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CLAT Reservation Criteria 2026 – NLUs Seats Intake, NRI Reservation Policy & Criteria

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CLAT Reservation Criteria
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When it comes to India’s premier law universities — the National Law Universities (NLUs) — cracking the CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) is just the beginning. What many aspirants overlook is that their category and reservation eligibility can significantly influence their chances of securing a seat.

Each NLU follows a unique reservation policy, guided by both national constitutional mandates and state-specific requirements. Whether you belong to a reserved category like SC, ST, OBC, or EWS, or you’re applying under NRI/NRI Sponsored or Domicile quotas, knowing the CLAT reservation criteria inside out is critical.

But here’s the catch — there’s no one-size-fits-all.

From supernumerary NRI seats to domicile advantages in NLUs like MNLU Mumbai or NLU Odisha, the rules vary widely. Plus, some NLUs offer reservations to special categories like PwD (Persons with Disability), Kashmiri Migrants, or even children of defence personnel.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • Detailed category-wise reservation across NLUs
  • State-wise domicile reservations
  • NRI and NRI-sponsored seat policies
  • Foreign National admission criteria
  • PG-level reservation differences
  • Complete NLU-wise reservation tables

Whether you’re applying for CLAT UG or PG, this guide will help you understand how seats are distributed — and more importantly, where you stand.


CLAT 2026 Reservation Criteria – Overview

The reservation policy in CLAT serves a dual purpose — promoting social justice and ensuring regional representation across National Law Universities (NLUs). These policies are not uniform; they vary based on individual NLU Acts, state mandates, and university-specific decisions.

Let’s first understand the broad categories under which a reservation is granted.

Broad Types of Reservation in CLAT:

Reservation TypeApplies ToKey Details
National-Level ReservationAll NLUs (mostly)SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD categories — based on central government norms
Domicile / State QuotaSelect NLUs (e.g., MNLU, NLUO, NLUJA, etc.)A certain % of seats reserved for residents of the state where the NLU is located
NRI / NRI SponsoredSpecific NLUs onlyReserved for candidates residing abroad or sponsored by NRIs
Foreign NationalsSelect NLUs (supernumerary seats)Admission typically outside CLAT; based on academic merit & English proficiency
Special CategoriesVaries by NLUKashmiri Migrants, Wards of Defence Personnel, Transgender, etc.

Important Notes:

  • Valid documentary proof is mandatory at the time of counselling/admission to claim any reservation.
  • Certificates must be in the prescribed format (especially for categories like EWS, PwD).
  • There is no interchangeability allowed between different categories (e.g., claiming both SC and EWS).
  • Horizontal reservations (e.g., for PwD, Female, Freedom Fighter Dependants) apply across all categories.

Example Categories Seen Across NLUs

  • Vertical Reservations: SC, ST, OBC, EWS
  • Horizontal Reservations: Female, PwD, Wards of Defence Personnel
  • Supernumerary Seats: NRI, Foreign Nationals, Kashmiri Migrants, North-East Candidates, Orphans

Knowing where you fit in this structure is key to optimising your choices during CLAT Counselling.


CLAT 2026 Category-Wise Reservation (General Pattern Across Most NLUs)

Although every NLU follows its own reservation policy, many institutions follow a general reservation framework aligned with central government norms. This section provides a snapshot of the typical reservation percentages applied to All India seats. However, the exact figures may vary slightly across universities.

Indicative CLAT 2026 Reservation Percentages (All India Quota)

CategoryTypical Reservation (%)
Scheduled Castes (SC)15%
Scheduled Tribes (ST)7.5%
Other Backward Classes (OBC) – NCL*Up to 27%
Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)10%
Persons with Disabilities (PwD / SAP)5% (Horizontal)
Female Candidates30% (Horizontal)**
Kashmiri Migrants / J&K ResidentsSupernumerary Quota
NRI / NRI Sponsored / Foreign NationalsSupernumerary Quota
  • Not all NLUs offer OBC-NCL reservations. It is present mainly in state-funded NLUs like RMNLU Lucknow, CNLU Patna, HNLU Raipur, and others.
  • Horizontal reservation for female candidates is available in several NLUs like NLIU Bhopal, GNLU, HNLU, RMLNLU, and more.

How Does This Affect CLAT Cutoffs?

The cutoff ranks for reserved categories are significantly lower than for General category students. Here’s a simplified example based on trends from previous years:

CategoryApprox. Rank for Top NLUs (e.g., NLSIU, NALSAR)
GeneralUnder 100
SC2500–3500
ST4000–5000
OBC (where applicable)1000–2000
EWS800–1200
PwD3000–4000

These ranks are indicative and vary by NLU and year. Always check the official CLAT counselling cutoff data for accuracy.

Example: All India Quota Split at a Glance (Based on NALSAR, NLIU, GNLU Policies)

CategoryTypical Intake in 120-Seat NLU
General51–55
SC15–18
ST7–9
OBC (if applicable)15–20
EWS10–12
SAP / PwD5% (Horizontal)
Female (where applied)~36 (within each category)

Key Takeaways:

  • Every NLU publishes its own seat matrix — don’t assume the same pattern applies everywhere.
  • Categories like Female, PwD, Freedom Fighters’ wards, etc., are usually horizontal reservations and apply within all vertical categories.
  • Supernumerary seats like NRI, Foreign Nationals, and J&K residents do not reduce the general intake — they are additional.

Make sure to apply under the correct category and double-check certificate requirements. Any mismatch or misrepresentation can lead to the cancellation of candidature during counselling.


Domicile-Based Reservation in NLUs (CLAT 2026)

One of the most decisive factors that can significantly influence your chances of admission into an NLU is the domicile or state quota reservation. Several National Law Universities (NLUs) reserve a substantial percentage of seats for candidates who are residents of the state where the university is located.

This reservation not only boosts admission chances for local candidates but also reflects the NLUs’ efforts to maintain regional diversity and encourage state representation.

What Is Domicile Reservation?

Domicile reservation allows a student who is a resident of a particular state to claim a state-reserved seat in the NLU situated within that state. The eligibility is verified through official documents like domicile certificates, state-issued IDs, or school-leaving certificates from institutions within the state.

NLUs Offering Domicile-Based Reservation (UG Seats)

Here’s a sample of key NLUs offering domicile quotas along with the approximate number of reserved seats for state residents:

NLUStateTotal UG SeatsSeats Reserved for Domicile CandidatesApprox. %
MNLU MumbaiMaharashtra1006363%
NLU Odisha (NLUO)Odisha1806033%
HNLU RaipurChhattisgarh1708550%
NUSRL RanchiJharkhand12060 (across categories)50%
RMNLU LucknowUttar Pradesh187127 (all reserved categories under UP)~68%
WBNUJS KolkataWest Bengal13242~32%
DSNLU VisakhapatnamAndhra Pradesh1206050%
MNLU AurangabadMaharashtra120 (combined)8470%
MNLU NagpurMaharashtra120 (combined)8470%
HPNLU ShimlaHimachal Pradesh1203025%
TNNLU TiruchirapalliTamil Nadu120Varies by subcategory~50%
NLUJA AssamAssam605 seats reserved horizontally~8%

Note: Some NLUs have horizontal domicile quotas, where a set % of seats across categories (General, SC, ST, etc.) are reserved for local students. Others have vertical domicile quotas with specific category-wise splits.

Eligibility Criteria for Domicile Reservation

To claim domicile quota in any NLU, a candidate must:

  • Hold a valid domicile/residence certificate from the respective state
  • In some cases, have completed schooling (Class 10/12) in that state
  • Belong to a specific social category defined by the state (e.g., SC/ST/OBC of UP or Maharashtra)

Example: Domicile Reservation at HNLU Raipur

CategoryAll India SeatsChhattisgarh Domicile Seats
General5542
SC1314
ST617
OBC1112

Required Documents

  • State Domicile Certificate (issued by the competent authority)
  • School Leaving Certificate (if applicable)
  • State-issued identity proofs (Aadhaar, Ration Card, etc.)

Important Notes

  • Some NLUs require separate registration or documentation upload for domicile verification (especially MNLUs).
  • Documents must be valid as of the date of CLAT counselling.
  • Misrepresentation or incomplete documents can lead to rejection of the claim during admission.

If you’re a resident of a state that has an NLU, even a mid-range CLAT score could fetch you a top law school seat through the domicile quota. Don’t ignore this advantage.


Special Reservation Categories in CLAT 2026

Apart from vertical and domicile-based reservations, several NLUs provide horizontal or supernumerary reservations for candidates from specific backgrounds or circumstances. These include categories like Persons with Disabilities (PwD/SAP), Kashmiri Migrants, Wards of Defence Personnel, Transgender candidates, and more.

These reservations are often horizontal, meaning they apply within all vertical categories (General, SC, ST, etc.), or supernumerary, i.e., over and above the regular seat intake.

Key Special Categories and Their Eligibility

Special CategoryTypeReservation RangeEligibility & Documents Required
Persons with Disabilities (PwD / SAP)Horizontal3% – 5% (most NLUs)Disability certificate (minimum 40% disability)
Kashmiri Migrants / PanditsSupernumerary2–5 seats in select NLUsMigration certificate issued by competent authority
J&K ResidentsSupernumerary2–3 seats in select NLUsProof of domicile and residence in J&K
Wards of Defence PersonnelHorizontal5% in some NLUs (e.g., MNLU)Defence ID card, service certificate
Children of Freedom FightersHorizontal2–5% (e.g., RMLNLU, HNLU)Certificate from state government
Female CandidatesHorizontal20% – 30% (varies widely)Automatically applied based on gender; no documents needed
Transgender CandidatesSupernumeraryLimited (e.g., NUALS, TNNLU)ID proof and medical/govt certificate (where required)
Eminent Sports Persons (State Quota)Horizontal<1% (rare, e.g., DSNLU, TNNLU)Sports achievements & recognition by state/national bodies
Orphan / Single Parent QuotaSupernumerary1% in few NLUs (e.g., MNLU Nagpur)Death certificate(s) and affidavit

Example: PwD (SAP) Reservation

Almost all NLUs offer 5% horizontal reservation for PwD candidates.

For example, at NALSAR Hyderabad:

  • 5% of total UG and PG seats are horizontally reserved for SAP candidates (approx. 6 seats in UG, 3 in PG).
  • Document required: Medical certificate from a recognised authority showing minimum 40% permanent disability.

Female Reservation – Widely Adopted

Many NLUs, including NLIU Bhopal, GNLU, RMLNLU, and TNNLU, provide 20%–30% reservation for female candidates within each category. This is often applied automatically during counselling.

Example: RMLNLU Lucknow reserves 20% of its UG seats horizontally for females, across all categories.

Supernumerary vs Horizontal: Quick Difference

AspectHorizontal ReservationSupernumerary Quota
Seat CountComes from within existing seat matrixSeats added over and above regular intake
ExamplesPwD, Female, Defence PersonnelNRI, Foreign Nationals, Kashmiri Migrants
CLAT Score Required?YesSometimes No (depends on NLU & category)
Applied OnAll vertical categoriesMostly General category or NRI/International pools

Special categories are an important part of CLAT seat allocation. If you’re eligible, make sure to claim your rightful seat by submitting proper documentation at the time of counselling.


CLAT NRI/NRI Sponsored Seats – Policy & Eligibility

Many NLUs in India reserve a fixed number of seats for NRI (Non-Resident Indian) and NRI-sponsored candidates. These seats fall under the supernumerary category, meaning they are over and above the regular seat intake and are often associated with higher tuition fees.

However, the admission process for these seats varies from one NLU to another — some accept CLAT scores. In contrast, others allow direct Admission based on academic records and eligibility documents.

Who Is Eligible Under NRI / NRI Sponsored Quota?

NRI Candidates:

  • The candidate must be an Indian citizen residing abroad for at least 5 years OR
  • A child of an Indian citizen or person of Indian origin (PIO)/OCI, living abroad

NRI Sponsored Candidates:

  • Candidate is sponsored by a first-degree relative (Parent, Sibling, Uncle, Aunt) who is an NRI
  • Sponsor must commit financial responsibility through a sworn affidavit
  • The candidate is usually required to appear for CLAT

Always refer to the individual NLU’s admission brochure to confirm eligibility and requirements.

Documents Required (General List)

  • Copy of the passport and visa of the NRI
  • Affidavit of Sponsorship (for NRI Sponsored)
  • Candidate’s birth certificate
  • Residential proof of the sponsor
  • CLAT Scorecard (if required by NLU)

Admission Process for NRI/NRI Sponsored Seats

Admission TypeApplies ToCriteria
Through CLAT ScoreNRI SponsoredMust register and appear for CLAT
Direct AdmissionNRI/Foreign NationalsBased on academic merit (12th scores)
Separate ApplicationSome NLUsAdditional form + document submission

NRI Seat Intake at Top NLUs (UG Courses)

NLUNRI/NRI Sponsored SeatsAdmission Mode
WBNUJS Kolkata20 (UG)CLAT-based (NRI Sponsored)
NALSAR Hyderabad15 (UG)Direct admission (NRI)
NLU Jodhpur16 (UG)CLAT-based
MNLU Mumbai20 (UG)Direct/NRI Sponsored via CLAT
GNLU Gandhinagar16 (UG)CLAT-based
RGNUL Patiala5 (UG)CLAT-based
DSNLU Visakhapatnam12 (UG)Direct/HR basis
TNNLU Tiruchirapalli3 (UG)NRI Parent/Guardian required

Some NLUs charge NRI fees in USD (ranging from $10,000–$25,000 per annum) and require hostel accommodation as part of the mandatory package.

Key Points to Note

  • NRI Sponsored = CLAT Mandatory in most NLUs
  • NRI = May be exempt from CLAT, but must apply separately
  • These seats do not affect general category ranks or cutoffs
  • Candidates must upload valid documents before the counselling deadlines

If you’re an NRI or have an eligible sponsor, this route offers access to NLUs at lower CLAT ranks — provided you can meet the financial and documentary criteria.


Foreign National Candidates – Admission Policy (CLAT 2026)

Several NLUs reserve a small number of supernumerary seats for foreign national candidates, who are typically exempt from appearing for the CLAT exam. These seats are meant to promote international diversity. They are filled based on the candidate’s academic merit, English proficiency, and submission of required documentation.

Who Is Considered a Foreign National Candidate?

A Foreign National refers to:

  • A citizen of a country other than India, and
  • A candidate who does not hold OCI/PIO or NRI status

OCI/PIO cardholders may be considered under NRI Sponsored or General categories, depending on the NLU’s policy.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must have completed 10+2 (for UG) or LLB (for PG) or equivalent qualifications from a recognised board/university
  • Must demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL preferred)
  • Must have a minimum of 45%–50% marks (varies by NLU)

Documents Required for Admission

  • Valid passport and visa
  • Academic transcripts (10th, 12th / UG degree)
  • Character certificate from last last-attended institution
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Medical certificate (some NLUs may require this)

NLUs Offering Seats to Foreign Nationals

NLUForeign National Seats (UG)Admission Mode
NALSAR Hyderabad15 (UG)Direct (7 SAARC + 8 non-SAARC)
WBNUJS Kolkata2 (UG)Direct Admission
GNLU Gandhinagar5 (UG)Direct Admission
HNLU Raipur2 (UG)Direct Admission
RGNUL Patiala5 (UG)Direct Admission
DSNLU Visakhapatnam12 (UG – merged with NRI)Horizontal Reservation
NLU Tripura4 (UG)Direct Admission
HPNLU Shimla15% of total seatsDirect Admission

Foreign National candidates do not participate in the CLAT counselling process. They must apply directly to individual NLUs through their official admission portals.

Fee Structure for Foreign Nationals

The tuition fee for foreign nationals is generally higher than the domestic fee and is payable in USD. It may include:

  • Tuition fees ($5,000–$15,000 per year)
  • Accommodation & mess charges
  • Miscellaneous campus fees

Exact fee details are published in each NLU’s prospectus annually.

Important Notes

  • Seat intake is limited (2–15 per university) and highly competitive.
  • Some NLUs reserve a fixed number of seats for SAARC vs non-SAARC candidates.
  • You must check for specific deadlines, which may differ from the CLAT schedule.

If you’re a foreign national planning to study law in India, NLUs provide a world-class legal education — but ensure you meet all eligibility and visa formalities well in advance.


CLAT 2026 Seat Intake  

The seat intake for all National Law Universities (NLUs) participating in CLAT 2026 is as follows:  

Name of the CollegeUG Seat IntakePG Seat Intake
National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru310 seats100 seats
The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata132 seats100 seats
National Law University, Jodhpur120 seats50 seats
Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar172 seats57 seats
Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNLU), Patiala180 seats60 seats
National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi60 seats60 seats
National University of Study & Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi120 seats50 seats
Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University (DSNLU), Visakhapatnam120 seats60 seats
Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Mumbai100 seats50 seats
Maharashtra National Law University, Aurangabad60 seats60 seats
Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), Jabalpur120 seats50 seats
National Academy of Legal Study & Research (NALSAR) University of Law, Hyderabad132 seats66 seats
National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal134 seats for BA LLB68 seats for BSc LLB60 seats
Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur170 seats90 seats
Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow187 seats31 seats
Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna69 seats for BA LLB69 seats for BBA LLB
National Law University Odisha (NLUO), Cuttack180 seats46 seats
National Law University & Judicial Academy (NLUJA), Assam60 seats40 seats
The Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU), Tiruchirappalli114 seats18 seats
Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur120 seats60 seats
Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla60 seats for BBA LLB80 seats
Dr B R Ambedkar National Law University (DBRANLU), Sonipat, Haryana120 seats
National Law University, Tripura120 seats50 seats
GNLU Silvassa Campus172 seats57 seats
Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj60 seats
Total (excluding supernumerary, NRI, extra, and FN seats)3,511 seats1,271 seats

Candidates listed in the CLAT 2026 invite list will have the opportunity to register for counselling through the official portal at consortiumofnlus.ac.in. Applicants are advised to carefully verify their roll numbers in the merit list before proceeding.


CLAT 2026 Reservation: Seat Allocation at NLUs  

The reservation policies and seat allocation details for all participating NLUs are outlined below:  

NLSIU Bangalore Reservation Policy  

The reservation criteria for NLSIU Bangalore are provided below for reference:

CategoryPercentage of SeatsTotal UG SeatsTotal PG Seats
GeneralNone11546
Scheduled Caste15.0%3615
Scheduled Tribe7.5%188
Other Backward Classes NCL21.6%5223
Economically Weaker Section8.0%198
Total240100

Important Information:

  • 5% of the total intake, equivalent to 2 seats in Business Law and 1 seat in Human Rights, is horizontally reserved for PwD candidates.  
  • Approximately 25% of seats in each vertical category, with a maximum of 13 students, are allocated under the horizontal preference for ‘Karnataka Students.’

NALSAR Hyderabad Reservation Policy

The reservation policy at NALSAR Hyderabad is as follows:

CategoryReservation (Residents of Telangana)All India Quota ReservationTotal UG SeatsTotal PG Seats
GeneralNone (15 seats and 08 for LLM course)None (51 seats for BA LLB and 25 for LLM)6633
SC (Scheduled Caste)15% (05 seats for BA LLB and 02 for LLM)15% (14 seats for BA LLB and 07 seats for LLM)1909
ST (Scheduled Tribe)6% (01 seat for BA LLB and 01 for LLM)7.5% (07 seats for BA LLB and 03 seats for LLM)0804
OBC (Other Backward Classes)29% (09 seats for BA LLB and 04 seats for LLM)18% (17 seats for BA LLB)20% (10 seats for LLM)2614
EWS (Economically Weaker Section)10% (03 seats)10% (10 seats for BA LLB and 05 seats for LLM)1306
Horizontal Reservation for Female30%39 seats19 seats
Horizontal Reservation for PWD (BM)05%06 seats03 seats
Total Seats13266

Key Highlights:

  • A 5% horizontal reservation is provided for candidates under the Specially Abled Persons (SAP) category, amounting to 5 seats in the LLB program and 3 seats in the LLM program.
  • For foreign nationals, 15 seats are allocated in LLB programs, with 7 seats reserved for SAARC country candidates and 8 seats for those from non-SAARC countries.
  • In addition, 10 seats in LLM programs are reserved for foreign nationals, equally divided between 5 seats for SAARC candidates and 5 for non-SAARC candidates.

NLIU Bhopal Reservation Policy

Candidates can review the reservation policy for NLIU Bhopal as outlined below:

CategoryPercentage of SeatsTotal BA LLB SeatsTotal BSc LLB SeatsTotal LLM Seats
GeneralNone522630
SC16.0%160810
ST20%201012
OBC14%140708
EWSSupernumerary reservation1206
J & K candidatesSupernumerary reservation0202
NRI/NRI Sponsored1809
Women candidatesHorizontally reserved (excluding NRI/NRI Sponsored and Supernumerary)301518
PWDHorizontally reserved (excluding NRI/NRI Sponsored and Supernumerary)040303
Domicile of MP50% Horizontally reserved (excluding NRI/NRI Sponsored and Supernumerary)
Total134 seats68 seats60 seats

Note: In addition to the seats mentioned above, five seats are allocated for foreign nationals who can secure direct admission without appearing for the CLAT examination, as per the notification from NLIU Bhopal.  

Reservation Policy of WBNUJS Kolkata  

The reservation policy for WBNUJS Kolkata can be reviewed below::

CategoryAll India SeatsWB Domicile QuotaTotal BA LLB/ BSc LLB SeatsTotal LLM Seats
General51 seats for UG and 54 seats for PG22 seats for UG and 15 seats for PG7369
SC10 seats for UG and 11 seats for PG10 seats for UG and 07 seats for PG2018
ST06 seats for UG and 05 seats for PG02 seats for UG and 02 seats for PG0807
OBC07 seats for UG and 06 seats for PG0706
Foreign Nationals02 seats for UG02
NRI/ NRI Sponsored20 seats for UG20
PWD Horizontal03 seats for UG and 03 seats for PG01 seat for UG and 02 seats for PG0405
J&K Supernumerary02 seats for UG0202
Total seats132100

NLU Jodhpur Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
General7636
SC15%1507
ST7.5%0804
Specially Abled Persons5%0503
NRI/ NRI Sponsored16 seats
Total seats12050 seats

HNLU Raipur Reservation Policy  

The reservation policy for HNLU Raipur is outlined below for candidates’ reference:

CategoryAll India SeatsChhattisgarh Domicile QuotaTotal BA LLB/BSc LLB SeatsTotal LLM Seats
General55 seats for UG and 45 seats for PG42 seats for UG9745
SC13 seats for UG and 14 seats for PG14 seats for UG2714
ST06 seats for UG and 07 seats for PG17 seats for UG2307
OBC11 seats for UG and 24 seats for PG12 seats for UG2324
Foreign Nationals02 seats for UG02
NRI/ NRI Sponsored08 seats for UG08
SAP Horizontal Reservation5% seats
Dependant of Freedom Fighters Horizontal Reservation5% seats
Female Horizontal Reservation30% seats
Kashmiri Migrants Supernumerary05 seats for UG and 02 seats for PG0502
J&K Supernumerary02 seats for UG and 02 seats for PG0202
Total Seats17090

GNLU Gandhinagar Reservation Policy  

The reservation policy for GNLU Gandhinagar is outlined below for candidates’ reference:  

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
General7926
SC15%2308
ST7.5%1204
OBC27%4214
Female30% of seats reserved horizontally
SAP/ PWD4% of seats reserved horizontally
Sports QuotaSupernumerary quota0400
EWS10%
NRI/ NRI SponsoredSupernumerary quota1605
Foreign NationalSupernumerary quota0502
J&KSupernumerary quota0201
North-East IndianSupernumerary quota0402
Total Seats17257

Note: The reservation policy for GNLU Silvassa is identical to that of GNLU Gandhinagar.  

RMNLU Lucknow Reservation Policy  

The reservation policy for RMNLU Lucknow is provided below for candidates’ reference:

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
General8010
SC of UP21%3405
ST of UP2%0301
OBC of UP27%4306
Female20% of seats reserved horizontally3205
SAP5% of seats reserved horizontally0801
Dependants of Freedom Fighters of UP2% of seats reserved horizontally0300
Wards of Defence Personnel5% of seats reserved horizontally0801
EWS of UP10%0902
NRI/ NRI Sponsored/ Foreign NationalSupernumerary quota1605
Wards of KM/ Hindu/ Pandits/ Non-Migrant FamiliesSupernumerary quota0202
Total seats21331

RGNUL Punjab Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
General13444
SC15%2709
ST7.5%1405
OBC10% of seats reserved horizontally02
Punjab Domicile QuotaHorizontally reserved18
Ancestral Resident of Village SidhuwalReserved horizontally01
SAP/ PWD5% of seats reserved horizontally0903
EWS10% Supernumerary quota1806
NRI/ NRI SponsoredSupernumerary quota05
Foreign NationalSupernumerary quota0502
Wards of KMSupernumerary quota0903
J&KSupernumerary quota0202
Total Seats18060

CNLU Patna Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG Reservation
Unreserved40%55
EWS of UR10%14
SC of Bihar16%22
ST of Bihar01%01
EBC of Bihar18%25
BC of Bihar12%17
Women of Bihar03%04
PWD05% Horizontal reservation07 seats
Total Seats138 seats

NUALS Kochi Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyAll India QuotaState Domicile Reservation Quota
Unreserved51%61 seats for UG and 31 seats for PG
State Merit of Kerala9%11 seats for UG and 5 seats for PG
SC of Kerala8%10 seats for UG and 5 seats for PG
ST of Kerala2%02 seats for UG and 1 seat for PG
SEBC of Kerala30%36 seats for UG and 18 seats for PG
SAP of Kerala5% horizontally reserved
EWS General of KeralaSupernumerary Quota12 seats for UG and 6 seats for PG
Transgenders of KeralaSupernumerary Quota02 seats for UG and 02 seats for PG
J&K MigrantsSupernumerary Quota02 seats for UG and 02 seats for PG
Total61 UG Seats and 31 PG seats63 UG seats and 70 seats for PG

NLU Odisha Reservation Policy

CategoryAll India QuotaOdisha DomicileTotal BA LLB SeatsTotal BBA LLB Seats
General61 for BA LLB and 31 for BBA LLB20 for BA LLB and 10 for BBA LLB8543
SC09 for BA LLB and 04 for BBA LLB03 for BA LLB and 02 for BBA LLB1306
ST05 for BA LLB and 03 for BBA LLB02 for BA LLB and 01 for BBA LLB0804
NRI/NRIS/PIO/OCI10 for BA LLB and 05 for BBA LLB1005
Foreign National04 for BA LLB and 02 for BBA LLB0402
SAP05 for BA LLB and 01 for BBA LLB01 for BA LLB and 01 for BBA LLB0602
Total Seats120 seats60 seats

NUSRL Ranchi Reservation Policy

CategoryJharkhand UG SeatsOther State UG SeatsJharkhand PG SeatsOther State PG Seats
Gen27270909
EWS03030101
ST16050402
SC06090202
EBC05160206
BC0302
SAP03030202
J&K02 Supernumerary seats01 Supernumerary seat
Total Seats120 seats + 20 special category seats40 seats + 10 Special category seats

NLUJA Assam Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
SC of Assam7%0403
ST of Assam (Plains)10%0604
ST of Assam (Hills)5%0302
OBC(NCL)/MOBC(NCL) of Assam2%1611
All India Unreserved3120
SAP5% of the total seats is reserved horizontally0302
Domicile/ PR of Assam5 out of the seats available for the All India UR is reserved horizontally0505
Total Seats60 seats40 seats

DSNLU Visakhapatnam Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG Seats (All India)UG Seats (State Domicile)PG Seats (All India)PG Seats (State Domicile)
Unreserved48302415
SC15%0905
ST6%0402
BC – A7%0402
BC – B10%0603
BC – C7%01
BC – D1%0402
BC – E4%0201
EWS10% Supernumerary Quota06060303
Foreign Citizens/NRIs/NRI SponsoredHorizontal Reservation (HR) Unreserved1206
Wards of Kashmiri Migrants/Kashmiri Pandits/Kashmiri Hindu Families (NM)5% Supernumerary Quota0603
SAP5% HR
Wards of Armed Personnel of AP2% HR
NCC AP1% HR
Eminent Sports Persons of AP0.5% HR
Total Seats138 seats60 seats

TNNLU Tiruchirapalli Reservation Policy

CategoryBA LLB SeatBCom LLB SeatLLM Seat CSLLLM Seat IPRLLM Seat NRL
All India – General0909030303
AI – SC0505+0101+0101+0101+01
AI – ST0100000000
Wards of Kashmiri Migrants/Pandits/Kashmiri Hindu Families (Non-M)0001Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
AI – OBC14+114050505
Tamil Nadu – General (GSSQ)0108
TN – Unreserved (UR)0800Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
TN – SC(A)0000010101
TN – ST0100010101
TN – SC (O)0404010101+01
TN – GSSQ – SC(A)0001Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
TN – MBC & DNC0505+01020202
TN – BC(M)0101
TN – GSSQ – BC (M)0001Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
TN – BC01010202+01*02+01*
TN – GSSQ – B.C (M)0001Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
TN – BC (O)0606+01Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable
TN – GSSQ – B.C (O)0103
NRI Parent/Guardian / OCI Parent/Guardian0303
TN SAP01+0101000000
AI SAP0101+01000001
Eminent Sports Persons under T.N. Quota01
Sons/daughters of Ex-Servicemen under T.N. Quota01Not ApplicableNot ApplicableNot Applicable

Total Seats:

  • BA LLB: 60 seats
  • BCom LLB: 60 seats
  • LLM CSL: 20 seats
  • LLM IPR: 20 seats
  • LLM NRL: 20 seats

MNLU Mumbai Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyUG SeatsPG Seats
All India General Category – [A]3717
Maharashtra State Reserved Category – [B]6333
Maharashtra State – Schedule Caste13%1307
Maharashtra State – Schedule Tribe7%0704
Maharashtra State
Denotified Tribes (Vimukta Jatis) (A)3%0302
Nomadic Tribes (B)2.5%0302
Nomadic Tribes (C)3.5%0402
Nomadic Tribes (D)2%0201
MH – Specially Backward Class2%0201
MH – Other Backward Class19%1910
MH – Economically Weaker Section (EWS)10%1005
SAP5% of seats reserved horizontally
Ex-Servicemen/Defence Personnel5% of seats reserved horizontally
Female30% of seats reserved horizontally
NRI/NRI Sponsored/Foreign NationalSupernumerary quota2010
J&KSupernumerary quota0202
Total Seats10050

MNLU Aurangabad Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyBA LLB SeatsBBA LLB SeatsLLM Seats
Scheduled Castes of Maharashtra13%080806
Scheduled Tribes of Maharashtra7%040403
De-notified Tribes (A) of Maharashtra3%020201
Nomadic Tribes (B) of Maharashtra2.5%020201
Nomadic Tribes (C) of Maharashtra3.5%020202
Nomadic Tribes (D) of Maharashtra2%010100
Special Backward Class of Maharashtra2%010100
Other Backward Classes (OBC) of Maharashtra19%111109
Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) of Maharashtra10%060605
Unreserved Seats232318
SAP5% of seats reserved horizontally030303
Total Seats606045

MNLU Nagpur Reservation Policy

CategoryPolicyBA LLB SeatsBBA LLB SeatsPG Seats
All India General Category38%232323
Maharashtra State
Maharashtra State – Schedule Caste13%080808
Maharashtra State – Schedule Tribe7%040404
Denotified Tribes (Vimukta Jatis) (A)3%020202
Nomadic Tribes (B)2.5%020202
Nomadic Tribes (C)3.5%020201
Nomadic Tribes (D)2%060606
MH – Specially Backward Class2%010101
MH – Other Backward Class19%111111
MH – Economically Weaker Section (EWS)10%060606
SAP5% of seats reserved horizontally
Ex Servicemen/ Defence Personnel5% of seats reserved horizontally
Female30% of seats reserved horizontally
Orphan (MH) candidates1% of seats in UR category
Total Seats606060

HPNLU Shimla Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyBA LLB SeatsBBA LLB SeatsLLM Seats
General934562
SC15%180912
ST7.5%090506
Horizontal Reservation
PwD5%060304
Wards of Serving/Retired/Defence Personnel5%060304
Himachal Pradesh Domiciled Candidates25%301520
Women20%20
Supernumerary Seats
Kashmiri Migrants5%060304
Residents of J&K020202
NRI & Foreign Nationals15%180912
BC/OBC27%22
EWS10%08
Total Seats1206080

DNLU Jabalpur Reservation Policy

CategoryReservation PolicyBA LLB SeatsLLM Seats
General6025
SC16%2008
ST20%2410
OBC14%1607
J&KSupernumerary Quota0202
EWS10% Supernumerary Quota1205
Domicile Quota for MP state50% of seats reserved horizontally
Women30% of seats reserved horizontally
SAP/PWD5% of seats reserved horizontally
Son/grandson/daughter/granddaughter of Freedom Fighter, and wards of War Martyr, etc. (MP Domicile)5% of seats reserved horizontally
Total Seats120 + 14 (Supernumerary Seats)50 + 07 (Supernumerary Seats)

NLU Tripura Reservation Policy

CategoryBA LLB SeatsLLM Seats
General5523
Foreign0402
Scheduled Caste1814
Scheduled Tribes3307
NRI/ NRIS1004
SAP (0.5% seats reserved horizontally)
Total120 seats50 seats

NLU-Wise Reservation Matrix for CLAT 2026 (UG Programmes)

Each NLU follows a distinct reservation structure based on its state policy, Act of establishment, and institutional regulations. While some provide heavy state domicile quotas, others allocate significant seats to NRI/foreign nationals or apply detailed vertical and horizontal splits (e.g., gender, PwD, ex-servicemen, etc.).

Below is a snapshot of reservation policies at some of the major NLUs for CLAT UG 2026:

Top NLUs – Seat Distribution Highlights (UG)

NLUTotal UG SeatsDomicile QuotaSC/ST/OBCNRI / FN SeatsPwD/SAP / Female / Others
NLSIU Bangalore24025% for KarnatakaSC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC 21.6%5% PwD, Female (not specified)
NALSAR Hyderabad132Telangana quotaSC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC up to 29%15 (UG FN)30% Female, 5% SAP
NLU Jodhpur120No domicileSC 15%, ST 7.5%16 NRI5% PwD
GNLU Gandhinagar172No domicileSC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC 27%16 NRI + 5 FN30% Female, 4% PwD, Sports quota
HNLU Raipur17050% for CG domicileState-wise SC/ST/OBC8 NRI, 2 FN30% Female, 5% SAP, 5% FF dependents
RMLNLU Lucknow187For UP residentsSC 21%, ST 2%, OBC 27% (all of UP)16 NRI/FN20% Female, 5% PwD, 2% FF, 5% Defence
NLU Odisha (NLUO)18033% for OdishaSC/ST (state-wise), EWS10 NRI, 4 FN5% SAP
NUSRL Ranchi120 (+20 Special)50% for JharkhandST 16, SC 6, BC/EBC quotas2 J&K seats5% SAP
MNLU Mumbai10063% for MaharashtraSC/ST/OBC/NTs/SBC (state-wise)20 NRI/FN30% Female, 5% Ex-Servicemen, 5% SAP
WBNUJS Kolkata13232% for WBSC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC (WB)20 NRI, 2 FN30% Female, 5% PwD
RGNUL Patiala180Punjab domicileSC 15%, ST 7.5%5 NRI, 5 FN5% PwD, 10% EWS, Ancestral quota (1 seat)

Many NLUs also offer additional supernumerary seats for categories like Kashmiri Migrants, J&K Residents, North-East Candidates, and Transgender persons. Always refer to each NLU’s official prospectus during counselling.

Other Noteworthy NLU Seat Structures

  • DSNLU Visakhapatnam: 50% domicile quota for Andhra Pradesh + reservation for 5+ BC categories
  • TNNLU Tiruchirapalli: Tamil Nadu-specific sub-quotas like SC (A), MBC & DNC, BC(M), GSSQ, etc.
  • MNLU Nagpur & Aurangabad: Follow Maharashtra’s complex quota breakdown (NTs, SBCs, EWS, Orphan quota)
  • HPNLU Shimla: 25% for Himachal residents, 5% each for PwD and Defence Personnel
  • DNLU Jabalpur: 50% domicile for MP, SC 16%, ST 20%, OBC 14% + women, PwD and FF dependents

How to Use This Table During CLAT Counselling

  • Filter NLUs by your domicile and see where you have higher reservation leverage
  • Check category-specific seat count before filling preferences
  • Download the official counselling brochure for year-wise seat updates

Many aspirants miss out on opportunities due to a lack of awareness about state-specific reservations. If you’re eligible under a domicile or supernumerary quota, claim it with proper documents during CLAT counselling.


CLAT PG 2026 – Reservation Policies

While CLAT UG attracts widespread attention, the CLAT PG exam also follows a well-defined reservation policy for admission to LL.M. programmes across various NLUs. However, the number of seats is comparatively limited, and not all NLUs offer PG-level reservations in every category.

Understanding the seat structure, category-wise breakdown, and differences from UG policies is crucial for candidates targeting LL.M. programs through CLAT 2026.

General Reservation Structure for CLAT PG

CategoryReservation TypeTypical Range
Scheduled Castes (SC)Vertical15%–21%
Scheduled Tribes (ST)Vertical7.5%–20%
Other Backward Classes (OBC)VerticalUp to 27% (state-dependent)
Economically Weaker SectionVertical / SupernumeraryUp to 10%
PwD/SAPHorizontal3%–5% across categories
Female CandidatesHorizontal20%–30% (in some NLUs)
Domicile QuotaHorizontal / Vertical25%–50% in state NLUs
NRI / Foreign NationalsSupernumerary2–10 seats (varies by NLU)
Kashmiri Migrants / J&KSupernumerary1–2 seats (few NLUs)

Sample NLU-Wise PG Reservation Snapshots

NLUTotal PG SeatsNotable Reservations
NLSIU Bengaluru100SC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC 21.6%, EWS 8%, 5% PwD, 25% Karnataka students (horizontal)
NALSAR Hyderabad66SC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC up to 29%, EWS 10%, 5% SAP, 30% Female, 10 seats for foreign nationals (5 SAARC + 5 non-SAARC)
NLU Jodhpur50SC 15%, ST 7.5%, 5% SAP
RMLNLU Lucknow31SC 21%, ST 2%, OBC 27% (all of UP), 20% Female, 5% SAP, 5% Defence, 2% FF
GNLU Gandhinagar57SC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC 27%, 5% SAP, Female (unlisted), Sports quota, 5 NRI, 2 FN, 2 J&K
DSNLU Vizag6050% AP domicile, sub-reservations for BC-A to BC-E, SAP, EWS, Armed Forces, Kashmiri Pandits, and eminent sports candidates
RGNUL Patiala60SC 15%, ST 7.5%, 5% SAP, Punjab Domicile (horizontal), EWS (10%), 2 FN
HPNLU Shimla8025% Himachal quota, SC 15%, ST 7.5%, PwD, Defence Personnel, Women (20%), 15% NRI & FN
TNNLU Tiruchirappalli60 (3 streams)TN-specific subcategories (SC, MBC, BC, GSSQ), NRI (3 seats), Female, SAP

Documents Required to Claim Reservation – CLAT 2026

To avail of reservation benefits in CLAT UG or PG 2026, candidates must provide valid, original documents at the time of counselling and admission. These documents prove eligibility under various reserved categories such as SC/ST/OBC, EWS, PwD/SAP, Domicile, NRI/NRI Sponsored, and Special quotas.

Failure to submit accurate or timely documents can result in disqualification from reserved seats or cancellation of admission during verification.

For UG Candidates

PurposeRequired Document(s)
Proof of IdentityAadhaar Card / Passport / School ID / PAN (any government-issued ID)
Class 10th & 12th QualificationMark sheets and passing certificates
Character CertificateFrom the head of the last-attended institution
Transfer/Migration CertificateIssued by school/board after Class 12
Caste Category (SC/ST/OBC)Government-issued certificate with recent issue date
EWS CertificateCertificate in the prescribed central government format
PwD/SAP CertificateDisability certificate showing minimum 40% disability, issued by competent medical board
Domicile CertificateIssued by the relevant state authority
Kashmiri Migrant/J&K ResidentRegistration Certificate or Migration/Domicile proof
Defence/Ex-Servicemen QuotaService certificate, dependency proof
NRI/NRI SponsoredSponsor affidavit, passport, visa, proof of relationship, residential proof

Key Guidelines

  • All documents must be in English or translated officially if issued in regional languages.
  • Validity and issue date of certificates (especially EWS, OBC-NCL, domicile) must be as per the CLAT counselling year.
  • Candidates must upload scanned copies during counselling registration and carry originals for verification.

Proactive preparation of your reservation documents — before counselling — helps avoid last-minute disqualification or loss of category-specific seats.


Final Tips for CLAT Aspirants on Reservation Criteria

Understanding and strategically applying under the right reservation category can significantly boost your chances of getting into a top NLU. Whether you’re aiming for a general seat, a state domicile advantage, or a special category quota, awareness and preparation are key.

Here are some final tips to ensure you don’t miss out on your rightful opportunity:

1. Know Your Category Clearly

  • Don’t guess. Confirm whether you fall under SC, ST, OBC (NCL), EWS, or General.
  • Ensure that the category is recognised by the central government or by the specific state NLU, as applicable.

2. Keep Your Certificates Updated

  • Most category certificates (EWS, OBC-NCL, Domicile) must be issued within a year of counselling.
  • Get them issued early to avoid delays during counselling.

3. Use Domicile Advantage Wisely

  • If your state has an NLU (like Maharashtra, UP, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, etc.), target it even if your CLAT rank is average.
  • Domicile quotas often come with lower cutoffs.

4. Prepare a Checklist for Counselling

  • Category certificate
  • Domicile certificate
  • Academic marksheets
  • Migration/Transfer certificates
  • Sponsor affidavit (if NRI Sponsored)
  • Proof of PwD or SAP (if applicable)

Being organised can save your seat.

5. Read NLU Brochures Carefully

  • Many NLUs have unique rules and sub-quotas (like Orphan, Ex-Servicemen, Sports).
  • Visit the official websites and download their prospectus before CLAT counselling.

6. Supernumerary ≠ Easy Admission

  • NRI and Foreign National seats often come with high fees. They are not “backup” options unless you’re prepared for the cost and eligibility.

7. Double-Check Documents Before Upload

  • CLAT counselling allows only one-time upload of documents — there’s no second chance.
  • Cross-verify format, issuing authority, and validity.

In CLAT, every seat counts. Strategic planning based on your category, domicile, and documentation can give you a real edge over competitors.


FAQs – CLAT 2026 Reservation Criteria

1. Is the reservation policy the same across all NLUs?

No. Each NLU sets its own reservation policy based on state laws, institutional statutes, and the NLU Act. Always check the specific NLU’s seat matrix before applying.

2. Do I need to appear for CLAT to get admission under the NRI or foreign national quota?

For most NLUs, NRI-sponsored candidates must appear for CLAT. At the same time, Foreign Nationals may be exempt and can apply directly based on academic merit.

3. How many NLUs offer domicile-based reservation?

Over 12 NLUs offer domicile or state quota, including MNLUs, HNLU, NLUO, RMLNLU, NUSRL, DSNLU, and others. The percentage varies from 25% to over 60%.

4. Can I claim both EWS and OBC reservation?

No. You can only claim one reservation category. EWS is meant for General category candidates who do not fall under SC, ST, or OBC categories.

5. What are the eligibility criteria for claiming EWS reservation in CLAT?

You must belong to the General category and have a family income of less than ₹8 lakh per annum. A valid EWS certificate in central government format is mandatory.

6. Are PwD/SAP candidates eligible for horizontal reservation across all categories?

Yes. Most NLUs offer 3%–5% horizontal reservation for PwD/SAP candidates across all categories. A minimum 40% disability is required.

7. Is female reservation available in CLAT 2026?

Yes. Several NLUs, including GNLU, NALSAR, RMLNLU, and HPNLU, offer 20%–30% horizontal reservation for female candidates in each category.

8. Are NRI seats costlier than general category seats?

Yes. NRI and NRI-sponsored seats often have significantly higher tuition fees (ranging from ₹10–25 lakhs per year), and fees may be payable in foreign currency.

9. What documents are required for the domicile quota?

A valid state-issued domicile/residence certificate is mandatory. Some NLUs also require proof of schooling (10th or 12th) in the same state.

10. Do all NLUs offer PG-level (LL.M.) reservation?

No. Some NLUs have limited PG seats and do not offer all reservation categories. Reservation structures at the PG level differ from UG.

11. How many seats are typically reserved for foreign nationals?

Most NLUs offer 2 to 15 supernumerary seats for foreign nationals. These seats are outside CLAT and filled via direct application.

12. Is there any reservation for Kashmiri Migrants or J&K Residents?

Yes. Many NLUs provide 1–2 supernumerary seats for Kashmiri Migrants or residents of Jammu & Kashmir. Valid documents are required.

13. Can a candidate from Bihar claim OBC reservation in another state NLU?

Only if the NLU follows the central OBC list. State OBC status may not be valid outside your home state unless the NLU follows central norms.

14. How are horizontal and vertical reservations different?

Vertical reservations (SC/ST/OBC) apply to fixed seat quotas, while horizontal ones (PwD/Female) cut across all vertical categories.

15. Can I apply under the general category and still be eligible for EWS or PwD during counselling?

Yes, but you must mention and upload supporting certificates during registration or counselling. Changing categories later is usually not permitted.

16. Is there a reservation for children of defence personnel or ex-servicemen?

Yes, a few NLUs (e.g., MNLU, RMLNLU, HNLU) offer horizontal reservation (up to 5%) for wards of serving or retired defence personnel.

17. Are NRI-sponsored candidates required to submit an affidavit of support?

Yes. A notarised affidavit of financial sponsorship from the NRI (first-degree relative) is mandatory, along with relationship and residency proof.

18. What if my reservation certificate is not in English?

You must submit an officially translated and attested copy along with the original regional certificate for it to be considered valid.

19. Do supernumerary seats reduce the general category intake?

No. Supernumerary seats are additional and do not affect the general or reserved seat matrix.

20. Can I update my category during the counselling process?

Generally, no. Once registered, you cannot change your category. Ensure all details are correctly filled and documents are uploaded in the first attempt.


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