Students from several National Law Universities (NLUs) have renewed their appeal to the Consortium of NLUs, the body that conducts the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), requesting a reduction in both application and counselling fees. The student groups have also urged the authorities to engage in dialogue before the CLAT 2027 admission cycle begins. Currently, candidates applying for the CLAT exam are required to pay INR 4,000 as the application fee (and INR 3,500 for candidates from SC/ST categories). Those who are allotted seats through counselling must pay an additional INR 30,000 as the counselling fee (reduced to INR 20,000 for reserved category students).
Repeated Representations Sent by NLU Students
According to the student representatives, this issue has been raised multiple times through formal written communications since November 2024.
- The first representation, sent in November 2024, highlighted how the current fee structure creates financial barriers for students from low-income families.
- The second letter, submitted in July 2025, was addressed to the Consortium of NLUs, University Grants Commission (UGC), Bar Council of India (BCI), and the Ministry of Law and Justice, demanding the introduction of need-based fee waivers.
- The third representation, sent in September 2025, requested a virtual meeting with the Consortium’s Executive Body to discuss possible reforms.
Despite these efforts, students claim that none of the letters have received a response or even an acknowledgement from the concerned authorities.
Students Call for Transparency and Dialogue
The student groups have expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from the Consortium of NLUs. They believe that the current CLAT fee structure limits accessibility for students from underprivileged backgrounds. They have also urged the Consortium to hold an open discussion with student representatives and law aspirant forums before finalizing the structure for CLAT 2027. The demand includes not only a reduction in fees but also the introduction of need-based scholarships and flexible payment options.
Background and Ongoing Discussions
The Consortium recently invited suggestions for reforms in CLAT 2027, aiming to improve inclusivity and efficiency in the examination process. However, the student community has pointed out that the issue of fee affordability remains unaddressed. Law aspirants and NLU student groups have emphasized that ensuring financial accessibility is crucial for maintaining diversity and equal opportunity in legal education. They continue to await an official response from the Consortium and hope for reforms that would make CLAT more inclusive and affordable for all.
