AILET 2026: Dates, Eligibility, Application & Pattern

For students aspiring to build a career in law, the All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) is considered one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations in India. Conducted by the National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi), it provides access to one of the country’s leading law institutions. NLU Delhi is known for its academic excellence and consistently ranks among the top law schools. As the 2026 exam draws closer, it becomes important for candidates to understand the exam structure, pattern, and preparation strategies to secure a place at NLU Delhi.

What is AILET?

AILET is a national-level entrance examination held once every year for admission into undergraduate (BA LLB), postgraduate (LLM), and doctoral (PhD) programs offered only by NLU Delhi. Unlike other National Law Universities that consider CLAT scores for admission, NLU Delhi follows its own independent entrance test. This gives AILET a unique position and higher level of competitiveness in the field of legal education.

For 18-year-old aspirants planning to pursue the five-year integrated BA LLB program, AILET 2026 serves as a significant opportunity to join an institution known for strong academics, global exposure, and excellent placement records.

AILET 2026 Important Dates

Keeping track of the official AILET schedule helps you stay prepared and avoid last-minute pressure. NLU Delhi usually announces the exam dates on its official website and through major news platforms. Based on previous exam cycles, the following timeline is expected for AILET 2026:

Application Process for AILET 2026

The AILET 2026 application process is conducted entirely online. Follow the steps below:

1. Registration:
Go to the official website of NLU Delhi and create an account by entering your name, mobile number, and email ID.

2. Fill the Application Form:
Provide details such as your educational background, preferred program, and choice of exam cities.

3. Upload Documents:
Upload a recent passport-size photograph, your signature, and a category certificate if you are eligible for any reservation.

4. Pay the Application Fee:

• General, OBC, and Foreign Nationals: ₹3,500

• SC, ST, and PwD: ₹1,500

• BPL candidates belonging to SC or ST categories: No fee

You can pay using a credit card, debit card, or net banking.

5. Submit the Form:
Review all the information carefully and then submit the application form.
Make sure to save and print the filled application form along with the payment receipt for future use.

AILET 2026 Exam Schedule and Duration

The AILET 2026 exam is expected to be held in the first week of December 2025. The total exam duration is 90 minutes (1.5 hours). For the BA LL.B (Hons.) program, the question paper generally includes:

• English Language: 50 marks

• Current Affairs and General Knowledge: 30 marks

• Logical Reasoning: 70 marks

The paper carries a total of 150 marks and consists of multiple-choice questions. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer, so maintaining accuracy is equally important as managing time.

Admit Card and Exam Day Guidelines

The AILET 2026 admit card will be released about two weeks before the exam. Candidates must download and carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, passport, PAN card, or school ID to the test center.

On the exam day, it is advisable to reach the center at least one hour before the reporting time to avoid any last-minute rush or technical issues. Electronic gadgets, calculators, and written notes are not allowed inside the hall. Carry a few extra pens and stay calm, as proper preparation leads to a smoother exam experience.

AILET 2026 Result and Counseling Process

NLU Delhi will release the provisional answer key a few days after the exam. Students will have the opportunity to submit objections if required. The final result is expected to be announced by the end of December 2025, and the scorecard will include the marks obtained, rank, and qualifying status.

Counseling for BA LL.B and LL.M programs will start in January 2026. Candidates will need to participate in multiple rounds based on their rank, category, and availability of seats. It is important to follow the counseling schedule closely and complete all necessary formalities within the specified deadlines.

AILET 2026 Syllabus

The AILET 2026 syllabus for the BA LL.B. entrance exam includes three core sections: English Language, Current Affairs and General Knowledge, and Logical Reasoning. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions to be completed within 120 minutes. Typically, candidates can expect around 50 questions in English, 30 in Current Affairs and General Knowledge, and 70 in Logical Reasoning.

English Language

This part of the exam measures a student’s understanding of comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and overall language usage. Questions usually involve reading passages, idioms and phrases, sentence completion, and vocabulary-based tasks. The difficulty level stays moderate and focuses on clarity of understanding.

Current Affairs and General Knowledge

This section covers both national and international events along with static General Knowledge topics such as history, geography, economics, science, politics, and important legal developments. It generally holds about 20 percent of the total exam weight. Students should regularly read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express and stay informed about legal and political news, major Supreme Court decisions, and government updates.

Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning carries the highest weight and often presents the toughest questions. It includes analytical reasoning, legal propositions, legal maxims, and various problem solving exercises. The section evaluates a candidate’s ability to make inferences, think logically, and handle legal reasoning situations related to areas such as contracts and torts. Common topics include analogies, syllogisms, blood relations, coding and decoding, statement and assumption based questions, and data interpretation. Success in this section requires strong accuracy along with good speed.

Additional Notes for LLM and PhD Aspirants

For AILET LLM 2026, the syllabus focuses on core law disciplines such as Constitutional Law, Jurisprudence, Criminal Law, Administrative Law, Property Law, Company Law, Tax Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights and related areas. The postgraduate exam evaluates in-depth legal understanding through around 100 MCQs that cover legal theory, various branches of law and major case studies.

Exam Pattern Highlights
Mode: Offline (pen and paper)
Total Questions: 150 for BA LL.B.
Duration: 120 minutes
Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect response

Preparation Tips Based on the Syllabus

• Stay updated with current events and regularly revise static GK.

• Practice legal reasoning questions and logical puzzles within a set time limit.

• Strengthen English proficiency with focus on vocabulary and reading comprehension.

• Go through important legal principles, maxims and landmark judgments for reasoning sections.

This syllabus framework enables aspirants to build a strong base in language skills, general awareness and logical reasoning. It is important to check the official NLU Delhi website frequently for any updates related to the syllabus or exam pattern to ensure smooth and accurate preparation.

How to Prepare With the Given Schedule

Once you understand the exam timeline, plan your preparation to match it. For example:

• April to June 2025: Strengthen your basics in English, reasoning, and current affairs.

• July to September: Attempt weekly mock tests and review your performance carefully.

• October and November 2025: Revise all topics, work on weaker sections, and practice in real exam-like conditions.

• December 2025: Stay relaxed, go through important points again, and make sure all your documents and admit card are ready.

You may also join a coaching program or a study group to maintain consistency and clear your doubts more effectively.

Why Staying Updated Matters

In competitive exams like AILET, even small mistakes such as missing a deadline or submitting the wrong document can affect your chances of admission. By tracking every important date, setting reminders, and regularly checking official notifications, you can avoid unnecessary stress during the admission period.

These proactive habits also demonstrate your preparedness as a future law student, where attention to detail and thoroughness are highly valued.