AIBE Passing Marks & Qualifying Criteria (2026)
Reviewed by Rajni Bala, Assistant Professor of Law | Academic Review Panel
Last Updated: February 20, 2026
AIBE Passing Marks and qualifying criteria for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) is 40% marks for General/OBC candidates and 35% marks for SC/ST candidates. There is no negative marking in AIBE. Candidates who secure the minimum qualifying marks are awarded the Certificate of Practice (COP) by the Bar Council of India, which is mandatory to practice law in India.
Why This Topic Matters for Law Graduates
AIBE passing marks decide whether a law graduate can legally practice as an advocate in India. Many candidates mistakenly believe AIBE is highly competitive, but in reality, it is a qualifying exam, not a ranking-based test. Knowing the exact category-wise passing criteria helps students prepare smartly, avoid unnecessary fear, and focus only on qualifying, not topping the exam.
Key Highlights of AIBE Passing Marks (2026)
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | All India Bar Examination (AIBE) |
| Conducting Body | Bar Council of India (BCI) |
| Exam Type | Qualifying Examination |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Negative Marking | No |
| General / OBC Passing Marks | 40% (40 marks) |
| SC / ST Passing Marks | 35% (35 marks) |
| Certificate Issued | Certificate of Practice (COP) |
| Validity | Mandatory for legal practice |
Detailed Explanation of AIBE Passing Criteria
AIBE Qualifying Marks for General & OBC Category
Candidates belonging to General and OBC categories must score at least 40 marks out of 100 to qualify AIBE. Since there is no negative marking, attempting all questions is highly recommended. Clearing this threshold ensures eligibility for receiving the Certificate of Practice.
AIBE Passing Marks for SC / ST Category
For SC and ST candidates, the Bar Council of India provides relaxation. The minimum qualifying marks are 35 out of 100. This relaxation ensures inclusivity while maintaining the basic professional competency required for legal practice.
Is AIBE a Difficult Exam?
AIBE is not a competitive exam like CLAT or UGC NET Law. It tests basic legal knowledge and practical understanding of core law subjects studied during LL.B. Since it is an open-book exam, candidates who prepare strategically usually clear it in the first attempt.
Common Mistakes & Misconceptions About AIBE Passing Marks
- Believing AIBE has a high cutoff like CLAT or judiciary exams
- Thinking rank matters (AIBE has no rank system)
- Ignoring Bare Acts despite open-book format
- Assuming multiple attempts affect future career
- Preparing advanced case laws instead of basics
Expert Tips to Clear AIBE in First Attempt
- Focus mainly on Bare Acts, not commentaries
- Prioritize core subjects: Constitutional Law, IPC, CPC, CrPC
- Practice previous year AIBE question papers
- Attempt all 100 questions (no negative marking)
- Revise legal maxims and professional ethics carefully
Related Law Exams & Resources
- AIBE Exam Eligibility Criteria-2026
- AIBE Bare Acts List (Open Book Exam)
- AILET Exam (All India Law Entrance Test)
- CLAT Exam 2026–2027
- UGC NET Law Exam Guide
FAQs on AIBE Passing Marks (2026)
1. What are the passing marks in AIBE for General category?
General category candidates must score 40 out of 100 marks to qualify AIBE.
2. Is there negative marking in AIBE?
No, AIBE does not have negative marking, making it safer to attempt all questions.
3. How many attempts are allowed for AIBE?
There is no limit on the number of attempts for AIBE.
4. Does AIBE rank matter for practice?
No, AIBE is only a qualifying exam. Rank or score does not affect career prospects.
5. What happens after passing AIBE?
Candidates receive the Certificate of Practice (COP) from BCI, allowing them to practice law in India.
Final Conclusion
AIBE passing marks are fixed and predictable, making the exam manageable with focused preparation. Since it is a qualifying and open-book exam, candidates should concentrate on Bare Acts and fundamentals rather than over-preparing. Clearing AIBE is the final legal step toward becoming a practicing advocate in India.
Related Posts: AIBE Exam Aspirants Must Explore
Preparing for the AIBE exam or planning to reappear? Explore our structured and updated guides covering AIBE exam eligibility, application process, important dates, results, and Certificate of Practice requirements.
All information is based on official notifications and updated for the latest AIBE exam cycle. Stay informed, avoid common mistakes, and prepare confidently for your legal career.
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