How many students sit for CLAT Exam every year ?

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a centralized national-level entrance examination in India, serving as the gateway to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs across 25 National Law Universities (NLUs) and various other institutions. Established in 2008, CLAT has evolved into one of the most prestigious and competitive law entrance exams in the country. Each year, tens of thousands of aspirants vie for a limited number of seats, reflecting the exam's significance and the intense competition it fosters.

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Historical Trends in CLAT Participation

Over the years, the number of candidates appearing for the CLAT exam has seen fluctuations, influenced by various factors such as the increasing number of NLUs, awareness about legal education, and the perceived value of a law degree in the evolving professional landscape. Below is a year-wise breakdown of CLAT participation:

• 2020: Approximately 75,183 candidates registered for the exam
• 2021: Registrations saw a slight decline, with around 70,277 candidates.
• 2022: The number stabilized, with about 60,895 registrations.
• 2023: Registrations remained consistent, with approximately 60,000 candidates.
• 2024: A resurgence in interest led to around 71,243 registrations.
• 2025: The upward trend continued, with over 75,000 candidates registering for the exam.

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This data indicates a dynamic trend in CLAT participation, with numbers peaking in 2020, experiencing a dip in the subsequent years, and then rising again in 2024 and 2025. Several factors could contribute to these trends, including changes in exam patterns, the introduction of new NLUs, and the evolving perception of legal education in India.

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Understanding the CLAT Examination

CLAT assesses candidates on various parameters to ensure they possess the requisite skills for a successful legal career. The exam is structured as follows:

• Duration: 2 hours
• Mode: Pen-and-paper based
• Sections:
• English Language
• Current Affairs, including General Knowledge
• Legal Reasoning
• Logical Reasoning
• Quantitative Techniques

Each section comprises multiple-choice questions, with a total of 120 questions. The marking scheme awards one mark for each correct answer and deducts 0.25 marks for every incorrect response.

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Seat Availability and Competition

The number of seats available in NLUs has gradually increased over the years, corresponding with the establishment of new NLUs and the expansion of existing ones. As of 2025, the total number of seats offered for undergraduate programs across NLUs is approximately 3,500.

Despite this increase, the competition remains fierce. For instance, in 2025, with over 75,000 aspirants competing for approximately 3,500 seats, the selection rate stands at around 4.6%. This statistic underscores the exam's competitiveness and the high level of preparation required to secure admission into an NLU.

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Factors Influencing CLAT Participation

Several elements have influenced the number of candidates appearing for CLAT each year:

1. Awareness and Aspirations: With the legal profession gaining prominence and recognition, more students are aspiring to pursue law as a career, leading to increased participation.
2. Expansion of NLUs: The establishment of new NLUs in various states has made legal education more accessible, encouraging more students to apply.
3. Perception of Legal Education: The evolving perception of law as a versatile and prestigious profession has attracted students from diverse academic backgrounds.
4. Alternative Career Opportunities: A law degree opens doors to various career paths, including corporate law, judiciary, academia, and public service, making it an attractive option for many.

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Challenges and Considerations for Aspirants

Given the intense competition, CLAT aspirants face several challenges:

• Preparation Pressure: The vast syllabus and the need for consistent practice can be daunting.
• Time Management: Balancing board examinations, CLAT preparation, and personal life requires effective time management skills.
• Mental Well-being: The stress associated with high-stakes exams can impact mental health, necessitating coping mechanisms and support systems.

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Conclusion

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) continues to be a pivotal examination for law aspirants in India. The fluctuating number of candidates each year reflects broader trends in education, societal perceptions, and career aspirations. For prospective candidates, understanding these dynamics, coupled with dedicated preparation and awareness of the challenges, is crucial for success in this competitive landscape.