Latest Updates
- 19 May, 2026: AILET 2026 SC Category Cutoff Announced
The AILET 2026 cutoff scores for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category have been announced. Aspirants can now check the specific cutoff marks required for admission to the AILET 2026 program under this category.
- 09 May, 2026: AILET 2026 General Category Cut Off Announced
The AILET 2026 cut off marks for the General Category have been officially announced. Candidates can now check the latest cut off scores to understand admission criteria for the upcoming academic year. This update is crucial for all aspirants.
- 08 May, 2026: AILET 2026: BA LLB, LLM 4th Merit List Released
The official notification PDF for AILET 2026 has been released. It contains the 4th Merit List for both BA LLB and LLM programs. Candidates are advised to check the latest admission details.
- 05 May, 2026: AILET PG 2026: 4th Provisional Merit List, Seat Matrix, Fees, Cutoff Update
The 4th Provisional Merit List for AILET PG 2026 is anticipated shortly. This update will also include crucial information regarding the seat matrix, fee structure, and expected cutoff scores. Candidates are advised to stay informed for these important admission details.
The AILET (All India Law Entrance Test) 2026 is the definitive entrance examination for aspiring law students aiming for admission to the prestigious National Law University (NLU) Delhi's BA LLB (Hons), LLM, and PhD programs. This highly competitive test is the sole pathway to securing a seat at one of India's top law institutions. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about AILET 2026, including exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, application process, and effective preparation strategies.
Table of Contents
AILET 2026 Overview: Exam Highlights & Key Details
The All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) 2026 is a national-level law entrance exam conducted by National Law University, Delhi for admission to its UG, PG, and Ph.D. law programmes. Unlike CLAT, AILET is exclusively for NLU Delhi, making it highly competitive.
The exam will be conducted in offline mode on December 14, 2025, and is held once a year. It serves as the sole gateway to prestigious law programmes like B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), LL.M., and Ph.D. at NLU Delhi.
| Feature | Detail |
| Exam Name | All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) |
| Conducting Body | NLU Delhi |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Date | December 14, 2025 |
| Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Exam Time | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per wrong answer |
| Official Website | nationallawuniversitydelhi.in |
This table provides a quick snapshot of the exam structure, helping candidates understand the format and key logistics at a glance.
AILET 2026 Courses Offered & Seat Intake
AILET 2026 offers admission to multiple law programmes at NLU Delhi with limited seats, increasing competition significantly.
| Programme | Seat Intake | Direct Admission (Foreign/OCI/PIO) |
| B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) | 110 | 10 |
| LL.M. | 70 | 10 |
| Ph.D. | As per availability | — |
The limited number of seats, especially for flagship programmes like B.A. LL.B., makes AILET one of the most competitive law entrance exams in India.
AILET 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Qualification, Marks & Age Limit
The AILET 2026 eligibility criteria set by National Law University, Delhi focus on academic qualifications and minimum marks, with no upper age limit for any programme. Candidates must meet course-specific requirements based on their chosen programme (BA LL.B or LL.M).
| Course | Educational Qualification | Category | Minimum Marks | Age Limit |
| BA LL.B | Class 12 / Intermediate | UR/OBC | 45% | No age limit |
| BA LL.B | Class 12 / Intermediate | SC/ST/PwD | 40% | No age limit |
| LL.M | LL.B or equivalent degree | UR/OBC | 50% | No age limit |
| LL.M | LL.B or equivalent degree | SC/ST/PwD | 45% | No age limit |
This table highlights that eligibility primarily depends on academic performance, with relaxed criteria for reserved categories and no restriction on age.
AILET 2026 Exam Pattern (UG, PG & PhD)
The AILET 2026 exam is conducted by NLU Delhi in offline (pen-and-paper) mode. The pattern varies slightly for UG, PG, and PhD programmes, but all exams follow a multiple-choice question format with negative marking.
AILET 2026 UG Exam Pattern (BA LL.B)
The UG exam follows an aptitude-based format, focusing on English comprehension, current affairs, and logical reasoning.
- Total Questions: 150 MCQs
- Total Marks: 150
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, –0.25 for incorrect answer
Section-wise Distribution:
- English Language: 50 Questions
- Current Affairs & GK: 30 Questions
- Logical Reasoning: 70 Questions
Key Highlights:
- No Legal Aptitude section
- No Mathematics section
- Logical Reasoning carries highest weightage
- Accuracy is critical due to negative marking
AILET 2026 PG Exam Pattern (LL.M)
The LL.M entrance exam is designed to test core legal knowledge across fundamental law subjects in a structured MCQ format.
- Total Questions: 100 MCQs
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, –0.25 for incorrect answer
Subjects Covered:
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law
- Jurisprudence
- Contract & Tort Law
- Family & Property Law
- International Law
- IPR & Environmental Law
Key Highlights:
- Pure law-based MCQ paper
- Focus on conceptual clarity
- No separate sections like UG
AILET 2026 PhD Exam Pattern
The PhD entrance test evaluates a candidate’s research aptitude along with legal writing and analytical skills.
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper)
Exam Structure:
- Part A: Research Methodology (MCQs – 50 marks)
- Part B: Legal Essay Writing (50 marks, approx. 1500 words)
Key Highlights:
- Tests research + analytical ability
- Essay writing is mandatory
- Minimum qualifying marks apply
Key Features (Common to All Levels)
- Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Negative Marking: –0.25 per wrong answer (UG & PG)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Conducting Body: NLU Delhi
- Frequency: Once a year
AILET 2026 UG Syllabus (Section-wise Breakdown)
English Language
- Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary (Synonyms/Antonyms)
- Idioms & Phrases
- Sentence Correction & Error Spotting
Current Affairs & GK
- National & International Events
- Polity, Economy, History & Geography
- Science & Technology, Awards, Books
Logical Reasoning
- Syllogisms, Coding-Decoding, Series
- Blood Relations, Directions
- Statement-based reasoning
- Analytical & critical thinking
The syllabus focuses on aptitude and awareness rather than prior legal knowledge, making it accessible to all streams.
AILET 2026 Application Process & Important Dates
The application process is conducted online via the official NLU Delhi website.
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | August 7, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | November 10, 2025 |
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹3,000 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,000 |
| BPL (SC/ST Women) | Exempted |
Candidates must complete the application within the deadline to avoid disqualification.
AILET 2026 Admit Card: Download Process & Details
The AILET 2026 admit card will be released online on the official website of National Law University Delhi a few weeks before the exam.
Key Details:
- Release Mode: Online
- Download using: Application number & password
- Mandatory for exam entry
Details Mentioned on Admit Card:
- Candidate name & roll number
- Exam date and time
- Test centre details
- Important instructions
Candidates must carry a printed admit card along with a valid ID proof to the exam centre.
AILET 2026 Exam Centres & Allotment Process
This section covers logistics and is important for completeness.
- AILET 2026 will be conducted in 37 cities across India
- Candidates can select up to 3 preferred test cities
- Minimum 100 candidates required per centre
- If a centre is unavailable, 2nd or 3rd preference is allotted
This ensures transparency in exam centre allocation.
AILET 2026 Answer Key: Release Date & Objection Process
The provisional answer key for AILET 2026 is expected to be released shortly after the exam.
Key Points:
- Release Mode: Online (PDF format)
- Contains correct answers for all questions
- Helps estimate probable score
Objection Process:
- Candidates can raise objections within a specified window
- A final answer key is released after review
This allows transparency and gives candidates an opportunity to challenge discrepancies.
AILET 2026 Result & Scorecard: Date, Download & Details
The AILET 2026 result will be declared online by National Law University Delhi.
Key Details:
| Particular | Details |
| Result Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Mode | Online |
| Login Credentials | Application Number & Password |
| Result Format | Scorecard + Merit List |
Details Mentioned in Scorecard:
- Candidate’s marks
- All India Rank (AIR)
- Category rank
- Qualifying status
The result determines eligibility for the counselling process and final admission.
AILET 2026 Cutoff (Expected & Previous Year Trends)
The AILET cutoff is the minimum score required to secure admission at National Law University Delhi. Since seats are limited, cutoffs remain high and vary by category each year.
| Category | Expected Cutoff Marks |
| General | 85–95 |
| OBC | 75–85 |
| SC | 65–75 |
| ST | 60–70 |
| EWS | 80–90 |
Previous Year Cutoff Trends
| Year | General Cutoff |
| 2025 | ~90 |
| 2024 | ~88 |
| 2023 | ~92 |
The cutoff depends on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, and seat availability, making it slightly variable each year.
AILET 2026 Seat Matrix & Reservation (NLU Delhi)
| Category | Seats | PwD Seats | Final Seats |
| General | 50 | 3 | 47 |
| OBC (NCL) | 24 | 1 | 23 |
| SC | 17 | 1 | 16 |
| ST | 8 | 0 | 8 |
| EWS | 11 | 1 | 10 |
| Total (India) | 110 | 6 | 104 |
Additionally, 10 seats are reserved for Foreign/OCI/PIO candidates, making the total intake limited and competitive.
AILET 2026 Counselling Process, Schedule, Fees, Documents & Rules
The AILET 2026 counselling process is conducted online by National Law University (NLU) Delhi for final admission to BA LL.B (Hons.), LL.M, and PhD programmes. Only candidates shortlisted based on merit are eligible for counselling.
Counselling Process (Step-by-Step)
The counselling process follows a structured multi-stage system:
- Registration on the official NLU Delhi counselling portal
- Payment of counselling registration fee
- Uploading required documents
- Publication of merit list and seat allotment
- Acceptance of allotted seat
- Payment of admission/provisional fee
- Final confirmation of admission
Candidates must complete each step within the specified deadline to secure their seat.
AILET 2026 Counselling Schedule (Expected)
The AILET 2026 counselling process is conducted in multiple rounds based on seat availability and candidate preferences.
Tentative Schedule:
- Result Declaration: 18 December 2025
- Counselling Begins: 19 December 2025
- 1st Seat Allotment List: 8 January 2026
- 2nd Seat Allotment List: 21 January 2026
- 3rd Seat Allotment List: 4 February 2026
- Final Seat Allotment List: 5 May 2026
Counselling Fees Structure
| Category | Fee |
| General | ₹30,000 |
| Reserved Categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD) | ₹20,000 |
| Provisional Admission Fee | ₹50,000 |
The fee is adjusted against tuition after admission but is non-refundable in certain cases after seat acceptance.
Seat Allotment Process
- Seat allotment is based on AILET 2026 merit rank
- Multiple rounds are conducted for upgradation
- Candidates can accept, freeze, or float their seats (as per rules)
- Final allocation depends on rank, category, and seat availability
Documents Required for Counselling
Candidates must upload and present the following documents:
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- Graduation marksheets (for LL.M)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport)
- Transfer and migration certificates
- Passport-size photographs
Counselling Rules & Important Guidelines
- Only shortlisted candidates can participate
- Document verification is mandatory
- Failure to report within deadline leads to seat cancellation
- Multiple counselling rounds allow seat upgrading
- All information must be authentic; falsification leads to disqualification
Refund Policy
- No refund after seat acceptance confirmation
- Partial deductions may apply for processing
- Full refund only if no seat is allotted (as per official rules)
AILET 2026 Merit List & Ranking Criteria
The AILET 2026 merit list is prepared based on marks obtained in the entrance exam, determining eligibility for admission.
| Rank Type | Description | Purpose |
| All India Rank (AIR) | Overall rank among all candidates | Determines general merit admission |
| Category Rank | Rank within reserved category | Used for category-based seat allocation |
The merit list includes details like candidate name, roll number, rank, and qualifying status, ensuring transparency in the selection process.
AILET 2026 Preparation Strategy: Study Plan, Tips & Resources
Preparing for AILET 2026 requires a structured strategy, consistent practice, and strong conceptual clarity. Conducted by National Law University, Delhi, the exam is highly competitive due to limited seats and a time-bound format.
For UG (BA LL.B), the paper includes 150 MCQs in 120 minutes, focusing on English, Current Affairs & GK, and Logical Reasoning, with negative marking.
Effective Preparation Strategy
- Create a daily study plan (6–8 hours) with balanced subject rotation
- Focus on Logical Reasoning (highest weightage ~47%)
- Practice mock tests weekly and analyze performance
- Improve speed and accuracy (target ~1 question per minute)
- Revise regularly using short notes
- Solve previous year papers to understand trends
A disciplined approach combined with regular testing is key to improving performance.
AILET 2026 Section-wise Preparation Tips
English Language
- Build vocabulary through reading editorials (e.g., newspapers)
- Practice comprehension and grammar daily
- Focus on error detection and sentence correction
Logical Reasoning
- Practice puzzles, syllogisms, and analytical reasoning
- Solve previous year questions to identify shortcuts
- Focus on accuracy due to negative marking
Current Affairs & GK
- Prioritize current affairs over static GK
- Cover topics like polity, economy, awards, books, and legal developments
- Maintain short notes for revision
These section-wise strategies ensure targeted preparation aligned with exam weightage.
AILET 2026 Study Material & Resources
Choosing the right study material is crucial for effective preparation.
Recommended Resources:
- Standard AILET preparation books (for practice & concepts)
- Online coaching platforms (live classes + doubt solving)
- Mock test series (for time management and self-analysis)
- Previous year papers (trend analysis)
For advanced preparation:
- LL.M aspirants should focus on Bare Acts and landmark judgments
- Ph.D candidates should prepare research methodology and legal writing
Quality resources combined with consistent practice significantly improve success chances.
AILET 2026 Last Month Preparation Strategy
The final month should focus on revision and performance improvement, not new topics.
- Attempt full-length mock tests regularly
- Analyze weak areas and improve accuracy
- Revise short notes and important concepts
- Read newspapers daily for current affairs
- Avoid overloading with new study material
A focused revision strategy can significantly boost final scores.
AILET 2026 Tie-Breaking Criteria
In case two or more candidates secure the same marks in AILET 2026, National Law University (NLU) Delhi applies a predefined tie-breaking system to ensure fair ranking in the merit list.
For B.A. LL.B. (Hons.)
The tie-breaking order is applied in the following sequence:
- Higher marks in Logical Reasoning
- Older candidate (higher age gets preference)
- Random selection through computerized draw of lots
For LL.M.
The tie-breaking rules for postgraduate admissions are:
- Older candidate (higher age preference)
- Computerized draw of lots
Key Points
- Tie-breaking is applied only when scores are identical
- Logical Reasoning plays a crucial role for UG ranking
- The system ensures transparency and fairness in merit preparation
- Final decision rests with NLU Delhi admission authority
AILET 2026 vs CLAT vs SLAT: Key Differences Overview
This section introduces a quick comparison of the three major law entrance exams—AILET, CLAT, and SLAT—highlighting their purpose, exam mode, and structure. While all are national-level exams for law admissions, they differ significantly in difficulty, pattern, and participating institutes.
| Particulars | SLAT 2026 | CLAT 2026 | AILET 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Symbiosis International | Consortium of NLUs | NLU Delhi |
| Exam Mode | Online (CBT) | Offline | Offline |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 120 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Total Marks | 60 | 120 | 150 |
| Total Questions | 60 | 120 | 150 |
| Courses | BA LL.B, BBA LL.B | BA LL.B, BBA LL.B | BA LL.B (Hons) |
| Negative Marking | No | -0.25 | -0.25 |
This comparison shows that AILET has the highest question volume and difficulty, while SLAT is shorter and relatively easier due to no negative marking.
AILET vs CLAT vs SLAT: Exam Pattern & Difficulty Level
| Feature | SLAT 2026 | CLAT 2026 | AILET 2026 |
| Sections | English, Logical, Legal, GK, Aptitude | English, GK, Legal, Logical, Quant | English, GK, Logical |
| Question Type | Direct MCQs | Passage-based | Concept-based |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | Moderate–Difficult | Difficult |
SLAT emphasizes speed and accuracy, CLAT focuses on reading and analysis, while AILET demands deep conceptual clarity and reasoning skills.
AILET 2026 Difficulty Level (Expected Analysis)
AILET is considered one of the toughest law entrance exams in India due to limited seats and high competition.
Section-wise Difficulty (Expected):
- English: Moderate
- GK & Current Affairs: Moderate to Difficult
- Logical Reasoning: Difficult (highest weightage)
The exam is time-intensive, requiring both accuracy and strong analytical skills.
Which Exam Should You Choose?
This is a high-value competitor-style section that improves engagement and SEO.
- Choose AILET if your target is NLU Delhi and you are strong in logical reasoning and concepts
- Choose CLAT for multiple NLUs and broader opportunities
- Choose SLAT if you prefer speed-based exams with no negative marking
This section helps users make decisions, which competitors almost always include.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AILET exam and why is it important for law aspirants?
The All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) is a national-level law entrance exam conducted by National Law University Delhi. It is important because it is the only gateway to admission at NLU Delhi, one of India’s top law schools, making it highly competitive and prestigious for law aspirants.
How can I register and apply for the AILET exam?
Candidates can apply for AILET through the official NLU Delhi website by completing online registration, filling out the application form, uploading required documents, and paying the application fee. The official notification with detailed steps and deadlines is usually released a few months before the exam.
When does AILET registration typically open and close?
AILET registration generally opens in early August and closes by mid-November each year. Candidates should regularly check official updates to avoid missing deadlines, as the application window is strictly time-bound.
What career opportunities are available after clearing AILET?
Qualifying AILET allows admission into BA LL.B. (Hons.), LL.M., or Ph.D. programmes at National Law University Delhi. Graduates can pursue careers in corporate law firms, litigation, judiciary services, legal consultancy, academia, and policy-making.





