CLAT 2020 to be conducted on Aug 22 in online computer-based mode

The Executive Committee (EC) of the Consortium of NLUs has announced that the much-delayed CLAT 2020 entrance exam will now be conducted on August 22, 2020. Also, the exam will now be conducted in online computer-based, centre-based mode; previously it was conducted in pen-and-paper mode.

The committee informed that the changes in CLAT 2020 exam pattern has been made keeping in mind the safety concerns of students and those involved in the conduct of the national-level exam.

To go with the changes affected to the CLAT 2020 exam pattern, the committee has also extended the CLAT application deadline till July 10, 2020 (from July 1).

Why did NLU Consortium decide to conduct CLAT 2020 in online computer-based mode?

• The committee decided that the traditional pen-and-paper mode is no longer possible given the logistics involved, be it handling of question papers or answer scripts. Also, it would have meant cramping a large number of students into limited exam centres, which is not conducive for maintaining social distancing norms.

• The committee also delved on conducting the exam in online remote proctored mode, but decided against it. It was of the view that an on-line test at home can’t ensure transparency, fairness and integrity required for a high-stake exam like the CLAT 2020.

• The online computer-based mode looked the only viable option. The committee concluded that if the online exam is conducted at a large number of exam centres, where public safety and social distancing norms can be maintained.

The following announcements were made by the consortium:

1. Date of entrance exam: The CLAT 2020 exam will be conducted on August 22, 2020

2. Change in mode of exam: The CLAT 202 exam will now be conducted in online, computer-based mode.

3. List of exam centres: The consortium will announce the full list of CLAT 2020 exam centres, where the computer-based exam will be held, on July 1

4. Application form extended: The last date to submit CLAT 2020 application form has been extended to July 10, 2020

5. Already registered candidates need to select or re-confirm their test centres

6. Withdrawal of registration allowed till July 10: Any candidate who wishes to withdraw their CLAT 2020 registration, they can do so until July 10. However, the consortium will deduct an amount of INR 400 for SC/ST candidates and INR 500, before refunding the remaining registration fee. The refund will be made by July 18, 2020.

   Consortium also announces some additional changes in CLAT PG exam pattern

   The consortium has notified that the CLAT 2020 exam for the LLM programme will no longer have the descriptive section. Instead in its place, multiple choice questions will be asked. Also, there will now be 120 MCQs.

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