How to Prepare for AIBE 2026 (AIBE XXI): Complete Step-by-Step Guide

The All India Bar Examination (AIBE XXI), to be held in 2026, is a mandatory certification exam conducted by the Bar Council of India. Clearing it grants you the Certificate of Practice (CoP), allowing you to practice law in courts across India. Although the exam is not considered “difficult,” a large number of candidates fail due to poor strategy and lack of structured preparation.

This detailed guide explains how to prepare smartly for AIBE 2026, even if you have limited time or a full-time job. It includes subject-wise tips, study plans, bare act preparation, PYQs, mock tests, new criminal laws, and much more.

1. Understand the AIBE 2026 Exam Pattern

• 100 MCQs
• Offline OMR-based exam
• No negative marking
• 3 hours 30 minutes duration
• Only Bare Acts allowed (no notes/commentary)
• Available in multiple regional languages

The open-book era is over. AIBE now tests your familiarity with bare act language and core legal concepts.

2. Know the Syllabus Thoroughly

The AIBE XXI syllabus covers 19 major LLB subjects. For criminal laws, both old and new names may be relevant:

• Indian Penal Code (IPC) / Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
• Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) / Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
• Indian Evidence Act / Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)
• Constitutional Law
• CPC, Family Law, Contract, Property
• Company Law, Labour Law, Environmental Law
• Professional Ethics (very important)
• ADR, IPR, Public International Law, Torts

Focus on sections that have been repeatedly asked across PYQs.

3. Focus on Bare Acts — The Heart of AIBE

More than 70% of AIBE questions come directly from Bare Acts. To prepare effectively:

• Highlight important sections
• Mark definitions, punishments, schedules
• Read marginal notes carefully
• Practice quick scanning — crucial for the exam

Remember: Bare Acts with commentary are not allowed.

4. Solve Previous Year Papers (AIBE XIV–XIX)

Previous year papers are the most reliable source of exam pattern understanding. Solving PYQs helps you:

• Identify frequently asked topics
• Practice bare act-based questions
• Improve speed in scanning sections
• Understand difficulty levels

You can download AIBE XIV, XV, XVI, XVII, XVIII, and XIX papers from our dedicated AIBE XXI page.

5. Take Mock Tests Regularly

Mock tests help you replicate the real exam atmosphere. Benefits include:

• Familiarity with OMR marking
• Understanding time management
• Recognizing weak subjects
• Building exam-day confidence

Try to take at least 8–10 full-length mocks.

6. Prioritise High-Weightage Subjects

Some subjects consistently contribute more questions in the exam:

• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Laws (IPC/BNS, CrPC/BNSS, Evidence/BSA)
• Professional Ethics
• CPC and Family Law
• Torts & Motor Vehicles

Cover these first for maximum scoring efficiency.

7. Create a 60-Day Study Plan (Sample)

Days 1–15: Constitution, IPC/BNS, Evidence/BSA

Days 16–30: CrPC/BNSS, CPC, ADR, IPR

Days 31–45: Labour, Company, Taxation, Torts, Family Law

Days 46–60: Mock tests + PYQs + Revision of Bare Acts

8. Tips for Working Professionals

• Study 1 hour daily and 3 hours on weekends
• Keep printed bare acts at your desk
• Solve PYQs during commute or breaks
• Use a weekly mock test for discipline

9. Exam-Day Strategy

• Mark easy questions first
• Use the Bare Acts smartly — avoid over-flipping
• Leave tough questions for the end
• Ensure OMR accuracy, especially bubbles

Conclusion

AIBE 2026 is easy to clear if you prepare smartly using Bare Acts, PYQs and targeted revision. With consistent practice and strategic planning, you can confidently pass AIBE XXI on your first attempt.