CLAT 2026 Exam Date Announced: December 7, 2025
The Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) has officially confirmed that the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025. This exam remains the crucial gateway for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs at all 26 participating NLUs.
With the exam date now fixed, it’s essential for aspirants to adjust their study schedules accordingly. A well-structured preparation timeline is key to achieving your goal of securing a seat in a top-tier NLU.
Why the December Date?
Since 2023, CLAT has been conducted in December, a shift from its previous May schedule. This change aims to allow students to complete the admission process before their board examinations, which typically take place in March or April. This revised timeline means that the months of September to November are vital for focused study and revision, with December being crucial for final practice and fine-tuning your syllabus.
Your Month-by-Month Preparation Plan
With approximately 80 days remaining until the CLAT 2026 exam, strategic preparation is paramount. The exam consists of 120 questions to be answered in 120 minutes, covering English Language, Current Affairs & GK, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques.
A balanced daily routine is recommended: dedicate two hours to Current Affairs and revision, two hours to Legal Reasoning with case studies, alternate two hours between English and Logical Reasoning, one hour for Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, and finally, one to two hours for mock tests and their detailed analysis, plus 30 minutes for revision using flashcards and error logs.
Phase 1: Strengthening Your Foundation (Days 1-30)
Focus on reinforcing your foundational knowledge. Revise notes, formulas, and legal principles daily. Practice at least two reading comprehension passages, two legal reasoning passages, one logical reasoning passage, and 10 quantitative questions each day. Cultivate a habit of staying updated with current affairs by reading newspapers and monthly revision materials. Aim to take two mock tests per week, prioritizing accuracy over speed.
Phase 2: Intensive Practice and Sectional Mastery (Days 31-60)
Transition to intensive practice and aim for mastery in each section. Take sectional tests every alternate day and increase your mock test frequency to three per week. Dedicate time to practicing 3-4 sets daily for each subject, particularly focusing on your weaker areas. Build your exam stamina by practicing in timed, two-hour sessions and consistently update your error log.
Phase 3: Exam Simulation and Final Revision (Days 61-80)
In the final 20 days, simulate exam conditions by taking 4-5 full-length mock tests weekly under strict timed conditions with no breaks. Analyze your accuracy, time management per section, and any easy questions missed. Concentrate your revision on key legal principles, landmark judgments, essential constitutional articles, GK from the past 8-10 months, and time-saving quant techniques.
The Final Countdown (Last 10 Days)
Avoid introducing new topics. Focus on strategic revision of legal reasoning, constitutional law, legal GK, and quantitative formulas. Continue taking mocks, but perhaps with a lighter study load. Maintain a balanced routine, prioritizing mental well-being and calmness to approach the CLAT with confidence.
Tips from Top Performers
Successful CLAT candidates not only work hard but also work smart. They adhere to a consistent schedule, avoiding overwhelm. Instead of relying on scattered resources, they focus on a select few high-quality study materials. Mock tests are treated as real exams, with timed practice sessions to hone speed and accuracy. Crucially, they meticulously analyze their performance in mock tests, identify errors, and adapt their strategy for improvement.
Important Application Reminders
The CLAT 2026 application window is open from July 2025, with the deadline expected in October 2025. Ensure all personal, academic, and category details are entered accurately. Past rejections have often stemmed from mismatched documents or incorrect category information. Upload a clear photograph and ensure your signature matches your official ID. Stay updated on official announcements regarding admit card releases (typically the last week of November) and mock test availability (usually 3-4 weeks before the exam). Regularly check the CLAT website for any correction windows to address potential errors.
Conclusion
With CLAT 2026 scheduled for December 7, the next 75-80 days are critical for shaping your legal career. A structured preparation plan, combined with consistent practice, insightful analysis, and diligent revision, will be your strongest asset. Cultivate clarity, logical thinking, and confidence—the hallmarks of a successful legal professional—starting today.