NLU Entrance 2026: The Lawyer’s Day-One Guide
CLAT & AILET Strategy
1. Understanding the 2026 Landscape
The CLAT 2026 (held in Dec 2025) and AILET 2026 (held in Dec 2025) serve as the primary gateways to National Law Universities. Both are offline (pen-paper) tests that demand high mental endurance for 120 minutes.
| Feature | CLAT (Consortium) | AILET (NLU Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 120 MCQs | 150 MCQs |
| Total Time | 120 Minutes | 120 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 Marks | -0.25 Marks |
| Core Focus | Passage-based Logic | Reasoning & General English |
2. The "Round-One" Time Allocation
Pro Tip: In Law entrances, Reading is your most expensive resource. Never read a passage without glancing at the questions first.
Recommended time splits to ensure you see all 120-150 questions:
- English Language (20-25 Mins): Focus on identifying the central theme quickly.
- Current Affairs & GK (10-12 Mins): Purely factual. Either you know it or you don't—move on fast.
- Legal Reasoning (30-35 Mins): Do not bring outside legal knowledge; stick strictly to the principles given in the passage.
- Logical Reasoning (25-30 Mins): Tackle critical reasoning passages before analytical puzzles.
- Quantitative Techniques (10-15 Mins): Solve the data interpretation sets with the easiest calculations first.
3. The Strict OMR & Stationery Protocol
Since these are offline exams, your OMR management can make or break your rank:
-
Pen TypeUse only a high-quality black or blue ballpoint pen. Gel pens can smudge and may invalidate the OMR sheet.
-
Bubbling StrategyNever leave bubbling for the end. Shade answers after every 10 questions or after each passage to avoid cascade errors.
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Analog WatchOnly simple analog watches are permitted. Digital watches, calculators, smart bands, or smartwatches are strictly prohibited.
4. NLU Dress Code & Security
Dress for Comfort (and Speed):
The frisking process at NLU centers is notorious for being thorough. To avoid delays:
- Allowed: Light-colored half-sleeve T-shirts, trousers, simple kurtas, and slippers/sandals.
- Banned: Shoes (Wear sandals instead), full-sleeve clothes, large buttons, metallic jewelry (rings/earrings), and hoodies.
- Mehndi/Tattoos: Avoid fresh Mehndi on palms as it can interfere with biometric verification if required.
5. Mandatory Exam Day Kit
Gates usually close 30 minutes before the exam starts (1:30 PM for a 2:00 PM start). Carry these without fail:
- Admit Card: Printed clear copy (Color is safer).
- Original Photo ID: Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Transparent Water Bottle: Essential for maintaining focus during the 2-hour sprint.
