The Bar Council of India (BCI) has officially released the notification for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) 22 (XXII) 2026. This is a crucial update for law graduates across India who wish to obtain their Certificate of Practice and enroll as advocates. Below is a complete breakdown of everything you need to know — dates, fees, eligibility, and the application process.

What is AIBE?

The All India Bar Examination (AIBE) is a mandatory examination conducted by the Bar Council of India for law graduates who wish to practice law in India. Clearing AIBE is a prerequisite for obtaining a Certificate of Practice (CoP), which legally authorizes a law graduate to appear and argue before Indian courts. The exam is designed to ensure that advocates entering the profession meet a baseline standard of legal knowledge and professional competence.

AIBE 22 (XXII) 2026 — Important Dates

EventDateOnline Registration Begins19 August 2026Last Date to Apply27 October 2026Last Date for Fee Payment28 October 2026Correction Window30 October 2026Admit Card Release14 November 2026Exam Date29 November 2026

Note: These dates are as per the official notification issued by the Bar Council of India. Candidates are advised to cross-check with the official BCI and AIBE websites before proceeding, as schedules are occasionally revised.

Eligibility Criteria for AIBE 22 2026

To be eligible to appear for AIBE 22 (2026), candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a citizen of India.
• Must hold an LLB degree from a university recognised by the Bar Council of India.
• Must be enrolled with a State Bar Council as per BCI rules.
• Final-year law students may also be eligible to apply under provisional eligibility norms — candidates should verify the exact provision applicable to their batch on the official notification.

Application Fees for AIBE 22 2026

CategoryFeeGeneral / OBC₹3,500/-SC / ST₹2,500/-PwD (Differently Abled)₹2,500/-

Fees can be paid online through the official AIBE portal during the registration window.

How to Apply for AIBE 22 (XXII) 2026

1. Visit the official AIBE website: allindiabarexamination.com
2. Register using your basic details and create a login.
3. Fill in your personal, academic, and enrollment details.
4. Upload the required documents (photograph, signature, enrollment certificate, etc.).
5. Pay the applicable application fee based on your category.
6. Review your application in the correction window (30 October 2026) if any edits are needed.
7. Download your admit card once released (14 November 2026).

Why AIBE Matters for Aspiring Advocates

Clearing AIBE is not just a formality — it's the exam that certifies a law graduate is ready to independently practice law in Indian courts. It tests candidates on practical aspects of law across subjects like the Constitution, CrPC, CPC, Evidence Act, and professional ethics, ensuring that advocates entering the profession are equipped to serve clients competently and uphold the standards of the legal profession.

Official Sources

• AIBE Official Website: https://allindiabarexamination.com
• Bar Council of India: https://www.barcouncilofindia.org

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When is the AIBE 22 (2026) exam date? The AIBE 22 (XXII) 2026 exam is scheduled for 29 November 2026.

Q2. When does AIBE 22 registration start? Online registration begins on 19 August 2026.

Q3. What is the last date to apply for AIBE 22 2026? The last date to submit the application is 27 October 2026, with fee payment accepted until 28 October 2026.

Q4. What is the application fee for AIBE 22? General/OBC candidates pay ₹3,500/-, while SC/ST and PwD candidates pay ₹2,500/-.

Q5. Who is eligible to appear for AIBE 22 2026? Indian citizens holding an LLB degree from a BCI-recognised university, enrolled with a State Bar Council, are eligible. Final-year students may qualify under provisional eligibility norms.

Q6. When will the AIBE 22 admit card be released? The admit card is expected to be released on 14 November 2026.

This article is published by Advocate Ravi Rai Sharma, practicing at the Rajasthan High Court, Jaipur Bench. For legal updates, case law analysis, and career guidance for law students, follow legalravi.com.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Candidates should verify all details from the official BCI and AIBE notification before applying.