Introduction
Do you want to become a lawyer or work in the legal field? If yes, then choosing to study law in India can be a great decision. A law degree in India opens up many career options like becoming a lawyer, judge, legal advisor, or working with big companies and government.
There are many types of law courses in India that you can join after 12th grade or after finishing college. These courses teach you about rules, rights, and how the law works in real life.
India is home to some of the best and top law colleges that offer quality legal education in India. Thesetop colleges in India give you a chance to learn from expert teachers, take part in court-like activities, and do internships that help you gain real experience.
In this blog, you will find helpful information about the best colleges, top law courses, admission process, and career options after getting a law degree in India.
Why Study Law in India?
India has some of the best law colleges, a growing legal ecosystem, and affordable education compared to other countries. Here’s why students choose India to pursue law:
- High-quality education at top institutions like NLUs, Jindal Global Law School, etc.
- Diverse legal system based on centuries of tradition and constitutional values
- Cost-effective tuition and living costs compared to countries like the US or UK
- Growing demand for legal professionals in business, tech, government, and NGOs
Types of Law Courses in India
Whether you're a high school graduate looking to begin your legal journey or a degree-holder aiming to specialize further, India offers a variety of law courses tailored to your educational background and career goals. Here's a complete overview:
Undergraduate Law Courses
1. BA LLB (Bachelor of Arts + Bachelor of Laws)
Duration: 5 years (Integrated program)
This course combines the study of law with humanities subjects like political science, sociology, and history. It’s ideal for students interested in understanding law in a broader social and political context. The BA LLB program is well-suited for those who aspire to careers in civil services, legal journalism, human rights, or litigation.
2. BBA LLB (Bachelor of Business Administration + Bachelor of Laws)
Duration: 5 years (Integrated program)
BBA LLB is perfect for students who want to build a legal career in corporate law, mergers & acquisitions, or business compliance. The program blends management education with legal studies, making it particularly valuable for those eyeing roles in multinational corporations, law firms, or entrepreneurship.
3. B.Com LLB (Bachelor of Commerce + Bachelor of Laws)
Duration: 5 years (Integrated program)
This integrated course is designed for students interested in combining commerce subjects—like accounting, business, and economics—with core legal education. A B.Com LLB graduate is well-prepared for careers in tax law, corporate law, banking law, and financial regulations.
4. LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
Duration: 3 years
The LLB is a professional degree in law for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in any stream (arts, science, commerce, etc.). This course focuses entirely on core legal subjects such as criminal law, constitutional law, contract law, and property law. It’s ideal for graduates looking to switch to a legal career or deepen their understanding of the law.
Postgraduate Law Courses
1. LLM (Master of Laws)
Duration: 1 or 2 years (depending on university)
The LLM is a specialized postgraduate program that allows law graduates to focus on specific areas such as international law, human rights law, corporate law, intellectual property rights, or criminal law. It enhances academic understanding and can be a stepping stone to teaching, research, or high-level legal consultancy roles. Many students pursue an LLM to qualify for international legal practice or academic careers.
2. PhD in Law
Duration: Typically 3–6 years
A PhD in Law is a research-focused program designed for those interested in contributing original scholarship to the field. It requires a deep commitment to academic inquiry and is suited for candidates aiming to become professors, legal researchers, or policy advisors. Topics often involve critical analysis of legal systems, reform proposals, or international legal theory.
These law courses are offered by some of the Best Universities in India for International Students, including National Law Universities (NLUs), Delhi University, Symbiosis Law School, and Jindal Global Law School. Depending on your background and career goals, you can choose the program that fits best and opens doors to the legal profession—both in India and internationally.
Top Law Colleges in India
India boasts several prestigious law schools, each offering world-class legal education.
National Law Universities (NLUs)
- NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad, NLU Delhi, etc.
- Require CLAT or AILET exams
Private Law Schools
- Jindal Global Law School, Symbiosis Law School, Amity Law School
- Global exposure and modern curriculum
Government Colleges
- Faculty of Law, DU, Government Law College Mumbai, etc.
- Affordable and reputable
Eligibility Criteria and Entrance Exams
To get into a top law college in India, you need to meet certain eligibility and clear entrance exams.
Popular Law Entrance Exams
- CLAT (UG & PG)
- AILET – For NLU Delhi
- LSAT India, SLAT, MH CET Law
Eligibility
- For 5-year course: Class 12 pass (50%+ generally)
- For 3-year course: Graduation in any discipline
- Age limit: Varies, generally no upper age limit for most exams.
Admission Process
Here’s a step-by-step process to apply for law colleges in India:
- Choose the course – BA LLB, LLB, LLM, etc.
- Register for entrance exams – CLAT, LSAT, etc.
- Prepare and appear for exams
- Apply to colleges with your scores
- Attend counseling or interviews, if applicable
Tip: Start preparation at least 6–12 months in advance.
Curriculum and Specializations
Core Subjects (For all law students)
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law
- Contract Law
- Administrative Law
- Family Law
🔹 Specializations
- Cyber Law
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
- Corporate Law
- Environmental Law
- Human Rights Law
Career Opportunities After Studying Law in India
A law degree in India opens many doors:
Common Career Paths
- Advocate (Courtroom Practice)
- Corporate Legal Advisor
- Judicial Services (via PCS-J exam)
- Legal Consultant for NGOs or startups
- Legal Journalist
- Academician or Professor
- Legal Tech Roles (growing trend)
Cost of Studying Law in India
Fee Structure (approximate ranges)
- NLUs: ₹2–3 lakhs/year
- Private Colleges: ₹4–7 lakhs/year
- Government Colleges: ₹10,000–₹1 lakh/year
Scholarships Available
- CLAT merit scholarships
- State government scholarships
- College-specific financial aid
- NGO or private trust scholarships
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges
- Intense competition (CLAT, etc.)
- High academic pressure
- Finding a specialization that suits you
Opportunities
- Globalization of law
- Growth in legal-tech startups
- Diverse career paths in private and public sectors
Studying Law in India vs. Abroad
When choosing between studying law in India or abroad, several key differences stand out. One of the most significant factors is the cost of education. Law courses in India are generally much more affordable compared to countries like the UK or the US, where tuition fees can be significantly higher, making India a budget-friendly choice for aspiring lawyers.
The duration of law programs is fairly similar in both options. In India, students can opt for a 5-year integrated course (like BA LLB) or a 3-year LLB after graduation. In contrast, law degrees abroad usually take 3 to 6 years, depending on the country and type of course.
In terms of global recognition, law degrees from countries like the US or UK are typically more widely recognized internationally, which can open doors to global career opportunities. However, Indian law degrees are also gaining traction, especially with increasing demand for legal professionals in emerging markets and cross-border roles.
When it comes to internship and practical exposure, both India and foreign institutions offer strong opportunities. In India, students get hands-on experience through internships with courts, legal firms, and NGOs. Abroad, internships may be more aligned with international firms and legal systems, which is a plus for those seeking global legal careers.
Finally, looking at career prospects, a law degree from India provides a strong foundation for a legal career within the country, and its relevance is steadily growing in international sectors like legal tech and outsourcing. On the other hand, a foreign law degree may offer a broader international scope, especially if you plan to work or settle abroad.
Conclusion
If you're passionate about justice, curious about the law, and committed to building a powerful career, studying law in India is a smart move. With top colleges, affordable fees, and a variety of career paths, India is a great destination for aspiring lawyers.
Ready to take the first step?
- Explore top law colleges
- Start preparing for CLAT
- Download our FREE Law Career Guide
- Or leave a comment below with your questions!
FAQs
Q1: Is LLB in India a good career option?
Yes, LLB opens doors to legal practice, judiciary, corporate law, and much more.
Q2: How many years does it take to complete law in India?
3 years (if you already have a degree), or 5 years after Class 12.
Q3: Which law entrance exam is best in India?
CLAT is the most widely accepted exam for NLUs.
Q4: Can I study law in India and practice abroad?
Yes, but you may need to pass an equivalency exam depending on the country.
Q5: How many years to study law in India?
In India, law can be studied in two ways: a 5-year integrated LLB course after completing higher secondary education (12th grade) or a 3-year LLB after completing a bachelor’s degree in any stream.
