How to Prepare for AIBE XX (20) Exam 2025 – Complete Syllabus | Study Material | Books

For every law graduate in India, clearing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) is the final step before beginning a professional career in advocacy. Conducted by the Bar Council of India (BCI), the exam certifies whether a candidate is fit to practice law and grants the mandatory Certificate of Practice (CoP) to those who qualify.

Table of Contents

1. 1. AIBE XX (20) 2025 Syllabus Breakdown
   2. AIBE XX (20) 2025 Exam Pattern
   3. Strategies to Prepare for Your First Attempt
   4. Section-Wise Preparation Tips
   5. Study Material & Best Books for AIBE XX (20) Exam 2025
   6. Conclusion
   7. FAQs on AIBE Preparation

Although the exam is considered moderate in difficulty, many aspirants struggle to clear it on their first attempt—not due to a lack of ability, but because of poor planning, over-reliance on open-book myths, and limited time management. Since 2021, AIBE is no longer an open-book test. However, candidates are allowed to carry Bare Acts without any notes or commentary. It requires a focused preparation strategy, the right study material, and consistent practice, more important than ever.

This guide will walk you through the AIBE 2025 syllabus, exam pattern, study resources, recommended books, and proven strategies to help you approach the exam with confidence and increase your chances of success on the very first attempt.

1. AIBE XX (20) 2025 Syllabus Breakdown

The AIBE syllabus is drawn from the core subjects taught during the 3-year and 5-year programs. The question paper contains 100 multiple-choice questions spread across 19 subjects, with each subject carrying a different weightage. Recent updates include the introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) in place of the IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act.

1.1 Subject-Wise Question Distribution (Official – AIBE XX Notification)

Subject	No. of Questions
Constitutional Law	10
Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) / BNSS	10
Code of Civil Procedure (CPC)	10
Indian Penal Code (IPC) / BNS	8
Evidence Act / BSA	8
Family Law	8
Law of Contract, Specific Relief, Property Laws & Negotiable Instruments	8
Law of Torts (incl. Motor Vehicle & Consumer Protection Law)	5
Professional Ethics & BCI Rules	4
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)	4
Public Interest Litigation (PIL)	4
Labour & Industrial Law	4
Taxation Law	4
Administrative Law	3
Company Law	2
Environmental Law	2
Cyber Law	2
Intellectual Property Law	2
Land Acquisition Act	2
Total	100 Questions

1.2 Key Pointers for Preparation

• • Focus Areas: Constitutional Law, CPC, CrPC/BNSS, IPC/BNS carry the highest weightage (8–10 questions each).
  • Moderate Subjects: Family Law, Contract, Evidence, and Torts should be revised thoroughly.
  • Low-Weightage but Important: Company, Cyber, Environmental, and IPR often appear in 1–2 questions but cannot be skipped.
  • New Criminal Laws: Be prepared for changes under BNS, BNSS, BSA as these will feature in the 2025 exam.

2. Strategies to Prepare for Your First Attempt

Clearing AIBE in the first attempt is not about covering everything superficially, but about preparing in a structured and prioritised way. Candidates who follow a focused approach—understanding the exam pattern, using the right study material, practising consistently, and following a disciplined study plan—tend to perform better.

2.1 Understand the Exam Pattern

The first step in planning your preparation is understanding the exam structure. AIBE (20) 2025 will be conducted in offline, pen-and-paper mode, with 100 multiple-choice questions to be answered within 3 hours. Each question carries one mark, and there is no negative marking. The exam will be offered in English and 22 regional languages. As per the official notification, the qualifying criteria is 45% for General/OBC candidates and 40% for SC/ST and PwD candidates.

Feature	Details
Mode of Exam	Offline (Pen-and-Paper)
Duration	3 Hours
Total Questions	100
Type of Questions	MCQs (1 mark each)
Marking Scheme	No negative marking
Subjects	19 core law subjects
Qualifying Criteria	45% (Gen/OBC), 40% (SC/ST)
Medium	English + 22 regional languages

Having a clear picture of the exam structure allows you to allocate preparation time proportionately and avoid surprises on exam day.

2.2 Use the Right Study Material

The AIBE exam is heavily Bare Act-oriented, so selecting the right study material is crucial. Aspirants should avoid hoarding resources and instead focus on well-structured packages that balance coverage and depth.

• • Essentials Score Combo (12 Acts): Best suited for students aiming to build a strong foundation. It covers around 70% of the syllabus, including the Constitution, IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence Act, Contract, Family Laws, and Arbitration.
  • Advanced Score Combo (18 Acts): Extends coverage to about 90% of the syllabus. Along with the Essentials, it includes additional Acts such as the Companies Act, Consumer Protection Act, RTI Act, Advocates Act, and Environmental Protection Act.
  • Max-Score Combo (25+ Acts): Ideal for aspirants targeting 100% coverage. It contains all Acts from the Essentials and Advanced combos, plus labour laws, intellectual property laws, the three new criminal laws (BNS, BNSS, BSA), and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. (Additional content and links will be added once book bundle get listed in taxmann Bookstore)

Choosing the right package depends on the time available and the level of depth you want to achieve. For first-time candidates, starting with the Essentials or Advanced Combo is usually sufficient, followed by revision and mock practice.

2.3 Build a Study Schedule

An effective study schedule is the backbone of AIBE preparation. Break your preparation into three phases to ensure comprehensive coverage and revision:

• • Phase 1 – Foundation (6 weeks): Focus on high and medium-weightage subjects such as Constitutional Law, CPC, CrPC/BNSS, IPC/BNS, Evidence, and Family Law. Study one subject every 3–4 days and prepare concise notes while reading Bare Acts.
  • Phase 2 – Consolidation (3 weeks): Revise completed subjects, solve previous years’ question papers, and attempt at least two to three mock tests per week. Analyze your performance and revisit weak areas.
  • Phase 3 – Final Revision (2 weeks): Use this period for quick reviews of all subjects, tab key Bare Act provisions, and prepare one-page summaries of important sections. Focus on recall speed rather than learning new topics.

A disciplined study routine that blends reading, revision, and testing is what ensures success in the first attempt.

Also, Check Complete Exam Day Checklist, Instructions & Items Allowed

2.4 Practice Mock Tests and Previous Papers

Finally, consistent practice is essential. Solve at least five years’ worth of AIBE papers and attempt a minimum of 10 full-length mock tests under timed conditions. This not only strengthens accuracy but also helps you simulate the real exam environment. Reviewing mistakes immediately after practice is crucial for avoiding repetition on the final day.

AIBE	PDF Link (English)	Set Number
AIBE XIX	Download PDF	Set B
AIBE XVIII	Download PDF	Set B
AIBE XVII	Download PDF	Set A
AIBE XVI	Download PDF	Set A
AIBE XVI	Download PDF	Set B

3. Section-Wise Preparation Tips

Success in AIBE depends not only on covering all 19 subjects but also on knowing which areas to prioritise and how to approach them. Below are subject-wise preparation strategies based on weightage and frequently tested subtopics.

3.1 Constitutional Law (10 Questions)

Constitutional Law carries one of the highest weightages in AIBE, making it a must-master subject. Questions are straightforward and often repeat across years. Mastering key Articles and landmark cases can secure easy marks.

Topics to cover:

• • Salient Features of the Indian Constitution
  • Fundamental Rights (Arts. 12–35)
  • Directive Principles of State Policy (Arts. 36–51)
  • Fundamental Duties (Art. 51A)
  • Emergency Provisions
  • Federalism and Centre-State Relations
  • Landmark cases: Kesavananda Bharati, Maneka Gandhi

3.2 Criminal Laws – IPC/BNS & CrPC/BNSS (18 Questions)

Together, IPC/BNS and CrPC/BNSS form the largest chunk of the paper. Since 2025 replaces IPC, CrPC, and Evidence with the new criminal laws, understanding these updates is critical.

Topics to cover:

• • IPC/BNS: General Principles (Secs. 34–38), Offences Against Human Body, Offences Against Property
  • CrPC/BNSS: FIR (Sec. 154), Bail Provisions (Secs. 437–439), Remand (Sec. 167), Trial Procedures
  • Juvenile Justice & Probation of Offenders Act
  • Case laws on arrest, bail, and investigation

3.3 Civil Procedure Code (CPC) (10 Questions)

CPC is procedural but highly scoring. Many questions are direct from the Bare Act and repeat across past papers.

Topics to cover:

• • Jurisdiction of Civil Courts (Secs. 9–21)
  • Pleadings (Orders VI–VIII)
  • Suits in Special Cases
  • Injunctions and Interim Reliefs
  • Execution of Decrees (Order XXI)
  • Appeals and Revisions

3.4 Evidence Act / BSA (8 Questions)

Evidence-based questions are conceptual and require clarity. The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) replaces the Indian Evidence Act from 2025, making updates crucial.

Topics to cover:

• • Relevancy of Facts (Secs. 5–16)
  • Admissions and Confessions (Secs. 17–30)
  • Burden of Proof (Secs. 101–114)
  • Examination of Witnesses (Secs. 135–165)
  • Documentary and Digital Evidence

3.5 Contract, Specific Relief, Property & Negotiable Instruments (8 Questions)

This group of subjects is moderately weighted but covers multiple Acts. Questions are typically direct, based on sections or definitions.

Topics to cover:

• • Essentials of a Valid Contract (Secs. 1–30, Indian Contract Act)
  • Breach of Contract and Remedies
  • Specific Relief Act: Specific Performance, Injunctions
  • Transfer of Property Act: Mortgage, Lease, Easements
  • Negotiable Instruments Act: Cheque Dishonour (Sec. 138)

3.6 Family Law (8 Questions)

Family Law has a steady weightage in the paper. Questions are direct from Bare Acts, particularly from Hindu and Muslim laws.

Topics to cover:

• • Hindu Marriage Act: Marriage, Divorce, Maintenance
  • Hindu Succession Act: Inheritance
  • Special Marriage Act
  • Guardians & Wards Act
  • Muslim Personal Law: Marriage, Inheritance, Divorce

3.7 Law of Torts + Consumer & Motor Vehicle Law (5 Questions)

Though smaller in weightage, Torts and Consumer/Motor Vehicle law are scoring subjects. Focus on doctrines and frequently tested case laws.

Topics to cover:

• • Doctrines: Negligence, Nuisance, Strict & Absolute Liability, Vicarious Liability
  • Motor Vehicles Act: Compensation Provisions
  • Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Consumer Rights & Forums

3.8 Professional Ethics & BCI Rules (4 Questions)

Often underestimated, this section can give easy marks if prepared properly. Questions are usually based on duties and landmark disciplinary cases.

Topics to cover:

• • Duties of Advocates (towards court, clients, society)
  • Professional Misconduct under BCI Rules
  • Disciplinary Powers of BCI
  • Landmark Cases: V.C. Rangadurai v. D. Gopalan

3.9 Public Interest Litigation (PIL) (4 Questions)

Though fewer in number, PIL questions are important and straightforward, often tied to landmark judgments.

Topics to cover:

• • Concept and Evolution of PIL in India
  • Locus Standi & Who Can File
  • Landmark Cases: Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan, M.C. Mehta series
  • Role of Judiciary in Social Justice

3.10 Labour & Industrial Laws (4 Questions)

Labour law questions are direct and fact-based, making them relatively easy to score.

Topics to cover:

• • Industrial Disputes Act: Strike, Layoff, Retrenchment
  • Trade Unions Act, 1926
  • Minimum Wages Act, 1948
  • Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972

3.11 Taxation Law (4 Questions)

Taxation carries a small weightage, but concepts are straightforward and rarely skipped in the exam.

Topics to cover:

• • Basics of Income Tax (residential status, heads of income)
  • Goods and Services Tax (GST): Taxable Supply, Input Tax Credit
  • Customs and Excise Duties
  • Filing Basics and Penalties

4. Study Material & Best Books for AIBE Exam 2025

The right study material can make the difference between struggling and clearing AIBE in the first attempt. Since the exam is heavily Bare Act-oriented, aspirants should focus on authentic texts, supplemented with reliable guides and practice papers. Below is a curated list of the most effective resources:

4.1 Bare Acts – The Core Preparation Tool

Bare Acts are the backbone of AIBE preparation. Candidates should focus on updated versions, especially with the inclusion of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) in place of IPC, CrPC, and Evidence.

• • Constitution of India – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE
  • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE
  • Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE
  • Code of Civil Procedure 1908 – Bare Act with Section Notes
  • Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE

4.2 Comprehensive AIBE Guides

These books cover the entire syllabus with model papers, previous questions, and explanations in both English and Hindi. They are essential for revision and practice.

• AIBE – All India Bar Examination | CRACKER – full syllabus + practice questions
• AIBE – ऑल इंडिया बार परीक्षा | CRACKER – full syllabus + practice questions

4.3 Subject-Specific Standard Textbooks

For deeper clarity in core subjects, a few textbooks are highly recommended.

Subject	Recommended Books	Author/Publication
Constitutional Law	Constitution of India – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Indian Penal Code (IPC/BNS)	Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC/BNSS)	Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Civil Procedure Code (CPC)	Code of Civil Procedure 1908 – Bare Act with Section Notes	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Evidence Act / BSA	Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 – Bare Act without Comments | AIBE	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Family Law	Family Laws Combo (Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Succession Act, Muslim Personal Law, Special Marriage Act, Guardians & Wards Act)	Taxmann’s Editorial Board
Company Law	Companies Act, 2013 (Selected Provisions) – Bare Act	Taxmann’s Editorial Board

Click Here to get a curated list forAIBE (20)Exam 2025 Study Material

4.4 Research and Practice Resources

Practice is as important as reading. Solving previous papers builds familiarity with question style and time management. Specially If you’re a working professional preparing for AIBE (20) 2025 without compromising your job performance or personal health

• • AIBE Solved Papers (2011–2023)
  • How To Crack All India Bar Examination (AIBE) – topic-based practice sets
  • Study Groups & Online Forums – To clarify doubts and deepen your understanding of the subject. Like: Telegram & WhatsApp AIBE groups and forums
  • Online research databases like Taxmann Research, Centax Online provide up-to-date cases, statutes, and articles.
  • Legal Magazines & Journals to help you keep up with current legal scenarios, recent judgments, and expert opinions on complex legal issues

4.5 Smart Combos for Coverage

For aspirants preferring structured book sets:

• • Essentials Score Combo (12 Acts): Covers ~70% syllabus (Constitution, IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence, Contract, Family Laws, Arbitration).
  • Advanced Score Combo (18 Acts): Covers ~90%, adds Companies Act, Consumer Protection, Advocates Act, Environmental Law.
  • Max-Score Combo (25+ Acts): 100% syllabus coverage with Labour, IPR, new BNS/BNSS/BSA, and Data Protection Act.

4.6 How to Use These Materials

• • Start with Bare Acts → highlight definitions, penalties, exceptions.
  • Use Guides & Standard Textbooks for conceptual clarity.
  • Solve past 5–10 years’ question papers → note repeating topics.
  • Revise using concise notes & tabs in Bare Acts for quick access.

5. Conclusion

Preparing for the AIBE (20) 2025 is not about memorising every section, but about following a structured, resource-backed strategy. The exam tests fundamental understanding across 19 law subjects, with particular emphasis on Constitutional Law, Criminal Laws (BNS/BNSS), CPC, and Evidence. At the same time, smaller areas like Company Law, PIL, Cyber Law, and Taxation cannot be ignored, as even 1–2 marks can decide whether you qualify.

Success in the first attempt comes down to three pillars:

• • Mastering the updated syllabus – especially the transition to BNS, BNSS, and BSA.
  • Using the right study material – Bare Acts as the foundation, supported by comprehensive AIBE guides and subject-wise textbooks.
  • Practising consistently – solving previous papers, attempting full-length mocks, and tabbing Bare Acts for quick reference.

Candidates must note that the AIBE (20) 2025 will be held on November 30, 2025, as per the official BCI notification. If approached methodically—foundation building, consolidation, and final revision—the AIBE is a highly achievable exam. With clarity on the syllabus, disciplined time management, and smart use of resources, candidates can secure their Certificate of Practice (CoP) on the first attempt and take the decisive step toward their legal career.

6. FAQs on AIBE Exam 2025

Q1. How to prepare for AIBE 2025?

Start with the updated AIBE 2025 syllabus (including BNS, BNSS, and BSA), focus on high-weightage subjects like Constitutional Law, CPC, CrPC, and Evidence, and build a 3-phase study schedule: foundation, consolidation, and revision. Use Bare Acts, solve past 10 years’ papers, and attempt mock tests regularly.

Q2. Who is eligible for the AIBE exam 2025?

Eligibility for AIBE (20) 2025 has been expanded as per the latest BCI notification. Candidates eligible include: (1) final-year law students (3-year or 5-year LL.B.) without backlogs, studying at a BCI-recognised institution; (2) law graduates who have completed their LL.B. but not yet obtained their degree; (3) graduates who have obtained their degree but have not enrolled with any State Bar Council, or those who surrendered their enrolment certificate. Candidates from non-BCI-recognised institutions remain ineligible. There is no upper age limit.

Q3. What is the pass mark for AIBE 2025?

General/OBC candidates must score 45% to qualify, while SC/ST candidates must secure 40%.

Q4. Is the AIBE exam 2025 open-book?

No. Since 2021, the AIBE is not an open-book exam but Candidates may carry Bare Acts without notes or commentaries

Q5. How many attempts are allowed for AIBE?

There is no limit on the number of attempts. Candidates can appear as many times as needed until they qualify.

Q6. How many failed in AIBE?

Exact numbers vary each year, but according to Time of india the failure rate in AIBE varies each year. In AIBE XVIII (2023), around 51% of candidates failed the exam, while in AIBE XIX (2024), the failure rate dropped significantly to about 22% (Source: Career 360). The main reasons for failure are usually poor time management and a lack of familiarity with the updated syllabus.

Q7. Do questions repeat in AIBE?

Yes. Many questions, especially from Constitutional Law, CPC, CrPC, and Evidence, are often repeated or rephrased across years, making previous papers an essential resource.

Q8. Is AIBE MCQ-based?

Yes. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each carrying one mark. There is no negative marking.

Q9. What is the dress code for AIBE exam?

Candidates are expected to follow formal attire appropriate for a professional exam. While BCI does not mandate advocates’ robes, wearing formal white/black clothing is generally advised.

Q10. Which study material is best for AIBE?

The best resources are updated Bare Acts, How To Crack All India Bar Examination (AIBE), previous years’ solved papers. You can also check Taxmann’s expert-curated study material list for AIBE Exam. They are updated, student-friendly, and highly cost-effective, making them a reliable choice for aspirants who want quality preparation at an affordable price.

Q11. How many times was the AIBE exam held in a year?

The AIBE is usually conducted once a year. Although BCI had considered holding it twice, the official schedule confirms a single session for 2025.

Q12. What after passing AIBE?

Once you clear AIBE, you receive the Certificate of Practice (CoP) from BCI. This allows you to practice law in any Indian court, including district courts, high courts, and tribunals.

Q13. Can I practice in High Court after AIBE?

Yes. After obtaining the CoP, advocates can practice in district courts, high courts, and eventually the Supreme Court (after meeting experience requirements under the Advocates Act).