Master the Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam with our complete guide covering MCQ, subjective preparation, syllabus breakdown, interview strategy, and more.

What if I told you there’s a legal job that pays ₹80,000 monthly to fresh graduates, gets you a certificate that makes Harvard sit up and notice, and puts you in the room where India’s most powerful judgments are written?

The Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship is that rare opportunity where a single exam can completely change your legal career trajectory. We’re talking about working directly with Supreme Court Justices, understanding how constitutional history gets made, and building connections that last a lifetime.

Here’s the problem: most candidates misunderstand this burn because they’re playing the wrong game. They treat it like any other law exam; the focus is more on MCQs and hoping for the best. Meanwhile, the 300 mark subjective paper (which actually decides everything) gets ignored until it’s too late.

This guide breaks down exactly what works the exam structure nobody explains properly, the Part II skills that actually get you selected, and the insider knowledge that separates the 90 who make it from the thousands who don’t.

Let’s get you ready to compete at the highest level.

Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam: Vacancies, Remuneration, Centres and Responsibilities

The Supreme Court of India conducts this examination annually to select Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates who assist sitting Justices with legal research and administrative functions. Understanding the key parameters of this recruitment helps you plan your application and preparation strategy effectively from the outset.

Key Highlights of the Supreme Court Clerkship Exam

Before diving into preparation strategies, let me give you a complete overview of the essential details you need to know about the recruitment cycle.

Total Vacancies and Remuneration Details

The Supreme Court Recruitment Cell had announced approximately 90 vacancies for the position of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate. This number may vary slightly based on the requirements of individual Justice chambers, but it provides a reliable estimate for understanding the competition level. Selected candidates will work on a purely contractual basis for the assignment term.

The consolidated monthly remuneration stands at ₹80,000, which is among the highest remuneration offered to fresh law graduates in India. It’s crucial to understand that this engagement does not confer any right to regular appointment or continuation of service in the Supreme Court. 

The Registry reserves the right to terminate the engagement with prescribed notice, and Law Clerks cannot accept any other assignment or practice as advocates during their term.

Important Dates and Application Timeline

According to the official notification released on January 10, 2025, online registration for the year 2025 commenced on January 14, 2025, and the last date for application submission was February 7, 2025 at 23:55 hours. The application fee is ₹500 plus applicable bank charges, payable only through the online payment gateway provided by UCO Bank.

The Written Examination (Part I and Part II) was scheduled for March 9, 2025, with both parts conducted on the same day in two sessions and the model answer keys for Part I MCQs were uploaded on March 10, 2025 at 12:00 Noon and remained available until March 11, 2025 at 11:59 PM for online objections. Candidates could raise objections by paying ₹100 per question, which is refunded if the objection is found valid.

Exam Centres Across India

The examination is conducted at twenty-three cities across India, providing accessibility to candidates from all regions. These centres include Ahmedabad, Ambala, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Dehradun, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jodhpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Pune, Raipur, Ranchi, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, and Visakhapatnam.

Candidates must select their preferred test centre while filling out the online application form, and this choice cannot be modified after submission. The number of test centres may be increased or decreased based on the number of applications received and as per directions of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India or the Committee of Hon’ble Judges on Law Clerks.

Understanding the Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate Position

The Law Clerk position is fundamentally a learning opportunity that combines research responsibilities with practical exposure to apex court functioning. Let me explain what the role entails and why it’s considered so valuable.

Role and Responsibilities of a Supreme Court Law Clerk

As a Law Clerk, you’ll be assigned to work under a specific Supreme Court Justice, performing research and administrative functions critical to the court’s operations. Your primary responsibilities include conducting legal research on matters listed before your assigned Justice, preparing case summaries and bench memoranda, and maintaining the judge’s library with relevant legal documents and precedents. You’ll also attend court sessions to record necessary case information and draft or proofread judicial opinions and citations.

The role demands strong analytical abilities, excellent legal writing skills, and the capacity to work under pressure with strict deadlines. The official notification explicitly states that candidates may be required to work at odd hours and on holidays when work demands. This is a full-time engagement, meaning you cannot practice as an advocate or accept any other assignment during your clerkship term.

Why the Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship is Considered India’s Most Prestigious Legal Opportunity

The law clerkship offers unparalleled exposure to the decision-making process behind landmark judgments, cases that shape constitutional jurisprudence, and affect millions of citizens. Working directly with a Supreme Court Justice provides mentorship that few other positions can offer, while daily interaction with senior advocates and Advocates-on-Record creates networking opportunities invaluable for your future career. A certificate from a Supreme Court Justice carries extraordinary weight for LLM applications abroad, particularly at institutions like Harvard Law School.

Who is Eligible for the Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam?

Understanding eligibility criteria is your first step before investing time in preparation. Let me break down the exact requirements so you can assess your candidature.

Educational Qualification Requirements

The educational qualifications focus on ensuring candidates have completed or are completing their law degree from recognized institutions.

Law Degree Requirements from Recognized Institutions

You must be a Law Graduate having a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (including Integrated Degree Course in Law) from any School, College, University, or Institution established by law in India and recognized by the Bar Council of India for enrolment as an Advocate. This includes both the traditional three-year LLB program and the five-year integrated law course.

Can Final Year Students Apply for the Supreme Court Law Clerkship Exam?

Yes, candidates studying in the fifth year of the Five-Year Integrated Law Course or the third year of the Three-Year Law Course after graduation are eligible to apply. However, you must furnish proof of acquiring your law qualification before taking up the assignment as Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate, meaning your degree must be complete before the July joining date.

Age Limit and Other Eligibility Criteria

Beyond educational qualifications, specific age limits and skill requirements apply to all candidates.

Age Limit for Becoming a Supreme Court Law Clerk

The candidate must not be below 20 years and above 32 years as on the date of application. This age bracket is relatively generous compared to many other judicial recruitment examinations, allowing both fresh graduates and those with some professional experience to apply.

What Makes You Ineligible for the Clerkship Exam?

You become ineligible if you are a practicing advocate or engaged/appointed elsewhere on an honorarium or payment basis. Additionally, candidates involved in any criminal case, whether convicted or with a pending trial, are disqualified. You must submit a declaration confirming you have no criminal involvement, and false declarations can lead to immediate termination if discovered later.

How Does the Supreme Court Law Clerk Selection Process Work?

The selection process is designed to comprehensively evaluate your legal knowledge, writing abilities, and overall suitability for the position through three distinct stages.

Understanding the Three-Stage Selection

Each stage tests different competencies, and you must clear each to progress to the next. Let me explain what each part involves.

Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (100 Marks)

Part I consists of 100 multiple-choice questions conducted in online mode, testing your ability to understand and apply the law, along with comprehension skills. The duration for this section is 2.5 hours, and questions cover Reading Comprehension, Analytical and Legal Aptitude, and Recent Developments in Law. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.

The minimum qualifying marks for Part I is 40% or such a cut-off as may be specified by the examination authority. Candidates who do not obtain this minimum score will be automatically rejected, and their Part II answer sheets will not be assessed. This makes Part I a crucial qualifying stage that you cannot afford to take lightly.

Part II: Subjective Written Examination (300 Marks)

Part II is the subjective written examination carrying 300 marks, three times the weightage of Part I, making it the most crucial component of your written assessment. The question paper will be visible on the computer screen, but candidates must write answers in pen-paper mode. The duration is 3.5 hours, including 30 minutes of reading time to review the questions before writing.

This section tests your legal writing, analytical thinking, and research abilities through three components: Brief Preparation (150 marks), Draft Research Memo (75 marks), and Analytical Question (75 marks). To qualify in Part II, you need to secure a minimum of 50% marks or such a cut-off as may be specified. Your combined marks from Part I and Part II determine your eligibility for the interview stage.

Part III: Interview Stage

Candidates who qualify in both examinations are called for the interview, with the number typically being three times the vacancies available. The interview assesses your overall aptitude, legal knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role. You’ll face questions about your academic background, internship experiences, legal interests, and current legal developments.

Before the interview, qualified candidates are asked to submit a preference list of Judges’ offices in the sequence of their choice under whom they intend to work. This preference, combined with your interview performance and overall merit, determines your final assignment. The interview is conducted at the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi.

Exam Centres and Important Logistics

Understanding the practical aspects of exam day helps you prepare mentally and logistically.

List of 23 Test Centres Across India for the Clerkship Exam

The examination is conducted across 23 cities providing nationwide accessibility: Ahmedabad, Ambala, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Dehradun, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jodhpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Pune, Raipur, Ranchi, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, and Visakhapatnam. Choose your centre strategically, considering travel convenience and familiarity with the city.

Exam Day Schedule and Break Structure

Part I and Part II are conducted on the same day in two sessions, with a break provided between them. Part I (MCQ) is conducted first in online mode, followed by a break period for candidates to refresh before the more intensive Part II subjective examination. The exact timing is communicated through your admit card.

Ensure you reach the examination centre well before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card. Carry your admit card printout along with a valid photo identification. The admit card contains crucial information, including your roll number, photograph, and centre address. Verify all details carefully upon downloading.

Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam Syllabus

Understanding the syllabus in depth is essential for strategic preparation. The examination tests both your objective knowledge through MCQs and your analytical writing abilities through subjective questions.

Part I (MCQ) Syllabus Breakdown

The MCQ section evaluates three primary areas: Reading Comprehension, Analytical and Legal Aptitude, and Recent Developments in Law.

Reading Comprehension

The Reading Comprehension section includes English passages followed by objective questions that assess your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze content. Based on the previous year’s question paper analysis, this section typically contains 15 questions in recent examinations. Questions test vocabulary, grammar, synonyms, antonyms, sentence correction, and comprehension of legal and general passages.

To excel in this section, develop a habit of reading quality English content daily; editorials from The Hindu or The Indian Express are excellent sources. Practice comprehension passages under timed conditions and build your vocabulary systematically. Strong performance here provides easy marks since this section relies more on language skills than legal knowledge.

Analytical and Legal Aptitude Subjects

This section forms the core of Part I, testing your understanding of fundamental laws and ability to apply legal principles to given scenarios. The subjects covered include the Constitution of India, Criminal Law, Civil Law, and Evidence Law.

Constitution of India Key Topics

Focus on the Preamble, Fundamental Rights (Articles 12-35), Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, Parliamentary Procedures, Judiciary provisions (Articles 124-147), and Constitutional Amendments. Based on the 2024 pattern, expect approximately 18 questions from this subject, making it the highest-weightage area in Part I.

You should refer to the official notification on www.sci.gov.in for any updates to the syllabus.

Criminal Law (IPC & CrPC) Important Provisions

Cover Indian Penal Code topics, including General Exceptions, offenses against the human body (murder, culpable homicide, assault), property offenses (theft, robbery, extortion), and offenses against public tranquility. From the Criminal Procedure Code, focus on arrest procedures, bail provisions, different stages of trial, appeals, and revision. Together, IPC and CrPC contribute approximately 21 questions.

Civil Law (CPC, Contract, Evidence) Focus Areas

Civil Procedure Code topics include jurisdiction, structure of suits, decrees, appeals, and execution proceedings. From the Indian Contract Act, study essentials of valid contract, offer and acceptance, consideration, breach, and remedies. Evidence Law questions cover relevance and admissibility of evidence, burden of proof, presumptions, and examination of witnesses. These subjects together contribute approximately 32 questions based on recent patterns.

Recent Developments in Law: What to Cover?

This segment covers key judgments, legal updates, and developments in law and jurisprudence over the past year, particularly focusing on Supreme Court and High Court rulings. Based on 2024 data, expect approximately 15 questions from this section. Stay updated with constitutional bench judgments, significant criminal and civil law developments, and landmark Supreme Court decisions from the past 12-18 months.

Here is a list of judgments that is available on the Supreme Court website.

Part II (Subjective) Syllabus and Components

Part II carries 300 marks, 75% of the written examination, yet receives far less preparation attention than it deserves. Let me break down each component so you understand exactly what’s expected.

Question 1: Brief Preparation (150 Marks)

You’ll be provided with a case file, such as a Special Leave Petition, Civil/Criminal Appeal, or Writ Petition. Your task is to prepare a concise 750-word synopsis covering key facts, legal issues, the ratio of the decision from the lower court, and grounds for appeal. The evaluation focuses on your ability to identify relevant details, structure the synopsis logically, and maintain brevity while capturing essential elements.

This component tests your legal reading and summarization abilities, skills critical for actual clerkship work, where you’ll prepare case briefs for your assigned Justice. Practice reading Supreme Court judgments and preparing structured summaries highlighting facts, issues, holdings, and reasoning. Develop a consistent format that presents information clearly and professionally.

Question 2: Preparation of Draft Research Memo (75 Marks)

A brief factual dispute, along with relevant statutes and precedents, will be provided to you. You must prepare a 500-750 word reasoned memo analyzing the dispute while excluding irrelevant information. The memo will be judged on effective use of legal sources, precise language, thorough analysis of facts, and logical reasoning connecting law to facts.

Understanding memo structure is crucial: begin with the issue statement, followed by brief facts, applicable law (statutes and precedents), analysis applying law to facts, and a conclusion with a recommendation. Practice identifying which legal provisions and cases are relevant to given fact patterns, and develop the skill of constructing logical legal arguments.

Question 3: Analytical Question (75 Marks)

You’ll write one analytical essay of 350-500 words from a choice of typically five topics. This question tests your ability to present arguments coherently, support them with appropriate examples and legal reasoning, and maintain proper grammar and structure throughout. Topics typically involve contemporary legal issues, constitutional questions, or policy debates.

Develop the ability to analyze issues from multiple perspectives while maintaining your own reasoned position. Practice writing structured essays with a clear introduction, body paragraphs presenting arguments with supporting evidence, and a conclusion synthesizing your analysis. Time management is critical; you cannot afford to spend excessive time on topic selection.

How to Prepare for Part I (MCQ) of the Supreme Court Law Clerk Exam?

Strategic preparation for Part I requires understanding both the subject matter and the question patterns. Let me guide you through an effective approach.

Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy

Different subjects require different preparation approaches based on their nature and weightage.

Constitution of India: High-Weightage Topics and Approach

The Constitution carries the highest individual subject weightage with approximately 18 questions in recent papers. Focus intensively on Fundamental Rights interpretation through landmark judgments like Kesavananda Bharati, Maneka Gandhi, and Puttaswamy. Understand Article 14 (Equality), Article 19 (Freedoms), Article 21 (Life and Liberty), and Article 32 (Constitutional Remedies) thoroughly, including their judicial interpretations.

Beyond Part III of the Constitution, cover Parliamentary procedures (Articles 79-122), Judiciary provisions (Articles 124-147), Emergency provisions (Articles 352-360), and Amendment procedure (Article 368). Create a table linking Articles with their key judicial interpretations, this helps in quickly recalling relevant case law during the examination.

Criminal Law Preparation: IPC and CrPC Focus Areas

For the Indian Penal Code, master the distinction between murder (Section 300) and culpable homicide (Section 299), general exceptions (Sections 76-106), and property offenses including theft, extortion, robbery, and dacoity. Understand the elements of each offense and the defenses available. IPC questions often present fact situations requiring you to identify the applicable offense.

Criminal Procedure Code questions focus on arrest procedures (Sections 41-60), bail provisions (Sections 436-450), trial stages, and appellate provisions. Understand the difference between bailable and non-bailable offenses, anticipatory bail, and the procedure from FIR to judgment. Practice identifying procedural steps in given scenarios.

Civil Procedure Code and Contract Law Essentials

CPC preparation should cover jurisdiction (sections 15-25), suits and pleadings, interim orders (Order 39), execution of decrees, and appeals and revision. Understand the distinction between appeal, revision, and review. Questions often test procedural aspects like limitation, court fees, and proper forum selection.

For Contract Law, focus on essentials of valid contract (section 10), void and voidable contracts, contingent contracts, breach and remedies, and specific performance. The Indian Contract Act questions tend to be straightforward if you understand the basic principles well. Evidence Law requires understanding relevance (sections 5-55), admissions and confessions, examination of witnesses, and burden of proof.

Analysis of Question Paper Pattern for Part I

Understanding how the examination pattern has evolved helps you allocate preparation time effectively.

Subject-Wise Question Distribution Trends

Based on the analysis of papers from 2018-2024, the pattern has evolved significantly. English Comprehension was reduced from 30 questions (pre-2023) to 15 questions (2024). 

The General Aptitude and Awareness section, which earlier had approximately 20 questions, was removed in the 2023-2024 pattern. 

Contract Law, which had no dedicated questions before 2023, now contributes approximately 12 questions.

The current distribution of the 2024 paper shows the Constitution at approximately 18 questions, CPC at 11, IPC at 11, CrPC at 10, Evidence at 9, Contract at 12, English at 15, and Recent Developments at 15. This means legal subjects now dominate the paper more than before, requiring stronger preparation in core law subjects rather than general knowledge.

Best Books and Resources for Part I Preparation

Choosing the right resources significantly impacts your preparation quality.

Recommended Books for Legal Subjects

For Constitutional Law, V.N. Shukla’s “Constitution of India” provides comprehensive coverage with case law analysis. For procedural laws, use bare acts with commentary, Ratanlal & Dhirajlal for IPC and CPC, and Batuk Lal for CrPC. For Evidence Law, Batuk Lal’s commentary is widely recommended. English preparation benefits from Wren & Martin’s “High School English Grammar and Composition.”

Current Affairs and Recent Judgments Sources

For Recent Developments in Law, regularly follow legal news portals like Bar & Bench, Live Law, and the Supreme Court of India website for recent judgments. Focus on Constitutional Bench decisions and significant Supreme Court judgments from the past 18 months. Maintain notes categorizing judgments by subject area for quick revision.

How to Prepare for Part II (Subjective) of the Supreme Court Law Clerk Exam?

Part II carries 300 marks, 75% of the written exam, yet most candidates underprepare for this section. Mastering these components can dramatically improve your overall score.

Mastering the Question 1: Brief Preparation (150 Marks)

The Brief Preparation component tests your ability to read, understand, and summarize complex legal documents, a core skill for actual clerkship work.

What is a Brief Preparation and What Format Should You Follow?

A brief is a concise legal summary of a case file that captures all essential elements a judge needs for quick reference. You’ll receive a case file (SLP, Appeal, or Writ Petition) and must prepare a 750-word synopsis covering: identification of parties and their positions, material facts in chronological order, procedural history, legal issues arising for determination, lower court’s reasoning and decision, and grounds of challenge.

The format should be structured with clear headings for each component. Begin with a header identifying the case, followed by sections for Facts, Issues, Lower Court Decision, and Grounds of Appeal. Use precise legal language while maintaining clarity, and avoid unnecessary verbosity that consumes your word limit without adding value.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a 750-Word Synopsis

Start by spending 10-15 minutes carefully reading the entire case file, underlining key facts and legal provisions cited. Identify the core legal issues, what question is the court being asked to decide? Note the lower court’s reasoning and where the appellant claims error. Organize your notes into the structured format before beginning to write.

While writing, maintain strict word economy. Each sentence should convey essential information. State facts objectively without advocacy; your role is to summarize, not argue. Conclude with the specific relief sought in the appeal. Practice this skill by downloading sample question papers from the Supreme Court website and preparing briefs within the 750-word limit under timed conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Case Synopsis Writing

Avoid including unnecessary background information that doesn’t affect the legal issues. Don’t copy verbatim from the case file, paraphrase in your own words while maintaining legal accuracy. Ensure your synopsis is balanced, representing both parties’ positions fairly rather than appearing to advocate for one side. Finally, strictly adhere to the word limit; exceeding it demonstrates poor summarization skills.

Crafting the Draft Research Memo (75 Marks)

The Research Memo tests your ability to analyze legal problems and construct reasoned arguments connecting law to facts.

Understanding Draft Research Memo Requirements

A research memo is an objective legal analysis prepared for the judge, examining how law applies to a specific factual dispute. Unlike advocacy documents, memos present balanced analysis of how relevant statutes and precedents apply, identifying strengths and weaknesses of different positions. Your memo should help the reader understand the legal landscape surrounding the dispute.

How to Structure a 500-750 Word Draft Legal Research Memo

Begin with a clear statement of the legal issue presented. Follow with a brief recitation of relevant facts from the given scenario. The analysis section, the heart of your memo, should identify applicable statutory provisions and relevant precedents, then systematically analyze how they apply to the facts before you.

Organize analysis logically: state the legal rule, explain any relevant judicial interpretations, apply the rule to your facts, and draw conclusions. If multiple legal theories or interpretations exist, present each fairly. Conclude with your assessment of the most likely outcome based on your analysis, identifying which party’s position appears stronger and why.

Effective Use of Statutes and Precedents in Your Memo

Reference specific statutory sections rather than making general statements, “Section 10 of the Indian Contract Act requires…” rather than “Contract law provides…”. When citing precedents, briefly state the holding and explain its relevance to your facts. Distinguish precedents that appear unfavorable by identifying factual or legal differences. Demonstrate legal reasoning by connecting statute to precedent to facts in a logical chain.

Writing the Analytical Question (75 Marks)

The analytical essay evaluates your ability to think critically about legal issues and present coherent arguments.

Likely Essay Topics and Selection Strategy

Topics typically involve contemporary legal controversies, constitutional questions, law reform debates, or intersection of law with policy. Examples include judicial activism versus restraint, privacy in the digital age, balancing free speech with other rights, or effectiveness of specific legislation. Choose the topic you can analyze most thoroughly rather than the one that seems easiest superficially.

When selecting, quickly assess which topic allows you to demonstrate depth of legal knowledge, cite relevant constitutional provisions or statutes, and present balanced arguments. Avoid topics where you can only present one-sided views; the evaluation rewards nuanced analysis showing awareness of competing considerations.

How to Structure a 350-500 Word Analytical Essay

Structure your essay with a clear thesis statement in the introduction, body paragraphs presenting different perspectives with supporting legal reasoning, and a conclusion synthesizing your analysis. Each body paragraph should focus on one main argument, supported by legal principles, judicial pronouncements, or policy reasoning. Maintain logical flow using transition sentences.

Balancing Arguments and Maintaining Objectivity

Present multiple perspectives fairly before stating your own position. Acknowledge counterarguments and explain why you find certain positions more persuasive. Avoid extreme positions; nuanced analysis demonstrating understanding of complexity scores better than one-sided advocacy. Support your conclusions with legal reasoning rather than personal opinions or emotional appeals.

How to Prepare for the Judicial Clerkship Interview?

The interview is your final hurdle and opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for working with a Supreme Court Justice.

What to Expect in the Interview Round

Understanding the interview format helps you prepare appropriately.

Interview Panel Composition and Format

The interview is conducted by the Judges, registry or the Judge’s office designated for the purpose. The interview is conducted online; however, the candidate may also be called physically for an interview, and in that case, the registry shall provide reimbursement of an amount equivalent to their onward and return journey fare by third ac by rail for the shortest route, subject to production of a valid ticket. 

The interview evaluates your legal knowledge, communication abilities, and overall personality to assess whether you would function effectively in a Justice’s chambers.

What Types of Questions are Asked to Candidates?

Expect questions about your academic background, internship experiences, and why you want to pursue a clerkship under that particular judge. Legal questions typically cover fundamental constitutional principles, recent landmark judgments, judgments passed by that particular judge and current legal developments. You may be asked to analyze hypothetical situations or express views on contemporary legal issues. Interviewers often probe deeper based on claims made in your application and resume.

Subject-Wise Interview Preparation Strategy

Structured preparation across key areas increases your confidence and performance.

Constitutional Law Topics for Interview

Prepare thoroughly on Fundamental Rights interpretation, federalism, separation of powers, and judicial review. Understand recent Constitutional Bench decisions and their implications. Be ready to discuss Article 21 jurisprudence, privacy rights after Puttaswamy, free speech boundaries, and affirmative action principles. Know the basic structure doctrine and its evolution.

Recent Supreme Court Judgments You Must Know

Focus on significant judgments from the past 12-18 months across constitutional, criminal, and civil law areas. Understand not just the holdings but the reasoning, why did the Court decide as it did? Be prepared to discuss judgments critically, identifying their strengths and potential concerns. Pay special attention to decisions involving constitutional interpretation or novel legal questions.

Current Legal Affairs and Policy Developments

Stay updated on major legal developments: new legislation, pending bills, law reform proposals, and significant High Court decisions. Understand ongoing debates about judicial appointments, court administration, access to justice, and legal technology. Reading quality legal journalism helps you discuss these issues thoughtfully.

Tips for Making a Strong Impression

Beyond knowledge, your presentation and demeanor matter significantly.

Presenting Your Research and Internship Experience

Be prepared to discuss your internships in detail, what work you did, what you learned, and how it prepared you for clerkship responsibilities. If you’ve published research or participated in moot courts, be ready to explain your work substantively. Connect your experiences to clerkship requirements, showing how your background makes you suitable for the role.

Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t claim knowledge you don’t have; admitting you don’t know something is far better than attempting to bluff. Avoid speaking at excessive length; be concise and responsive to the specific question asked. Don’t be argumentative if panelists challenge your views; demonstrate the ability to consider alternative perspectives. Finally, maintain professional demeanor throughout; nervousness is understandable but composure under pressure is valued.

You can read an article on the preparation guide, which will help you plan an effective study schedule. 

What Are the Career Benefits of Supreme Court Clerkship?

Beyond the immediate remuneration, the clerkship offers career advantages that compound over years.

Immediate Professional Advantages

The clerkship provides tangible benefits during and immediately after your term.

Remuneration, Working Environment, and Learning Opportunities

The ₹80,000 monthly remuneration is among the highest for fresh law graduates, providing financial stability while you gain experience. You work in India’s most prestigious legal environment, surrounded by the country’s finest legal minds. The learning is unparalleled; you understand how apex court judgments are crafted, how legal arguments are evaluated, and what distinguishes effective advocacy.

Networking with Justices and Senior Advocates

Daily interaction with senior advocates and legal luminaries creates connections invaluable for your future career. The professional relationships formed during clerkship often lead to mentorship opportunities, job references, and collaborative relationships lasting throughout your career. Your assigned Justice’s recommendation carries exceptional weight in legal circles.

Long-Term Career Impact

The clerkship’s value extends far beyond the one-year term.

How Clerkship Helps in Judicial Services Preparation

Having witnessed apex court functioning firsthand, you understand judicial reasoning and decision-making at a deeper level. This perspective significantly helps in judicial services preparation, where understanding how judges think is crucial. Many former clerks have successfully transitioned to judicial services, benefiting from their clerkship exposure.

Advantages for Litigation Practice and AOR Aspirations

For litigation careers, clerkship provides unique advantages: understanding court procedures, exposure to diverse legal matters, and familiarity with Supreme Court practice. If you aspire to become an Advocate-on-Record, the clerkship provides a foundational understanding of Supreme Court practice that proves invaluable when you eventually attempt the AOR examination.

Benefit for LLM Applications and Academic Pursuits

Leading foreign universities, particularly in the United States, highly value judicial clerkship experience. Harvard Law School explicitly mentions a preference for candidates with prior judicial or judicial clerkship experience. A certificate from a Supreme Court Justice significantly strengthens LLM applications. For academic careers, the research experience and judicial exposure establish credibility as a legal scholar.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam represents a unique gateway to India’s most prestigious legal opportunity. With 90 positions offering ₹80,000 monthly remuneration and unparalleled exposure to apex court functioning, the competition is understandably intense. 

However, with strategic preparation covering both Part I (100 marks MCQ) and the often-overlooked Part II (300 marks Subjective), you can significantly improve your selection chances.

Remember that Part II carries 75% of your written exam weightage, yet most candidates underprepare for this section. Master the skills of brief preparation, research memo drafting, and analytical essay writing. Combine this with thorough Part I preparation covering the Constitution, Criminal Law, Civil Law, and Recent Developments.

Finally, prepare thoughtfully for the interview by developing depth in constitutional law, staying current with recent judgments, and presenting your experience professionally.

The clerkship offers benefits extending far beyond the one-year term,professional networks, judicial perspective, and career credentials that remain valuable throughout your legal career. 

Whether you aspire to litigation practice, judicial services, academic pursuits, or foreign LLM programs, this experience provides a foundation that few other opportunities can match. Begin your preparation today, and take the first step toward working alongside India’s highest judicial minds.

For more valuable insights on Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam, please visit our iPleaders blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Supreme Court Judicial Clerkship Exam Held?

The Written Examination (Part I and Part II) for the 2025-2026 term is usually scheduled in March. Both parts are conducted on the same day in two sessions with a break between them at designated test centres across 23 cities in India.

How Many Vacancies Are Available for Supreme Court Law Clerk?

The Supreme Court has announced approximately 90 vacancies for Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates for the 2025-2026 assignment term. This number may vary slightly based on the requirements of individual Justice chambers.

What is the Remuneration for Supreme Court Law Clerks?

Selected candidates receive a consolidated monthly remuneration of ₹80,000. This is a contractual engagement and does not include additional allowances or benefits associated with regular government employment.

What is the Minimum Qualifying Score for Part I?

The minimum qualifying marks for Part I is 40% or such cut-off as may be specified by the examination authority. Candidates not meeting this threshold are automatically rejected, and their Part II answers are not assessed.

How Important is Part II Compared to Part I?

Part II is significantly more important, carrying 300 marks compared to Part I’s 100 marks, making it 75% of the total written examination score. Many candidates focus disproportionately on Part I MCQs while underestimating Part II’s subjective components.

Can Practicing Advocates Apply for the Clerkship?

No, practicing advocates are ineligible for the clerkship. Similarly, candidates engaged or appointed elsewhere on an honorarium or payment basis cannot apply. The clerkship is a full-time, exclusive engagement.

What Happens After Completing the Clerkship Term?

The law clerkship is a contractual position lasting one year without a guarantee of continued engagement. However, former clerks often leverage their experience for judicial services preparation, litigation careers, AOR examination, foreign LLM applications, or academic positions.

Where Can I Download Previous Year Question Papers?

Previous year question papers are available on the Supreme Court of India official website covering the last six years. Practicing these papers helps understand question patterns and difficulty levels.

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