CLAT 2026 Answer Key: Expected release date, how to download & key details

The Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) successfully conducted the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 today, 7 December 2025, for admissions to undergraduate BA LLB and postgraduate LLM programmes. After the completion of the test, several coaching institutions and subject experts released their paper analysis and difficulty-level reviews to help students estimate their expected scores.

Exam Conducted Across 141 Cities

This year’s national entrance examination was held in approximately 141 cities across 25 states and four Union Territories. Candidates appeared for the exam between 2 PM and 4 PM, completing the paper within the designated two-hour duration.

The Consortium is likely to release the provisional CLAT 2026 answer key within a week, and based on previous trends, students may expect it by 14 December 2025.

How to Download the CLAT 2026 Answer Key

Once released, candidates can follow these steps to access the provisional answer key:
Step 1: Visit the official Consortium of NLUs website
Step 2: Click on “CLAT 2026 Answer Key”
Step 3: Log in using registered mobile number and password
Step 4: View the answer key displayed on the screen
Step 5: Download and save the PDF for future reference or objections

Students can raise objections to the provisional key before the final answer key is issued.

Question Paper Pattern & Marking Scheme

The CLAT 2026 exam consisted of 120 multiple-choice questions, carrying one mark each. For every incorrect attempt, 0.25 marks will be deducted as part of the negative marking system.

Counselling and Admission Procedure

Candidates securing qualifying scores must re-register for CLAT counselling for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. During the counselling rounds, students can choose up to 15 preferences for programmes and participating National Law Universities.

Category	Fee
General category	Rs 30,000
SC/ST/OBC/PwD categories	Rs 20,000

[With TOI inputs]