The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings serve as a benchmark for academic excellence in India. Released annually by the Ministry of Education, the NIRF rankings evaluate various institutions based on multiple parameters like teaching, learning, resources, research, professional practices, graduation outcomes, outreach, and perception. Among the numerous categories, the NIRF Law Rankings are particularly significant as they offer a clear insight into the top law colleges in India, which include National Law Universities (NLUs).
Overview of NIRF Rankings for NLUs
The NIRF Law Ranking 2024 ranks a total of 40 law colleges across India, of which 16 are prestigious National Law Universities (NLUs). These universities have earned recognition for their consistent quality of education, infrastructure, faculty, research output, and overall contribution to the legal field in India.
In the 2024 rankings, National Law Schools continue to dominate the legal education landscape. Here’s a detailed analysis of the top NLUs as per their NIRF ranking for 2024.
Top NLUs as per NIRF Ranking 2024
- National Law School of India University (NLSIU) - Bengaluru, Karnataka
NIRF Score: 83.83
Ranked at the top for several years now, NLSIU Bengaluru remains the crown jewel of legal education in India. Located in the heart of Karnataka's capital city, the university has built a formidable reputation globally. It is known for its distinguished faculty, rigorous academic structure, and a consistently high level of research output. Graduates from NLSIU are highly sought after by law firms, government agencies, and international organizations. The law school has set a standard in terms of curriculum, pedagogy, and overall academic environment, making it the number one choice for aspiring law students in India.
- National Law University (NLU) - New Delhi
NIRF Score: 77.48
Ranked second in the NIRF Law Rankings 2024, NLU Delhi has consistently held its place among the top law schools in India. Situated in the national capital, it offers cutting-edge legal education with a global perspective. NLU Delhi’s impressive score reflects its strong faculty, research contributions, and international collaborations. The university boasts of a rich alumni network that includes successful lawyers, policymakers, and corporate professionals. The campus features world-class facilities and infrastructure, enhancing the overall learning experience for students.
- NALSAR University of Law - Hyderabad, Telangana
NIRF Score: 77.05
NALSAR Hyderabad stands at the third spot in the NIRF Law Rankings 2024. Known for its distinguished faculty and a diverse array of programs, NALSAR is a hub for top-tier legal education. Located in the Telangana capital, the university offers a blend of academic rigor and practical exposure. The university also stands out for its vibrant student body, national and international internships, and an established reputation in research and advocacy. NALSAR’s vast campus and facilities make it one of the most coveted law schools in the country.
- The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS) - Kolkata, West Bengal
NIRF Score: 76.39
The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS) ranks fourth in the NIRF Law Rankings 2024. Located in Kolkata, WBNUJS has made significant strides in legal education, combining academic excellence with a focus on social justice. The university's emphasis on legal research and practical training makes it an attractive destination for aspiring lawyers. Its strong alumni network, which includes some of the most prominent legal professionals in the country, further elevates the university's stature in the legal community.
- Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) - Gandhinagar, Gujarat
NIRF Score: 69.56
GNLU Gandhinagar holds the fifth position in the NIRF rankings for 2024. Established in 2003, it has quickly risen to prominence due to its rigorous academic standards, faculty expertise, and growing reputation for research. The university's strategic location in Gandhinagar, close to major legal and governmental institutions, provides students with unparalleled opportunities for internships and placements. GNLU’s focus on practical legal training through moot courts, legal clinics, and international partnerships gives it an edge in legal education.
- Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) - Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
NIRF Score: 55.92
Ranked sixth among NLUs in 2024, RMLNLU Lucknow has made its mark on the legal education landscape. With a focus on promoting both theoretical knowledge and practical legal skills, the university has been nurturing a generation of highly skilled lawyers. RMLNLU’s robust campus life, combined with a variety of specializations in law, attracts students from all over India.
- National Law Institute University (NLIU) - Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
NIRF Score: 55.64
NLIU Bhopal, ranked seventh in the NIRF Law Rankings for 2024, is known for its comprehensive approach to legal education. The university's distinguished faculty, its focus on research, and a strong commitment to social justice make it a top choice for law aspirants. NLIU also has a robust placement record and offers various postgraduate and doctoral programs in law.
- National University of Study & Research in Law (NUSRL) - Ranchi, Jharkhand
NIRF Score: 55.52
Located in Ranchi, NUSRL has risen rapidly in the NIRF rankings. While still relatively young, the university has made a name for itself in legal education, offering a blend of modern legal knowledge and societal impact. NUSRL focuses on research, especially in areas of law pertinent to social justice and constitutional studies. Its emphasis on global exposure for students through collaborations and internships adds to its academic rigor.
- Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) - Patiala, Punjab
NIRF Score: 51.53
RGNUL Patiala ranks ninth in the 2024 NIRF rankings. Known for its strong infrastructure and modern approach to legal education, RGNUL provides an excellent environment for law students. With an extensive library, moot court halls, and a focus on research and innovation, RGNUL prepares its students for the challenges of the legal profession.
- National Law University (NLU) - Cuttack, Odisha
NIRF Score: 54.49
National Law University Cuttack, ranking tenth, is one of the premier law schools in eastern India. Its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and advocacy has gained it a solid reputation in the field of legal education. NLU Cuttack offers a range of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests of law students, from constitutional law to corporate law.
Significant Trends in the 2024 Rankings
One of the most notable trends in the NIRF Law Rankings 2024 is the growing prominence of newer and relatively smaller NLUs. For instance, universities like Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) and National University of Study & Research in Law (NUSRL) have performed well, indicating a shift towards recognizing a broader range of institutions across India.
NIRF Rankings: A Comparison with 2023
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NLUs in India
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NIRF Ranking 2024
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NIRF Ranking 2023
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National Law School of India University, Bangalore
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1
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1
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|
National Law University, Delhi
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2
|
2
|
|
National Academy of Legal Study & Research (NALSAR) University of Law, Hyderabad
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3
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3
|
|
The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata
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4
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4
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|
Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar
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6
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6
|
|
National Law University, Jodhpur
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8
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8
|
|
National Law Institute University, Bhopal
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14
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14
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|
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow
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15
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15
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|
Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala
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16
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16
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|
National Law University Odisha, Cuttack
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18
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18
|
|
National Law University & Judicial Academy, Assam
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20
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20
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|
National University of Advanced Legal Studies, Kochi
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26
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26
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Conclusion
The NIRF Law Rankings 2024 highlight the continued dominance of established institutions such as NLSIU, NLU Delhi, and NALSAR, but also underscore the rising stature of newer entrants in the field of legal education. As law schools across India evolve, driven by a mix of rigorous academic programs, research outputs, and campus facilities, the NIRF rankings will remain a crucial reference for prospective law students choosing the best institutions for their legal careers.
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