Top 10 NLUs in India: Rankings, Fees, and Placements

The National Law Universities (NLUs) in India are among the most prestigious institutions for pursuing a career in law. Established under state legislations, these NLUs are known for their rigorous academic programs, experienced faculty, and excellent placement opportunities. If you are preparing for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), you are likely aiming for admission to one of these top-tier law schools. This blog explores the top 10 NLUs in India, highlighting their rankings, fee structures, and placement records.

1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore

NLSIU Bangalore is India’s first NLU, established in 1986. It consistently ranks as the best law school in the country, offering world-class legal education and unparalleled placement opportunities.

• Ranking: 1

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, and PhD

• Fees: NLSIU Bangalore fees for the BA LLB program are approximately ₹3,27,815 per year.

• Seats: NLSIU Bangalore seats for BA LLB are limited to around 240.

• Placement: Top law firms, multinational corporations, and litigation chambers actively recruit from NLSIU, offering packages as high as ₹20–25 LPA.

  
  

2. National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad

NALSAR Hyderabad is renowned for its diverse academic programs and strong focus on research. It ranks as one of the top NLUs due to its excellent faculty and infrastructure.

• Ranking: 2

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, and MBA in Law

• Fees: ₹2,42,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: Approximately 132 for BA LLB

• Placement: Leading law firms like AZB & Partners, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, and Khaitan & Co. are frequent recruiters, offering packages of ₹15–18 LPA.

  
  

3. National Law University (NLU), Delhi

NLU Delhi is unique as it conducts its own entrance exam, the All India Law Entrance Test (AILET). It is known for its focus on policy research and litigation.

• Ranking: 3

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), LLM, and PhD

• Fees: ₹1,86,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 123 for BA LLB

• Placement: Top-tier law firms and public sector units recruit from NLU Delhi, with average packages around ₹14–18 LPA.

4. The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata

WBNUJS Kolkata is widely recognized for its stellar academic curriculum and robust placement record.

• Ranking: 4

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons) and LLM

• Fees: ₹2,42,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 127 for BA LLB

• Placement: Graduates often secure roles in top law firms and international organizations, with packages ranging between ₹12–15 LPA.

5. National Law University, Jodhpur (NLU Jodhpur)

NLU Jodhpur is known for its corporate law focus and consistent performance in national and international moot court competitions.

• Ranking: 5

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), BBA LLB (Hons), and LLM

• Fees: ₹2,90,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 104 for BA LLB

• Placement: Graduates are recruited by prestigious firms like Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, with salaries averaging ₹12–16 LPA.

6. Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar

GNLU Gandhinagar is a research-oriented institution that emphasizes interdisciplinary legal education.

• Ranking: 6

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), BBA LLB (Hons), and LLM

• Fees: ₹2,33,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 172 for BA LLB

• Placement: Leading firms and companies like Infosys and HDFC Bank recruit from GNLU, offering packages around ₹10–15 LPA.

7. Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur

HNLU Raipur is known for its lush green campus and focus on fostering practical legal skills among students.

• Ranking: 7

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons) and LLM

• Fees: ₹1,85,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 180 for BA LLB

• Placement: Students secure internships and jobs in law firms, judiciary, and corporates, with packages averaging ₹8–10 LPA.

8. Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Patiala

RGNUL Patiala is renowned for its strong academic foundation and focus on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

• Ranking: 8

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons) and LLM

• Fees: ₹2,30,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 180 for BA LLB

• Placement: Graduates often work with law firms, corporates, and government organizations, with salaries ranging from ₹7–10 LPA.

9. National Law University, Odisha (NLUO)

NLUO has quickly gained recognition for its innovative curriculum and focus on emerging areas of law like maritime law and energy law.

• Ranking: 9

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons), BBA LLB (Hons), and LLM

• Fees: ₹2,30,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 180 for BA LLB

• Placement: The average package ranges between ₹6–8 LPA, with top recruiters being law firms and public sector units.

10. National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi

NUALS Kochi is known for its serene campus and strong emphasis on intellectual property law and maritime law.

• Ranking: 10

• Programs Offered: BA LLB (Hons) and LLM

• Fees: ₹1,80,000 per year for BA LLB

• Seats: 120 for BA LLB

• Placement: Graduates secure roles in law firms, NGOs, and corporates, with average packages around ₹5–8 LPA.

Conclusion

Each NLU has its strengths, and your choice should align with your career goals, financial considerations, and area of interest. While NLSIU Bangalore remains the most sought-after NLU for its exceptional reputation, NLSIU Bangalore fees and the limited NLSIU Bangalore seats make it one of the most competitive institutions to get into. However, other NLUs also provide excellent opportunities for aspiring legal professionals.

Thorough research, a clear understanding of your priorities, and a strategic approach to CLAT preparation can help you secure a seat at your dream NLU.