The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is the gateway to India’s premier National Law Universities (NLUs). Every year, thousands of law aspirants compete for a limited number of seats across these prestigious institutions. With CLAT 2026 on the horizon, it’s time to take a closer look at the Top 10 NLUs you should aim for based on reputation, academics, placements, and overall student experience.
1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore
Established: 1987
Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Why It’s No. 1:
NLSIU is widely regarded as the Harvard of Indian legal education. Known for its academic rigor, influential alumni, and excellent placements, it consistently ranks at the top.
Key Highlights:
- Top-tier law faculty
- Strong mooting culture
- Excellent placements in corporate law and litigation
2. National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad
Established: 1998
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Why It’s Top-Tier:
NALSAR offers a balance of academic excellence and cultural vibrancy. It has a strong internship and placement cell, and is known for high-impact research.
Key Highlights:
- Strong alumni network in judiciary and civil services
- Diverse campus culture
- Regular interactions with top law firms
3. National Law University (NLU), Delhi (Note: NLU Delhi admits students via AILET, not CLAT)
Established: 2008
Location: New Delhi
Why Mentioned:
Even though NLU Delhi admits through AILET, it deserves mention for its stellar academic performance and central location.
Key Highlights:
- Top research output
- Preferred by students interested in litigation and policy
- Access to Supreme Court internships
4. The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
Established: 1999
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Why It Stands Out:
Known for academic excellence and strong connections with corporate law firms. WBNUJS has produced successful lawyers, judges, and policy experts.
Key Highlights:
- Strong internship program
- Active student committees
- Great alumni support
5. National Law University, Jodhpur (NLUJ)
Established: 1999
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Why It’s Popular:
NLUJ is known for its academic depth and robust mooting and debating culture. Its location offers a quiet and focused study environment.
Key Highlights:
- High placement rate
- Diverse academic offerings (including business law)
- Leading mooting teams
6. Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar
Established: 2003
Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat
Why GNLU:
GNLU is one of the fastest-growing NLUs with strong ties to government agencies and legal think tanks.
Key Highlights:
- Excellent campus infrastructure
- Strong administrative law and IPR focus
- Frequent seminars with legal luminaries
7. Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur
Established: 2003
Location: Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Why It’s Climbing the Ranks:
HNLU has recently improved significantly in terms of academic delivery, placements, and student activities.
Key Highlights:
- Growing placement numbers
- Increased research activity
- Active cultural scene
8. National Law University Odisha (NLUO), Cuttack
Established: 2009
Location: Cuttack, Odisha
Why Consider NLUO:
It has seen rapid development with improved academic standards, great mooting achievements, and rising corporate interest.
Key Highlights:
- Impressive mooting track record
- Strong faculty recruitment
- Modern library and tech support
9. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow
Established: 2006
Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Why It’s a Strong Choice:
RMLNLU is backed by strong government support and is a popular choice for students in North India.
Key Highlights:
- Judicial and litigation focus
- Central location in UP
- Reasonable student-teacher ratio
10. Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Patiala
Established: 2006
Location: Patiala, Punjab
Why It Makes the List:
RGNUL offers a solid academic program with a focus on constitutional law and public policy, making it a good option for civil service aspirants.
Key Highlights:
- Academic rigor
- Emphasis on research and publication
- Opportunities for public sector roles
Final Words
CLAT is the stepping stone to some of the best law schools in India. The top NLUs not only offer a great education but also open doors to prestigious careers in corporate law, litigation, civil services, academia, and more.
Pro Tip: Aim for the top 5 if you’re targeting high-end law firms or international internships. But remember, all NLUs have their own strengths, and your success ultimately depends on how you make use of the opportunities available.
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