Common Law Admission Test Syllabus 2026

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Overview

The CLAT syllabus for UG consists of 120 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours. The CLAT exam syllabus 2026 for UG is based on a class 12 level of difficulty.

CLAT Syllabus 2026 covers the detailed subjects and topics for undergraduate (UG) admission to 5-year integrated LLB programs at 26 National Law Universities (NLUs) across India. The syllabus focuses on comprehensive, reasoning, and strategic approach to answer the questions.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Subjects

There will be passage-based questions from the following 5 subjects:

• English Language: Focuses on comprehension and vocabulary.
• Current Affairs, including General Knowledge: Tests awareness of recent events and static GK.
• Legal Reasoning: Assesses the ability to apply legal principles to given scenarios.
• Logical Reasoning: Evaluates logical analysis and reasoning ability.
• Quantitative Techniques: Tests basic mathematical skills.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Subject-wise Weightage

The maximum number of questions comes from the Current Affairs and Legal Reasoning parts. With 28-32 questions each, these two portions hold 50% of the total paper.

• Current Affairs and Legal Reasoning: 28-32 questions each, 50% of the total paper combined.
• Logical Reasoning and English Language: 20% weightage of questions.
• Quantitative Techniques: 10% weightage of questions.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips

You can enhance your skills by reading various journals, articles, newspapers, magazines, and novels. For newspapers, you can trust The Hindu, The Times of India, and The Indian Express.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Key Summary

• CLAT Syllabus 2026 covers the detailed subjects and topics for undergraduate (UG) admission to 5-year integrated LLB programs.
• You will get the maximum number of CLAT Syllabus questions from the Current Affairs and Legal Reasoning part.
• CLAT Current Affairs and Legal Reasoning has 28-32 questions each; these two portions hold 50% of the total paper.
• The CLAT syllabus consists of 5 sections, which are English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Techniques.
• You can also check the CLAT Syllabus 2026 Subject-wise Weightage and Marks Distribution along with important books to refer.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Changes Over the Years

In 2024, a change was implemented in the exam pattern by reducing the number of questions from 150 – 120. However, no expectations of change in the syllabus are kept this year.

Students will be updated here if the syllabus gets updated or revised. The weightage, along with the insights of all five subjects, is given below.

CLAT Syllabus 2026 Overview

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 syllabus is divided into five sections. The table below lists the key topics for each section.

CLAT Exam Pattern and Weightage

The CLAT question paper is passage-based and contains multiple-choice questions. Each section has a specific number of questions and weightage in the paper.

Subjects in CLAT

CLAT consists of five subjects. Candidates are tested on comprehension, analytical skills, awareness of current events, logical thinking, and basic mathematical ability.

• English Language
• Current Affairs (including General Knowledge)
• Legal Reasoning
• Logical Reasoning
• Quantitative Techniques

Is CLAT Easy to Pass?

No, CLAT is not considered an easy exam. It is a highly competitive and challenging test that requires significant preparation.

• High Competition: There are thousands of aspirants for a much smaller number of seats at the top National Law Universities (NLUs).
• Comprehensive Syllabus: The exam covers a broad range of subjects, including English proficiency, general knowledge, legal aptitude, logical reasoning, and quantitative techniques.
• Time Constraints: The exam has a limited time duration, requiring effective time management and speed.
• Integrated Skills: Success requires developing critical thinking, strong reading comprehension, an understanding of legal concepts, and efficient problem-solving skills.

Is CLAT UG Syllabus Similar to Class 12 Subjects?

No. CLAT does not follow NCERT or any specific board syllabus. Instead, it tests skills like reading comprehension, reasoning, analytical ability, and awareness of current affairs. Basic Class 10-level Math is included.

Is 3 Months Enough for CLAT?

Yes, you can clear the CLAT exam in three months with a well-structured, strategic, and disciplined approach.

• Focus on a consistent daily study plan.
• Take regular mock tests to identify and address weak areas.
• Understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly.

What Kind of Current Affairs/GK is Asked in CLAT?

CLAT GK questions are passage-based and focus on recent events (national & international), awards, government schemes, treaties, legal developments, and important historical events linked to the news. Static GK is tested only if related to current events.

CLAT Previous Year Question Papers PDF Download

Solving previous year's questions along with attempting mock tests from time to time is very crucial and plays a vital role in the enhancement of your preparation. The question papers with answer keys are detailed below.

CLAT Previous Year Question Papers

CLAT question papers from previous years are available with answer keys. Candidates can use these papers to understand the exam pattern and practice.

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Key Areas

The CLAT exam syllabus 2026 covers several key areas. Candidates must prepare these areas before taking the exam.

CLAT Syllabus for English Language

The CLAT English syllabus tests comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. This section has 22-26 questions and accounts for 20% of the exam.

What is the CLAT 2026 Syllabus of "English Language"?

The CLAT 2026 syllabus for English Language includes unseen passages like reading comprehension. This section also analyses students' grammar skills.

There will be 6 to 7 passages, each with 450 words. Students need to analyze the passage and write the answers using their own perceptions.

• Type of Questions Asked: Comprehension-based MCQs.
• Abilities Tested During the Exam: Read and analyze comprehensive, argumentative and analytical passages and frame answers using own perspectives, summarize and draw conclusions, make a contrast between the viewpoints, grammar, and vocabulary skills to understand different phrases used in the passages.
• Standard of Questions Asked: Class 12th.
• Weightage of Questions: 20% (22-26 questions).
• Topics to Focus: Correcting incorrect grammar sentences, Synonyms and antonyms, Tenses, Fill in the Blanks, Spotting Grammatical Errors, Active and passive voice.
• Sources or Study Materials: Journals, newspapers, magazines, articles, contemporary or historical fiction and non-fiction novels.

CLAT 2026 Syllabus for Current Affairs and GK

This section of the CLAT Syllabus comprises 28-32 questions, making up 25% of the exam. It is a high-weightage area.

Candidates must stay updated with daily events and understand key topics in history, economics, and the Constitution.

What is the CLAT Syllabus of "Current Affairs Including General Knowledge"?

This part of the CLAT Syllabus tests how updated a student is with General Knowledge and facts happening around. Questions can come from history, culture of India, economics, technology, and politics.

Students can also be asked questions from outside India, i.e., International facts. There will also be passages with 450 words each.

• Type of Questions Asked: Comprehension-based MCQs from Current Affairs and Static General Knowledge.
• Abilities Tested During the Exam: The section tests students' awareness of current affairs, contemporary events, art and culture of India and International, historic events, continuing significance in the modern world, and International affairs.
• Standard of Questions Asked: Class 12th.
• Weightage of Questions: 25% (28-32 questions).
• Topics to Focus: Current Affairs and Arts and Culture of India and outside it; Technology; Sports, Awards, Accolades, and Accomplishments of India and International.
• Sources or Study Materials: Journals, newspapers, magazines with historical facts, history books, and articles.

CLAT 2026 Syllabus for Logical Reasoning

The CLAT Logical Reasoning section has 22-26 questions and carries 20% weightage in the exam. This section tests the ability to interpret and analyze arguments, patterns, and logical sequences.

Details of CLAT Logical Reasoning Section

This section contains passages of 450 words each. Candidates must read each passage, reach a conclusion of an argument, draw relationships and analogies, and identify paradoxes or riddles.

• Type of Questions Asked: Comprehension-based MCQs.
• Abilities Tested During the Exam: Identify arguments and reach a conclusion, critically analyze the pattern of reasoning, identify how conclusions depend on particular evidence, and understand how conclusions can be strengthened or weakened by altering supporting facts. Infer what follows from the passage and apply these inferences to new situations. Find relationships, contradictions, and equivalences, and assess effectiveness.
• Standard of Questions Asked: Class 12th.
• Weightage of Questions: 20% (22-26 questions).
• Topics to Focus: Analogies series, seating arrangements, syllogisms, blood relations, logical sequences and matching, calendars and clocks.
• Sources or Study Materials: Fact-based situations, patterns, statements, and arguments.

CLAT 2026 Syllabus for Legal Reasoning

The CLAT Legal Reasoning section has 28-32 questions and carries 25% weightage in the exam. This section tests the ability to understand legal principles and apply them to given situations.

Details of CLAT Legal Reasoning Section

There will be 6 to 7 passages of 450 words each in the Legal Reasoning section. No specific knowledge of the Law is required for this section.

Candidates need factual knowledge to apply general principles for analyzing the passages.

• Type of Questions Asked: Comprehension-based MCQs.
• Abilities Tested During the Exam: Identification of arguments, rules set in the passage, application of rules to decipher various situations, and understanding how changes in the rules can affect interpretation.
• Standard of Questions Asked: Class 12th.
• Weightage of Questions: 25% (28-32 questions).
• Topics to Focus: Law of Torts, Contract Law, Indian Penal Code (IPC) and related concepts, Monism and Dualism, Personal laws, Special Marriage Act, Contract Act, Bigamy and Constitution, Void and voidable Marriage, Law of writs, Penal law, Public international law, Juvenile Justice Act, Personal data protection bill.
• Sources or Study Materials: Legal journals, case files, newspaper articles, editorials.

CLAT 2026 Syllabus for Quantitative Techniques

The CLAT Quantitative Techniques section has 10-14 questions and carries 10% weightage in the exam. This section focuses on Class 10-level mathematics and application-based problem-solving.

The section evaluates mathematical aptitude and data interpretation skills.

CLAT Quantitative Techniques Syllabus

The Quantitative Techniques section of CLAT contains short sets of facts or propositions. The questions present numerical information in textual form. Candidates must apply mathematical operations to the information given in the passages.

Key Details of the Section

• Type of Questions: Numerical questions with graphical, textual, and diagrammatic representations, followed by related questions.
• Abilities Tested: Identifying and manipulating numerical information in passages. Questions are based on Class 10 level concepts, including ratios, proportions, basic algebra, mensuration, and statistical estimation.
• Standard of Questions: Class 10th.
• Weightage: 10% (10-14 questions).
• Topics to Focus: Basic algebra, ratios and proportions, mensuration, statistical estimation.
• Study Material: Class 10th standard mathematics books.

Topics Covered in Quantitative Techniques

CLAT Syllabus 2026: Subject-wise Weightage and Marks Distribution

CLAT 2026 will have a single paper with 120 multiple-choice questions. Each correct answer earns +3 marks, and each incorrect answer deducts 1 mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mathematics compulsory in CLAT?

Yes, Mathematics is compulsory in the CLAT syllabus. Class 11 or Class 12 Maths is not required. Only basic arithmetic up to Class 10 is asked. Around 10-14 questions appear in the Quantitative Techniques section.

How is Legal Reasoning in CLAT UG different from CLAT PG?

The Legal Reasoning sections for CLAT UG and CLAT PG are different.

• CLAT UG: Tests legal reasoning skills using hypothetical situations and principles. No prior legal knowledge is required.
• CLAT PG: Focuses on interpretation of legal passages, core law subjects, and applying advanced legal knowledge.

Is there any official syllabus PDF for CLAT?

The Consortium of NLUs does not release a detailed syllabus PDF. The official body provides sample papers, question formats, and subject-wise outlines. Aspirants rely on these materials and previous papers for guidance.

How should I prioritize sections while preparing for CLAT?

Prioritisation depends on the full CLAT syllabus. The approach differs for UG and PG.

• For UG: Focus more on Legal Reasoning and Current Affairs, as they carry the highest weight. Then prepare English and Logical Reasoning, with daily practice for Math.
• For PG: Prioritize Constitutional Law and Jurisprudence, as they carry more weight, followed by other core law subjects.

Which subject has more weightage in CLAT?

The subjects with the most weightage in the CLAT syllabus are Current Affairs & General Knowledge and Legal Reasoning.

CLAT Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national-level entrance exam for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs. The exam is conducted in a computer-based test mode.

For the CLAT UG exam, there are 120 questions, and each correct answer carries 1 mark, making the total 120 marks. The CLAT PG exam also has 120 questions, with each right answer worth 1 mark, for a total of 120 marks.

Subject-wise Weightage in CLAT UG

Difficulty Level of CLAT Sections

Most students consider the Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Techniques sections to be the toughest in CLAT. These areas demand conceptual clarity, quick problem-solving, and sharp analytical thinking.

The English section is considered easy for CLAT. The subject-wise CLAT exam analysis is as follows:

Changes in the CLAT Syllabus 2026 Over the Years

CLAT syllabus has been revised multiple times over the years. The last time the CLAT exam syllabus was changed was in 2024, when the number of questions was reduced to 120.

Some of the changes that took place over the years are:

• Comprehension-based Questions – A few years back, CLAT was more about direct questions. Now, the CLAT 2026 syllabus focuses heavily on passages in English, Legal Reasoning, and Current Affairs, testing the ability to read, understand, and analyse.
• Smarter Current Affairs Sections – Instead of static GK, the syllabus now focuses on contemporary events, legal or social issues. Reading quality newspapers is more important than facts.
• Legal reasoning without Legal knowledge – The CLAT syllabus shifted from expecting legal theory from students to testing their reasoning skills through legal principles mentioned in the question.
• Emphasis on Critical Reasoning – This CLAT syllabus section now includes more argument-based questions than before.
• Skill-based Approach – The overall CLAT syllabus has moved towards testing skills over learning. CLAT syllabus now rewards candidates who can think quickly and apply concepts rather than memorize them.

How to Prepare for CLAT 2026 Examination

CLAT is one of the toughest entrance exams for students aspiring to pursue their careers in Law. With effective preparation strategies, students can obtain good marks in the examination.

• Whenever 40-50% of the syllabus is completed, start attempting mock tests, especially before 1-2 months of the exam. Free CLAT mock tests provide full-length, subject-wise, chapter-wise tests and live quizzes.
• Attempt section-wise tests through previous year questions whenever a particular topic of a subject is being completed. Use a timer and see how much time it is taking to solve those questions.
• The most demanding thing for the exam is to have a strong command of vocabulary and develop reading habits. This can be done by reading various types of journals, editorials, articles, newspapers, novels, and magazines. For newspapers, follow the Hindu, The Times of India, The Indian Express, The Telegraph, etc.
• Check YouTube or connect with teachers at respective coaching centers for doubt-clearing one-to-one mentorship sessions. Check the recommended books for all 5 subjects.
• If students are making a study plan, it should be long-term. Changing study plans every 2 weeks or months will not be effective.

How to Get 90-100 Attempts in CLAT

Many toppers or students who cleared CLAT have advised that you should attempt at least 90-100 questions. In CLAT 2024, the average number of students who attempted questions was 105-110.

Attempting 90-100 questions in an exam like CLAT requires strategic preparation and effective test-taking techniques. Here are some key strategies:

Preparation Strategies

Focus on building speed and accuracy through regular mock tests. Analyse each mock test to identify weak areas and work on improving them before the next test.

Preparation Tips for CLAT

How to Prepare Effectively

Start by strengthening your basics in every subject. Focus on grammar for English, legal principles for Legal Aptitude, and core concepts in Quantitative Techniques and Logical Reasoning.

Practice regularly with previous years' mock tests and question papers. This helps you understand the exam pattern and the types of questions asked.

Manage your time by allocating specific slots to each section during practice. A suggested split is 30 minutes for English, 30 minutes for Critical Reasoning, 10-12 minutes for Current Affairs, 10-12 minutes for Data Interpretation, and 35-38 minutes for Logical Reasoning. Practicing under timed conditions prepares you for the actual test.

Analyze your performance after every mock test. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, then focus on improving the areas where you score low.

Test-Taking Strategies

Start with the sections you are most confident in to secure easy marks quickly. This builds confidence and leaves more time for tougher sections.

For lengthy passages in English and Legal Reasoning, skim the text to get the main idea before reading the questions. This saves time and improves comprehension.

If you are unsure of an answer, use elimination to narrow down the choices. Intelligent guessing can improve your score while reducing the risk of negative marking.

Stay calm and focused during the test. Stress can slow you down and affect judgment, so practice relaxation techniques to remain composed under pressure.

Using these strategies effectively can help you manage time better and attempt more questions accurately in both mocks and the actual exam.

How Should a Beginner Start Preparing for the CLAT Syllabus?

Prepare yourself mentally before starting your studies. If you are a beginner and do not know how to begin, follow the points below.

Steps to Begin Preparation

• Recognize Your Current Level: Start preparing in 11th or 12th grade. Take a diagnostic test before beginning to understand your current aptitude. CLAT tests aptitude, mental ability, and comprehension, not just knowledge.
• Set a Target College and Score: Decide which law school you want based on your current level, location, affordability, and interest in law. Determine the score needed for that college and focus on achieving it.
• Gather Resources: List all study materials, including books, videos, previous years' papers, practice questions, and topper notes. Supplement coaching materials with self-study books.
• Create a Timetable: Allocate 3-4 hours daily for CLAT preparation with breaks. Keep weekends free for extracurricular activities. Study and revise at the same time each day to build a routine.
• Join a Coaching Institute: Many students benefit from structured coaching that offers curated content, teacher access, practice sessions, and mock tests. Coaching provides discipline and a structured approach.
• Maximize Preparation:
  1. Preview content before class.
  2. Participate actively in class.
  3. Solve and review in-class exercises and practice questions.
  4. Take topic-wise tests after completing a topic and analyze your performance.
• Mock Tests: Take at least 50 mock tests in real exam conditions. Analyze results to identify weaknesses and improve. Discuss mistakes with mentors to enhance understanding.
• Read Newspapers: Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu, The Telegraph, Indian Express, and Times of India to improve current affairs knowledge and reading comprehension.

Golden Rules Followed by AIR-1: Jai Kumar Bohara

Jai Kumar Bohara became the AIR-1 with 100 percentile marks this year. He chose a career in law because his parents and grandfather come from a lawyer background.

Here is what he told upcoming CLAT 2026 aspirants about his journey to becoming the CLAT AIR-1 student of 2024.

CLAT Topper Jai's Preparation Strategy

Jai found the General Knowledge (GK) section tougher than the other four subjects. He used the notes and materials from CLAT Express and LawPrep for this section.

Students should revise GK topics daily. If there are 30 topics, study 5 on the first day. On the next day, study another 5 and revise the previous topics.

Mindset and Commitment

Jai said students can take 1-1.5 months to decide on their preparation. After that, there should be no looking back.

Once you are ready, you should focus on delivering your 100 percent. If you cannot do that, do not appear for the exam.

Reference Books and Reading Habits

Jai advised students to make a habit of reading current affairs, newspapers, and journals. He said book choices vary from person to person.

It is better to stick with books that match a student's vibe and mindset. Jai personally followed Wiley's textbooks.

Importance of Mock Tests

To ace the exam, giving mock tests should be treated like reading the Bible. Jai noted that many students, including himself, left the hall while giving mock tests.

Mock tests are only for self-practice and improvement. No one except you will assess your performance based on mock test results. You can increase your gut feeling by practicing.

Study Breaks and Mobile Phone Use

Take 1-2 breaks while studying. During breaks, do mind-refreshing activities, which are beneficial.

Jai told students to avoid mobile phones during breaks. If you plan to use it for 5 minutes, it will extend into 10 minutes and further.

Long-Term Strategy and Phases

Make long-term strategies, divide them into phases, and continue them till the day of the examination. In the first phase, do not pressure yourself and start building momentum.

Increase study timing in the later months.

Subject-Wise Preparation Tips

Start with the subject you feel most confident about. This boosts your confidence level and helps with other subjects too.

For Legal Reasoning, practice and keep your content limited during the exam. It is a personalized subject. Read articles and learn theories to frame answers interactively in limited words.

For Logical Reasoning, read newspapers and case files, and try to draw arguments. For Quantitative Techniques, get your concepts cleared by teachers and practice passages regularly. It is an approachable subject.

Avoid Comparisons and Build Positive Relationships

Do not compare your marks with other students. It will demotivate you and build unnecessary stress. If you are a beginner, avoid it at any cost.

Make limited friends who are understanding and bring a positive impact in your life. Do not make friends by seeing their friends.

Take breaks on Sundays and go for refreshments like outings or eating with a limited company of friends. Make a proper balance between friends and being isolated.

Talk with parents and teachers not only about studies but also about other things. This refreshes your mind and gives you extra energy for the next day's preparation.

Can I Prepare for Both CLAT and IPMAT Together?

Preparing for both CLAT and IPMAT simultaneously is tough due to the rigorous and different nature of each exam's syllabus.

• CLAT is an entrance exam for law courses. It focuses on general knowledge, current affairs, legal aptitude, logical reasoning, and numerical ability.
• IPMAT is an entrance exam for integrated management programs. It emphasizes quantitative ability (both multiple-choice and short-answer questions) and verbal ability.
• There are some similarities in verbal ability and quantitative sections, but the core focus and subject matter of each exam are different.
• CLAT prioritizes legal and rational-legal knowledge, while IPMAT targets analytical and management-focused skills.

How to Maintain Focus While Reading Passages

Students often lose the link of passages while reading 2-3 lines. Try to build skills of speed reading or skimming through passages.

This method helps in understanding passages by going through the important points instead of reading them fully.

• It is a game of skimming. Reading the entire 450 words will consume your time, as there are only 120 minutes.
• Reduce this 120 minutes to 105 minutes, as on the exam day.
• 15 minutes will go by in the blink of an eye by following exam day rules.

How to Prepare for CLAT Syllabus Subject-wise?

To prepare subject-wise, students need to identify which subject they can become an expert in. For CLAT subject-wise preparation, start with the subject you are most confident about to build momentum.

Section-Wise Preparation Tips for CLAT 2026

Quantitative Techniques

Solve questions from passages that contain factual information. Reading these passages helps students handle different types of questions.

Sharpen mathematical skills by practising Class 10+2 books. Practice formula-based questions, solve previous year's questions, and attempt mock tests regularly.

Logical Reasoning

Read the passages carefully and skim the important points. Learn the theme and try to infer conclusions from them.

Jot down the arguments and figure out what points towards agreement and what points towards conflict. Build time management skills by attempting the Consortium's practice paper sets and mock tests regularly. Solve mock tests and previous year questions.

Legal Reasoning

Questions in this section mostly come from newspapers, case files, and similar sources. No specific legal knowledge is required for this part.

Students need to recognise the facts mentioned and frame answers using practical knowledge. Pick a topic and communicate with friends, and sit for debates with family. This helps students set their perspective on answers. Solve mock tests and previous year questions here also.

General Knowledge Including Current Affairs

Read in-depth current affairs of both India and international events. Watch news and read newspapers like The Indian Express, The Hindu, and Times of India.

Candidates can also gather information from novels and magazines. Whatever topics are studied in GK should be read in-depth. Attempt free online quizzes, solve previous year's question papers, and attempt mock tests.

English Language

Build a strong command of words to increase vocabulary. Practice grammar and identify where mistakes are being made.

In the passage, concentrate on the 5Ws: Who, What, Why, When, and Where. The paragraph conveys a single point of view in the English Language part. Read different books, stories, and analytical writings, attempt mock tests, and solve previous year's questions.

Recommended Books for CLAT 2026

Here are some recommended books that students can consider for their preparation:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are mock tests more difficult than the main CLAT paper?

You can connect this answer if you reminisce about your pre-board examinations. Over the years, the difficulty level of pre-board questions comes nowhere when compared to the main exam.

It is done so that we can adapt ourselves with the question papers and during the examination, no problem occurs if such type of questions are asked. The same thing follows in CLAT and other entrance examinations also.

Is giving mock tests enough for CLAT 2026 exam?

Attempting mock tests is a good step, but it will not be worth if you do not analyse your performance. What Jai Kumar Bohara did and every CLAT 2026 student should also follow is that every 10 mocks he used to collect doubts about every section.

Ask your mentors to guide you on what type of mistakes you are making. Remember that by making mistakes and knowing about them, you are self-assessing yourself in transforming your weaknesses into strengths.

I have given my first mock test of CLAT exam and obtained 55 marks. Should I stop preparing for the exam?

The source does not provide an answer to this question.

Ques. Should I focus on Boards or CLAT exam 2026?

Ques. I always get panicked on the day of the exam, how should I cope up with this on the day of CLAT 2026?