Which is India’s top law college? Here’s everything you need to know

If you want to become a lawyer or work in the legal field, choosing the right college is very important. India has many well-known law institutes, and every year, thousands of students compete to get into the top ones. The application process for CLAT 2026 is already open, and candidates can apply by visiting the official CLAT website. But before you apply, you may wonder: Which law college is the best in India?

Don’t worry if you don’t know the answer. This article will give you all the important information you need. From the top-ranked law college to the complete list of the top 10 law institutes in India, here is everything you should know before starting your legal education journey.

According to the latest rankings released by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024, the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has been ranked as the number one law college in India. It continues to lead as the top choice for law students across the country.

Coming in at number two is the National Law University (NLU) in New Delhi, which is also highly respected for its excellent faculty, infrastructure, and career opportunities.

These rankings are based on various factors, including teaching quality, research output, graduation outcomes, facilities, and student support.

Top 10 law colleges in India you should consider

Here is the list of the top 10 law colleges in India as per the NIRF 2024 rankings:

1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru
   – The most prestigious law college in India, known for academic excellence and strong placements.

2. National Law University (NLU), New Delhi
   – Located in the capital, this university offers a top-notch legal education and is known for its competitive admission process.

3. NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
   – Another National Law University that has consistently ranked among the best for its strong faculty and student achievements.

4. The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
   – Known for its academic rigor and successful alumni, this university is a great choice for aspiring lawyers.

5. Symbiosis Law School, Pune
   – A popular private law school that offers both undergraduate and postgraduate law courses with excellent infrastructure.

6. Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
   – A central university that offers strong law programs with good rankings in recent years.

7. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur
   – Though best known for engineering, IIT Kharagpur also offers a respected law program through its Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law.

8. Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar
   – A leading National Law University with great academic facilities and student opportunities.

9. Institute of Law, NIRMA University, Bhubaneswar
   – A private institute that has made a name for itself with quality legal education and consistent performance in national rankings.

10. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow
    – A central university that has earned a place in the top 10 due to its growing reputation in the legal education space.

These rankings are based on the official NIRF 2024 data released by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Students can use this information as a reliable guide while deciding where to apply for their legal studies.

Why these rankings matter for your law career

Getting into a top-ranked law college not only provides a good learning environment but also opens up better career opportunities. Many top law firms, multinational companies, and government organisations prefer to hire graduates from these institutions. Students from top law colleges often get better internships, mentorship, and support for competitive exams such as the judiciary or civil services.

Also, the faculty at these colleges are highly experienced, and many are experts in areas like constitutional law, criminal law, international law, corporate law, and more. These institutions also focus on moot courts, legal research, internships, and debates, which are essential for building confidence and practical legal skills.

ALSO READ: How many times should you tie the Rakhi thread? Understanding the tradition behind it

ALSO READ: Modern parenting trend 'FAFO' sparks debate among experts and parents alike

If you’re aiming to appear for CLAT 2026, keep in mind that most National Law Universities (NLUs), including NLSIU and NLU Delhi, admit students based on CLAT scores. So, make sure to prepare well, as the competition is tough, and seats are limited.

Apart from the rankings, students should also consider factors like location, campus environment, fees, placement records, and student support systems when selecting a law college.

Choosing the right law college can shape your future. With the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru leading the list, followed by other reputed institutions like NLU Delhi and NALSAR Hyderabad, students have several great options to aim for. Keep these rankings in mind, prepare sincerely for CLAT 2026, and take the first step toward a successful law career.