CLAT Eligibility Criteria: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is the most prestigious entrance examination for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs in India. Conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), CLAT serves as the gateway to premier law institutions across the country. However, before appearing for this competitive exam, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria, which forms the foundation for your application. In this comprehensive blog, we will explore all aspects of CLAT eligibility for UG and PG, including educational qualifications, age limits, reservation policies, and other essential details.

Why Understanding CLAT Eligibility Is Important

Many students start preparing for CLAT with a clear career goal but forget to verify whether they fulfill the eligibility requirements. Ignoring this step can lead to:

• Application rejection

• Disqualification at later stages

• Wasted preparation effort and money

Hence, checking eligibility early ensures a smooth and stress-free application process.

Eligibility Criteria for CLAT UG (Undergraduate)

The CLAT UG exam is for students seeking admission to 5-year integrated law programs such as BA LL.B., BBA LL.B., B.S.C LL.B. LL.B. at various NLUs and private law colleges.

1. Educational Qualification

Candidates must have completed or be appearing in the final examination of their 10+2 (Senior Secondary) or an equivalent exam from a recognized board.

Minimum Marks Required:

• General / OBC / PWD / NRI / PIO / OCI candidates: 45% marks

• SC / ST candidates: 40% marks

Note: If you are appearing for your Class 12 board exams in the same year as CLAT, you can apply provisionally. However, your admission will be subject to meeting the required marks once results are declared.

2. Subjects Accepted

There are no subject restrictions in Class 12. Students from any stream—Science, Commerce, or Arts—can apply for CLAT UG. What matters is the aggregate percentage and passing certificate.

Eligibility Criteria for CLAT PG (Postgraduate)

CLAT PG is for law graduates who want to pursue LL.M. programs in prestigious NLUs or other participating law schools.

Educational Qualification

The candidate must have completed or be in the final year of a 3-year LL.B. or 5-year integrated LL.B. program from a recognized university.

Minimum Marks Required:

• General / OBC / PWD / NRI / PIO / OCI candidates: 50% marks

• SC / ST candidates: 45% marks

Note: Provisional admission is allowed for candidates awaiting final year results, provided they submit proof of qualification within the stipulated time.

Age Limit for CLAT UG and PG

One of the most common doubts among aspirants is whether there is any age restriction for CLAT. Here's the latest update:

1. CLAT UG Age Limit

There is no upper age limit for CLAT UG. Candidates of all age groups who meet the educational qualifications can apply.

2. CLAT PG Age Limit

Just like the UG exam, CLAT PG has no age bar. Anyone holding a law degree (or in the final year) is eligible, irrespective of age.

Nationality Criteria

The following categories of candidates are eligible for CLAT:

• Indian Nationals

• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)

• Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)

• Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs)

• Foreign Nationals (some NLUs may have separate guidelines for direct admissions)

  
  

Reservation Policy in CLAT

CLAT follows a structured reservation system, but the implementation of quotas may vary slightly from one NLU to another. Here’s a general overview:

Reservation Categories

• Scheduled Castes (SC)

• Scheduled Tribes (ST)

• Other Backward Classes (OBC)

• Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)

• Persons with Disabilities (PWD)

• State Domicile Quota

• NRI / Foreign National Quota

Each NLU releases its own seat matrix and reservation policy in its admission brochure. Students must read these details carefully before applying to preferred NLUs.

Seat Allotment Based on Eligibility

Once a candidate clears the CLAT exam, they are considered for seat allotment based on:

• CLAT Rank

• Category (General, SC/ST/OBC, etc.)

• State Domicile (some NLUs give preference to residents of their own state)

• Seat availability in respective NLUs

So, your eligibility category directly affects your chance of admission into a specific NLU. For example, if you are an SC candidate from Bihar applying to NUSRL Ranchi, your category and state domicile can benefit you during counseling.

CLAT Eligibility for NRI/Foreign Nationals

Some NLUs reserve specific seats for NRI/Foreign National candidates. These applicants:

• May not be required to appear for CLAT in some NLUs

• Must apply directly to the respective university

• Must submit proof of nationality and eligibility documents (passport, OCI/PIO card, etc.)

Each NLU has its own criteria for this category, so it’s important to refer to the university-specific brochure for clarity.

CLAT Eligibility for Appearing Candidates

Students who are currently in the final year of their qualifying exams (Class 12 for UG and LL.B. for PG) are eligible to apply provisionally. However:

• They must submit final results at the time of admission

• If they fail to meet the minimum marks criteria, their admission will be canceled

This is especially important for Class 12 students whose board results may be declared after CLAT.

Key Documents Required for CLAT Application

During application and admission, candidates must upload or present the following:

• Proof of date of birth (10th mark sheet or birth certificate)

• 10+2 mark sheet (for UG) / LL.B. mark sheet (for PG)

• Category certificate (if applicable)

• Domicile certificate (if applying under state quota)

• PwD certificate (if applicable)

• Photo and signature in required format

  
  

Common Myths About CLAT Eligibility

Myth 1:

Only Arts students can apply for CLAT UG

Fact: Students from any stream—Science, Commerce, or Humanities—are eligible.

Myth 2:

There is an age limit for CLAT

Fact: There is no upper age limit for CLAT UG or PG.

Myth 3:

CLAT is only for admission to NLUs

Fact: Over 60+ law colleges, including private universities like UPES, Bennett University, and NMIMS, accept CLAT scores.

Important Points to Remember

• Eligibility criteria are strictly followed by NLUs; failure to meet them can cancel your admission.

• State domicile benefits are applicable only in certain NLUs.

• Keep all certificates ready and up-to-date during application and counseling.

• For PG candidates, knowledge of specialization subjects is essential.

• Use the official CLAT website for accurate and updated information.

  
  

Final Checklist Before Applying

Before submitting your CLAT application, confirm the following:

• ✅ You meet the educational qualification criteria

• ✅ You’ve checked the marks percentage based on your category

• ✅ You’ve understood the reservation policies of NLUs you are targeting

• ✅ You’ve collected and scanned all necessary documents

• ✅ You’ve created an account on the official CLAT portal and filled details correctly

  
  

Conclusion: Know Before You Apply

CLAT is a doorway to India’s top legal institutions, but the first step begins with understanding whether you’re eligible. Being well-informed about the CLAT eligibility criteria ensures you save time, effort, and avoid rejection due to oversight. Whether you’re a Class 12 student aspiring to study law or a law graduate aiming for an LL.M., this guide equips you with everything you need to know before applying. Stay focused, prepare strategically, and aim high—because your dream of becoming a top lawyer or judge starts with one informed decision.