The Indian Legal Education System consists of various law entrance exams that serve as the gateway for aspiring legal professionals and provides admission into prestigious law schools. These exams vary in pattern and number of questions but usually have a pattern that assesses candidates on various parameters such as legal aptitude, reasoning ability, and general awareness. Here’s an effective guide to help you with choosing the ideal law entrance exam for you!
Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)
CLAT is one of the most sought-after law entrance exams in India. Conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities, CLAT is essential for admission into undergraduate and postgraduate law programs in 26 National Law Universities of India. To be eligible for the undergraduate program, candidates must have completed 10+2 with at least 45% marks (40% for reserved categories). The exam follows an MCQ format covering 120 passage based questions on legal reasoning, logical reasoning, English, general knowledge, and quantitative techniques. CLAT is a two-hour exam held annually in December.
All India Law Entrance Test (AILET)
The All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) is conducted by the National Law University, Delhi, for admission into its five year integrated programme. Candidates must have completed their 10+2 with a minimum of 50% marks. The exam comprises 150 questions with sections including English, general knowledge, reasoning, and elementary mathematics. AILET is also held in December and is conducted for two hours.
Symbiosis Law Admission Test (SLAT)
The Symbiosis Law Admission Test (SLAT) is conducted by Symbiosis International University for admission into its integrated BA LLB and BBA LLB programs. It tests candidates on logical reasoning, legal reasoning, analytical reasoning, general knowledge, and reading comprehension. SLAT is a 60-minute online exam, followed by Group Discussion and Personal Interview (GDPI).
Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT)
The Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) is an internationally recognized exam used by some law schools in India and abroad for admissions. Its two parts (analytical MCQs and essay writing) evaluates reading comprehension, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. LNAT is a computer-based test conducted multiple times a year. From 2025, Jindal Global Law School (JGLS) has started taking admissions based on Part A scored of LNAT.
NLS Admission Test (3 Year LLB)- NLSAT
The National Law School Admission Test for LLB (NLSAT-LLB) is conducted by the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) for its three-year LLB program. The test assesses reading comprehension, legal aptitude, and analytical reasoning. It is a 150-minute exam held annually, and candidates having completed or being in the final year of their undergraduate degree are eligible to appear for the exam.
Common Universities Entrance Test (CUET)
The Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate (CUET UG) and Postgraduate (CUET PG LLB) programs is conducted for admissions into law programs, including the three-year LLB at Delhi University and five year integrated programmes at other central universities. The exam covers legal reasoning, quantitative aptitude, general knowledge, computer basics, and English proficiency. Eligibility varies on whether the student wishes to appear for the five year or three year courses. The exam has 75 questions asked in 90 minutes.
Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHCET)
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test for Law (MHCET Law) is conducted for admission into various law colleges in Maharashtra. The exam consists of questions on legal aptitude, logical reasoning, general knowledge, and English. The test consists of 120 questions asked in 2 hours. There is no negative marking.
Each of these law entrance exams requires a strategic approach. A well-structured study plan, regular revisions, and familiarity with the syllabus can significantly boost performance, ensuring a successful law career.
