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What’s the Difference Between CLAT Eligibility for UG and PG Programs?
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What’s the Difference Between CLAT Eligibility for UG and PG Programs?

The CLAT eligibility criteria are essential for anyone aspiring to pursue a law degree in India through the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT). This exam is one of the most sought-after routes to secure admission to the National Law Universities (NLUs) in the country. However, the eligibility criteria for CLAT differ significantly between undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to ensure you meet the necessary requirements for your law studies.

In this article, we’ll explore the CLAT eligibility for both UG and PG programs, highlighting the CLAT eligibility criteria, the qualification for CLAT exam, and the requirements for both CLAT after 12th and CLAT exam eligibility after graduation.

CLAT Eligibility for UG Programs

The CLAT exam eligibility for undergraduate programs (usually a 5-year integrated law degree like BA LLB) focuses primarily on candidates who have completed or are about to complete their 12th-grade education. Here are the main eligibility criteria for CLAT after 12th:

  1. Educational Qualification:

    • Candidates must have passed the 12th examination or an equivalent from a recognized board. Students who are appearing for their 12th exams are also eligible to apply for the CLAT exam eligibility after 12th.

    • For general category candidates, the minimum percentage required is 45% in the qualifying examination, while for reserved categories (SC/ST), it’s 40%.

  2. Age Limit:

    • CLAT eligibility criteria for UG programs traditionally include an upper age limit. However, in 2019, the Supreme Court of India struck down the age restriction for CLAT. As of now, there is no upper age limit for UG CLAT.

  3. CLAT Full Form Eligibility:

    • The CLAT full form eligibility for UG candidates refers to the qualification that aligns with completing school education (12th). The full form of CLAT is the Common Law Admission Test, and it’s the key exam for those pursuing law after school.

  4. CLAT Exam Eligibility After 12th:

    • Aspiring students can apply for the CLAT exam eligibility after 12th, with the understanding that they must meet the minimum educational requirements, as well as the age and other criteria set by the exam authorities.

CLAT Eligibility for PG Programs

The CLAT eligibility for postgraduate law programs, such as the LLM (Master of Laws), is different. The criteria for CLAT exam eligibility after graduation focus on candidates who have already completed a law degree (typically a 3-year LLB or a 5-year integrated LLB degree). Here’s what you need to know about CLAT eligibility for PG programs:

  1. Educational Qualification:

    • To be eligible for the CLAT exam eligibility after graduation, candidates must have completed their LLB or an equivalent law degree from a recognized university or institution. Those who are in the final year of their LLB program can also apply for the CLAT PG exam.

    • The minimum required percentage for the qualification for CLAT exam is 50% for general category candidates, and 45% for SC/ST candidates.

  2. No Age Limit:

    • Unlike the undergraduate program, there is no age limit for applicants wishing to take the CLAT exam eligibility for PG programs. This gives more flexibility for those pursuing their law studies later in life.

  3. Qualification for CLAT Exam (PG):

    • Candidates applying for the PG CLAT exam must hold a valid LLB degree from a recognized institution. This is the core qualification for CLAT exam that distinguishes eligibility from the UG requirements.

  4. CLAT Exam Eligibility After Graduation:

    • After completing a graduation degree, candidates can choose to pursue a postgraduate law degree. CLAT exam eligibility after graduation involves fulfilling the academic qualifications and other required criteria for the LLM program.

Key Differences Between CLAT Eligibility for UG and PG Programs

  1. Educational Qualification:

    • UG Program: Candidates must have completed their 12th examination or its equivalent from a recognized board.

    • PG Program: Candidates must hold a 3-year LLB or 5-year integrated LLB degree from a recognized university.

  2. Age Limit:

    • UG Program: There is no upper age limit for CLAT after 12th, as per the Supreme Court ruling.

    • PG Program: No age limit for CLAT eligibility after graduation for PG aspirants.

  3. Minimum Marks Requirement:

    • UG Program: Candidates must secure at least 45% marks (40% for reserved categories) in their 12th exams.

    • PG Program: Candidates must have a minimum of 50% marks in their LLB degree (45% for SC/ST candidates).

  4. Type of Degree:

    • UG Program: A 12th-grade certificate is required to apply for the UG program.

    • PG Program: A LLB degree or equivalent is necessary for PG aspirants.

  5. Nature of the Exam:

    • Both UG and PG CLAT exams assess the candidates’ knowledge in subjects like English, General Knowledge, Legal Aptitude, and Logical Reasoning, but PG exams may include additional elements focused on higher-level legal concepts.

How to Apply for CLAT: Registration Process

Regardless of whether you're applying for the UG or PG program, the application process for CLAT exam eligibility involves registering online. Here's how to apply:

  1. Visit the Official CLAT Website: Create an account and complete the application form.

  2. Fill in Personal and Academic Details: Ensure all details match your qualifications (12th for UG or LLB for PG).

  3. Upload Documents: Required documents include educational certificates, a photograph, and proof of identity.

  4. Pay the Application Fee: Complete the payment online.

  5. Submit the Form: After filling in the details and reviewing the application, submit it. Print the confirmation for future reference.

Conclusion

Understanding the CLAT eligibility criteria for both UG and PG programs is essential for law aspirants. Whether you're planning to take the CLAT exam eligibility after 12th or applying for the CLAT exam eligibility after graduation, it’s important to ensure that you meet the specific requirements based on the type of program you wish to pursue. Be sure to check the exact qualification for CLAT exam and other eligibility aspects to streamline your application process and set yourself up for success in the legal field.

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