No NLU Seat after CLAT 2025? Top Five alternatives you must consider

With all the CLAT 2025 counselling rounds now concluded, thousands of students still remain unallotted, unable to secure a seat at any NLU. This is due to its highly competitive cut-off and limited CLAT seat intake compared to the vast number of CLAT 2025 aspirants. Relying only on a single entrance exam is quite risky, as it consumes the time and mental energy of a candidate. While this outcome may be quite disappointing, it is important to note that NLUs are not the only path to a successful legal career. It is better to have a backup plan and have alternative exams in the queue if things don’t work out the way planned.

For students who were unable to secure a seat at CLAT-participating NLUs, several other alternatives remain available, including Jindal Global Law School via LNAT UK, Delhi University, IPU Delhi, and Nirma University, which accept CLAT scores. Additionally, top institutions in Maharashtra with high seat intake, like GLC Mumbai and ILS Pune, through MH CET Law are great options.

Top Non-NLUs Alternative Colleges in India

1. Jindal Global Law School

It is a renowned private institution known for its curriculum and experienced faculty. The annual fee of JGLS's 5-year LLB is Rs 9.35 lakhs and offers a lush infrastructure and great career opportunities. The students are offered placements from prestigious law firms and MNCs.

2. Faculty of Law, Delhi University

It is one of India’s most respected institutions for legal education. It offers both the 3-year LLB and 5-year LLB programmes. Graduates have gone to work with top law firm such as Khaitan and Co., Luthra Law Offices, and Trilegal. The overall cost of a 5-year LLB programme at Delhi University goes up to Rs 2 lakh per annum.

3. IPU Delhi

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (IPU), Delhi, offers 5-year LLB programme, known for its modern curriculum and campus. The annual tuition fee is Rs. 1.65 lakhs and is subject to an increase per year. The average salary package is around Rs 6 lakhs per year.

4. Nirma University

This institute offers BA LLB, BCom LLB, and BBA LLB programmes and is known for its academic excellence. The annual tuition fee is Rs. 3.5 lakhs per annum, with a gradual increase each year. Students benefit from industry exposure, moot facilities, internships and career opportunities with reputed law firms and various legal consultancies in India.

5. Government Law College, Mumbai

GLC Mumbai is one of the oldest law schools in India and accepts MH CET law scores. The law school offers courses using a more traditional method. The recruiters include AZB & Partners, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, DSK Legal, and Lexicon Law Partners, among others. The associate-level placement is as per the industry standards, ranging from 6 to 10 LPA.

6. ILS Pune

Both ILS Pune and GLC Mumbai are among the top law colleges participating in MH CET Law. The 5-year LLB programme blends with real-world legal exposure and modern facilities, along with strong academic skills required for good placements. ILS Pune has a growing placement record, with students securing roles at reputed law firms and companies like Sharul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, Khaitan & Co., DSK Legal, Trilegal, ThinkLaw, Crawford Bayley & Co, Ernst & Young India, and others