Top Private & Government Law Colleges in India 2024: Rankings, Admissions, Placements & Courses

Top Law Colleges in India 2024: There are over 1800 law colleges in India accredited by the Bar Council of India (BCI). National Law School of India University, Bengaluru; National Law University, New Delhi; NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad; and Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia, are the top law colleges in India, according to the IIRF Law Ranking 2023.

Law courses in India offer a rich and diverse educational experience for aspiring legal professionals. These courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the Indian legal system, principles of justice, and various specialized areas of law. One of the most popular options for undergraduates is the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the top law colleges in India, which can be pursued as a three-year program after completing a bachelor's degree in any discipline or as a five-year integrated course directly after high school. This five-year integrated LLB program combines legal education with a bachelor's degree in arts, commerce, or business administration, allowing students to develop a strong interdisciplinary perspective.

For those seeking to deepen their legal knowledge and specialize in specific fields, India offers a range of postgraduate options at the top law colleges in India, including the Master of Laws (LLM). This two-year program allows students to explore advanced topics in law and choose from a variety of specializations, such as constitutional law, criminal law, international law, corporate law, and more. Additionally, India's legal education system places a significant emphasis on practical training. Students are required to undertake internships at law firms after graduating from the top law colleges in India, courts, or legal organizations, as well as participate in moot court competitions, to gain hands-on experience and refine their advocacy skills.

Moreover, the legal profession in India offers a wide array of career opportunities after graduating from top law colleges in India, ranging from litigation and corporate law to public service and legal academia. With a robust legal education system, diverse career prospects, and a strong emphasis on ethics and justice, law courses in India continue to attract motivated individuals who aspire to make a meaningful impact in the field of law.

Branches and Specializations

The law is a very broad field of study because it has the primary responsibility of keeping an eye on social norms and regulations. It is also a field that is constantly evolving as new laws are put in place to meet the demands of contemporary society. Some of the major branches and specializations offered at top private law colleges in India are mentioned below.

Criminal LawInternational Trade and Business LawTaxation Law
Intellectual Property LawCorporate Law and GovernanceEnvironmental Law
Constitutional LawInsurance LawHuman Rights
JurisprudenceInternational LawPersonal Laws
IPRTrade LawConstitutional and Administrative Law
Human Rights LawLegal Pedagogy and ResearchFamily and Social Security Law

The Major Highlights of the Law Courses

  • The judiciary is the most powerful sector that maintains the law in the country, and it’s the profession with the highest responsibilities.
  • Every organization needs a legal department, so it can be determined that job opportunities will always be higher in this discipline after completing their higher education from best law colleges in India.
  • Corporate law is the most important specialization of the law course at the top law colleges in India, as it offers higher paying jobs.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for law courses at the top law colleges in India can vary depending on the level of the course (undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral) and the specific institution or university. However, here are some common eligibility criteria for law courses in India:

For Undergraduate Law Courses (LLB and Integrated LLB Programs):

  1. For 5-Year Integrated Programs (Directly After High School):
  • To enroll in the best LLB colleges in India, candidates must have completed their 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board or institution.
  • The minimum aggregate marks required may vary from university to university, but they typically range from 45% to 50%.
  • Some of the best law colleges in India may have specific subject requirements at the 10+2 level.
  1. For 3-Year LLB Programs (After Graduation):
  • To enroll in the best LLB colleges in India, candidates must have completed a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
  • The minimum aggregate marks required may vary but are generally around 45% to 50%.
  • Entrance Exams: Some top private law colleges in India require candidates to take a national or state-level entrance examination such as CLAT (Common Law Admission Test), AILET (All India Law Entrance Test), or university-specific entrance tests.

For Postgraduate Law Courses (LLM):

  1. For LLM Programs:
  • To enroll in top LLM colleges in India, candidates must have completed an LLB degree or its equivalent from top law colleges in India.
  • The minimum aggregate marks required may vary but are generally around 50% to 55%.
  • Some top private law colleges in India may also consider the candidate's performance in the LLB program.
  • Entrance Exams: Some of the top private law colleges in India conduct entrance exams for LLM programs. Candidates need to qualify for these exams to secure admission.

For Doctoral Programs (Ph.D. in Law):

  • Candidates typically need to have a postgraduate degree in law (LLM) or a related field from the top LLM colleges in India.
  • Universities may require candidates to have a minimum percentage of marks in their postgraduate program, often around 55% to 60%.
  • Candidates are usually required to submit a research proposal as part of the admission process.

Additional Requirements:

  • Some of the top private law colleges in India may have age restrictions, so candidates should check the specific age eligibility criteria if applicable.
  • Reservation policies for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) may apply as per government regulations.
  • Foreign nationals and NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) may have different eligibility criteria and admission processes for the top government law colleges in India, and they may need to take additional entrance exams or provide proof of proficiency in English.

It's crucial for prospective students to carefully review the eligibility criteria of the top law colleges in India to which they intend to apply, as these criteria can vary. Additionally, meeting the eligibility requirements is just the first step; successful admission often depends on performance in entrance exams and the overall competitiveness of the application process.

Admission Procedure

The admission procedure for law courses in India involves several steps, and the exact process can vary depending on the level of the course (undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral) and the specific top law colleges in India. Here is a general overview of the admission procedure for top law institutes in India:

1. Research and Choose the Right Course and Institution:

Begin by researching the various law courses and top law colleges in India. Identify the specific course and best law colleges in India you are interested in based on your career goals, interests, and eligibility.

2. Check Eligibility Criteria:

Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the selected course. This includes educational qualifications, minimum aggregate marks, age restrictions (if any), and any specific subject requirements.

3. Entrance Examinations (if applicable):

  • Many top private law colleges in India require candidates to appear for national or state-level entrance examinations. The most common national-level law entrance exams include CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) and AILET (All India Law Entrance Test). Some of the best government law colleges in India may also conduct their own entrance exams.
  • Register for the relevant entrance examination to enroll in the top 10 law colleges in India by the specified deadline.
  • Prepare for the entrance exam to enroll in the best private law colleges in India by studying the prescribed syllabus, practicing past papers, and attending coaching classes if necessary.

4. Entrance Exam Results:

After taking the entrance exam, wait for the results to be announced. Your performance in the entrance exam plays a significant role in the admission process of the best law colleges in India.

5. Application and Documentation:

  • Once you have your entrance exam scores (if applicable) and meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for admission to your chosen top private law colleges in India.
  • Typically, you need to submit an online application form along with the required documents, which may include:
    • Mark sheets and certificates of previous qualifying examinations (10+2 for undergraduate courses, LLB for LLM, etc.).
    • Passport-sized photographs.
    • Identity proof (Aadhar card, passport, etc.).
    • Category or reservation certificates (if applicable).
    • Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable).

6. Merit List and Counseling (if applicable):

  • Top law institutes in India conduct a merit-based selection process, where they compile a merit list based on entrance exam scores, academic records, and other criteria.
  • If counseling rounds are part of the admission process, candidates are invited for counseling sessions where they can choose their preferred courses and institutions based on their ranks and availability of seats.

7. Seat Allotment and Admission:

  • After counseling, candidates are allotted seats in their chosen courses and top law colleges in India based on their preferences and merit.
  • Pay the admission fee and complete the formalities to secure your admission.

8. Commencement of Classes:

Once the admission process is complete, classes for the respective law course typically begin as per the academic calendar of the institution.

It's important to note that the admission procedure can vary at the best law colleges in India, so it's crucial to refer to the specific admission guidelines and timelines provided by the institution to which you are applying. Additionally, staying informed about the latest updates and changes in the admission process is essential.

Entrance Examination

The top private law colleges in India conduct their own entrance examinations and some of them also prefer the national level entrance examinations. Some of the important entrance examinations that are required to get admitted into best private law colleges in India are listed below.

LSAT India (Law School Admission Test)AILET (All India Law Entrance Test)SLAT (Symbiosis Law Admission Test)
CLAT (Common Law Admissions Test)BLAT (Banaras Hindu University Law Admission Test)AIBE (All India Bar Exam)
BVP CET LawMHCET LAWTS LAWCET
AP PGLCETGLATKLEE
LFATILICATILSAT
AP LAWCETNLSIU BangaloreNUJS Kolkata
NALSAR HyderabadGLC Mumbai 

In India, several entrance exams are conducted for admission to top LLB colleges in India and top LLM colleges in India. These exams are highly competitive, and performance in these exams plays a crucial role in securing a seat at some of India's top law colleges and universities. Here are some of the top entrance exams for law courses in India:  

1. CLAT (Common Law Admission Test):

  • CLAT is one of the most well-known and widely recognized entrance exams for admission to undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) law programs in India. This exam is used for admission to all the top law colleges in India.
  • For UG programs (5-year integrated LLB), CLAT tests candidates on subjects like English, General Knowledge, Legal Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Mathematics.
  • For PG programs (LLM), CLAT assesses candidates' knowledge of law, constitutional law, jurisprudence, and other legal subjects.
  • CLAT is conducted on a rotational basis by the National Law Universities (NLUs) consortium.

2. AILET (All India Law Entrance Test):

  • AILET is the entrance exam conducted by the National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi) for admission to its undergraduate and postgraduate law programs. Some of the top private law college in India use this entrance exam for their admission.
  • For UG programs, AILET tests candidates on English, General Knowledge, Legal Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Mathematics.
  • For PG programs, it assesses candidates' knowledge of law subjects, constitutional law, and jurisprudence.

3. LSAT India (Law School Admission Test India):

  • LSAT India is a standardized test designed for admissions to best government law colleges in India.
  • It assesses candidates' skills in logical reasoning, reading comprehension, and critical thinking.
  • LSAT India is known for its unique format, which includes multiple-choice questions and a writing sample.

4. MH CET Law (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test for Law):

  • MH CET Law is conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, for admission to law programs in the state of Maharashtra. It is also used for admission in the top private law universities in India.
  • It is applicable for both 3-year LLB and 5-year integrated LLB programs.
  • The exam assesses candidates on subjects like legal aptitude, logical and analytical reasoning, general knowledge, and English.

5. DU LLB Entrance Exam:

  • The University of Delhi conducts its entrance exam for admission to its 3-year LLB program. Most of the top LLB colleges in India accept this exam.
  • The exam typically includes sections on English language and comprehension, general knowledge, analytical abilities, and legal awareness.

6. SET Law (Symbiosis Entrance Test for Law):

  • SET Law is conducted by Symbiosis International University for admission to law programs offered by various Symbiosis Institutes. The test results are used for admission to the top ranked law colleges in India.
  • It assesses candidates on subjects such as logical reasoning, legal reasoning, analytical reasoning, and general knowledge.

7. BHU UET (Banaras Hindu University Undergraduate Entrance Test):

  • BHU UET is conducted by Banaras Hindu University for admission to its 3-year LLB program.
  • The exam tests candidates on subjects like general awareness, current affairs, common legal knowledge, and aptitude.

These are some of the top entrance exams for law courses in India. It's important for aspiring law students to research the specific entrance exams required by the law institutions in India they are interested in and prepare thoroughly, as competition for these exams is high, and a good score can significantly impact their chances of securing admission to their desired law school.

Syllabus

The syllabus of law courses in India can vary depending on the level of the course (undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral) and the specific institution or university offering the program. However, I can provide a general overview of the common subjects and topics typically covered in top law colleges in India:

For Undergraduate Law Courses (LLB and Integrated LLB Programs):

SubjectsTopics
Constitutional Law
  • Indian Constitution and its features.
  • Fundamental Rights and Duties.
  • Directive Principles of State Policy.
  • Judicial review and the role of the judiciary.
  • Citizenship and related issues.
Criminal Law
  • Indian Penal Code (IPC).
  • Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
  • Evidence Act.
  • Offenses and their classifications.
  • Criminal procedure and trials.
Civil Law
  • Indian Contract Act.
  • Law of Torts.
  • Law of Sale of Goods.
  • Law of Partnership.
  • Specific Relief Act.
Property Law
  • Transfer of Property Act.
  • Real Estate Laws.
  • Land Acquisition Laws.
  • Easements and Licenses.
Family Law
  • Hindu Marriage Act.
  • Special Marriage Act.
  • Hindu Succession Act.
  • Adoption Laws.
  • Divorce Laws.
Legal Methods and Research
  • Legal writing and research.
  • Case analysis and briefing.
  • Legal reasoning and interpretation.
  • Legal ethics and professionalism.
International Law
  • Principles of international law.
  • Treaties and conventions.
  • State responsibility.
  • Human rights and humanitarian law.
Administrative Law
  • Principles of administrative law.
  • Administrative tribunals and judicial review.
  • Administrative discretion and accountability.

For Postgraduate Law Courses (LLM):

LLM programs in India offer various specializations, and the syllabus can differ based on the chosen specialization. Common specializations include:

SubjectsTopics
Constitutional Law
  • Advanced study of constitutional principles.
  • Comparative constitutional law.
  • Fundamental rights jurisprudence.
Criminal Law
  • Advanced criminal law theories.
  • Criminology and penology.
  • Criminal justice system reforms.
Corporate and Commercial Law
  • Corporate governance and securities law.
  • Mergers and acquisitions.
  • Banking and finance law.
International Law
  • Advanced study of international treaties and conventions.
  • Environmental law.
  • International human rights law.
Human Rights Law
  • International human rights instruments.
  • Gender and human rights.
  • Refugee and asylum law.
Intellectual Property Law
  • Patents, trademarks, and copyright law.
  • Intellectual property litigation.
  • Technology and IP law.

For Doctoral Programs (Ph.D. in Law):

Ph.D. programs in law are research-oriented, and students work on a thesis or dissertation under the guidance of faculty members. The specific research topic and area of focus can vary widely based on individual research interests.

It's important to note that the syllabus and course offerings may evolve over time, and students should refer to the curriculum provided by their respective law institutions in India for the most up-to-date information on course content and requirements.

Fee

The average fees for law courses in India varied widely depending on several factors, including the type of institution, location, and the specific program or degree. However, please note that these figures may have changed, and it's essential to check with individual institutions for the most up-to-date fee information. Here's a general range:

National Law Universities (NLUs): 

NLUs are among the top law colleges in India, known for their quality education. The fees for undergraduate programs like the 5-year integrated BA LLB in NLUs can range from approximately ₹1 lakh to ₹2.5 lakhs per year for Indian nationals. Fees for NRI and foreign nationals tend to be higher.

Private Law Colleges/Universities: 

Top top private law colleges in India offer a wide range of fees. Some may charge a few lakhs per year, while others might have fees exceeding ₹5 lakhs per year for the same course.

Government Law Colleges: 

Top government colleges in India typically have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. The fees at top government law colleges in India can range from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per year for Indian nationals.

Diploma and Certificate Courses: 

Short-term diploma and certificate courses in law are also available, and their fees can vary significantly. These courses may cost anywhere from a few thousand rupees to a few lakhs, depending on the institution and course duration.

Please keep in mind that these figures are approximate and may have changed since my last update. Institutions may also offer scholarships and financial aid options based on merit or need, so it's advisable to research specific institutions and programs for the most current fee information and available financial assistance.

Careers Scope

Students have a lot of opportunities to excel in their professional careers in law, which is one of the high paying job sectors in India. After receiving your degree from top LLB colleges in India, choosing a career is a crucial step because it paves the way for future career advancement. Before graduating from law school, one may want to consider the following career options after receiving an LLB degree.

Job Profiles

Legal AdvisorCriminal LawyerCorporate Lawyer
Human Rights LawyerSocial WorkerProfessor
Litigation LawyerSolicitorLegal Analyst
Public ProsecutorLegal JournalistFamily Lawyer
JudiciaryLegal ResearcherLegal Editor
Coasts Lawyer  

Top Recruiters

TrilegalKPMG Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas And Co.
Deloitte J Sagar AssociatesMaheshwari & Co. 
Cyril Amarchand MangaldasMcKinsey and Co.Khaitan & Co.
AZB & Partners Kochhar & CoLuthra & Luthra Law Offices
Wadia Ghandy & CoEconomic Laws PracticeCyril Amarchand Mangaldas

Law graduates are expected to fight in courtrooms for the unheard part of society, and it can be considered one of the most noble causes anyone can pursue. The students can choose the best college that matches their desires and make the best possible career in this field of study.

FAQs

What are the different types of law courses available at top 25 law colleges in India?

India offers various law courses, including 5-year integrated undergraduate programs (e.g., BA LLB), 3-year LLB programs, LLM (Master of Laws), and specialized diploma/certificate courses.

How can I get admission to a National Law University (NLU)?

Admission to NLUs is typically through the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) or other state-specific law entrance exams. You must meet eligibility criteria and secure a good rank in these exams.

Are there any age limits for pursuing law courses at best government law colleges in India?

No, there is generally no specific age limit for enrolling in law courses in India.

What is the duration of a 5-year integrated law program in India?

Integrated law programs are typically 5 years long, including both undergraduate and legal education.

Can I pursue a law degree after completing my bachelor's in another field?

Yes, you can. There are 3-year LLB programs available for graduates of any discipline.

What is the scope of specialization in law courses?

Law courses offer specializations such as criminal law, corporate law, constitutional law, intellectual property law, and more, allowing you to focus on your area of interest.

Are law courses expensive at private law universities in India?

The cost of law courses varies widely. NLUs and private institutions tend to have higher fees, while government law colleges offer more affordable options.

Are there scholarships available for law students at top LLB colleges in Delhi?

Yes, many institutions offer scholarships based on merit and need. You can also explore government scholarships and private foundations for financial aid.

What are the career prospects after completing a law degree from top LLB college in Mumbai?

Law graduates can work as lawyers, legal advisors, judges, corporate counsel, in-house counsel, legal consultants, and pursue careers in academia, among others.

Do I need to clear the Bar Exam to practice law in India?

Yes, to practice law in India, you must clear the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) after completing your law degree.

Can I practice law in India if I have a foreign law degree?

You may need to complete additional requirements, such as the AIBE, to practice law in India with a foreign law degree.

Is it necessary to join a coaching institute for law entrance exams for top private LLB colleges in India?

It's not mandatory, but coaching institutes can provide guidance and help you prepare for law entrance exams effectively.

Can I pursue a law degree through distance education at top 25 law colleges in India?

No, the Bar Council of India does not recognize law degrees obtained through distance education for practice in India.

How competitive are admissions to NLUs in India?

Admissions to NLUs are highly competitive due to limited seats and a large number of applicants.

Are internships mandatory during a law degree program at the best law institute in Delhi?

Many law programs require internships to gain practical experience and exposure to the legal profession.

Can I practice in any Indian state after completing my law degree?

Yes, you can practice in any Indian state after clearing the Bar Exam, but you may need to register with the respective state bar council.

What is the difference between an LLB and an LLM degree?

An LLB is an undergraduate degree in law, while an LLM is a postgraduate master's degree that allows for specialization in a specific area of law.

Can foreign nationals study law in India?

Yes, foreign nationals can enroll in law courses in India, but they may have different admission requirements and fee structures.

What are the top law colleges in India, apart from NLUs?

Some of the top law colleges in India include Delhi University, Mumbai University, Pune University, and BHU.

Is there a reservation quota for certain categories of law courses at top 25 law colleges in India?

Yes, India has reservation quotas for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in law admissions, varying by state and institution.

Also Read: Top Universities in IndiaTop Engineering Colleges in India & Top MBA Colleges in India
 

Top 50 Private Law Colleges in India - IIRF Ranking 2024