How to Apply for CLAT: Documents, Fees & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Securing admission to Top Law Schools through CLAT remains every law aspirant's ultimate goal. The application process, however, confuses many students with its detailed requirements and strict deadlines. Understanding how to apply for CLAT correctly becomes crucial for success. This comprehensive guide simplifies the entire process, covering essential documents, fee structures, and critical mistakes that could derail your admission dreams.

Understanding CLAT Application Timeline

The CLAT 2026 application window opens on August 1, 2025, and closes on October 31, 2025. That might seem like plenty of time, but here's the thing – thousands of students wait until the last moment. Smart applicants start early.

The exam itself happens on December 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For students with disabilities, there's extra time until 4:40 PM. Mark these dates now because time flies faster than you think.

CLAT Exam Eligibility After Graduation

Many students wonder about their eligibility after graduation. Good news – there's no upper age limit for CLAT. Whether you're fresh out of school or completed your graduation years ago, you can still apply. The CLAT exam eligibility after graduation remains open for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

For UG CLAT, you need to have passed 10+2 or equivalent with at least 45% marks (40% for reserved categories). For PG CLAT, you need a law degree. Simple as that.

Required Documents for CLAT Application

Getting your documents ready is crucial. Here's what you absolutely need:

Essential Documents:

●       Recent passport-size photograph with plain background

●       Your signature (scanned copy)

●       Category certificate (if applying under SC/ST/OBC)

●       Disability certificate (for PwD category)

●       BPL certificate (if applicable)

Remember – all documents must be in PDF format only. The consortium is strict about this. Your photograph doesn't need attestation, but it should be clear and recent.

CLAT Application Fees Structure

Money matters, especially when you're a student. The fee structure is straightforward:

●       General/OBC candidates: Rs. 4,000/-

●       SC/ST/BPL/PwD candidates: Rs. 3,500/-

How to Apply for CLAT - Step by Step Process

The application process starts with registration on consortiumofnlus.ac.in. Use your personal mobile number and email ID. You'll get an OTP for verification – keep your phone handy.

Step 1: Register with mobile number and email

Step 2: Verify OTP and create password

Step 3: Login and fill application form

Step 4: Upload required documents

Step 5: Pay application fee

Step 6: Submit application

Double-check everything before hitting submit. Once submitted and paid, changes aren't allowed to program, category, or BPL field.

Can You Apply Multiple Times?

Absolutely! There’s no limit on the number of attempts for CLAT. You can appear for the exam as many times as you want, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. In fact, many successful law aspirants have cleared CLAT on their second or even third attempt—proving that persistence pays off!

Common Mistakes That Cost Students

Mistake 1: Waiting until the last day to apply. Server crashes happen during peak times.

Mistake 2: Wrong photograph format or size. Plain background is mandatory – not your graduation photo with fancy background.

Mistake 3: Spelling mistakes in names. Your name should match exactly with your certificates. Even small differences can disqualify you.

Mistake 4: Multiple applications thinking it increases chances. Only your last application counts, and previous fees aren't refunded.

Mistake 5: Wrong category selection. You can't change this after submission.

Mistake 6: Not reading instructions properly. Each field has specific requirements.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating the CLAT application process requires systematic preparation and careful attention to detail. Understanding how to apply for CLAT properly eliminates unnecessary stress and confusion. Start early, gather required documents meticulously, and avoid common pitfalls that trap many applicants. Your gateway to prestigious top law schools depends on this crucial step. Good luck with your legal career journey!