Top-Ranked Law Colleges in India for Aspiring Lawyers
India, with its rich legal history and rapidly evolving judicial system, offers a wide range of opportunities for aspiring lawyers. From constitutional law to corporate practice, public interest litigation to intellectual property rights, the legal field in India is expanding at a fast pace. With this growth comes the need for high-quality legal education — and India is home to some of the most prestigious law institutions in Asia. This article takes you through the top-ranked law College in India that every law aspirant should consider.
1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore
Established: 1987
Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, MPP, PhD
Entrance Exam: CLAT
NLSIU Bangalore is the first National Law University in India and has consistently topped national rankings. Known as the “Harvard of the East” in legal circles, NLSIU combines rigorous academic training with practical exposure. The university boasts a stellar faculty, frequent guest lectures by eminent jurists, and a competitive environment that nurtures some of the country’s brightest legal minds.
Key Features:
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Excellent placement record with top law firms and international opportunities
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Active moot court and legal aid societies
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Collaborations with international law schools
Notable Alumni: Menaka Guruswamy, Dr. Arvind Subramanian, Gopal Sankaranarayanan
2. National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad
Established: 1998
Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, MBA (Legal Management), PhD
Entrance Exam: CLAT
Located in Hyderabad, NALSAR is known for its vibrant academic culture, interdisciplinary courses, and emphasis on research. It offers a unique blend of traditional law education with subjects like management and technology.
Key Features:
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Excellent infrastructure and residential campus
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Innovative courses like Law and Technology
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Strategic tie-ups with foreign universities
Notable Alumni: Alok Prasanna Kumar, Aparna Chandra, Rahul Matthan
3. National Law University (NLU), Delhi
Established: 2008
Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, PhD
Entrance Exam: AILET
Although relatively young, NLU Delhi has made a significant impact on legal education. Its exclusive entrance exam — AILET — ensures a competitive intake. The institute focuses heavily on research and policy-oriented education.
Key Features:
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Centre for Communication Governance and other top-tier research centers
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Compulsory internships and extensive clinical programs
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Government policy influence and law reform participation
Notable Alumni: Many alumni have gone on to work in think tanks, courts, and international institutions.
4. The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
Established: 1999
Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), BSc LLB (Hons), LLM, MPhil, PhD
Entrance Exam: CLAT
WBNUJS is another top-tier National Law University, well-regarded for its academic rigor and alumni network. It has also contributed significantly to legal policy reform and public law litigation in India.
Key Features:
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Focus on social justice and legal aid
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Strong mooting and debating culture
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Robust placement records
Notable Alumni: Aniruddha Rajput, Nikhil Mehra
5. National Law University, Jodhpur
Established: 1999
Programs Offered: BA/BBA LLB (Hons), LLM, PhD
Entrance Exam: CLAT
NLU Jodhpur is known for its business law and intellectual property law programs. It stands out for its dual degree structure (BA LLB and BBA LLB), providing students with a business-oriented edge.
Key Features:
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Interdisciplinary law and business approach
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Courses in investment law, arbitration, and tax law
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Competitive campus with student-led journals and events
Notable Alumni: Legal advisors, civil servants, and corporate counsels
6. Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar
Established: 2003
Programs Offered: BA/BCom/BSc/BBA LLB (Hons), LLM, MBA, PhD
Entrance Exam: CLAT
GNLU is known for its holistic approach to legal education and specialization in areas like maritime law, sports law, and environment law. It has a sprawling campus and a focus on innovation and industry collaboration.
Key Features:
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Global internships and exchange programs
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Specialized centers like the Centre for Sports Law and Centre for Public International Law
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High student participation in international conferences
7. Symbiosis Law School (SLS), Pune
Established: 1977
Programs Offered: BA/BBA LLB (Hons), LLM, Diploma, PhD
Entrance Exam: SLAT
SLS is a reputed private law school affiliated with Symbiosis International University. With a legacy predating many NLUs, it has earned a strong reputation for quality education and corporate placements.
Key Features:
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Global curriculum and international tie-ups
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Emphasis on personality development and public speaking
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Courses in legal writing, media law, and technology law
8. Faculty of Law, University of Delhi
Established: 1924
Programs Offered: LLB, LLM, PhD
Entrance Exam: DU LLB Entrance
A pioneer in Indian legal education, DU's Faculty of Law has trained judges, politicians, and top legal professionals. Although it offers a three-year LLB program (after graduation), its reputation and alumni network remain unmatched.
Key Features:
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Affordable tuition and wide access
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Experienced faculty and exposure to court proceedings
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Excellent location with proximity to the Supreme Court and High Courts
Notable Alumni: Arun Jaitley, Kapil Sibal, Kiran Bedi
9. Jindal Global Law School (JGLS), Sonipat
Established: 2009
Programs Offered: BA/BBA LLB (Hons), LLB, LLM
Entrance Exam: LSAT-India
JGLS, part of O.P. Jindal Global University, is India’s first global law school. It is known for its international faculty, research-intensive environment, and liberal curriculum. The school is recognized by QS World Rankings and often collaborates with institutions like Harvard, Yale, and NYU.
Key Features:
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International exchange and dual-degree programs
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Faculty from Ivy League and top global institutions
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Strong emphasis on academic research and publishing
10. ILS Law College, Pune
Established: 1924
Programs Offered: BA LLB, LLM, Diploma Courses
Entrance Exam: MH CET Law
One of the oldest law colleges in India, ILS is known for its legacy and consistent academic performance. The college is affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University and offers a picturesque campus and holistic legal education.
Key Features:
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Well-rounded education with focus on co-curriculars
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Inexpensive and inclusive admission policies
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Excellent bar exam results and alumni presence in judiciary
Career Opportunities After Law School in India
Graduating from a top law school in India opens doors to a multitude of career paths:
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Corporate Law Firms: Positions in leading Indian and international firms like AZB & Partners, Khaitan & Co., Luthra & Luthra, and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas.
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Judiciary: Many graduates appear for Judicial Services Examinations and become judges or magistrates.
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Litigation: Aspiring advocates join senior counsels or chambers and build careers in litigation at High Courts and the Supreme Court.
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Civil Services: Legal graduates often excel in exams like UPSC due to their analytical training.
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Academia and Research: Opportunities at premier institutions, think tanks, and NGOs.
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Entrepreneurship and Legal Tech: Legal startups and platforms are growing in India.
Choosing the Right Law School: Factors to Consider
When selecting a law institute, consider the following:
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Ranking and Reputation
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Faculty and Research Output
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Placement Records
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Infrastructure and Campus Life
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Fees and Scholarships
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Specializations and Electives Offered
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International Exposure
Remember, your success in the legal profession depends not only on the institute but also on your dedication, networking, internships, and passion for the law.
Conclusion
India’s legal education landscape is vibrant, dynamic, and evolving. The top law institutes mentioned above provide the foundation for a fulfilling career in law. Whether your goal is to fight for justice in the courtroom, negotiate complex business deals, or shape public policy, a solid legal education from one of these premier institutions can be your launchpad.
Aspiring lawyers must start early, prepare strategically for entrance exams, and keep themselves informed of the changing legal and academic landscape. With the right mindset and training, the courtroom — and the world — can be yours to command.
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