A good law school sets the foundation for a great legal career.
For every CLAT aspirant, choosing the right college is as important as preparing for the exam itself. With numerous colleges accepting CLAT scores, knowing which ones stand out can be the key to shaping your future.
Hence, here, we’ll take you through the top CLAT colleges in India, including renowned National Law Universities (NLUs), CLAT-affiliated institutions, and other respected private law colleges.
Classification of CLAT Colleges in India
We have classified the colleges accepting CLAT score into three categories:
1. National Law Universities (NLUs)
NLUs are the most sought-after law schools in India, known for their academic excellence, strong faculty, and top-notch placements.
2. CLAT-Affiliated Colleges
There are many private and government CLAT colleges in India that are affiliated with the Consortium of NLUs and offer law programs based on CLAT scores.
3. Other CLAT Accepting Colleges
Apart from NLUs and affiliated colleges, several top law colleges in India also accept CLAT scores for admissions to their law programs.
Upcoming CLAT Exams:
Let’s discuss each of these in detail.
National Law Universities (NLUs): The Best CLAT Colleges
NLUs in India are among the most prestigious institutions for legal education. Established with the goal of advancing legal research and practice, there are 24 NLUs across the country, each recognized for its academic excellence and strong legal community.
Below is the list of National Law Universities that accept CLAT score for admission:
| Sr. No. | NLU Name | Location | Description |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bangalore, Karnataka | India’s top law school, ranked #1 in NIRF 2024. |
| 2 | NALSAR University of Law (NALSAR) | Hyderabad, Telangana | Known for academic excellence, ranked #3 in NIRF 2024. |
| 3 | The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences | Kolkata, West Bengal | Consistently ranked among the top NLUs. |
| 4 | National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | One of the oldest NLUs, known for strong placements. |
| 5 | National Law University (NLU) | Jodhpur, Rajasthan | Offers comprehensive law programs with top faculty. |
| 6 | Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU) | Raipur, Chhattisgarh | Focuses on practical legal training and research. |
| 7 | Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) | Gandhinagar, Gujarat | Ranked #8 in NIRF 2024, offers diverse law programs. |
| 8 | Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Silvassa Campus | Silvassa | Newer campus focusing on innovative legal education. |
| 9 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | Ranked #20 in NIRF 2024. |
| 10 | Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala, Punjab | Focuses on legal research, ranked #24 in NIRF 2024. |
| 11 | Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) | Patna, Bihar | Emerging as a preferred law institute, ranked #31. |
| 12 | National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS) | Kochi, Kerala | Ranked #37, known for its balanced academic approach. |
| 13 | National Law University Odisha (NLUO) | Cuttack, Odisha | Ranked #26, gaining recognition for quality education. |
| 14 | National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) | Ranchi, Jharkhand | Ranked #22 in NIRF 2024, focuses on interdisciplinary studies. |
| 15 | National Law University and Judicial Academy (NLUJAA) | Guwahati, Assam | Ranked #27, offers specialized law programs. |
| 16 | Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University (DSNLU) | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | Ranked #38, known for its growing reputation. |
| 17 | Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU) | Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu | A rapidly developing law school with a strong focus on research. |
| 18 | Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Mumbai | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Ranked #31, a highly reputed NLU in Maharashtra. |
| 19 | Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Nagpur | Nagpur, Maharashtra | Ranked #33, growing in stature as a top NLU. |
| 20 | Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Aurangabad | Aurangabad, Maharashtra | Newer NLU providing quality legal education in Maharashtra. |
| 21 | Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU) | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh | Situated in the serene hills of Shimla, offers legal excellence. |
| 22 | Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU) | Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh | A developing NLU focusing on justice-oriented education. |
| 23 | Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University (DBRANLU) | Sonepat, Haryana | Committed to promoting legal education and research. |
| 24 | National Law University, Tripura (NLUT) | Agartala | The latest NLU, focusing on cutting-edge legal studies. |
Why Are NLUs Highly Sought After?
NLUs are the best CLAT colleges in India, renowned for their rigorous curriculum, highly experienced faculty, and strong emphasis on both theoretical and practical aspects of law.
Graduates from NLUs often secure top positions in law firms, judiciary, corporate sectors, and academia. The exposure to moot courts, legal research, internships, and national/international competitions gives students the skills they need to excel in the legal profession.
Learn more about why NLUs are worth it.
Admission Through CLAT
Admission to NLUs is conducted solely through the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), a national-level entrance exam. CLAT is the only pathway for students to secure seats in the highly competitive BA LLB and LLM programs offered by NLUs.
Thousands of aspirants appear for CLAT each year, but with limited seats available, only the top-ranked students gain admission, making it one of the most competitive law entrance exams in India.
Know about:
Top CLAT Colleges in India (Other Than NLUs)
There are 40+ law colleges accepting CLAT score, other than NLUs. Here, we will talk about the CLAT-affiliated colleges that are officially partnered with Consortium of NLUs.
| Sr. No. | University Name | City/State |
| 1 | Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University | Prayagraj, U.P. |
| 2 | Alliance University | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 3 | Apeejay Stya University | Gurgaon, Haryana |
| 4 | Arka Jain University | Jharkhand |
| 5 | ASBM University | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
| 6 | Asian Law College | Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
| 7 | BITS Law School | Pilani, Rajasthan |
| 8 | BML Munjal University | Gurgaon, Haryana |
| 9 | D.Y. Patil Deemed to be University | Maharashtra |
| 10 | Fairfield-School of Law | Kapashera, New Delhi |
| 11 | Galgotias University | Greater Noida, U.P. |
| 12 | GD Goenka University | Gurgaon, Haryana |
| 13 | GITAM Deemed to be University | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| 14 | GLS University | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| 15 | Gopal Narayan Singh University | Sasaram, Bihar |
| 16 | Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | New Delhi |
| 17 | IMS Unison University | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
| 18 | Indian Institute of Management Rohtak | Rohtak, Haryana |
| 19 | Indore Institute of Law | Indore, Madhya Pradesh |
| 20 | Institute of Law, Nirma University | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| 21 | ISBR College | Bangalore, Karnataka |
| 22 | ITM University Raipur | Raipur, Chhattisgarh |
| 23 | Jagran Lakecity University | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh |
| 24 | JECRC University | Jaipur, Rajasthan |
| 25 | Lloyd Law College | Greater Noida, U.P. |
| 26 | Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phoole University | Jaipur, Rajasthan |
| 27 | Mahindra University | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| 28 | Mody University of Science and Technology | Laxmangarh, Rajasthan |
| 29 | National Forensic Sciences University | Gandhinagar, Gujarat |
| 30 | NIMT College of Law | Greater Noida, U.P. |
| 31 | Quantum University | Roorkee, Uttarakhand |
| 32 | Raffles University, Neemrana | Rajasthan |
| 33 | RV University | Bangalore, Karnataka |
| 34 | Sai University | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 35 | School of Law and Governance, Bharatiya Engineering Science and Technology Innovation University | Andhra Pradesh |
| 36 | Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya | Indore, M.P. |
| 37 | SRM University | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 38 | SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| 39 | The ICFAI University | Raipur, Chhattisgarh |
| 40 | University of Petroleum and Energy Studies | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
| 41 | Uttaranchal University | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
| 42 | VMLS Chennai | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
CLAT-affiliated colleges are private and government institutions that use CLAT scores for admission to their law programs, providing students with a wider range of options beyond National Law Universities (NLUs).
These colleges after clearing CLAT offer quality legal education and are known for their well-structured curriculums, experienced faculty, and focus on practical training.
One of the key advantages of law colleges under CLAT is the diversity in location, fee structure, and specializations, allowing students to choose a law school that aligns with their personal preferences and career goals.
Many of these institutions provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, moot court opportunities, internships, and partnerships with international law schools, enhancing the overall learning experience.
While NLUs are often the first choice for law aspirants, affiliated CLAT colleges also offer strong placement records, industry connections, and academic excellence.
These CLAT participating colleges are particularly beneficial for students who may not secure admission into NLUs but still wish to pursue a reputable law degree. With a growing number of institutions joining the CLAT consortium, these colleges provide a credible and reliable option for aspiring lawyers, helping them develop the necessary skills to excel in the legal profession.
Checkout : CLAT Marks vs Rank
Other Law Colleges Accepting CLAT Score
Apart from NLUs and CLAT-affiliated colleges, several other law schools across India accept CLAT scores for admission to their law programs. These colleges, though not directly affiliated with the CLAT consortium, have recognized the value of the exam and use CLAT scores as a key criterion for admission.
| Law Colleges Accepting CLAT | Location |
| Alliance University | Bangalore |
| ICFAI Law School | Dehradun |
| UPES | Dehradun |
| GITAM | Visakhapatnam |
These colleges of CLAT in India offer strong academic programs, well-rounded curriculums, and are known for their balanced focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical legal training. Many of these institutions are backed by years of experience in higher education and have built a solid reputation for producing competent legal professionals.
For students aiming for a well-rounded legal education but not focused solely on NLUs, these CLAT colleges in India present a great alternative to kick-start their legal careers.
Check the Top 5 NLUs in India
Top 10 CLAT Colleges in India
These are the top 10 CLAT colleges in India based on NIRF law rankings 2024:
| Ranking | College/University | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore | 83.83 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU), New Delhi | 77.48 |
| 3 | NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad | 77.05 |
| 4 | The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata | 76.39 |
| 5 | Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar | 69.56 |
| 6 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow | 55.92 |
| 7 | National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal | 55.64 |
| 8 | National University of Study & Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi | 55.52 |
| 9 | Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Patiala | 51.53 |
| 10 | National Law University Odisha (NLUO), Cuttack | 54.49 |
CLAT Colleges Fees 2025
Here is the fees of CLAT colleges in India:
| Category | Approximate Fee Range (Per Year) |
| National Law Universities (NLUs) | ₹2,20,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Private/CLAT-Affiliated Law Colleges | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
Read about CLAT Application Form
CLAT Colleges in Rajasthan
- National Law University (NLU), Jodhpur
- BITS Law School, Pilani
- JECRC University, Jaipur
- Mody University of Science and Technology, Laxmangarh
- Raffles University, Neemrana
- Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phoole University, Jaipur
CLAT Colleges in Bangalore
- National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore
- Alliance University, Bangalore
- ISBR College, Bangalore
- RV University, Bangalore
CLAT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
- Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU), Tiruchirappalli
- VMLS Chennai, Chennai
- Sai University, Chennai
- SRM University, Chennai
CLAT Colleges in Delhi
- Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU), New Delhi
- Fairfield-School of Law, Kapashera, New Delhi
CLAT Colleges in Mumbai
- Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Mumbai
- D.Y. Patil Deemed to be University, Maharashtra
- SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai
CLAT Colleges in Hyderabad
- NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
- Mahindra University, Hyderabad
CLAT Colleges in Kolkata
- The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
CLAT Colleges in Lucknow
- Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow
CLAT Colleges in Kerala
- National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi
CLAT Colleges in West Bengal
- The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
CLAT Colleges in Punjab
- Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Patiala
Read about: Life at NLU
How to Choose Best CLAT College in India?
The following are some key tips for selecting the right college for CLAT 2025:
1. Know Your CLAT Score and Rank
Your CLAT score and rank play a crucial role in determining your options. Higher ranks open doors to top NLUs, while lower ranks may offer admission to other reputed law schools. Use the score to filter your choices realistically.
2. Prioritize National Law Universities (NLUs)
If your rank is high, consider NLUs as they are prestigious, government-run institutions with strong academic reputations, great faculty, and excellent placements. Check the NLU cut-offs from previous years to gauge your chances.
Read CLAT Cut-off
3. Explore CLAT-Affiliated Colleges
If you’re unable to secure an NLU seat, many excellent private and government CLAT colleges also accept CLAT scores. Consider factors like curriculum, faculty, infrastructure, and placement records.
4. Consider Specializations and Course Offerings
Some CLAT colleges in India offer specializations in emerging areas of law like intellectual property, corporate law, or international law. Choose a college based on the areas of law you are interested in.
5. Check Placement Records
A strong placement record is important for future career prospects. Look at previous placement statistics, the top law firms that visit the campus, and the roles offered.
6. Location and Infrastructure
Consider the CLAT college’s location, accessibility, campus facilities, and overall learning environment. A good infrastructure supports better learning and overall development.
7. Affordability
Law education can be expensive, especially at private institutions. Consider the fee structure, availability of scholarships, and overall financial feasibility.
Learn more about how to study law in India.
8. Faculty and Alumni Network
A strong faculty and alumni network can have a significant impact on your legal education. Research the faculty profile and alumni achievements of CLAT college to understand the quality of education and opportunities available.
Check the Best Law Colleges in India
Preparation Tips to Get Top CLAT College in India
Below are key strategies on how to prepare for CLAT to secure admission to one of the best CLAT colleges in India:
1. Understand CLAT Exam Pattern
Familiarize yourself with the CLAT exam pattern. CLAT 2025 will consist of 120 questions from five sections: English, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques.
Each correct answer fetches one mark, and there is a 0.25 negative marking for wrong answers.
2. Focus on Time Management
Time management is crucial in CLAT preparation. Practice solving CLAT mock tests under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. Learn to allocate the right amount of time to each section.
Know in detail about:
3. Build Strong Reading and Comprehension Skills
There is a heavy emphasis on reading comprehension in CLAT, especially in the English and Legal Reasoning sections. Read newspapers, magazines, and editorials regularly to improve your reading speed, comprehension, and vocabulary.
4. Master Legal Reasoning
Legal Reasoning in CLAT is a scoring section. Focus on understanding the principles of law, solving legal reasoning problems, and applying logical thinking. Refer to past years CLAT papers to understand how legal scenarios are presented.
5. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Dedicate time daily to reading newspapers, current affairs magazines like CLAT Express, and online news portals. Focus on major national and international events from the past year as they appear in the General Knowledge and Current Affairs for CLAT.
6. Work on Quantitative Techniques
The Quantitative Techniques section is challenging for students, but scoring well in it can make a big difference. Focus on basic math concepts from 10th-grade level, such as percentages, ratios, and averages. Practice problem-solving regularly.
Must check:
- CLAT Quantitative Techniques Questions
- Percentage Questions for CLAT
- Venn Diagram Questions for CLAT
7. Strengthen Logical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning in CLAT requires both practice and strategy. Solve puzzles, riddles, and reasoning questions to develop a strong foundation. Practice previous year CLAT papers to get familiar with the types of questions asked.
8. Take Mock Tests Regularly
Taking regular CLAT mock tests is one of the best ways to prepare for CLAT. Mock tests help you assess your performance, identify weaknesses, and build exam-taking confidence. Simulate actual exam conditions to improve your endurance and focus.
Attempt for Free:
- Free CLAT Mock Test
- CLAT English Mock Test
- CLAT Legal Reasoning Mock Test
- CLAT Logical Reasoning Mock Test
9. Analyze Past CLAT Papers
Review and analyze previous year’s papers of CLAT to understand the trend of questions, level of difficulty, and focus areas. Solving past papers also helps in understanding how to approach each section.
10. Stay Consistent and Organized
Consistency is key to CLAT preparation. Create a daily schedule, breaking down your study plan into sections, and allocate enough time to revise regularly. Stay organized by keeping track of your progress and adjusting your strategy based on performance.
11. Join Coaching
For strategic preparation, join top institutes for CLAT coaching in India, like Law Prep Tutorial, that produces toppers every single year.
FAQs About CLAT Colleges in India
The fees of CLAT colleges vary between ₹2,00,000 and ₹5,00,000 annually, depending on the institution.
No, all NLUs require a valid CLAT score for admission to their law programs, except for NLU Delhi (which accepts AILET score).
Yes, many private law colleges offer admissions through other entrance exams or merit, without requiring CLAT scores.
Yes, many private law colleges in India do not require CLAT and admit students through other exams or merit.
Approximately 24 NLUs and 50+ other private colleges accept CLAT scores.
No, NLU Delhi does not accept CLAT scores. It conducts its own entrance exam, AILET.
Colleges accepting CLAT scores other than NLUs include private law schools like UPES, ICFAI Law School, and Alliance University.
CLAT-affiliated colleges are institutions that have signed MOUs with the NLUs to accept CLAT scores for admissions.
Yes, many private law colleges through CLAT accept scores for admission to their undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Yes, many CLAT colleges offer scholarships based on merit, need, and category, reducing the overall fee burden.
Most CLAT colleges, including NLUs, offer hostel facilities for students, but availability and cost vary by institution.
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