If you want to study law at NLU Delhi, then AILET is the exam you must clear. It’s one of the most competitive law entrance exams in India, just like CLAT. But unlike CLAT, AILET is held only for one university — the prestigious National Law University, Delhi. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about AILET — from the exam pattern to preparation tips.
What is AILET?
AILET stands for All India Law Entrance Test. It is conducted by NLU Delhi for admission into:
- 5-year BA LLB (Hons.)
- 1-year LLM
- PhD in Law
Only NLU Delhi accepts AILET scores. Other National Law Universities (NLUs) accept CLAT scores.
Why AILET Matters?
- NLU Delhi is one of the top 3 law schools in India.
- It has a strong reputation for academic excellence, mooting, and placements.
- Getting into NLU Delhi means you get access to a great legal network and future opportunities.
But since it has only 110 seats (approx.) for BA LLB, competition is extremely tough.
AILET 2025: Exam Pattern (UG)
Knowing the pattern helps you plan better. Here’s what AILET UG looks like:
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 50 | 50 |
| Current Affairs & General Knowledge | 30 | 30 |
| Logical Reasoning | 70 | 70 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
⏱ Duration: 90 minutes
📍 Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for every wrong answer
Note: Unlike CLAT, AILET does not have Legal Reasoning or Quantitative Techniques sections.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the B.A.LL.B. (Hons.) program:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed the Higher Secondary School Examination (10+2) or an equivalent examination with at least 45% marks (42% for OBCs and 40% for SC/ST/PwD candidates).
- Foreign Nationals: Candidates under this category should have secured a minimum of 65% marks in the qualifying examination.
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for AILET.
AILET Syllabus Overview
✅ English Language
Covers reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, sentence correction, etc.
✅ Current Affairs & GK
Focuses on national and international news, legal updates, government schemes, awards, and important dates.
✅ Logical Reasoning
Includes critical thinking, pattern recognition, arguments, statements and assumptions, etc.
AILET vs CLAT: Key Differences
| Feature | AILET | CLAT |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted By | NLU Delhi | Consortium of NLUs |
| Accepting Colleges | Only NLU Delhi | 22 NLUs |
| Duration | 90 mins | 120 mins |
| Total Questions | 150 | 120 |
| Subjects | No legal/quant | Legal + Quant included |
Seat Matrix and Reservation
NLU Delhi offers a total of 110 seats for the B.A.LL.B. (Hons.) program, with reservations as per the following categories:
- General: 50 seats
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 24 seats
- Scheduled Caste (SC): 17 seats
- Scheduled Tribe (ST): 8 seats
- Economically Weaker Section (EWS): 11 seats
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): Horizontal reservation of 5% in each category
Additionally, 10 seats are allocated to Foreign Nationals/OCI/PIO candidates.
National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi): A Brief Overview
Established in 2008 under the National Law University Act, 2007, NLU Delhi was founded with the objective of imparting comprehensive and interdisciplinary legal education. Situated in Sector-14, Dwarka, New Delhi, the university has rapidly ascended to prominence among India’s premier law schools. The inaugural Vice-Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh, played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s vision and academic framework.
The Genesis and Evolution of AILET
Unlike other National Law Universities (NLUs) that accept Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) scores, NLU Delhi conducts its own entrance examination—the All India Law Entrance Test (AILET). This decision underscores the university’s commitment to maintaining a distinct and rigorous selection process tailored to its specific academic standards.
The inaugural AILET was conducted in 2008, coinciding with the university’s first academic session. Over the years, the exam has undergone several refinements to align with evolving educational paradigms and to better assess candidates’ aptitude for legal studies. Today, AILET stands as a benchmark for law aspirants aiming to secure a seat at NLU Delhi.
Why NLU Delhi Opts for AILET Over CLAT?
While the majority of NLUs admit students through CLAT, NLU Delhi’s choice to administer AILET stems from its desire to:
- Maintain Autonomy: Craft an admission process that reflects the university’s unique academic ethos.
- Ensure Quality: Select candidates whose skills and competencies align with the institution’s rigorous curriculum.
- Innovate Continuously: Adapt the examination structure to meet contemporary legal education demands without external constraints.
This independent approach has enabled NLU Delhi to curate a student body that embodies excellence, diversity, and a commitment to the legal profession.
Preparation Tips for AILET
- Start early and build a solid reading habit
- Focus on comprehension and logic — these form the majority of the paper
- Practice mock tests regularly
- Improve your speed and accuracy
- Stay updated with daily current affairs
Use standard books, previous year papers, and topic-wise practice questions. And don’t forget to revise
Conclusion: AILET Opens the Door to NLU Delhi
If your dream is to join NLU Delhi, then AILET is your path. With smart planning, the right material, and regular practice, you can beat the odds and secure your seat.
📞 Need help starting your AILET prep? Call 8750581505 and book your free demo with Law Prep Delhi today.
