Having a clear idea about CLAT 12th marks criteria is essential for aspirants preparing for the CLAT UG exam. The Consortium of NLUs has set specific guidelines regarding the minimum marks in 12th for CLAT exam eligibility.
Candidates from the General/OBC category need at least 45% in their 12th or equivalent exam, while SC/ST/PwD candidates require a minimum of 40%. Students appearing for their 12th exams in 2025 can also apply, but must submit their results during admission.
Let’s know everything about the marks requirement and eligibility for CLAT 2025.
Learn everything about Common Law Admission Test (CLAT).
12th Marks Criteria for CLAT 2025 (Official)
The Consortium of NLUs has established specific CLAT 2025 eligibility criteria related to 12th-grade marks for all candidates.
| Category | Minimum Marks Required in 12th |
| General/OBC | 45% |
| SC/ST/PwD | 40% |
12th Marks for General/OBC Candidates
To qualify for CLAT 2025, candidates in the General and OBC categories must have secured at least 45% marks in 10+2 or an equivalent examination. This is the minimum marks for CLAT required to be eligible for admission.
12th Marks for SC/ST/PwD Candidates
For candidates belonging to the SC, ST, or PwD categories, the required marks are lower. These students need a minimum of 40% marks in 10+2 or an equivalent examination.
This reduced requirement ensures greater accessibility for students from reserved categories, making it essential to meet the CLAT 12th marks for SC/ST and PwD candidates.
Failing to meet these minimum marks may result in disqualification from the CLAT admission process, so it is crucial for all aspirants to ensure they meet the CLAT 2025 eligibility criteria.
CLAT Eligibility for 12th Appearing Students
Candidates who are currently in their 12th grade and will be appearing for the 12th board exams in March/April 2025 are eligible to apply for CLAT 2025. This means students who have yet to receive their final 12th-grade results can still register and take the exam.
However, it’s important to note that these candidates must provide proof of passing the 12th exam during the admission process. If they fail to submit their 12th-grade results at the time of admission, they will lose their eligibility to secure a seat, even if they have performed well in the CLAT exam.
Therefore, students should ensure that they have their final results ready for submission when the admission process begins.
CLAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
Check the complete CLAT eligibility criteria:
| Aspect | CLAT Eligibility |
| CLAT Age Limit | No upper or lower age limit |
| CLAT Educational Qualification | Must be in 10+2 or have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination |
| Minimum Marks in 12th | General/OBC/NRI/PIO/OCI: 45% or equivalent grade |
| SC/ST/PWD: 40% or equivalent grade | |
| Appearing Candidates | Candidates appearing for their qualifying examination in March/April 2025 are also eligible |
| CLAT Tie Breaker | – Higher marks in the Legal Aptitude section |
| – Higher age | |
| – Computerized draw of lots |
Importance of Submitting 12th Marks During Admission
Submitting your 12th marks during the admission process is a critical step for securing a seat in an NLU after clearing the CLAT exam. If candidates fail to submit their 12th-grade results at the time of admission, they will lose their right to admission, regardless of how well they performed in the CLAT exam.
This requirement is strictly enforced by the Consortium of NLUs to ensure that all admitted candidates meet the minimum academic eligibility criteria. Failing to provide proof of passing the 12th exam will result in disqualification from the admission process, making it impossible for the student to be considered for the program.
Therefore, candidates must ensure they have their 12th result ready by the time of admission to avoid any issues or delays in the process.
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FAQs About 12th Marks for CLAT
Yes, candidates appearing for their 12th exams in March/April 2025 can apply for CLAT 2025. However, they must provide proof of passing the 12th exam during the admission process.
For General/OBC candidates, a minimum of 45% marks in 12th or equivalent is required. For SC/ST/PwD candidates, the minimum requirement is 40% marks.
If you fail to meet the required minimum marks for CLAT (45% for General/OBC and 40% for SC/ST/PwD), you will be ineligible for admission, even if you qualify in the CLAT exam.
Failure to submit your 12th results at the time of admission will result in losing your right to admission, as the Consortium of NLUs mandates this requirement to ensure eligibility.
Yes, SC/ST/PwD candidates are eligible with a minimum of 40% marks in 12th, compared to 45% for General/OBC candidates.
No, candidates must pass all subjects in their 12th or equivalent examination to be eligible for CLAT admission.
Yes, you can give CLAT after completing your 12th. Candidates who have passed their 12th exam or are appearing for it in the same year are eligible to apply for CLAT.
Yes, students who are in Class 12 and will appear for the board exams in March/April 2025 are eligible to give the CLAT exam. However, you must submit your 12th-grade results during admission.
No, students in Class 11 are not eligible to apply for CLAT. Only those who are in Class 12 or have completed their 12th can give the CLAT exam.
CLAT is conducted once a year by the Consortium of NLUs, typically in December for the 2025 exam cycle.
Yes, many students prepare for CLAT successfully without coaching by using self-study materials, mock tests, and online resources. However, structured guidance from coaching can be beneficial.
Based on success rate, Law Prep Tutorial is considered the best Online coaching for CLAT in India, known for its experienced faculty and comprehensive study material.