In a major event for legal education aspirants across India, the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) for the 2026-27 academic session is set to be conducted this Sunday. The prestigious examination, which serves as the gateway to the country's premier National Law Universities (NLUs), is being organized by Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow, in collaboration with the Consortium of NLUs.
Nationwide Examination: Key Details and Scale
The CLAT 2026 will be held simultaneously across the nation from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. According to RMLNLU spokesperson Shashank Shekhar, the exam will be conducted at a massive scale, with 173 test centres established to accommodate the registered candidates. A total of 92,344 aspirants are expected to take the test, aiming for a seat in undergraduate and postgraduate law programs.
The registration data reveals a significant interest in undergraduate studies, with 75,008 candidates registered for the UG program. For the postgraduate programs, 17,336 candidates have signed up. The scores from CLAT are not only crucial for NLU admissions but are also considered by numerous other top-tier universities and degree colleges across India for their law courses.
State-Wise Arrangements and Post-Exam Process
Focusing on Uttar Pradesh, the home state of the organizing university, authorities have designated 17 test centres spread across 11 districts. In the state alone, 14,578 candidates will be appearing for the entrance test. The university has made the complete list of UP test centres, along with the number of UG and PG candidates allotted to each, available on its official website for easy access.
Spokesperson Shekhar emphasized that RMLNLU has ensured all necessary arrangements for the smooth and systematic conduct of the high-stakes examination. He further outlined the next steps, stating that candidates who clear the CLAT exam will become eligible to participate in the centralized counselling and admission process, which will be based on their results and All India Rank.
RMLNLU's Legacy and Student Success
Highlighting the credibility of the institution conducting the exam, Shekhar pointed to the strong track record of RMLNLU's graduates. He noted that more than 400 students from the university have been selected into various judicial services over the years. Furthermore, students from the university continue to secure placements in reputed law firms and gain admission to PhD programmes annually, showcasing the quality of legal education imparted by the NLUs.
The successful organization of CLAT 2026 is a critical task, as it paves the way for the next generation of legal professionals in India. With thousands of futures hinging on this single-day test, all eyes are on the seamless execution of the examination this Sunday.