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Important Dates and Deadlines for CLAT 2026 Aspirants

  • Writer: Himanshi Goyal
    Himanshi Goyal
  • Apr 14
  • 4 min read

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is one of the most competitive law entrance exams in India, opening the gateway to the prestigious National Law Universities (NLUs). For CLAT 2026 aspirants, staying on top of important dates and deadlines is essential to avoid last-minute stress and ensure seamless CLAT preparation. This blog provides a detailed timeline, offering clarity on the key milestones you need to remember to succeed.


 

Understanding the CLAT Process

Before diving into the important dates, it’s crucial to understand the overall structure of the CLAT 2026 and its timeline. CLAT consists of five sections:

  1. English Language

  2. Current Affairs (including General Knowledge)

  3. Legal Reasoning

  4. Logical Reasoning

  5. Quantitative Techniques

The exam is conducted annually, usually in December, for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs at various NLUs. Alongside NLUs, many private universities and colleges also accept CLAT scores.

To maximize your success, you need to plan your CLAT preparation around critical deadlines, starting from the release of the notification to the counseling process.


 

Key Dates and Deadlines for CLAT 2026

Here are the important dates and deadlines you need to keep in mind for CLAT 2026. Staying on top of these will help you plan your preparation better.


1. Notification Release

  • Expected Date: August 2025

  • Why It Matters: The CLAT notification is the first official announcement about the exam, detailing the registration process, eligibility criteria, exam date, syllabus, and changes (if any) to the CLAT exam pattern. Aspirants must read it thoroughly to avoid missing any critical information.


2. Registration Window

  • Expected Start Date: August 2025

  • Expected End Date: October 2025

  • Details: Registration typically begins shortly after the notification is released. Candidates must fill out the application form, upload required documents, and pay the exam fee. Double-check your details before submitting to avoid discrepancies later.


3. Application Correction Window

  • Expected Date: Early November 2025

  • Why It’s Important: The correction window allows candidates to make necessary changes to their application forms, such as updating personal information or correcting errors in document uploads. Missing this deadline could lead to complications in the later stages.


4. Admit Card Release

  • Expected Date: Late November 2025

  • Details: The admit card is a crucial document that provides information about your exam center, date, and time. Download and print multiple copies for safekeeping. Ensure all details match your registration information to avoid issues on exam day.


Consider joining Online CLAT coaching, as it offers expert guidance and effective preparation.

5. Mock Tests by Consortium

  • Expected Date: November-December 2025

  • Significance: The Consortium of NLUs conducts official mock tests to help students familiarize themselves with the CLAT exam pattern. These are excellent tools for evaluating your CLAT preparation and identifying areas that need improvement.


6. Exam Date

  • Expected Date: December 2025

  • Details: The most critical day for all CLAT aspirants! Ensure you arrive at the exam center well in advance with all necessary documents (admit card, ID proof, etc.). Stick to your strategy and manage your time wisely during the test.


7. Answer Key Release

  • Expected Date: 2-3 Days After Exam

  • Why It’s Important: The provisional answer key is released soon after the exam. Candidates can calculate their estimated scores and raise objections (if any) during the specified period.


8. Final Answer Key and Results

  • Expected Date: January 2026

  • Details: After resolving objections, the Consortium releases the final answer key along with the results. Your CLAT score and rank will determine your eligibility for admission to various law schools.


9. Counseling Process

  • Expected Start Date: January 2026

  • Steps Involved: Registration for counseling, Submission of preferences for NLUs, Seat allotment, Payment of fees and document verification


10. Academic Session Commences

  • Expected Date: July 2026

  • Details: After completing all admission formalities, students begin their law school journey.

 

Pro Tips for Managing CLAT 2026 Deadlines

  1. Create a Personal Calendar: Mark all important dates in your planner or digital calendar with reminders. This ensures you stay on track without relying solely on external updates.

  2. Start Early: Begin your CLAT preparation well in advance to reduce stress during the final months. An early start also gives you ample time to practice the CLAT exam pattern thoroughly.

  3. Follow Official Updates: Regularly check the official website of the CLAT Consortium for accurate information and updates on deadlines.

  4. Prepare for Unexpected Changes: While the Consortium usually sticks to its schedule, external factors can lead to adjustments. Stay adaptable and proactive.

  5. Mock Tests and Revision: Incorporate regular mock tests into your schedule to track your progress and get accustomed to the CLAT exam pattern.



 

Conclusion

Being aware of important dates and deadlines is a key part of effective CLAT preparation. It ensures that you’re organized and ready to tackle each stage of the process with confidence. By adhering to this timeline and aligning your study plan with these milestones, you’ll be well-prepared to ace the Common Law Admission Test and secure admission into one of India’s top NLUs.

Start your preparation today, stay consistent, and let these deadlines guide you toward achieving your legal career goals!


 
 
 

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