National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal
Description
1. Introduction
National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal, commonly known as NLU Bhopal, is one of India’s premier law schools. It is a National Law University established with a mission to deliver top-tier legal education, research, and professional excellence. NLIU is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Bar Council of India (BCI), and it consistently ranks among the best law institutions in the country.
2. Historical Background
NLIU Bhopal was established in 1997 by an Act of the Madhya Pradesh Legislature under the Rashtriya Vidhi Sansthan Vishwavidyalaya Adhiniyam. It is the second National Law University established in India, following the model of NLSIU Bangalore, with a focus on legal education, research, and advancing the rule of law.
The university began academic operations in 1998 and has since developed into a national centre of excellence in legal learning, offering rigorous courses and robust practical exposure.
3. Key Highlights of Topmost Law Courses
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | National Law Institute University, Bhopal |
| Established | 1997 |
| Recognition | UGC, BCI |
| University Type | National Law University |
| Course Focus | Undergrad, Postgrad, Research |
| Pedagogy | Moot courts, seminars, internships, client counselling |
| Research Centres | Cyber Law, International Law, Labour Law, etc. |
| Placement Support | Dedicated Career Services & internships |
4. All Law Courses / Study Programs Offered
| Programme | Level | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.A. LL.B (Hons.) | Integrated UG | 5 Years | 10+2 + CLAT score |
| B.Sc. LL.B (Hons.) | Integrated UG | 5 Years | 10+2 + CLAT score |
| LL.M | Postgraduate | 1 Year | LL.B or equivalent |
| M.S. in Cyber Law & Info Security | PG | 2 Years | LL.B or Equivalent |
| Ph.D. in Law | Doctoral | 2+ Years | LL.M or equivalent |
Note: Program offerings may change by academic session based on university notifications.
5. Entrance Exam Details
| Program | Entrance Exam | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| B.A. LL.B / B.Sc. LL.B | CLAT (UG) | National Law Admission Test + Counselling |
| LL.M | CLAT PG / University Test | Merit Rank & Counselling |
| M.S. Cyber Law & Info Security | All India Written Test | Written Exam + Interview |
| Ph.D. in Law | University Test / Interview | Research Proposal + Written Exam |
Admissions to most NLIU programs are based on CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) rank and subsequent counselling.
6. Top 5 Reasons to Choose NLIU, Bhopal
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National Law University Status: One of India’s premier NLUs with nationwide recognition.
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High National Ranking: Ranked among the Top 3 Law Institutes in India by India Today (2025).
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Strong Specializations: LL.M specializations in Intellectual Property, Human Rights & Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, etc.
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Rich Academic Culture: Moot courts, client counselling competitions, centres of excellence, and research publications form part of the curriculum.
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Excellent Placements: Strong industry links with law firms, corporate houses, judiciary internships, and research opportunities support career growth.
7. National Ranking & Awards
| Ranking / Award | Awarding Body | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Ranked #3 Law Institute in India | India Today | 2025 |
| Recognised National Law University | UGC / BCI | Ongoing |
| Peer Acknowledgement | Alumni & Industry Reviews | Ongoing |
| Research & Publication Awards | Various Academic Bodies | Ongoing |
8. How to Apply for Admission
| Step | Application Process |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the official CLAT / NLIU Bhopal admission portal |
| 2 | Register for CLAT or respective entrance exam |
| 3 | Fill and submit application form with details |
| 4 | Upload required documents (10+2 / LL.B / ID proofs) |
| 5 | Pay the application fee online |
| 6 | Appear for CLAT or University written test |
| 7 | Participate in counselling & seat allotment |
| 8 | Complete fee payment & document verification |
Conclusion
National Law Institute University, Bhopal (NLIU) has carved a niche as one of India’s leading National Law Universities, offering rigorous academic programs, specialised postgraduate studies, and meaningful practical exposure to students. With a strong national ranking, specialised curriculum, and robust placement support, NLIU continues to be a top choice for law aspirants across the country.
Students exploring similar institutions can browse our College Directory for Law Colleges to compare courses, fees, and admission requirements.

























