How to Choose the Right Law College (Beyond NLUs)

Choosing the right law college is a crucial decision that can shape your legal career. While National Law Universities (NLUs) dominate the conversation, many other prestigious institutions offer excellent legal education, unique specializations, and strong placement opportunities.

This guide will help you:

✔ Identify top law colleges beyond NLUs

✔ Understand key selection criteria

✔ Compare different types of law programs

Top Prestigious Law Colleges (Beyond NLUs)

Here are some of India’s best law schools outside the NLU system:

1. Faculty of Law, Delhi University (DU)

• Programs: 3-year LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • One of India’s oldest and most reputed law faculties

  • Strong alumni network in judiciary and litigation

  • Prime location (Delhi High Court & Supreme Court proximity)

2. Symbiosis Law School (SLS Pune, Noida, Hyderabad)

• Programs: 5-year BA/BBA LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • Corporate-focused curriculum

  • Strong industry connections (top law firms recruit here)

  • Better infrastructure than many NLUs

3. Jindal Global Law School (JGLS), Sonipat

• Programs: 5-year BA/BBA LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • International collaborations (Harvard, Oxford ties)

  • High placement packages (₹15-20 LPA for top students)

  • Focus on global legal education

4. ILS Law College, Pune

• Programs: 3-year LL.B., 5-year BBA LL.B.

• Why Choose?

  • Legacy institution with strong academic reputation

  • Excellent moot court and debate culture

  • Affordable fees compared to private NLUs

5. Christ University, Bangalore (School of Law)

• Programs: 5-year BA/BBA LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • Interdisciplinary legal education

  • Strong corporate and litigation placements

  • Vibrant campus life

6. Government Law College (GLC), Mumbai

• Programs: 3-year LL.B., 5-year integrated courses

• Why Choose?

  • Historic institution (alumni include Dr. B.R. Ambedkar)

  • Prime location for Bombay High Court internships

  • Affordable fees

7. KIIT Law School, Bhubaneswar

• Programs: 5-year BA/BBA LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • Strong moot court record

  • Good corporate placements

  • Modern infrastructure

8. Amity Law School, Delhi & Noida

• Programs: 5-year BA/BBA LL.B., LL.M.

• Why Choose?

  • Industry-aligned curriculum

  • Good placement support

  • Multiple campus options

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Law College

1. Placement Records

• Check if the college has tie-ups with law firms, corporates, and NGOs.

• Compare average salary packages and internship opportunities.

2. Faculty & Curriculum

• Look for experienced professors with industry/judicial experience.

• Does the college offer specializations (Corporate Law, IPR, Cyber Law)?

3. Location Advantage

• Colleges in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore provide better internship access.

• Proximity to courts & law firms helps in networking.

4. Fees & Scholarships

• NLUs are cheaper, but private colleges like JGLS/Symbiosis offer scholarships.

• Compare ROI (placement salary vs. fees).

5. Moot Courts & Extracurriculars

• Strong moot court societies = better practical exposure.

• Check for debate, legal aid, and research opportunities.

6. Alumni Network

• A strong alumni network helps in internships and job referrals.

• Research where graduates are working (law firms, judiciary, corporates).

Government vs. Private Law Colleges: Which is Better?

Factor	Government Colleges (DU, GLC, etc.)	Private Colleges (JGLS, Symbiosis, etc.)
Fees	₹10,000-50,000/year	₹2-5 Lakhs/year
Placements	Judiciary-focused	Corporate-focused
Exams Accepted	DU LL.B., State CETs	CLAT (optional), SET, LSAT
Infrastructure	Basic	World-class (some private colleges)

Verdict:

• If you want affordable, litigation/judiciary-focused education → Government colleges

• If you prefer corporate placements, global exposure → Top private law schools

  
  

Final Checklist Before Selecting a Law College

✅ Does it have good placement records?

✅ Is the faculty reputed?

✅ Are there internship opportunities nearby?

✅ Does it offer specialization options?

✅ Can I afford the fees (or get scholarships)?

Conclusion: Beyond NLUs, Great Options Exist!

While NLUs are prestigious, colleges like DU Law, Symbiosis, JGLS, and ILS Pune offer comparable (sometimes better) opportunities. Your success depends on how you utilize your college’s resources, not just its brand name.

Pro Tip: Visit campuses (if possible), talk to current students, and compare before deciding!

🚀 Want help with law entrance prep? Check out our CLAT & Non-NLU Law Exam Guide!