For more than seven consecutive years, NLSIU Bengaluru has held the No. 1 position in India’s law school rankings, making it the most consistently top-ranked NLU since NIRF began evaluating law institutions.
Right behind it, NLU Delhi has firmly maintained the second spot for several years, reflecting its steady performance, strong academics, and placement outcomes.
The NLU Ranking 2025 released under the NIRF framework once again confirms this long-standing trend while also highlighting how other NLUs have risen, stabilised, or shifted over time.
Below, we have shared the complete NIRF NLU rankings 2025, past year patterns, and key insights to help aspirants understand the real picture before filling their CLAT or AILET preferences.
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What Are NIRF Law Rankings and Why Do They Matter?
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) is the official ranking system released annually by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. It evaluates higher education institutions using transparent and research-based parameters.
These rankings are important because:
- They help students compare colleges based on quality, reputation, and outcomes.
- They highlight real performance in teaching, research, placements, diversity, and perception.
- They influence preference filling during CLAT counselling and AILET counselling.
- They showcase consistency of top institutions like NLSIU and NLU Delhi.
- They guide parents in understanding value for money and long-term outcomes.
NIRF Law College Rankings 2025: Full List
This is the ranking of top 40 law colleges and universities in India, covering NLUs and other universities:
| Rank | College / University | Location |
| 1 | National Law School of India University | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 2 | National Law University | New Delhi, Delhi |
| 3 | NALSAR University of Law | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| 4 | WBNUJS (National University of Juridical Sciences) | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| 5 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar, Gujarat |
| 6 | IIT Kharagpur (Law) | Kharagpur, West Bengal |
| 7 | Symbiosis Law School | Pune, Maharashtra |
| 8 | Jamia Millia Islamia | New Delhi, Delhi |
| 9 | Aligarh Muslim University | Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh |
| 10 | Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
| 11 | SASTRA University | Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu |
| 12 | Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| 13 | Cochin University of Science and Technology | Cochin, Kerala |
| 14 | KIIT University | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
| 15 | National Law University Odisha | Cuttack, Odisha |
| 16 | Dr B.R. Ambedkar College of Law | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| 17 | Chanakya National Law University | Patna, Bihar |
| 18 | UPES Dehradun | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
| 19 | Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 20 | Alliance University | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 21 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya NLU | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| 22 | GGSIPU | New Delhi, Delhi |
| 23 | Central University of South Bihar | Gaya, Bihar |
| 24 | Christ University | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 25 | SRM Institute of Science & Technology | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 26 | Lovely Professional University | Phagwara, Punjab |
| 27 | National Law Institute University | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh |
| 28 | Maharashtra National Law University | Nagpur, Maharashtra |
| 29 | University of Lucknow | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| 30 | NUSRL Ranchi | Ranchi, Jharkhand |
| 31 | ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| 32 | Manipal University Jaipur | Jaipur, Rajasthan |
| 33 | Nirma University | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| 34 | Himachal Pradesh National Law University | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| 35 | National Law University & Judicial Academy | Assam |
| 36 | Galgotias University | Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
| 37 | Army Institute of Law | Mohali, Punjab |
| 38 | GITAM | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| 39 | Amity University Haryana | Gurugram, Haryana |
| 40 | Central University of Punjab | Bathinda, Punjab |
NLU Rankings 2025 (NIRF)
13 NLUs have been ranked among the NIRF law rankings in 2025. Out of these, all top 5 law colleges in India are NLUs:
| S. No. | Rank | NLU Name | Location |
| 1 | 1 | NLSIU Bengaluru Ranking | Karnataka |
| 2 | 2 | NLU Delhi Ranking | Delhi |
| 3 | 3 | NALSAR Hyderabad Ranking | Telangana |
| 4 | 4 | WBNUJS Kolkata Ranking | West Bengal |
| 5 | 5 | GNLU Gandhinagar | Gujarat |
| 6 | 15 | NLU Odisha (NLUO) | Odisha |
| 7 | 17 | CNLU Patna | Bihar |
| 8 | 21 | RMLNLU Lucknow | Uttar Pradesh |
| 9 | 27 | NLIU Bhopal Ranking | Madhya Pradesh |
| 10 | 28 | MNLU Nagpur | Maharashtra |
| 11 | 30 | NUSRL Ranchi | Jharkhand |
| 12 | 33 | HPNLU Shimla | Himachal Pradesh |
| 13 | 34 | NLUJA Assam | Assam |
The 2025 NLU rankings reaffirm the long-standing dominance of NLSIU Bengaluru and NLU Delhi, both of which continue their stronghold at Rank 1 and Rank 2.
The top four NLUs — NLSIU, NLUD, NALSAR, and WBNUJS — remain unchanged, showing remarkable consistency. GNLU retains its position among the top five, strengthening its national perception.
A significant jump is seen in mid-tier NLUs like NLU Odisha, CNLU Patna, and RMLNLU Lucknow, all of which have shown steady improvement in teaching, research output, and graduate outcomes.
Some NLUs such as NUSRL Ranchi and HPNLU Shimla continue to remain at the lower end of the list, mainly due to limited infrastructure growth and academic output. Overall, the 2025 ranking reflects stability at the top and movement across the mid-tier NLUs.
Key Factors Used in NIRF NLU Ranking
| Parameter | Meaning |
| Teaching, Learning & Resources (TLR) | Quality of faculty, student-teacher ratio, learning facilities, labs, library, and academic resources. |
| Research & Professional Practice (RP) | Publications, research impact, funded projects, and professional practice contributions. |
| Graduation Outcomes (GO) | Placement performance, bar exam pass rates, higher studies, and overall student progression. |
| Outreach & Inclusivity (OI) | Diversity in gender, region, socio-economic background, and inclusion initiatives. |
| Perception (PR) | Reputation among employers, academic peers, and the professional community. |
NLU Ranking 2024
NIRF has ranked a total of 40 law colleges in India in its 2024 list. Out of these 40 colleges, 16 NLUs have found their place in the list.
Below is the list of NLUs in India (rank-wise) as per the NIRF law rankings 2024:
| Rank | College/University | Location | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bengaluru, Karnataka | 83.83 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU) | New Delhi, Delhi | 77.48 |
| 3 | NALSAR University of Law | Hyderabad, Telangana | 77.05 |
| 4 | The West Bengal National University of Juridicial Sciences | Kolkata, West Bengal | 76.39 |
| 8 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar, Gujarat | 69.56 |
| 20 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | 55.92 |
| 21 | National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | 55.64 |
| 22 | National University of Study & Research in Law | Ranchi, Jharkhand | 55.52 |
| 24 | Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala, Punjab | 51.53 |
| 26 | National Law University (NLU) | Cuttack, Odisha | 54.49 |
| 27 | National Law University and Judicial Academy | Kamrup, Assam | 53.39 |
| 31 | Maharashtra National Law University Mumbai | Mumbai, Maharashtra | 51.70 |
| 31 | Chanakya National Law University | Patna, Bihar | 51.70 |
| 33 | Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur | Nagpur, Maharashtra | 51.43 |
| 37 | National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS) | Kochi, Kerala | 47.96 |
| 38 | Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | 47.94 |
NLU Ranking 2023
NIRF has ranked a total of 30 law colleges in India in its 2023 list. Out of these 30 colleges, 11 NLUs have found their place in the list.
Below is the list of NLUs in India (rank-wise) as per the NIRF law rankings 2023:
| NIRF Rank | NLU Name | Location | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bengaluru | 80.52 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU) | Delhi | 73.91 |
| 3 | Nalsar University of Law | Hyderabad | 73.76 |
| 4 | West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences | Kolkata | 69.43 |
| 7 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar, Gujarat | 65.69 |
| 18 | National Law Institute University | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh | 54.68 |
| 20 | Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law | Patiala, Punjab | 51.53 |
| 21 | Dr Ram Manohar Lohya National Law University | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | 50.90 |
| 24 | National University of Study & Research in Law | Ranchi, Jharkhand | 48.20 |
| 28 | National Law University and Judicial Academy | Kamrup, Assam | 46.60 |
| 30 | National Law University | Cuttack, Odisha | 46.02 |
NLU Ranking 2022
Find the National Law University ranks according to NIRF 2022 list:
| NIRF Rank | NLU Name | Location | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bengaluru | 78.00 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU) | New Delhi | 73.96 |
| 4 | Nalsar University of Law | Hyderabad | 73.05 |
| 5 | West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences | Kolkata | 70.72 |
| 8 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar | 63.52 |
| 10 | National Law University, Jodhpur | Jodhpur | 62.35 |
| 15 | National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal | 54.28 |
| 17 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow | 53.23 |
| 18 | The Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala | 52.73 |
| 22 | National University of Study & Research in Law (NUSRL) | Ranchi | 49.84 |
| 24 | National Law University and Judicial Academy (NLUJA) | Kamrup | 49.27 |
| 25 | National Law University (NLU) | Cuttack | 48.81 |
NLU Ranking 2021
Find the list of top NLUs in India according to NIRL law rankings 2021:
| Rank | NLU Name | Location | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bengaluru | 78.06 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU) | New Delhi | 74.55 |
| 3 | NALSAR University of Law | Hyderabad | 72.39 |
| 4 | West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences | Kolkata | 71.24 |
| 6 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar | 65.18 |
| 8 | National Law University, Jodhpur | Jodhpur | 63.41 |
| 14 | National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal | 52.89 |
| 15 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow | 51.44 |
| 16 | The Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala | 50.98 |
| 18 | National Law University (NLU) | Cuttack | 50.31 |
| 20 | National Law University and Judicial Academy (NLUJA) | Kamrup | 49.26 |
NLU Ranking 2020
Find the NIRF national law university rank for 2020:
| Rank | NLU Name | Location | NIRF Score |
| 1 | National Law School of India University (NLSIU) | Bengaluru | 78.66 |
| 2 | National Law University (NLU) | New Delhi | 74.02 |
| 3 | NALSAR University of Law | Hyderabad | 73.12 |
| 4 | West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences | Kolkata | 70.50 |
| 6 | Gujarat National Law University | Gandhinagar | 64.25 |
| 7 | National Law University, Jodhpur | Jodhpur | 63.50 |
| 11 | National Law Institute University (NLIU) | Bhopal | 55.42 |
| 13 | Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) | Lucknow | 54.33 |
| 14 | The Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) | Patiala | 53.44 |
| 17 | National Law University (NLU) | Cuttack | 51.56 |
| 19 | National Law University and Judicial Academy (NLUJA) | Kamrup | 50.33 |
Why These NLUs Score High in NIRF?
Top NLUs consistently perform well in NIRF because they excel in the parameters that matter most for legal education. Their strongest advantages include:
1. Consistently High Graduation Outcomes (Placements & Higher Studies)
Top NLUs like NLSIU, NLU Delhi, NALSAR, and WBNUJS show outstanding placement performance every year. Strong recruiter networks, alumni presence in top law firms, and high bar-exam clearance rates significantly boost their NIRF Graduation Outcomes score.
2. Strong Research Contribution and Academic Output
These NLUs publish more research papers, have active research centres, host national-level seminars, and secure funded projects. This greatly impacts NIRF’s Research & Professional Practice (RP) score.
3. Excellent Faculty–Student Ratio
High-ranked NLUs maintain full-time, experienced faculty with strong academic and industry backgrounds. Better staffing improves Teaching, Learning, and Resources (TLR) scores.
4. Robust Infrastructure and Learning Resources
Modern libraries, digital research tools, moot court halls, hostels, and student facilities give top NLUs an edge in NIRF’s resource-based evaluations.
5. Strong Reputation & Perception in the Legal Industry
Corporate law firms, academicians, judges, policymakers, and senior advocates consistently rate top NLUs highly. This perception score significantly influences NIRF rankings.
6. Exposure Through Moots, Internships & Global Collaborations
International moots, exchange programs, and organised internship cycles improve overall student performance, which indirectly strengthens ranking parameters.
Important Resources After CLAT Exam:
| CLAT Result 2026 | CLAT Toppers 2026 |
| CLAT Answer Key 2026 | CLAT Allotment List 2026 |
| CLAT Cut Off 2026 | CLAT Rank Predictor 2026 |
| CLAT College Predictor 2026 | CLAT Marks vs Rank 2026 |
| CLAT Question Paper 2026 |
How to Use NLU Ranking for CLAT Preference Filling?
Using rankings correctly can help you fill your NLU preference list strategically instead of guessing.
1. Start With Top 5 NLUs (If You Are Within Top 500 Ranks)
NLSIU, NLU Delhi (via AILET), NALSAR, WBNUJS, and GNLU should always be the first choices because of placements, reputation, and academic outcomes.
2. Check Seat Intake Along With Rank
A higher-ranked NLU with fewer seats might be more competitive than a slightly lower-ranked one with many seats. For example, NALSAR (132 seats) fills faster than NLU Odisha (180 seats).
3. Compare Fees vs ROI
Use NLU rankings along with financial considerations. Some NLUs offer excellent ROI because of lower fees and strong placements.
4. Consider State Domicile Advantage
Several NLUs reserve 25–50% seats for state students. If you have domicile benefit, place that NLU higher in your list — even if it’s mid-ranked nationally.
5. Look Beyond Ranking
Rankings show overall performance, but students should also evaluate:
- Internship opportunities
- Litigation exposure
- Alumni strength
- Campus environment
6. Mid-tier NLUs Are Ideal for Ranks Between 1500–4000
HNLU, RGNUL, NLUO, RMLNLU, CNLU, and DSNLU offer strong academics and are excellent choices for mid-range ranks.
Must Know for Every CLAT Aspirant:
| CLAT Eligibility Criteria | CLAT Exam Pattern |
| CLAT Age Limit | CLAT Marking Scheme |
| How to Prepare for CLAT? | CLAT Preparation Books |
FAQs About NLU Ranking 2025
NLSIU Bengaluru is ranked No. 1 in the NIRF Law Rankings 2025. It has maintained this top position every year since the start of NIRF rankings.
NIRF is the official ranking system of the Government of India, which makes it credible. However, students should also consider placements, faculty, fees, seat intake, and campus culture before finalizing preferences.
Younger NLUs often lack adequate infrastructure, faculty strength, research output, and placements, which directly affects NIRF parameters.
Usually yes, because higher-ranked NLUs have stronger alumni networks and recruiter interest. But students should check recent placement reports for a clearer picture.
For most students, a mid-ranked NLU still offers stronger alumni presence, litigation exposure, and long-term value compared to private colleges. But the final decision depends on fees, career goals, and location.
Yes, rankings are released annually and may change depending on improvements in research, placements, student diversity, and infrastructure.
NLSIU consistently scores highest in faculty quality, placements, research output, academic reputation, and infrastructure, making it the strongest performer year after year.
Some private institutions invest heavily in infrastructure, research, international collaborations, and faculty hiring, allowing them to outperform younger NLUs in NIRF metrics.
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