Introduction

The Panjab University Common Entrance Test (PU CET) Law 2026 is one of North India’s most sought-after entrance exams for law aspirants. Conducted by Panjab University, Chandigarh, it opens doors to prestigious five-year integrated BA LLB / B.Com LLB programs and the three-year LLB course.

Before applying, every candidate must thoroughly understand the eligibility criteria prescribed by the University to avoid disqualification at later stages of admission.

Let’s break down all the crucial eligibility details — from educational qualifications to age restrictions and category-based relaxations.

Educational Qualification Requirements

The eligibility criteria differ slightly depending on the law course you’re applying for — whether it’s the five-year integrated program or the three-year LLB program.

For 5-Year Integrated BA LLB / B.Com LLB (after 12th):

• The candidate must have passed the 10+2 (Senior Secondary) examination from a recognised Board such as CBSE, ICSE, or a State Education Board.

• The minimum aggregate marks required are:

  • 45% marks for General Category candidates.

  • 40% marks for candidates belonging to SC / ST / OBC / PwD categories.

• Candidates who are appearing in their Class 12th final examination can also apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the final admission process.

• Subjects in Class 12th must include English as one of the core papers.

For 3-Year LLB (after Graduation):

• The applicant must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline (Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, or any equivalent field) from a recognized university.

• The minimum aggregate marks required in the qualifying degree are:

  • 45% marks for General Category candidates.

  • 40% marks for SC / ST / OBC / PwD candidates.

• Students awaiting their final year graduation results are also eligible to appear in the entrance test, but their admission will be provisional until they meet the eligibility requirements.

Age Limit Criteria

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has withdrawn the upper age limit for both 3-year and 5-year law courses.Hence, there is no age restriction for candidates appearing in the PU CET Law 2026 exam.

This ensures that anyone passionate about pursuing legal education — regardless of age — can apply.

Reservation Policy (As per Panjab University Guidelines)

Panjab University follows a well-defined reservation policy that ensures equitable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. The percentage of seats reserved may vary each year, but generally includes:

• Scheduled Caste (SC) – 15%

• Scheduled Tribe (ST) – 7.5%

• Backward Class (OBC) – 27%

• Persons with Disabilities (PwD) – 5%

• Wards of Defence Personnel / Freedom Fighters / Riot-Affected / Terrorism-Affected Persons – as per University norms

• Foreign Nationals / NRI Category – seats as specified by University regulations

Candidates claiming reservation must upload valid category certificates during the application process.

Other Key Eligibility Conditions

Nationality:Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply under the general category. However, Foreign Nationals and NRIs can apply under the NRI quota subject to separate admission procedures.Character Certificate:Applicants must possess a good moral character certificate issued by their previous educational institution.Gap Year Candidates:Students who have taken a gap after their qualifying exam can apply, provided they meet all other academic requirements.Subjects Studied:Candidates must have studied English as a mandatory subject in their qualifying examination.

Why Eligibility Criteria Matter

Understanding the eligibility rules is not just a formality — it ensures that you:

• Avoid form rejection during verification,

• Don’t face cancellation of candidature during counseling,

• Can plan your academic qualifications properly if you’re still in school or college.

Applicants should verify all documents carefully before applying, as Panjab University conducts strict document verification during counseling.