Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai (MNLU Mumbai)
Description
1. Introduction
Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai (MNLU Mumbai) is a premier national law university established in 2014 by the Government of Maharashtra under the Maharashtra National Law University Act, 2014, to foster excellent legal education, research, and practice in India. It is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by the Bar Council of India (BCI).
Strategically located in Mumbai, one of India’s legal and commercial hubs, the university offers integrated undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs designed to prepare students for various legal careers.
2. Historical Background
MNLU Mumbai commenced academic activities in 2015, beginning with its flagship B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) program. Since its inception, it has steadily expanded its academic offerings to include LL.M., Ph.D., executive LL.M. and more, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and real-world legal skills. The university operates initially from rented premises in Powai, and a dedicated permanent campus on a 35-acre site in Pahadi Goregaon Village has been approved to enhance campus facilities.
3. Key Highlights of Topmost Law Courses
| Program | Level | Duration | Entrance Test | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) | Undergraduate | 5 Years | CLAT UG | Integrated law + humanities |
| LL.M. (Regular) | Postgraduate | 1 Year | CLAT PG | Specialized legal studies |
| LL.M. (Professional / Executive) | Postgraduate | 1 Year | Merit / Program-specific | Practice-oriented advanced law |
| Ph.D. in Law | Doctoral | 3-6 Years | NET/SET or PAT + Interview | Legal research & scholarship |
4. Complete List of Law Courses / Study Programs
| Program / Study Stream | Level | Duration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) | Undergraduate | 5 Years | Integrated law degree |
| LL.M. (Regular) | Postgraduate | 1 Year | Multiple specializations |
| LL.M. (Professional) | Postgraduate | 1 Year | Designed for working professionals |
| LL.M. (Executive) | Postgraduate | 1 Year | Tailored for executives & practitioners |
| Ph.D. in Law | Doctoral | 3–6 Years | Research focus |
| M.A. (Executive) Mediation & Conflict Resolution | Postgraduate | 1 Year | Practice-oriented |
| PG Diplomas (various legal fields) | Postgraduate | 6 Months–1 Year | Skill enhancement |
Note: The university may introduce new programs or specializations periodically.
5. Entrance Exam Details (If Required)
| Exam Name | For Programs | Conducted By | Frequency | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLAT UG | B.A. LL.B. | Consortium of NLUs | Annual | National competitive law exam |
| CLAT PG | LL.M. Regular | Consortium of NLUs | Annual | Rank-based admissions |
| NET / SET or Ph.D. PAT + Interview | Ph.D. | MNLU Mumbai | Academic cycle-based | For research programs |
| Merit / Program Criteria | LL.M. Professional/Executive | MNLU Mumbai | Application cycle | Based on experience & merit |
CLAT Cut-Off Trend (Example 2025 UG)
| Category | Opening / Closing Ranks |
|---|---|
| General | 443 – 536 |
| EWS (MH) | 2524 – 7523 |
| OBC (MH) | 4161 – 7008 |
| SC (MH) | 7180 – 12388 |
| ST (MH) | 10288 – 13124 |
6. Top 5 Reasons to Choose MNLU Mumbai
-
National Law University Status: Recognized among India’s established NLUs, delivering updated legal education.
-
Strategic Location: Mumbai’s position as a major legal and commercial hub provides unmatched internship and career exposure.
-
Diverse Curriculum & Specializations: Offers integrated and advanced law programs tailored to industry trends.
-
Research & Practical Focus: Emphasis on internships, research centers and advanced legal training beyond academics.
-
Growing National Recognition: Ranked among top law institutions in national frameworks and steadily improving its profile.
7. National Ranking & Awards
| Ranking / Awarding Body | Year | Category | Position / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework) | 2024 | Law | #31 |
| IIRF (Indian Institutional Ranking Framework) | 2025 | Law | Around #23 |
| Collegedunia Ranking | Recent | Law | Around #8 |
| UGC Recognition & BCI Approval | Ongoing | Accreditation | Recognized law university |
Note: Rankings may vary across platforms and criteria. Always refer to official announcements.
8. How to Apply for Admission
| Step | Process | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. CLAT Registration | Apply for the CLAT UG or PG exam online during the CLAT registration window. | Visit official CLAT site. |
| 2. Appear for Exam | Take the CLAT on the scheduled date and aim for competitive rank. | Preparation critical for seat chances. |
| 3. Counselling / Seat Allotment | Participate in CLAT counselling and choose MNLU Mumbai. | Complete choice filling. |
| 4. Document Verification | Submit academic, identity & category certificates. | Mandatory for confirmation. |
| 5. Fee Payment & Enrollment | Pay fees and complete university enrollment formalities. | Secure your seat. |
Conclusion
Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai (MNLU Mumbai) has rapidly emerged as a quality destination for law aspirants seeking a blend of academic rigor, practical exposure, and strategic career opportunities. With diverse programs, recognized rankings, and a growing footprint in legal education, it stands as a compelling choice for future leaders in law.
To explore more law colleges offering similar programmes, visit our Law College Directory for a structured comparison.

























