLAT website at consortium onlus.ac.in.

Step 2: Click on the CLAT 2025 registration link displayed on the homepage. Enter your details and submit the registration form.

Step 3: After registering, log in to your account using the credentials you created during registration.

Step 4: Complete the application form by providing all required information and upload the necessary documents such as photograph, signature, and certificates.

Step 5: Select your preferred test centres from the options provided and proceed to pay the application fee.

Step 6: Submit the completed application form. After submission, download the confirmation page and ensure you keep a hard copy for your records.

What documents are required for CLAT?

You will need to upload the following documents with your online application:

Note: Upload all documents in PDF format only.

Make sure to submit original certificates/documents issued by the competent authority to the allotted university during admission as specified. The photograph and signature do not need attestation. 

What is the Eligibility Criteria for CLAT UG 2026?

• Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for candidates.

• Qualifying Exam: You must have completed 10+2 or an equivalent examination with:

  • General/OBC/NRI/PIO/OCI categories: Minimum 45% marks.

  • SC/ST/PWD categories: Minimum 40% marks.

• Appearing Candidates: Those appearing for their qualifying examination in March/April 2025 can also apply but must provide proof of passing at the time of admission.

• Tie-Breaking for UG Programme: If more than one candidate scores an equal number of marks in the CLAT 2025, the following criteria will be used to break it:

  • Higher marks in the Legal Aptitude section.
  • Higher age.
  • Computerised draw of lots.

What is the Eligibility Criteria for CLAT PG 2026? (One-Year LL.M. Degree)

• Qualifying Exam: You must have an LL.B. Degree or equivalent with:

  • General/OBC/NRI/PIO/OCI categories: Minimum 50% marks.
  • SC/ST/PWD categories: Minimum 45% marks.
• Appearing Candidates: Those appearing for their qualifying examination in April/May 2025 can also apply
• Age Limit: There is no upper age limit.

• Tie-Breaking for PG Programme: If there is a tie in scores, the following criteria will be used to break it:

  • Higher age.
  • Computerised draw of lots.

If you're still confused about which exam suits your career path better, a detailed breakdown of the CLAT vs AILET can help you make an informed decision.

What is the Syllabus for CLAT UG 2026? 

The UG exam will cover the following subjects:

• English Language

• Logical Reasoning

• Current Affairs & General Knowledge

• Quantitative Techniques

• Legal Reasoning

For students juggling school and CLAT preparation, here’s a practical roadmap on how to strike the right balance and avoid last-minute burnout.

What is the Syllabus for CLAT PG 2026?

Candidates are tested on core subjects from the LLB curriculum, including:

• Constitutional Law

• Jurisprudence

• Administrative Law

• Law of Contract

• Torts

• Family Law

• Criminal Law

• Property Law

• Company Law

• Public International Law

• Tax Law

• Environmental Law

• Labour & Industrial Law

Plan to take CLAT PG too? Strengthen your legal reading skills by understanding how to analyse judgments—a core part of the exam pattern.

How to download Admit Card for CLAT UG/PG 2026? 

You can download your Admit Card/Hall ticket by logging into your account on the CLAT website. The exact date for the release of hall tickets will be announced on the website.

Should you be doing an LLM in 2025-256? Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering it—from LLM eligibility criteria to the job.

Conclusion

CLAT 2026 is a crucial step for aspiring law students aiming to secure admission to India's prestigious National Law Universities. With a straightforward application process and clear eligibility criteria, candidates can prepare effectively for this significant exam. Remember to keep track of important dates, follow the guidelines meticulously, and ensure all documents are in order. Good luck on your journey to becoming a part of the legal community.