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CLAT Exam Pattern 2025 (Marking Scheme, New Changes, PDF)
This is your complete guide to the CLAT exam pattern 2025, crucial for aspirants aiming for National Law Universities (NLUs) in India.
- The CLAT UG exam is a 120-minute offline test with 120 multiple-choice questions covering five sections. These sections include English Language, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. Each correct answer gets 1 mark, while each incorrect answer deducts 0.25 marks.
- For CLAT PG, the exam also lasts 120 minutes and includes questions on Constitutional Law and other law subjects. The marking scheme is the same as UG.
Let’s understand the new CLAT exam paper pattern in detail below.
Overview of CLAT Examination Pattern 2025
Let’s first get a quick overview of the latest exam pattern for CLAT 2025:
Parameter | Pattern for UG | Pattern for PG |
CLAT Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
Mode of CLAT Exam | Offline (Pen and paper-based) | Offline (Pen and paper-based) |
CLAT Question Paper Language | English | English |
Types of Questions in CLAT | Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs) | Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs) |
Number of Sections in CLAT | 5 | 2 |
Total Questions in CLAT | 120 | 120 |
Total Marks in CLAT | 120 | 120 |
CLAT Marking Scheme | +1 mark for each correct answer | +1 mark for each correct answer |
Negative Marking in CLAT | -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer | -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer |
CLAT Exam Pattern for UG
The duration of the CLAT exam is 2 hours (120 minutes). The exam is conducted in an offline mode, and the language of the question paper is English only.
The CLAT UG exam pattern consists of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs). There are a total of 120 questions in the CLAT exam, covering five different sections.
Parameter | CLAT UG Exam Pattern 2025 |
Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
Mode | Offline (Pen and paper-based) |
Question Paper Language | English |
Types of Questions | Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs) |
Number of Sections | 5 |
Total No. of Questions | 120 |
Total Marks in CLAT UG | 120 |
Marking Scheme | +1 mark for each correct answer |
Negative Marking in CLAT UG | -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer |
Sections in CLAT UG Exam Pattern (With Weightage)
There are five sections in the CLAT paper pattern for undergraduates:
Subject | No. of Questions | Weightage |
English Language | 22-26 questions | 20% |
Current Affairs, including General Knowledge | 28-32 questions | 25% |
Legal Reasoning | 28-32 questions | 25% |
Logical Reasoning | 22-26 questions | 20% |
Quantitative Techniques | 10-14 questions | 10% |
Next CLAT Exams:
- CLAT 2025
- CLAT 2026 (Click to view details)
CLAT Exam Pattern for PG
The CLAT PG exam is designed for candidates seeking admission to postgraduate law programs (LL.M) at National Law Universities (NLUs) in India. The exam pattern of CLAT LLM assesses advanced legal knowledge and analytical skills.
The CLAT PG exam lasts for 120 minutes (2 hours). It is conducted in an offline format at different exam centers across the country. The language of the question paper is English only.
There are 120 objective-type questions in the CLAT PG exam, for maximum marks of 120.
The CLAT paper pattern for PG is divided into two sections:
1. Constitutional Law:
This section tests the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of the Indian Constitution, including landmark judgments, significant amendments, and important constitutional principles.
2. Other Law Subjects:
This section covers various areas of law such as:
- Contract Law
- Torts
- Criminal Law
- International Law
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
- Jurisprudence
- Administrative Law
- Family Law
- Environmental Law
- Labor and Industrial Law
Parameter | CLAT PG Exam Pattern 2025 |
Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen and paper-based) |
Question Paper Language | English |
Types of Questions | Multiple-choice Questions (MCQs) |
Number of Sections | 2 |
Total Questions | 120 |
Total Marks in CLAT PG | 120 |
Marking Scheme | +1 mark for each correct answer |
Negative marking in CLAT PG | -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer |
Marking Scheme in CLAT Exam Pattern 2025
The CLAT 2025 exam has a straightforward marking scheme:
- Correct Answer: Each correct response earns the candidate 1 mark.
- Incorrect Answer: Each incorrect response results in a deduction of 0.25 marks from the total score.
- Unattempted Question: No marks are awarded or deducted for questions that are left unattempted.
Answer Type | Marks |
Correct Answer | +1 mark |
Incorrect Answer | -0.25 marks |
Unattempted Question | 0 marks |
This marking scheme of CLAT ensures that accuracy is rewarded while incorrect answers incur a penalty, encouraging candidates to answer carefully. Unattempted questions do not affect the score, allowing candidates to avoid guessing if they are unsure of an answer.
Preparation Strategy According to New CLAT Exam Pattern
Below is how to prepare for CLAT 2025 based on the latest paper pattern:
1. Fully Understand CLAT Exam Pattern
Familiarize yourself with the detailed CLAT syllabus and exam pattern. Note the weightage of each section and the types of questions asked.
The CLAT exam pattern includes five sections:
- English Language
- Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
- Legal Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Techniques
Each section consists of comprehension passages, and the focus is on reading and critical thinking skills.
2. Create a Study Plan
Develop a realistic study plan for CLAT covering all subjects. Allocate more time to subjects you find challenging.
Divide your study time into daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
3. Use Best Study Material and Resources
Use standard CLAT preparation books and materials. Some recommended books are:
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis (for English)
- Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey (for Logical Reasoning)
- Legal Awareness and Legal Reasoning by A.P. Bhardwaj (for Legal Reasoning)
- Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal (for Quantitative Techniques)
- CLAT Express Magazine
Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express for Current Affairs and GK. Daily Current Affairs for CLAT by Law Prep Tutorial (available free) are excellent resource.
4. Develop Reading Habits
Read newspapers, magazines, and online articles regularly to improve your reading speed and comprehension skills. Focus on editorials and opinion pieces.
5. Practice Previous Year Papers
Solve previous years’ question papers of CLAT to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level. This helps in identifying important topics and question trends.
6. Take Mock Tests
- Enroll in a good CLAT mock test series. Regular mock tests help you get familiar with the exam environment and improve your time management skills.
- Analyze your performance in each mock test. Identify your weak areas and work on them.
7. Focus on Time Management
- Practice solving questions within a stipulated time to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Develop shortcuts and strategies for quantitative and logical reasoning sections to save time during the exam.
8. Join Coaching or Online Courses
If you feel the need for guided preparation, consider joining the best CLAT coaching institute in India or enrolling in an online CLAT coaching program. Institutes like Law Prep Tutorial, LegalEdge by TopRankers, and Career Launcher offer comprehensive coaching.
9. Revise Regularly
Regular revision is crucial to retain what you have learned. Set aside time for weekly and monthly revisions.
10. Stay Positive and Take Care of Your Health
- Maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated throughout your preparation.
- Take regular breaks, eat healthily, and ensure you get enough sleep to keep your mind and body in good shape.
FAQs Related to CLAT Exam Paper Pattern
Find answers to your common questions about exam pattern of CLAT.
What is the CLAT exam pattern for UG courses?
The CLAT UG exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions spread across five sections: English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. Each question carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
What is the duration of the CLAT exam?
The duration of the CLAT exam is 2 hours (120 minutes).
How many sections are there in the CLAT UG exam?
There are five sections: English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques.
Is there negative marking in the CLAT exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
What types of questions are asked in the CLAT exam?
The CLAT exam includes comprehension-based questions. Each section has passages, and questions are based on these passages, focusing on reading and critical thinking skills.
What is the marking scheme for the CLAT exam?
Each correct answer is awarded 1 mark, and each incorrect answer incurs a penalty of 0.25 marks.
Are calculators allowed in the CLAT exam?
No, calculators or any other electronic devices are not allowed in the CLAT exam.
Is there any sectional time limit in the CLAT exam?
No, there is no sectional time limit. Candidates can allocate their time as per their convenience across the sections within the overall 2-hour duration.
What is the medium of the CLAT exam?
The medium of the CLAT exam is English.
What kind of questions can I expect in the Legal Reasoning section?
Questions in the Legal Reasoning section are based on legal propositions and scenarios. They test your understanding and application of legal principles and reasoning.
How important is current affairs knowledge for the CLAT exam?
Current Affairs is a crucial section, as it covers recent events, important dates, and general knowledge. Regularly reading newspapers and current affairs magazines can help you score well in this section.
Can I switch between sections during the CLAT exam?
Yes, candidates can switch between sections as there is no sectional time limit. You can attempt questions in any order you prefer.
How many total marks are there in the CLAT exam?
The CLAT exam is of 120 marks in total.
How many questions are there in the CLAT exam?
The CLAT exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions.
What is asked in the CLAT exam?
The CLAT exam tests candidates on five subjects:
- English Language: Comprehension passages, grammar, vocabulary.
- Current Affairs including General Knowledge: Recent events, important dates, and general knowledge.
- Legal Reasoning: Legal propositions, scenarios, and application of legal principles.
- Logical Reasoning: Analytical and logical reasoning skills through passages and questions.
- Quantitative Techniques: Basic arithmetic, algebra, data interpretation.
How many exams are there in CLAT?
CLAT is a single exam, conducted once a year for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law courses. There are no separate exams within CLAT.
How is the CLAT exam conducted?
The CLAT exam is conducted in an offline mode (pen and paper-based). Candidates are provided with a question paper and an OMR sheet to mark their answers.
How long is the CLAT exam?
The duration of the CLAT exam is 2 hours (120 minutes).
Is CLAT conducted by NTA?
No, the CLAT exam is not conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is organized by the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs).
CLAT Coaching Institutes Across India
Get details about top CLAT coaching institutes, fee structure, reviews, comparison, and contact details.
