The National Law Universities (NLUs) are often seen as the epitome of legal education in India. Getting into an NLU, especially the top ones like NLSIU Bengaluru, NALSAR Hyderabad, or NLUD Delhi, is considered a golden ticket to a successful legal career. But does the “NLU tag” truly guarantee success? Or is it just a starting point among many?
Let’s break down the hype and reality surrounding the NLU tag—what it offers, what it doesn’t, and how much it really matters in the long run.
What Is the NLU Tag?
The term “NLU tag” refers to the reputation and brand value associated with being a student or graduate of a National Law University. Since the establishment of NLSIU in 1987, NLUs have grown in number and prestige. Today, there are 26 NLUs across India, mostly offering five-year integrated law programs through the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT).
The top three—NLSIU, NALSAR, and NLUD—are often equated with academic excellence, top-tier placements, and powerful alumni networks. As a result, they are seen as dream destinations for law aspirants across the country.
Advantages of the NLU Tag
1. Strong Peer Network
Top NLUs attract the best minds in the country. The competitive environment fosters growth, pushes you to perform better, and surrounds you with like-minded individuals who can become future colleagues, co-founders, or collaborators.
2. Recruitment and Internships
Top law firms, corporate legal departments, and litigation chambers routinely visit leading NLUs for recruitment. Students often secure internships and pre-placement offers (PPOs) with major firms such as AZB & Partners, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, and international outfits like Linklaters and Allen & Overy.
3. Academic Resources and Exposure
NLUs generally have better infrastructure, access to legal databases, experienced faculty, and exposure to moot court competitions, debates, and seminars that shape a student’s legal acumen.
4. Alumni Influence
From Supreme Court lawyers to Harvard professors, NLU alumni are everywhere. Their presence in influential positions can help in mentorship, networking, and sometimes even opportunities.
But Here’s the Flip Side
1. Not a Shortcut to Success
The NLU tag may open doors, but walking through them is up to you. Success in law requires consistency, networking, internships, research, communication skills, and perseverance. Plenty of students from NLUs have struggled, while many from lesser-known law schools have excelled.
2. Inequality Among NLUs
While top NLUs offer stellar opportunities, newer or lower-ranked NLUs may not have the same resources or reputation. Treating all NLUs as equal because they share the same label can be misleading.
3. Mental Health and Pressure
The pressure to live up to the “NLU standard” can be overwhelming. Many students face burnout, imposter syndrome, and academic stress. The brand may come with prestige, but it also carries weight.
4. Other Paths Exist
Law isn’t a one-lane highway. Students from private colleges, state universities, and even correspondence courses have made significant contributions in litigation, academia, policymaking, and beyond. The tag helps—but it’s not mandatory.
So, Does It Really Matter?
Yes—and no.
The NLU tag matters in opening initial doors. It adds credibility to your resume and may get you noticed. However, what sustains a career in law is far more than where you studied. Your attitude, experience, interpersonal skills, and hunger to learn will ultimately define your journey.
Final Thoughts: Build Beyond the Brand
Think of the NLU tag as a stepping stone—not a pedestal. It’s a great place to begin, but it’s not the endgame. Don’t get disheartened if you don’t make it into an NLU. And if you do, don’t assume the journey will be smooth just because of the brand.
Law school is what you make of it—NLU or not. Focus on building skills, relationships, and resilience. That’s what truly matters.