CLAT and AILET Entrance Exams
When it comes to pursuing a law degree in India, the CLAT and AILET entrance exams 2026 are the two most significant tests that aspiring law students must consider. These national-level law entrance exams are highly competitive and serve as gateways to top law universities in India. Understanding the difference between CLAT and AILET entrance exams 2026 can help candidates make informed decisions regarding their legal education.
What is CLAT?
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a centralized law entrance exam conducted by the Consortium of NLUs (National Law Universities) for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs across 24 NLUs in India. It assesses candidates based on comprehension and reasoning skills.
CLAT Exam Pattern
- Duration: 2 hours
- Total Questions: 120 MCQs
- Subjects Covered:
- English Language
- Current Affairs & General Knowledge
- Legal Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Techniques
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect ones
What is AILET?
The All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) is conducted solely by National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi) for admission to its law programs. Unlike CLAT, AILET is only applicable to NLU Delhi and is considered more challenging due to its different pattern and fewer seats.
AILET Exam Pattern
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Total Questions: 150 MCQs
- Subjects Covered:
- English Language
- Logical Reasoning
- Current Affairs & General Knowledge
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answers, -0.25 for incorrect ones
Key Differences Between CLAT and AILET Entrance Exams 2026
| Feature | CLAT | AILET |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Consortium of NLUs | NLU Delhi |
| Number of NLUs | 24 | 1 (NLU Delhi) |
| Exam Duration | 2 Hours | 1.5 Hours |
| Total Questions | 120 | 150 |
| Subjects | English, GK, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Techniques | English, GK, Logical Reasoning |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per incorrect answer | -0.25 per incorrect answer |
| Mode of Exam | Offline | Offline |
Which Exam Should You Choose?
Choosing between the CLAT and AILET entrance exams 2026 depends on your law school preferences. If you aim for NLU Delhi, AILET is the only option. However, if you seek admission to other NLUs, CLAT is the better choice. Many students attempt both exams to maximize their chances of getting into a top-tier law school.
Conclusion
The difference between CLAT and AILET entrance exams 2026 lies in their structure, syllabus, and scope. While both are prestigious law entrance exams, understanding their distinctions can help candidates strategize effectively. If you aspire to enter NLU Delhi, AILET is a must, whereas CLAT offers broader opportunities across multiple NLUs. To increase your chances of securing a seat in a top law school, consider preparing for both exams strategically.
To know more about the differences between CLAT and AILET, check out our video on CLAT v/s AILET comparison here. And to ace both the exams, join our latest law entrance preparation batches for CLAT and AILET. Call +91-87505 81505 to book a counselling session!
