Eligibility Criteria for CLAT
The CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) UG is the primary entrance exam for candidates aspiring to secure admission to undergraduate law programs (LL.B.) at various National Law Universities (NLUs) across India. To be eligible for this prestigious exam, candidates must meet certain criteria related to nationality, age, and educational qualifications. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the CLAT UG eligibility criteria, including specific requirements for NRI candidates.
Eligibility Criteria for CLAT UG Exam
The CLAT UG exam is open to candidates who have either completed or are in the final stages of their 10+2 examination. The table below outlines the essential eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian Nationals, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and Foreign Nationals are eligible. |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit is specified for CLAT UG. |
| Educational Qualification | Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board. |
| Minimum Marks | General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI: 45% aggregate marks SC/ST: 40% aggregate marks |
| Final Year Students | Students appearing for the 12th standard exams in March/April 2025 are eligible, provided they submit proof of passing at the time of admission. |
NRI and NRI-Sponsored Candidates
Candidates applying under the NRI or NRI-sponsored quota must meet the general eligibility criteria for CLAT UG, along with additional requirements for NRI-specific admissions. These candidates are often evaluated based on their merit scores in CLAT.
| Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| NRI Candidates | Must meet the general eligibility criteria for CLAT UG and follow NRI-specific admission processes. |
| NRI-Sponsored Candidates | Must submit additional documents (listed below) from the sponsor along with proof of eligibility. |
Documents Required for NRI and NRI-Sponsored Candidates
NRI Candidates:
- Copy of valid Indian passport
- Visas obtained in the last 12 months
- Certificate from the local embassy stating NRI/OCI status or PIO card
NRI-Sponsored Candidates:
- Sponsor’s copy of a valid Indian passport
- Visas obtained by the sponsor in the last 12 months
- Certificate from the local embassy stating the sponsor's NRI/OCI status or PIO card
- An affidavit from the sponsor expressing interest in the student's education and willingness to fund the student’s education for the next five years
Comparison of Old vs. New CLAT UG Structure
| Point of Difference | Old CLAT Exam Structure | New CLAT Exam Structure (from 2024 onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 150 | 120 |
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Question Type | Passage-based, except Quantitative Techniques | Still passage-based, Quantitative Techniques remain the same |
| Sections | English Language, Current Affairs (General Knowledge), Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Techniques | Same sections remain: English Language, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Techniques |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect answers | No change in marking scheme |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) | Offline (Pen and Paper) |
Important Notes
- No Age Restriction: CLAT UG does not specify any upper age limit, making it accessible for candidates of any age group.
- Verification of Documents: Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying to avoid disqualification, even after clearing the exam.
- NRI Admissions: NRI candidates should be aware of the specific procedures and documents required by each NLU for admissions under the NRI quota.
Conclusion
Understanding the eligibility criteria for the CLAT UG exam is crucial for all aspiring law students. Meeting these criteria is the first step toward gaining admission to a top law university in India. Candidates, especially those applying under the NRI or NRI-sponsored quotas, must pay close attention to the documentation and specific requirements set by the respective NLUs. Always refer to official notifications to stay updated on the latest eligibility guidelines.