Those who watched Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, the iconic Hollywood flick, would have had aspired to take up law as a career. Who wouldn’t want to emulate Woods signature blend of charm, wit and unapologetic demeanor. Lawyers prove their brilliance in numerous forms with their unwavering belief, experience, and expertise to win cases with their sharp legal acumen.

While Elle would be an inspiration for many to don the black and white cloth and stride with confidence in courtrooms, the options are in plenty for those who don’t wish to battle it out in courtrooms. Aspirants can make a flourishing career in law firms, corporate offices, or simply sitting at home, the options are in plenty for personal and professional growth.

Even when you aren’t pursuing any of these careers, having a minimum knowledge of law is stimulating and rewarding as you develop an inherent ability to analyze, argue, and solve problems. Lawyers play a crucial role in framing of policies; protection ofindividual rights, and ensuring fairness in an ever-evolving world.

National Law Universities (NLUs) are the most sought-after ones by students and we have 27 of them spread across various states in India. While most law colleges offer a five-year integrated course B.A. LLB, there are many that offer an LLB degree, which is post-graduation. In the year 2022, the Union Law minister had informed in the Parliament that there were 1,721 law colleges and universities in India.

When it comes to course fees, private colleges and universities are costlier while government law colleges have lesser fees.Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of government law colleges, while Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of private law colleges.

Every year nearly 65000 plus students apply for the CLAT exam, fighting for 3000 plus seats. Since admission to NLUs is through the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) and All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) for NLU Delhi, these exams are highly competitive, with thousands of students eying for a limited number of seats. Only about 5% of students manage to get a desirable place in the NLUs.

If students do not meet the cut-off for an NLU, they can explore other prominent law colleges in India that offer good legal education, such as:

Factors to be considered when seeking admission to a law college:

1. Curriculum: The Bar Council of India (BCI) sets guidelines for the course structure
2. Faculty: Experienced faculty members can provide guidance and mentorship
3. Location: A location that's favorable for legal practice, internships
4. Specialization: What are the specializations’ available, and which one to choose for a successful career
5. Internships and placements: Some colleges have strong partnerships with law firms
6. Infrastructure: Modern amenities, including a well-equipped library and a moot court
7. Location: The College’s location can influence internship opportunities and exposure to legal practices. Institutions in major cities like offer better
8. prospects for internships and networking with law firms
9. Placements: Strong relationships with law firms and attorneys can lead to internships and job opportunities. Make sure the college has an excellent track
10. record in that area so you may obtain real-world experience and develop your career.
11. Financial Costs: Consider tuition fees, living expenses, and the availability of education loans
12. Campus culture: The campus culture, routine, atmosphere, and values can impact your academic journey

A degree from NLU although desirable is not mandatory as a student can get success in a law career even when he or she hasn’t been an NLU pass out. Remember, the best legal minds in the country that are highly successful aren’t NLU products.

There are many advocates, senior advocates, corporate lawyers, judges, writers, analysts, etc. who may have obtained a law degree from an institution that would be ordinary but with their hard work, grit and determination have succeeded in the professional sphere, you too can be one of them even when you are not an NLU product.