The journey of preparing for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) and gaining admission to a prestigious National Law University (NLU) is often surrounded by various misconceptions and myths. These myths can mislead aspiring law students and affect their preparation. In this blog, we aim to debunk some of the most common myths about CLAT and NLUs, providing a clearer understanding for those planning to write the exam.
Myth 1: Mathematics is not essential to cracking CLAT.
Reality: Although the mathematics section in CLAT carries less weightage compared to other sections, it should not be taken for granted. CLAT is a highly competitive exam, and each mark counts. Leaving the mathematics section unprepared can negatively impact your overall score. Additionally, the mathematics section in CLAT is less subjective and more straightforward, offering an opportunity for accurate scoring. It covers basic math concepts learned up to class 10 and can be prepared in a few weeks with the help of past papers and sample papers.
Myth 2: Go for private colleges if you don’t get into the top 5 NLUs.
Reality: While the top 5 NLUs are highly sought after, it’s essential to understand that there are several other law colleges and universities that accept CLAT scores. Among the 23 participating NLUs, many others offer quality legal education and placement opportunities. Choosing an NLU beyond the top 5 can still provide a rewarding academic experience, excellent infrastructure, government-subsidized fees, and a more focused learning environment compared to some private institutes. Additionally, considering other competitive exams like AILET, SLAT, or PU BA LLB can expand your options if you don’t secure a seat in the top NLUs through CLAT.
Myth 3: CLAT is a backup plan if you can’t crack exams like JEE/NEET/CA.
Reality: Law, as a career, offers vast opportunities and growth potential. It is not merely a backup plan if you can’t crack other exams. A career in law can be fulfilling, allowing individuals to explore various paths and contribute to society by promoting awareness of fundamental human rights. The scope of law in India is significant, with diverse job opportunities and respectable salaries. It’s crucial to approach CLAT with dedication and recognize that it is a challenging entrance exam. Only a small percentage of aspirants gain admission to NLUs, making it essential to focus on CLAT specifically if you aspire to pursue law.
Myth 4: Getting into an NLU guarantees a set life.
Reality: Clearing the CLAT exam and securing admission to a top NLU is an achievement, but it is just the beginning of a law student’s journey. Law education requires perseverance, vigilance, and dedication. Success in the legal profession depends on consistent hard work over the five years of the course. Merely gaining admission to an NLU does not ensure a “set life.” Students must remain focused and committed to their studies from day one to pave the way for a successful legal career.
Myth 5: Nepotism plays a significant role in the legal profession.
Reality: While nepotism exists in various fields, including law, it should not discourage aspiring lawyers. Hard work, consistency, and a passion for the law are essential for success. Many successful lawyers come from non-legal backgrounds and have achieved great heights in the profession. While resources and prior knowledge may provide certain advantages, law schools and workplaces generally foster an inclusive environment where talent and dedication are valued. Rather than attributing success solely to nepotism, individuals should focus on their own initiative, execution, and continuous improvement.
Myth 6: Public speaking skills are mandatory for a successful career in law. Reality: While public speaking skills can be beneficial in the legal profession, they are not mandatory for a successful career in law. Law encompasses various areas, including research, writing, negotiation, and advocacy. While effective communication skills are important, they extend beyond just public speaking. Lawyers also need strong writing skills for drafting legal documents, analytical skills for legal research, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues. While public speaking skills can be developed and honed through practice, they should not be seen as the sole determinant of success in the legal field.
Myth 7: Taking coaching classes is necessary to crack CLAT. Reality: Joining coaching classes for CLAT preparation is a personal choice and not a mandatory requirement for success. Many aspirants have cracked CLAT without formal coaching by relying on self-study, online resources, and practice materials. The key is to have a disciplined study routine, access to quality study materials, and a thorough understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus. However, coaching classes can provide structured guidance, expert faculty support, and a competitive learning environment that may be helpful for some students. It ultimately depends on an individual’s learning style and preferences.
Myth 8: Only students from humanities backgrounds can excel in CLAT. Reality: While a background in humanities can be advantageous due to the familiarity with subjects like English, History, and Political Science, it is not a prerequisite for excelling in CLAT. The CLAT exam tests aptitude and skills that can be developed through dedicated preparation, regardless of the academic background. Students from science and commerce streams can also perform well in CLAT by focusing on strengthening their reasoning, logical thinking, and legal aptitude. In fact, having diverse perspectives and knowledge from different academic backgrounds can be an advantage in the field of law.
Myth 9: CLAT is only for undergraduate law programs. Reality: While CLAT is primarily known for admission to undergraduate law programs (BA LLB and BBA LLB), it also serves as the entrance exam for postgraduate law programs (LLM) offered by NLUs. Aspiring candidates can appear for CLAT-PG to gain admission to prestigious LLM courses offered by NLUs across the country. It provides an opportunity for law graduates to specialize in specific areas of law and enhance their career prospects.
It is essential to dispel the myths surrounding CLAT and NLUs to provide aspiring law students with accurate information and guidance. By debunking these myths, we hope to encourage students to approach CLAT with confidence, focus on their preparation, and make informed decisions about their legal education. Remember, success in CLAT and a rewarding legal career depend on dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for the law rather than subscribing to misconceptions.
.
