CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern: Marking Scheme, Duration, and Question Format

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a highly competitive entrance exam conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) for admissions to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs in premier law schools across India. Understanding the exam pattern, marking scheme, and question format is essential for strategic preparation.

To excel in CLAT 2026, it is important to have the right guidance, structured study plans, and expert coaching. Career Launcher Sector 65, Gurgaon—one of the top coaching centers for CLAT in Gurgaon—offers specialized training programs designed to help students maximize their scores and secure admission to their dream NLU.

In this blog, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the CLAT 2026 exam pattern, including duration, marking scheme, and question format, to help aspirants prepare effectively.

CLAT 2026: Exam Pattern Overview

The CLAT 2026 exam will be conducted in an offline (pen-and-paper) mode and will follow a comprehension-based question format. It will assess candidates' reading ability, logical reasoning, legal aptitude, general awareness, and quantitative skills.

CLAT UG 2026: Key Details

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen-and-Paper)
• Exam Duration: 2 Hours (120 Minutes)
• Total Questions: 120
• Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Total Marks: 120
• Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer

CLAT PG 2026: Key Details

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen-and-Paper)
• Exam Duration: 2 Hours (120 Minutes)
• Total Questions: 120
• Question Type: Objective (MCQs)
• Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer

CLAT 2026: Section-Wise Question Format and Weightage

The CLAT UG 2026 exam will consist of five sections, each designed to assess different skills:

1. English Language

• Focus: Comprehension-based passages followed by questions.
• Key Topics:
• Reading comprehension
• Vocabulary-based questions
• Grammar-based error detection
• Sentence correction
• Inference and contextual meaning

2. Current Affairs & General Knowledge

• Focus: Awareness of current and static events.
• Key Topics:
• National and international news
• Important legal developments
• Government policies and schemes
• Historical events and important dates
• Sports, awards, and books & authors

3. Legal Reasoning

• Focus: Understanding legal principles and their application.
• Key Topics:
• Comprehension-based legal passages
• Legal principles and their applications
• Important case laws and judgments
• Constitution-related topics

4. Logical Reasoning

• Focus: Analytical and reasoning ability.
• Key Topics:
• Logical arguments and conclusions
• Statement-assumption analysis
• Strengthening and weakening arguments
• Puzzles and seating arrangements
• Syllogisms and critical reasoning

5. Quantitative Techniques

• Focus: Basic mathematical calculations and data interpretation.
• Key Topics:
• Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Averages, etc.)
• Algebra
• Probability and Statistics
• Data Interpretation (Graphs, Tables, Charts)

CLAT 2026: Marking Scheme and Scoring Strategy

Marking Scheme for CLAT UG & PG 2026

• Correct Answer: +1 mark
• Incorrect Answer: -0.25 marks (negative marking)
• Unanswered Question: 0 marks

Since CLAT follows negative marking, candidates must be strategic in attempting questions. Avoid guesswork, and focus on accuracy rather than attempting all questions blindly.

Tips to Maximize Scores:

✅ Prioritize strong sections: Start with sections where you are confident.
✅ Manage time effectively: Do not spend too much time on one question.
✅ Eliminate wrong answers: Use elimination techniques to improve accuracy.
✅ Attempt easy questions first: Solve simpler questions before moving to complex ones.

Summary:

The CLAT 2026 exam is a critical step for law aspirants seeking admission to NLUs and other prestigious law schools in India. A thorough understanding of the exam pattern, marking scheme, and question format is essential for developing an effective preparation strategy.

To achieve the best results, consider enrolling in Career Launcher Sector 65, Gurgaon—one of the top coaching centers for CLAT in Gurgaon. With expert faculty, structured study plans, and regular mock tests, you can enhance your preparation and secure a top rank in CLAT 2026.