CLAT Exam Details: Eligibility, Exam Pattern, NLUs & Career Options

The Common Law Admission Test, commonly known as CLAT, is one of the most important entrance examinations for students who wish to pursue law in India. It is a national-level exam conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities. Through this examination, students get admission into undergraduate and postgraduate law programmes offered by National Law Universities across the country.

CLAT plays a major role in shaping a student’s legal career. It opens doors to structured legal education, exposure to courts and corporate law, and multiple career opportunities. For aspirants planning to appear for CLAT, it is important to understand the exam structure, eligibility, participating universities, and career scope in detail.

What Is the CLAT Examination?

CLAT is a centralized entrance examination for admission into law programmes offered by National Law Universities. It is conducted once every year. The exam is held for two courses:

• Five-year integrated LLB programme for undergraduate students

• One-year LLM programme for postgraduate students

At present, 26 National Law Universities accept CLAT scores for admission. There are 27 NLUs in India, but one university conducts its own entrance examination separately.

CLAT ensures a common admission process and provides equal opportunity to students from all educational backgrounds.

Courses Offered Through CLAT

CLAT provides entry into two major law programmes. The undergraduate programme is a five-year integrated law course. It combines a bachelor’s degree with a law degree. Common combinations include BA LLB, BBA LLB, BSc LLB, and BCom LLB.

The postgraduate programme is a one-year LLM course. It is designed for students who have already completed their LLB degree and want to specialize further in law.

Both courses focus on building strong legal knowledge, analytical skills, and practical understanding.

CLAT Exam Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility rules for CLAT are very inclusive. There is no upper age limit to appear for the exam. Students from any stream, such as Science, Commerce, or Humanities, can apply.

• General Category: Candidates need a minimum of 45% marks in their 12th-grade exams.

• SC/ST Categories: These candidates need a minimum of 40% marks.

• Result Awaited: Students appearing for their 12th exams can also apply. They must provide their passing certificate during admission.

CLAT Exam Pattern

The CLAT exam is a pen-and-paper test. It is usually held in December. The total duration is two hours. The paper consists of 120 multiple-choice questions.

Subjects Covered in CLAT

The CLAT question paper includes five major sections. Each section checks a different skill set.

English Language

This section tests reading comprehension and language usage. Questions are based on passages. Students need to understand the content and answer questions related to vocabulary, tone, and meaning.

Current Affairs and General Knowledge

This section focuses on recent events and general awareness. Questions are based on national and international news, legal developments, and important issues. Static general knowledge is also included.

Legal Reasoning

This section checks the ability to understand legal principles. Questions are based on passages followed by problem-based situations. No prior legal knowledge is required.

Logical Reasoning

This section includes questions based on arguments, statements, and reasoning patterns. It tests analytical thinking and decision-making skills.

Quantitative Techniques

This section includes basic mathematics questions. Topics include percentages, ratios, averages, and simple data interpretation. The level is based on school-level concepts.

Participating Universities for CLAT

There are 27 National Law Universities in India. Out of these, 26 accept CLAT scores. NLU Delhi is the only exception, as it conducts its own AILET exam.

• NLS Bangalore: Established in 1986, it is often called the "Harvard of the East."

• NALSAR Hyderabad: Another top-tier university known for its academic excellence.

• NUJS Kolkata: A premier institute located in West Bengal.

• Other NLUs: Universities are located in cities like Jodhpur, Bhopal, Gandhinagar, and Mumbai.

CLAT Career Opportunities

A law degree from an NLU opens many doors. Graduates can choose from various professional paths.

• Litigation: You can practice as an advocate in various courts.

• Judicial Services: You can appear for exams to become a judge.

• Corporate Law: Large companies hire legal advisors for their business operations.

• Public Sector: Organizations like SEBI, RBI, and ONGC hire specialized law officers.

• Defence Services: Law graduates can join the Army, Navy, or Air Force as legal officers.

CLAT Placements and Salaries

Top NLUs have very strong placement records. Many students get jobs in top law firms and multinational companies.

At premier institutes like NLS Bangalore and NALSAR Hyderabad, the median salary ranges from ₹16 lakh to ₹19 lakh per annum. These are starting packages. Salaries usually increase significantly with experience and skill.

CLAT is a crucial examination for students who wish to study law in India. It provides access to National Law Universities and quality legal education.

The exam has a clear structure and inclusive eligibility criteria. It tests understanding, reasoning, and awareness rather than memorization.

Law as a career offers diverse opportunities across courts, corporate sectors, public institutions, and social fields. With focused preparation and consistent effort, CLAT aspirants can build a strong foundation for their future.