What Is the Total Marks for CLAT?
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
Total Marks: 120 | Negative Marking: 0.25 per incorrect answer
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) consists of a total of 120 marks. The paper comprises 120 objective-type multiple-choice questions, with each question carrying one mark. A negative marking scheme is applied, where 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. Always verify the latest pattern on the official consortium website.
The CLAT exam is designed to test a candidate's aptitude in areas such as English Language, Current Affairs (including General Knowledge), Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. With a total of 120 marks, the distribution of questions across these sections is carefully balanced to assess comprehension and analytical skills. Since the introduction of the current pattern, the focus has shifted from rote learning to passage-based reading and critical analysis.
A critical component of the scoring is the negative marking system. Candidates lose 0.25 marks for every wrong answer, making accuracy as important as speed. It is essential to manage time effectively across the 120-minute duration. While the total marks remain fixed at 120, the difficulty level can fluctuate annually. Prospective students should prioritize consistent mock testing to understand their standing against the competitive cutoff percentiles required for top-tier NLUs.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Total Questions: 120
- ✓Total Marks: 120
- ✓Negative Marking: 0.25 marks per incorrect response
- ✓Exam Duration: 120 minutes
Institutional Fee vs Placement ROI Matrix
Compare tuition fees, program duration, packages, and ROI ratings
Quick Comparison
| College / Institution | Total Fee (Approx) | Duration | Real Avg Package | Top Recruiters | ROI Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Tier NLU | ₹2.5L–₹4.5L | 5 Years | ₹12L–₹18L LPA | Tier-1 Law Firms | Excellent |
| Mid-Tier NLU | ₹1.8L–₹3.5L | 5 Years | ₹7L–₹10L LPA | Corporate Legal | High |
| Private Law School | ₹8L–₹15L | 5 Years | ₹5L–₹9L LPA | Consulting Firms | Moderate |
Verified Fee Benchmarks: Figures reflect audited notifications and semester schedules.Source: Official Circulars & Mandatory Disclosures
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Assess Eligibility & Syllabus
Check the official brochure to ensure you meet the minimum academic requirements and understand the weightage of the 120-mark paper.
2Step 2
Analyze ROI and Placement Data
Evaluate the average package against the total tuition fee. Use verified placement reports rather than marketing brochures.
3Step 3
Cross-Check Official Portals
Before paying any application or admission fees, verify all dates and criteria directly on the university's official admissions portal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is the CLAT exam pattern the same for everyone?
Yes, the CLAT UG exam follows a standardized pattern of 120 marks for all candidates, regardless of their background or stream.
Can NIOS students appear for CLAT?
Yes, students from the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) are eligible to take the CLAT exam, provided they meet all other specified eligibility criteria.
How many marks should I target to get into a top NLU?
While cutoffs vary annually, securing a score significantly above the previous year's closing rank is recommended. Always check the latest official cutoff trends on the consortium website.
Institutional Data & Fee Transparency Disclaimer
Fee structures, cutoff percentiles, and placement statistics published on Kampus Filter are compiled from official university prospectuses, NIRF statutory filings, UGC/AICTE public notifications, and institutional disclosures. All figures represent comparative historical benchmarks and are subject to periodic revisions by respective university governing bodies.
Prospective students and guardians are advised to verify current academic session fees, seat matrices, and admission deadlines directly with the official university admissions office prior to financial commitments. Kampus Filter is an independent higher education research directory and does not solicit donations or represent university administration.