The CLAT 2025 Selection Process is a comprehensive and competitive route to securing admission to India’s top law schools. Read further to know about the right preparation strategy, understand the eligibility requirements, and stay focused throughout the exam and counseling stages.
CLAT Selection Process 2025: Step-by-Step Comprehensive Guide
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a prestigious entrance exam for gaining admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs in India. Conducted by a consortium of 25 National Law Universities (NLUs), CLAT is recognised by numerous law schools nationwide for their admission procedures. In this article, we will provide an in-depth overview of the CLAT selection process, including details on the exam pattern, eligibility requirements, mark distribution, and counselling process. Additionally, we will offer useful tips to help you prepare effectively and perform at your best.
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The CLAT is an entrance exam for admission to law programs at various NLUs and other reputed law schools in India. It is an objective-type exam that evaluates the candidate's aptitude in legal reasoning, general knowledge, mathematics, English, and logical reasoning. The CLAT exam is held annually and is considered a crucial step for anyone seeking admission to top law schools in India.
Q: I'm in class 11, how can I start my preparation for CLAT?
There is a national entrance exam for law school.The applicant needs to have finished grade 12.As of right now, you can study for the CLAT using online resources and from law college students.To get a good score on the CLAT exam, you can study from the previous year's question paper and practice legal aptitude, current general knowledge, and mock tests.You wish to increase your mathematical understanding and English communication abilities. A 45% score on the CLAT entrance exam is required. You have to focus on the mathematics from your 12th grade class, as there are multiple questions from the courses. Ask if you are unsure of anything.
Q: Please tell me the number of questions asked per section in CLAT exam.
The CLAT question paper for UG course admissions carried 120 multiple-choice questions for a total of 120 marks like previous year. Candidates can check the section-wise questions weightage for each section as under:
Sections | MCQs per section | Maximum Marks | Approximate Weightage (in %) |
|---|---|---|---|
28-32 | 28-32 | 18.66 - 21.33 | |
35-39 | 35-39 | 23.33 - 26 | |
28-32 | 28-32 | 18.66 - 21.33 | |
35-39 | 35-39 | 23.33 - 26 | |
Quantitative Techniques (Elementry Mathematics up to Class 10) | 13-17 | 13-17 | 8.66 - 11.33 |
Total | 120 | 120 | 100% |
Q: From where can I download the CLAT previous year question papers?
CLAT Selection Process 2025: Step-by-Step
The CLAT 2025 Selection Process consists of several steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: CLAT Eligibility 2025
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria were only issued the CLAT Admit Card. Candidates could check CLAT Eligibility Criteria for both UG and PG program below:
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Eligibility for the UG Program
To be eligible for the CLAT UG Program (BA LLB), candidates had meet the following criteria:
Age Limit: There was no upper age limit for CLAT 2025. However, candidates had to be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 (or equivalent) exam from a recognised board with at least 45 per cent aggregate marks (40 per cent for SC/ST candidates).
Appearing Candidates: Candidates who are appearing for their 12th exams in 2025 are also eligible to apply for CLAT UG 2025.
Q: What kind of questions are included in CLAT question paper?
The CLAT question paper for UG courses had objective-type questions from subjects such as Logical Reasoning, Legal Reasoning Quantitative Techniques, English and Current Affairs including General Knowledge. The CLAT paper for the LLM. course had both objective questions from law subjects such as Constitutional Law, Jurisprudence, Administrative Law, Law of Contract, Torts, Family Law, etc. Generally, the questions are designed as passage followed by series of questions of one mark each. Candidates had to attempt the questions by reading and interpreting the passages only.
Q: What are important preparation strategies for CLAT 2025?
Candidates could check important preparation strategies of CLAT 2025 below:
- Prepare a monthly and weekly timetable and have the syllabus handy
- Make sure to cover all the topics and concepts right on time and revise them at frequent intervals
- Write mock tests and practice tests frequently and analyze the tests taken to recognize the weak areas, and work towards improving them
- Do not make assumptions while attempting the questions in actual CLAT as for every incorrect answer, 0.25 marks will be deducted
Q: Will CLAT be held twice in 2025?
In 2022, CLAT exam was held twice, I. e. on June 19 as CLAT 2022, and on December 18, 2022 as CLAT 2023. However, from 2024 onwards, CLAT exam is to be conducted once in a year only, as confirmed by the exam officials in the latest notification. Earlier, CLAT exam was conducted in May or June, but from 2024 onwards the entrance exam will be conducted in December (of preceding year to the admission year) itself for concluding admissions on time. Therefore, CLAT counselling process will be completed by May of each academic year.
Q: How to Check CLAT Merit List 2025?
Candidates can check the NLU-wise CLAT merit list by following the below steps:
Step 1: Visit CLAT official website
Step 2: Navigate to ‘Notifications’ section
Step 3: Click on ‘CLAT 2025 Allotment List’ link
Step 4: View and download the CLAT allotment list 2025
Candidates must note that they can appear for CLAT Counselling 2025 only if there name is there in the merit list. CLAT counselling will be conducted in online mode. Candidates must appear for the counselling to get admission to one of the NLUs in the country.
Q: Is there Maths in CLAT 2025?
Yes, there is math in CLAT exam. The section carries 10 per cent weight. Scoring well in maths can give candidates big boost over competition. The CLAT syllabus for Quantitative Techniques includes the following important highlights:
- The section includes 13-17 questions in the exam
- Unlike other sections, the Quantitative Techniques section includes short sets of facts, propositions, graphs or other textual, pictorial, diagrammatic representation of numerical information
- Majority of the questions in the section are created specifically for the exam, however, few graphs and histograms are also derived from public sources such as the official website of Reserve Bank of India
- The difficulty level of questions in the exam is of Class 10 level, however, the questions are more logic-based rather than formulae-based
- Important topics on which Maths questions are based in the exam include:
CLAT Syllabus for Quantitative Techniques | |
|---|---|
Number Theory & Basic Arithmetic | Averages & Percentages |
Ratio & Proportion | Mixtures & Allegations |
Time & Work | Time, Distance & Speed |
Fractions & Equations | Monetary Evaluations |
Probability | Permutations & Combinations |
Data Interpretation to analyse Charts, Tables, Histograms & other Graphical Information | |
Eligibility for the PG Program
To be eligible for the CLAT PG Program (LLM), candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed a 5-year integrated LLB or a 3-year LLB degree from a recognized university.
Minimum Marks: Candidates must have secured at least 50 per cent marks in their LLB (45 per cent for SC/ST candidates).
Appearing Candidates: Candidates who are appearing for their final-year LLB exam in 2025 can also apply.
Also Read: CLAT UG Vs CLAT PG: Key Differences in exam Pattern, Syllabus and Other Important Details
Step 2: CLAT Exam Application 2025
- Register Online: Candidates need to visit the official CLAT website and register by providing their basic details.
- Fill the Application Form: After registration, candidates must fill in the CLAT application form, which includes academic and personal information.
- Pay the Application Fee: Candidates must pay the required exam fee (details of which will be available on the official website).
- Admit Card Issuance: After successful registration, admit cards will be issued to eligible candidates. Candidates should download and print the admit card to appear for the exam.
Step 3: CLAT Exam 2025
The CLAT 2025 Exam was the next step in the selection process. There are separate patterns for UG and PG programs, as detailed below:
CLAT UG Exam Pattern 2025
Candidates can check CLAT UG Exam Pattern below:
| Particulars |
CLAT Exam Pattern Highlights |
|---|---|
| Total Duration |
2 hours |
| Number of Questions |
150 |
| Total Marks |
150 |
| Question Type |
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
CLAT 2025 Sectional Weightage
The CLAT question paper for UG course admissions carried 120 passage-based multiple-choice questions for a total of 120 marks. Going by the CLAT 2025 sectional weightage, candidates can check the section-wise questions weightage for each section as under:
| Sections |
MCQs per section |
Maximum Marks |
Approximate Weightage (in %) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28-32 |
28-32 |
18.66 - 21.33 |
|
| 35-39 |
35-39 |
23.33 - 26 |
|
| 28-32 |
28-32 |
18.66 - 21.33 |
|
| 35-39 |
35-39 |
23.33 - 26 |
|
| Quantitative Techniques (Elementry Mathematics up to Class 10) |
13-17 |
13-17 |
8.66 - 11.33 |
| Total |
120 |
120 |
100% |
Also Read: Synonyms & Antonyms for Law Entrance 2025: List of Most Commonly Asked Words
CLAT PG Exam Pattern 2025
Candidates can check the CLAT LLM Exam Pattern below:
| Particulars |
CLAT Exam Pattern Highlights |
|---|---|
| Total Duration |
2 hours |
| Number of Questions |
100 |
| Total Marks |
120 |
| Question Type |
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
CLAT LLM Pattern 2025: Section-Wise & Weightage
CLAT question paper 2025 for LLM contained objective-type questions. There were120 MCQs that candidates have to attempt in a duration of two hours. Check the complete CLAT LLM exam pattern for each for reference below.
| CLAT LLM Sections |
MCQs per section |
Marks per section |
|---|---|---|
| Sec A – Constitutional Law |
120 |
120 |
| Sec B - Contract, Torts, Criminal Law, International Law, IPR and Jurisprudence. |
||
| Sec C – Law topics and Contemporary issues |
Also Read: Idioms and Proverbs for CLAT 2025 With Meaning
CLAT 2025 Marking Scheme
CLAT 2025 Exam Pattern was not changed. The consortium released the marking scheme for CLAT 2025 Exam. Aspirants can refer to the marking scheme for UG courses below:
- For every correct answer, candidates are awarded one mark
- For every wrong attempt, 0.25 marks are deducted from their total score
- No marks are awarded or deducted for questions not left un-attempted
| CLAT Marking Parameters |
Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct answer |
+1 marks |
| Incorrect answer |
-0.25 marks |
| Un-attempted question |
0 marks |
Also Read: CLAT 2025 Exam Day New Guidelines: Code of Conduct, Items to Carry or Avoid, Do's & Dont's
Step 4: CLAT Results and Merit List
After the exam, the Consortium released the CLAT Results and the CLAT Merit list 2025 for both UG and PG programs. Candidates were ranked according to their scores, and the merit list will determine their eligibility for the next stage.
How to Check CLAT 2025 Result?
Candidates can download the CLAT result 2025 following the steps mentioned below:
- Click on the result link given above or directly enter: https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in/clat-2025/view-result.html
- A log-in window will open
- Fill in the following details:
- CLAT 2025 application number / Admit card number
- Date of birth
- On successful login, the results will be displayed on the screen
- Download and take a printout of the CLAT 2025 scorecard.
Step 5: CLAT Counseling Process
The counseling process will begin from December 11, 2024. The CLAT Counseling Process will involve:
- Online Registration for Counseling: Candidates who qualify will need to register for the CLAT counseling process through the official website.
- Choice Filling: Candidates can fill in their preferences for NLUs.
- Seat Allotment: The seat allotment will take place based on the merit list and choices. Candidates will be offered admission to the law programs at various NLUs.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates will need to verify their documents, including educational certificates, ID proofs, and category certificates (if applicable).
- Admission Confirmation: Once all steps are completed, candidates will confirm their admission by paying the required fee.
Also Read: CLAT 2025 Counselling Important Documents, NLUs Seat matrix, Mandatory Instructions
Importance of Weightage During the CLAT Selection Process 2025
The weightage of marks in the CLAT exam is crucial for determining the candidate's rank and final selection. The total score is based on the number of correct answers, with a penalty for incorrect answers (negative marking). It's important to understand how each section contributes to the final score and to allocate preparation time accordingly. By performing well across these sections, especially in Legal Reasoning and General Knowledge, candidates can significantly improve their overall score.
Preparation Tips for CLAT 2025
Candidates can check tips and tricks to clear CLAT Exam 2025 in first attempt below:
- Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Familiarise yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus to focus your preparation on key topics.
- Daily Practice: Regularly practice questions from all sections—especially Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and General Knowledge.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with daily news, legal developments, and important court rulings to perform well in the Current Affairs section.
- Mock Tests: Take mock tests regularly to simulate the exam environment and improve your time management.
- Time Management: Practice solving questions within the stipulated time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Previous Year Papers: Solve CLAT previous years’ papers to understand the question types and difficulty level of the exam.
The CLAT 2025 Selection Process is a well-structured and rigorous pathway to secure admission to India’s premier law schools. You can boost your chances of success with the right preparation strategy, a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, and a focused approach to the exam and counseling process. Stay updated with official announcements regarding CLAT exam dates and eligibility changes to ensure you are fully prepared for the CLAT 2025 exam.
Read More:
- CLAT 2025 Marks vs Rank: Key Differences, Merit List Deciding Factors, Cutoff, Admissions
- How to Prepare for CLAT 2025: Best Books, Preparation Tips, Strategy & Revised Syllabus
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 21 hours ago
As per the CLAT 2025 schedule, the Consortium of National Law Universities has released the CLAT 2025 results. Candidates seeking admission to the JLU Bhopal BBA LLB course via CLAT must have secured a minimum of 50 marks. Those who did not meet the prescribed cutoff can appear for the JLUET exam.
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
As per official sources, the CLAT 2025 results have been released by the NLU Consortium. Candidates seeking admission to the JLU Bhopal BA LLB course via CLAT must have secured a minimum of 50 marks. Those who have not secured the prescribed marks can appear for the JLUET exam, which is conducted by
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 days ago
If you want to go through flat exam in university so you had to wait for 1 year but if you want to do your course you can take admission in private and better colleges
R
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a week ago
To apply for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), follow these steps:
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for CLAT, which typically includes:
- - For UG Programmes: Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates)
- -
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a week ago
The CLAT ranks below 1000 are enough for getting INLU of Nirma University.
Scholar-Level 18
Answered a week ago
No, its not at all mandatory to give CLAT to become a lawyer. Candidates can enroll in Law courses offered by various universities and colleges to pursue UG and PG law courses. However, those who wish to take admission in one of NLUs except NLU Delhi will have to appear for Common National Admission
M
Beginner-Level 4
Answered a week ago
Yes, Gujarat National Law University, accepts CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) scores for admission to its various undergraduate and postgraduate law programs, including the BA LLB, BCom LLB, BBA LLB, BSc LLB and LLM courses. CLAT is a common entrance test used by many of the top law schools in Indi
S
Contributor-Level 6
Answered a week ago
Your prospects of getting into a National Law University (NLU) with an All India Rank of 37,778 and a SC category rank of 2452 in the CLAT rely on a number of variables including seat availability, cutoff trends and reservation rules
elite NLUs: Because of higher cutoffs admission to elite NLUs such
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
Chances of getting the following NLUs CA be made.
- NLU Kochi
- NLU Assam
- NLU Tripura
Scholar-Level 18
Answered 2 weeks ago
NLUs are not possible on this rank. Please try some private colleges.
Scholar-Level 18
When are the CLAT 2025 results going to be released for admission to the JLU Bhopal BBA LLB course?