When you think of building a meaningful career in law, you naturally look toward institutions that shape future leaders, and that’s where we see CNLU Patna standing strong among India’s top 10 NLUs.
At Chanakya National Law University, you step into a campus that blends academic excellence with purpose, discipline, and opportunity.
As you explore NLU Patna, you’ll see that it offers two flagship 5-year programs – BA LLB (Hons.) and BBA LLB (Hons.) – with 69 seats each for UG students. What makes it even more special is that around 50% of these seats are reserved for Bihar category students, creating a unique mix of diversity and representation on campus.
About CNLU Patna
Chanakya National Law University, Patna, was established under the CNLU Act, 2006, and holds UGC approval under Sections 2(f) and 12(B). As one of India’s prominent National Law Universities, CNLU aims to provide research-based, multidisciplinary legal education while instilling constitutional values and social responsibility in students.
Its campus is located in Nyaya Nagar, Mithapur, Patna, surrounded by major educational institutions and positioned close to the airport and railway station. The NLU Patna offers a rich academic environment with smart classrooms, a well-stocked library, research centres, student committees, sports facilities, and separate hostels for boys and girls.
The university offers BA LLB, BBA LLB, LLM, 3-Year LLB (Hons.), PG Diploma courses, PhD in Law, and PhD (Interdisciplinary), making it a comprehensive destination for legal studies in India.
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Chanakya National Law University Patna: Key Highlights
These are the key details about CNLU Patna:
| Key Detail | Information |
| University Name | Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) |
| Ranking | 7th among NLUs (17th among all law colleges) |
| Established Year | 2006 |
| University Type | Public / State National Law University |
| Location | Nyaya Nagar, Mithapur, Patna – 800001 |
| UGC Status | Recognised under Sections 2(f) & 12(B) |
| UG Programs | BA LLB (Hons.), BBA LLB (Hons.) |
| UG Seats | 69 (BA LLB), 69 (BBA LLB) |
| PG Program | LLM (One-Year) |
| LLM Seats | 66 |
| CNLU 3-Year LLB Program | Yes (3-Year LLB Hons.) |
| 3-Year LLB Seats | 60 |
| Doctoral Programs | PhD in Law & PhD (Interdisciplinary) |
| PG Diploma Programs | Available (various fields) |
| UG Entrance Exam | CLAT |
| LLM Entrance Exam | CLAT-PG |
| 3-Year LLB Entrance | CNLU-ET |
| Reservation System | As per Bihar Reservation Act, 2003 |
| Approx. Bihar Category Share | ~50% of seats |
| Hostel Availability | Separate boys & girls hostels (not for 3-year LLB) |
| Library | Accessible, rich with legal databases & journals |
| Campus Accessibility | Ramps, lifts, inclusive design |
| Career Development Cell | Handles placements & internships |
| Placement Rate | ~82% |
| Average Package | 10.8 LPA |
| Highest Package | ~₹22 LPA |
| Health Facility | 24×7 doctor, ambulance & basic medicines |
| Major Research Centres | Child Rights Centre, CARCIL, CCADR, CIILE, others |
CNLU Patna Courses (Programmes)
These are the courses offered by NLU Patna:
| Programme | Duration | Admission Test |
| BA LLB (Hons.) | 5 Years | CLAT |
| BBA LLB (Hons.) | 5 Years | CLAT |
| LLM | 1 Year | CLAT-PG |
| LLB (Hons.) | 3 Years | CNLU-ET |
| PhD in Law | Min. 3 Years | University Test + Interview |
| PhD Interdisciplinary | Min. 3 Years | University Test + Interview |
| PG Diploma Courses | 1 Year | As per university guidelines |
CNLU Patna Admission Process
| Course | Entrance Exam | Eligibility | Additional Criteria |
| BA LLB (Hons.) & BBA LLB (Hons.) | CLAT | 10+2 with 45% | Seats filled strictly by CLAT AIR; category rules of Bihar apply |
| LLM (1-Year) | CLAT-PG | LLB/Equivalent | Selection based on CLAT-PG AIR |
| 3-Year LLB (Hons.) | CNLU-ET | Bachelor’s degree with 60% (Gen/BC/EBC/EWS), 55% (SC/ST) | Reservation as per Bihar rules |
| PhD (Law) | University Test + Interview | LLM degree | As per university regulations |
| PhD (Interdisciplinary) | University Test + Interview | PG degree in relevant field | As per university regulations |
The CNLU admission process is fully merit-based and driven by national and university-level entrance examinations. CLAT is mandatory for BA LLB, BBA LLB, and LLM, while the 3-Year LLB (Hons.) is offered only through CNLU-ET.
PhD admissions involve a written test and an interview. Bihar reservation rules apply across most programmes.
CNLU Seat Intake 2026
CNLU’s UG programmes offer a total of 138 seats, split equally between BA LLB and BBA LLB. The LLM programme offers 66 seats, while the newly introduced 3-Year LLB (Hons.) has 60 seats.
| Course | Total Seats |
| BA LLB (Hons.) | 69 |
| BBA LLB (Hons.) | 69 |
| LLM (1-Year) | 66 |
| 3-Year LLB (Hons.) | 60 |
| PhD (Law) | University-dependent |
| PhD (Interdisciplinary) | University-dependent |
Check the detailed CNLU Patna seat matrix for all courses.
Key resources to explore after your CLAT exam
| CLAT 2026 Result | CLAT 2026 Answer Key |
| CLAT 2026 Counselling | CLAT 2026 Admit Card |
| CLAT 2026 Marks vs Rank | CLAT 2026 Rank Predictor |
| CLAT 2026 Question Paper | CLAT 2026 Toppers |
| CLAT 2026 College Predictor |
CNLU Fee Structure 2026
Check the fees of CNLU Patna:
| Course | 1st Year Fees | Remarks |
| BA LLB (Hons.) | ₹2,72,253 | Including tuition fees, hostel & mess charges, other fees |
| BBA LLB (Hons.) | ₹2,72,253 | Including tuition fees, hostel & mess charges, other fees |
| LLM (1-Year, Without Hostel) | ₹1,83,275 | – |
| LLM (1-Year, With Hostel) | ₹2,48,275 | – |
| 3-Year LLB (Hons.) | ₹1,85,470 | Hostel facility not available |
CNLU Patna Placements
Check the NLU Patna placements for the latest year reported:
| Placement Metric | Details |
| Placement Rate | ~82% |
| Average Package | ₹10.8 LPA |
| Highest Package | ₹22 LPA |
CNLU Patna Cut Off for CLAT
These are the opening and closing ranks for admission to BA LLB (Hons.) and BBA LLB (Hons.) at CNLU Patna through CLAT 2025. CNLU Cut offs change every year depending on seat availability, difficulty level of CLAT, preferences, and reservations.
BA LLB (Hons.)
| Category | Opening Rank | Closing Rank |
| General | 882 | 1398 |
| EWS | 1420* | 1950* |
| OBC | 1861* | 7359* |
| SC | 7884* | 12662* |
| ST | — | 16829* |
BBA LLB (Hons.)
| Category | Opening Rank | Closing Rank |
| General | 1215 | 1555 |
| EWS | 1928* | 2316* |
| OBC | 3106* | 8364* |
| SC | 12269* | 15833* |
| ST | — | 27043* |
CNLU Patna Ranking
CNLU Patna’s ranking has shown remarkable progress in recent years, emerging as one of the fastest-rising NLUs in the country. In the NIRF Law Rankings 2025, it secured the 7th position among all NLUs and achieved an impressive 17th rank among 40 law institutions across India.
| Category | Rank |
| Rank Among NLUs | 7th |
| Rank Among All Law Colleges in India | 17th |
Free CLAT Study Material for You:
| CLAT Previous Year Question Paper | CLAT Sample Papers |
| CLAT Topper Interviews | CLAT Mock Test |
| CLAT Current Affairs |
CNLU Campus Life
1. Campus Area & Infrastructure
CNLU offers a calm, academically focused campus with well-planned academic blocks, hostels, accessibility ramps, lifts, and open spaces. The university emphasizes dignity, equity, and inclusivity in all its spaces.
The campus is designed to ensure that every student, including persons with disabilities, can move freely and participate fully in academic and co-curricular life.
- Ramps & lifts across academic buildings
- Smart classrooms & seminar halls
- Barrier-free movement
- Thoughtfully designed pathways
- Inclusive sports areas
2. Library (Chanakya Library of CNLU)
The CNLU library is designed as a wide, accessible, and resource-rich space where every student can study comfortably. It supports academic research with journals, databases, bare acts, reference books, and a peaceful ambiance.
The university emphasises that the library welcomes all learners “in space and spirit,” ensuring full accessibility for students with different abilities.
- Fully accessible layout
- Rich legal databases
- Bare Acts & commentaries
- Dedicated reading rooms
- Open for extended hours
3. CNLU Classrooms & Technology
CNLU classrooms are equipped with smart boards, projectors, and audio-visual tools that support interactive learning. The university prioritises modern, inclusive educational environments where technology assists teaching and also supports students with diverse needs through accessible layouts, improved acoustics, and barrier-free entry.
- Smart classrooms
- Audio-visual teaching aids
- Accessibility-friendly layouts
- Seminar rooms for guest lectures
- Tech-enabled learning environment
4. Moot Court Hall
The Moot Court Hall replicates a real courtroom setup, enabling students to practice drafting, argumentation, research, and advocacy. It hosts internal selections, workshops, training sessions, and inter-university moots. This space is central to building practical litigation skills among CNLU students.
- Courtroom-style setup
- Advocacy & drafting practice
- Internal moot selections
- Workshops & legal competitions
- Guidance from faculty & alumni
5. Sports & Recreation
Sports and recreation are an essential part of campus life at CNLU. The sports ground is accessible, promoting equal participation for students of all abilities. A culture of collective wellness is encouraged through regular sports events, physical activity, and student-led sports committees.
- Large playgrounds
- Accessible sports areas
- Indoor games
- Student-led sports committees
- Inclusive recreation spaces
6. Research & Centres of Excellence
CNLU Bihar hosts several research centres that promote innovation, policy work, corporate law research, ADR, child rights, and entrepreneurship. These centres create opportunities for internships, research projects, publications, and hands-on exposure.
Major Centres:
- Child Rights Centre
- Gender Resource Centre
- Chanakya Centre for ADR
- Centre for Law & Economics
- CRC, CARCIL
- Centre for Innovation, Incubation & Legal Entrepreneurship (CIILE)
7. Career Development Cell (CDC)
The CDC connects students with recruiters, manages internships, and ensures transparent placement processes. It includes recruitment and internship committees and coordinates pre-placement talks, tests, and interviews. All communication with companies is routed through the CDC to maintain fairness and professionalism.
- Dedicated placement & internship committees
- Pre-placement talks
- Transparent recruitment processes
- Coordination with legal firms & organisations
8. Health Centre (24×7)
CNLU has a fully functional health centre that offers round-the-clock medical support. The facility includes basic medicines, a resident doctor, para-medical staff, ambulance support, and oxygen arrangements, ensuring student health and safety at all times.
- 24×7 medical help
- Resident doctor & staff
- Basic medicines
- Oxygen & ambulance services
Must Know for Every CLAT Aspirant:
| CLAT Marking Scheme | CLAT Exam Date |
| Best Books for CLAT Preparation | CLAT Syllabus PDF |
| CLAT Eligibility Criteria | CLAT Exam Pattern |
| CLAT Age Limit | Career Opportunities after Law |
CNLU Patna Hostel
1. Hostel Rooms
Hostel rooms at NLU Patna are allotted annually and maintained under the supervision of Resident Wardens. Rooms are furnished, well-ventilated, and designed to create a comfortable study environment.
Students must apply each year for re-admission, and unauthorized shifting of rooms is strictly prohibited as per hostel regulations.
- Annual room allotment
- Single & shared rooms
- Ventilated, furnished setup
- Strict anti-shifting rules
- Warden-supervised accommodation
2. Hostel Life at NLU Patna
The hostel is meant to promote cooperation, fraternity, national integration, and an overall sense of responsibility. Students live together, learn together, and participate in sports, cultural events, and academic activities. Discipline and mutual respect form the backbone of hostel culture.
- Community living atmosphere
- Academic-friendly environment
- Extracurricular engagement
- Focus on cooperation & integration
- Strong disciplinary framework
3. Mess & Dining Facilities
The mess operates under a committee comprising faculty, wardens, staff, and student representatives. It ensures hygienic, nutritious food and strictly follows prescribed timings. Outside food is not permitted, and students must follow all rules related to food service and dining discipline.
- Faculty + student-run mess committee
- Hygienic meals
- Fixed dining timings
- No outside food allowed
- Food for sick students with permission
4. Common Areas & Amenities
Hostels include common areas for studying, discussions, and relaxation. These spaces support group activities and offer students a chance to interact beyond academics. Cleanliness, hygiene, and proper use of facilities are supervised by wardens and disciplinary committees.
- Study spaces
- Recreation areas
- Clean, maintained environment
- Monitored by wardens
- Community-friendly design
5. CNLU Hostel Rules & Discipline
CNLU hostel rules ensure safety, discipline, and well-organized living. Regulations include dress codes, permission requirements for outings, attendance marking, restrictions on electrical appliances, curfew timings, and strict bans on smoking, alcohol, narcotics, ragging, and misbehavior. Violations attract heavy penalties or expulsion.
- Curfew at 10 PM
- Mandatory attendance
- Permission required for night-outs
- Strict anti-ragging enforcement
- Zero tolerance for intoxicants
- Electrical appliance restrictions
Law Colleges Information Related to CLAT:
CNLU Patna Address & Contact Details
| Detail | Information |
| University Name | Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna |
| Address | Nyaya Nagar, Mithapur, Patna – 800001, Bihar, India |
| Phone Number | 0612-2352300 |
| Official Website | www.cnlu.ac.in |
| Official Email (General) | registrar@cnlu.ac.in |
| Admission Email | admission@cnlu.ac.in |
FAQs About CNLU Patna
CNLU Patna is a public/state National Law University established by the Chanakya National Law University Act, 2006.
It is located at Nyaya Nagar, Mithapur, Patna – 800001, Bihar, close to major transport hubs like the railway station and airport.
You can pursue BA LLB (Hons.), BBA LLB (Hons.), LLM (1-year), 3-Year LLB (Hons.), PG Diploma programmes, PhD in Law, and PhD (Interdisciplinary).
Yes. Seats are reserved as per the Bihar Reservation Act, with categories such as SC, ST, EBC, BC, and WBC of Bihar. Effectively, around half the UG seats go to Bihar categories.
For BA LLB (Hons.) and BBA LLB (Hons.), you must appear for CLAT UG and secure a suitable All India Rank.
For the LLM (One-Year) programme, admission is based on your CLAT-PG All India Rank.
You need a bachelor’s degree with 60% marks (Gen/BC/EBC/EWS/PwD) or 55% marks (SC/ST) in aggregate, as per the brochure.
Yes. CNLU has separate hostels for male and female students. Hostel is optional for UG, and for some programmes hostel is allotted subject to availability and priority to non-local students.
Yes. The campus emphasises accessibility through ramps, lifts, accessible library, inclusive teaching, and a strong focus on dignity and equity for all abilities.
Yes. CNLU hosts prestigious moot court competitions in Commercial Laws and Cyber Law, along with internal moots and regular participation in national and international competitions.
Yes. If you want an NLU environment with a growing placement record, strong research centres, and an inclusive campus culture, CNLU is a serious option to consider in your NLU preference list.
Important Resources for CLAT PG Preparation:
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| CLAT PG Cut Off | CLAT PG Exam Pattern |
| CLAT PG Syllabus | CLAT PG Previous Year Question Papers |
| Online CLAT PG Coaching | CLAT PG Mock Test |
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