AILET-vs-CLAT-2026
Choosing the right law entrance exam is one of the most crucial decisions for every law aspirant in India. The AILET (All India Law Entrance Test) and CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) are two of the most popular and competitive law entrance exams for admission into top National Law Universities (NLUs).
If you are planning to appear in AILET 2026 or CLAT 2026, understanding the key differences between these two exams can help you decide where to focus your preparation. This blog breaks down the exam pattern, syllabus, difficulty level, career opportunities, and selection strategy to make your decision easier.
1. Overview of AILET and CLAT
Aspect AILET 2026
- Conducting Body National Law University,
- Purpose Admission to BA LL.B (Hons.), LL.M, Ph.D. at NLU Delhi
- Mode of Exam Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Exam Date (Tentative) December 2025
- Participating Colleges Only NLU Delhi
Aspect CLAT 2026
- Conducting Body Delhi (NLU-D) Consortium of National Law Universities
- Purpose Admission to BA LL.B, LL.M across 22 NLUs (except NLU-D)
- Mode of Exam Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Exam Date (Tentative) December 2025
- Participating Colleges 22 NLUs + other affiliated law colleges
2. Exam Pattern Comparison
Understanding the exam pattern is the first step to smart preparation.
AILET 2026 Exam Pattern
- Total Questions: 150
• Sections:
o English Language (50 Qs)
o Current Affairs & General Knowledge (30 Qs)
o Logical Reasoning (70 Qs)
• Negative Marking: -0.25 per wrong answer
• Duration: 120 minutes
CLAT 2026 Exam Pattern
- Total Questions: 120
• Sections:
o English Language
o Current Affairs (including GK)
o Logical Reasoning
o Legal Reasoning
o Quantitative Techniques
• Negative Marking: -0.25 per wrong answer
• Duration: 120 minutes
Key Difference:
AILET-vs-CLAT-Infographic
CLAT includes Legal Reasoning and Quantitative Techniques, while AILET focuses more heavily on Logical Reasoning. If you are weak in Mathematics, AILET may feel slightly easier.
3. Difficulty Level
Both exams are competitive, but there are subtle differences:
- AILET: Known for being slightly more logical reasoning-heavy, requiring strong analytical thinking.
- CLAT: Tests reading comprehension skills more deeply, with a focus on legal reasoning and current affairs.
Cut-off Trends:
- AILET generally has higher cut-offs because of fewer seats (around 110 seats for BA LL.B).
- CLAT has more seats (~3,000 across NLUs), making it a better choice if you want more options.
4. Career Opportunities After AILET vs CLAT
- AILET (NLU-D): Known for its strong research focus, excellent corporate placements, and policy/legal research opportunities.
- CLAT (NLUs): Offers a wider choice of NLUs based on your rank, giving flexibility to choose location, fee structure, and specializations.
If your dream is specifically to study at NLU Delhi, AILET is your direct gateway. But if you want multiple choices across top NLUs, CLAT is the better bet.
5. Preparation Strategy
- For AILET: Focus more on logical reasoning and speed practice.
- For CLAT: Work on legal reasoning, passage-based comprehension, and a bit of basic mathematics.
- Common Tip: Prepare for both exams together till October, then dedicate 1 month for exam-specific mock tests and revisions.
6. Which Exam Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on:
- Dream College: If you aim for NLU Delhi → AILET is a must.
- Wider Options: If you want flexibility among 22 NLUs → CLAT is better.
- Strengths: If you are strong in logical reasoning → AILET suits you.
- Reading Speed: If you are good at reading comprehension & legal aptitude → CLAT is a better fit.
Pro Tip: Many serious aspirants write both exams to maximize their chances. You should too!
Conclusion
Both AILET 2026 and CLAT 2026 are gateways to India’s top law schools. Rather than choosing one over the other, prepare strategically for both and secure your seat in the best possible NLU.
Remember — it’s not just about clearing the exam, it’s about choosing the right path for your legal career. Start early, stay consistent, and practice as many mocks as possible.
Upcoming Law Entrance Exams 2026: CLAT, AILET, SLAT Dates, Syllabus Preparation Tips
