CLAT 2026 – Exam Pattern

The CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) 2026 will be the gateway to admissions in undergraduate and postgraduate Law programs at National Law Universities (NLUs) and other prestigious Law schools across India. For candidates aspiring to pursue higher education in the field of Law, understanding the CLAT 2026 exam pattern is essential for effective planning and strategic preparation. This article will be providing with essential information regarding the CLAT 2026 exam pattern and other related information.

Overview of the CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam:Offline, Pen-and-Paper (OMR-based)
• Duration:2 hours (120 minutes)
• Type of Questions:Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), all comprehension-based
• Total Number of Questions:120
• Subjects/Sections:Five
• Language of Exam:English only
• Marking Scheme:+1 for every correct answer, negative marking og -0.25 for each incorrect answer and no deduction for unattempted questions.
• Total Marks:120

Section-wise Structure and Weightage

CLAT 2026 will consist of five sections, each designed to assess specific abilities crucial for legal studies. The following table gives a quick representation of the exam pattern and other related information related to CLAT 2026 exam.

All questions are tied to passage-based comprehension.

Detailed Section Breakdown

1. English Language

• Comprehension passages (about 450 words)
• Vocabulary, grammar, sentence corrections
• Questions test reading ability, interpretation, and contextual understanding.

2. Current Affairs including General Knowledge

• Static GK and current events (national & international)
• Questions often based on current happenings, history, polity, sports, awards, and science & technology.

3. Legal Reasoning

• Legal principles, facts-based questions
• Application of law in different contexts (contracts, criminal law, torts)
• Focus on legal aptitude and logical application.

4. Logical Reasoning

• Analytical exercises, critical reasoning, analogies, sequences
• Strengthens puzzle-solving and decision-making skills.

5. Quantitative Techniques

• Arithmetic, algebra, data interpretation, geometry, mensuration
• Designed for basic math and logical problem-solving abilities.

Special Features and Key Points

• Comprehension-Based Format:All sections are heavily focused on reading comprehension. Passages are followed by MCQs that challenge analytical and interpretative skills.
• No Subjective Questions: CLAT UG 2026 contains only objective-type MCQs.
• Negative Marking:Accuracy is crucial, as each incorrect answer leads to a penalty.

Preparation Implications

• Reading Practice:Strong emphasis on reading speed, accuracy, and comprehension.
• Time Management:With one question per minute, effective pacing is vital.
• Balanced Focus:While current affairs and legal reasoning carry the most weight, ignoring Math or English can significantly impact the overall score.

Click Here for Clat 2026 Eligibility 

FAQs

Q1. What is the total duration and number of questions in CLAT 2026?

Ans. CLAT 2026 is going to be of two-hour exam, containing 120 multiple-choice questions covering five sections.

Q2. Is there negative marking in CLAT 2026?

Ans. Yes, each incorrect answer leads to a deduction of 0.25 marks. No marks are deducted for unanswered questions.

Q3. What types of questions are asked in CLAT 2026?

Ans. All questions are objective-type MCQs, generally linked to reading comprehension passages across various topics.

Q4. Which sections have the highest weightage?

Ans. Current Affairs including General Knowledge and Legal Reasoning have the highest weightage, typically constituting 25% each of the total marks.

Q5. In what language is the CLAT 2026 exam conducted?

Ans. CLAT 2026 is conducted only in English, and all questions must be answered in English.