When students reach their final years of school, they often contemplate which career path will provide growth and stability. While many still choose the traditional paths of engineering or medicine, there is a noticeable shift in trends. Nowadays, students are increasingly drawn to the field of law due to its promising career prospects and relatively lower competition compared to other streams. Pursuing higher education in law opens up opportunities for stable career growth in both the government and private sectors. There are two ways to obtain a law degree: enrolling in a three-year LLB program after completing graduation or gaining admission to a five-year integrated course with B.Sc, B.A, or B.Com.
1. National Law School of India University, Bengaluru.
Established in 1986 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, this law school is renowned and prestigious. It holds the distinction of being the first national law university in India, established under the National Law School of India University Act. NLSIU is a member of AIU (Association of Indian Universities) and is recognized by the UGC. In 2021, NIRF ranked NLSIU as the top university for law. Previously, NLSIU used to admit students through CLAT. However, starting from 2020, it conducts its own national-level entrance test called the National Law School Admission Test. This test consists of three stages, including two written exams and interviews.
2. National Law University, Delhi
Established in 2008 in Delhi under the National Law University Delhi Act 2007, National Law University offers a range of programs. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in law, as well as Ph.D. programs and PG Diploma courses. The university offers courses in 7 different streams across two programs. For admissions, NLUD conducts the All India Law Entrance Test (AILET), a national-level entrance exam. This law school in Delhi is renowned for its teaching methods and educational pedagogy. It includes seminars and tutorials conducted by experienced faculty members and law experts.
3. NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
Considered one of the most prestigious law schools in the country, this institution is highly sought after by students for admission. The National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR) was established in Hyderabad, Telangana, in 1998. Admission to its LLB program is incredibly competitive, with over 80,000 students appearing for the entrance exam. However, only 120 students are granted admission. NALSAR admits students through the CLAT exam. The law school offers a diverse range of courses, including 5-year integrated B.A., LLB, LLM, MBLA (Masters in Business Law and Administration), M.Phil, Ph.D., MSTL (Masters in Space & Telecommunications Laws), MALATM (Masters in Aviation Law and Air Transport Management), PG Diploma, and a newly introduced 2-year MBA program, the first among all Indian National Law Universities.
4. National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata
Established in 1999 by the government of West Bengal in collaboration with the Bar Council of India, this school is recognized as one of the top elite law colleges. It offers a 5-year integrated program in B.A/B.Sc L.L.B (Hons) and L.L.M. Admissions to the school are based on the marks obtained in CLAT. The primary objective of this law school is to advance the understanding and knowledge of legal processes and laws and their role in national development. It also aims to promote interdisciplinary studies of law in areas such as technology, management, development, and international cooperation.
5. IIT Kharagpur
Founded in 1951, it is an autonomous institute of national importance. While many may not be aware, IIT Kharagpur also offers law courses and has been ranked 5th in law according to the NIRF ranking of 2021. IIT Kharagpur has collaborations with various institutes, including the University of Melbourne, Curtin, and IIM Calcutta. The institution boasts a sprawling campus spread across 2100 acres, providing extensive facilities for students. For admission into the L.L.B and L.L.M programs, IIT Kharagpur conducts entrance exams consisting of two levels – objective computer-based tests and interviews.
6. Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar
Established in 2003 through the Gujarat National Law University Act 2003, this law school holds a significant position. Recognized by the University Grant Commission (UGC) and the Bar Council of India (BCI), it maintains its credibility. Membership in prestigious national and international organizations such as the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the International Association of Law Schools (IALS), United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI), Shashtri Indo Canadian Institute, and Asian Law Institute (ASLI) adds to its reputation. Collaborations with universities across various countries including Australia, Spain, the USA, France, the UK, Germany, Japan, and more enhance its global reach.
7. Jamia Milia Islamia, Delhi
Established in 1920 during the British Raj, it is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious universities. In 1935, the university was relocated to its current location and later became a central university in 1988. Ranked 7th in the NIRF ranking of 2021, it has also received an A++ ranking from NAAC. The university has established collaborations with various foreign universities, including the University of Virginia in the USA and INALCO in France. It also offers a student exchange program with the University of Applied Science in Erfurt, Germany. For law courses, the university offers B.A. L.L.B and L.L.M programs. Admission to these courses requires clearing the entrance exam conducted by Jamia Milia Islamia University.
8. National Law University, Jodhpur
Established in 2000 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, this law university holds a prominent position. As a publicly owned state university, it is recognized by the University Grant Commission (UGC). In the category of law, it has achieved an impressive 8th rank in the NIRF ranking of 2021. The vision and objective of this law university revolve around creating a conducive environment for students and striving for excellence in legal education. Admissions to the university are based on CLAT and CLAT PG scores for the master’s in law program. It offers a variety of courses, including B.A L.L.B Hons, B.B.A L.L.B Hons, L.L.M, and Ph.D. (For Ph.D. admission, the university conducts an entrance exam followed by an interview).
9. Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Established in 1977, this law school later became a constituent college of Symbiosis International University in 2002. Recognized by the Bar Council of India (BCI), it has also been honored with the Gold Star Award in 2013. With over 1900 enrolled students and a faculty of more than 140 members, it boasts a vibrant academic community. The law school offers admissions in UG, PG, and Diploma programs across 11 different courses. Among its offerings are the five-year integrated courses of B.A L.L.B Hons and B.B.A L.L.B, along with various specialization options for the LLM program.
10. Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar
Established in 1992 by Achyuta Samanta, this institute was founded with the vision of creating a socially beneficial institution. Despite its humble beginnings, the institute has built a strong foundation that has propelled it to become one of India’s leading universities. In 2004, it was declared a Deemed to be University by MHRD and accredited as Tier 1 (Washington Accord) by NBA. NIRF ranked KIIT as the 10th top law school in India in 2021.
