Top Law Colleges in Mumbai: Ranking List, Fees, Admission Tests of the Best Private & Government Colleges

Mumbai isn’t just the financial capital of India, it’s also one of the strongest hubs for legal education. From century-old government institutions to modern private law schools, the top law colleges in Mumbai gives aspiring lawyers a range of opportunities to grow.

Whether you’re aiming for corporate law, litigation, policy, or the fast-expanding world of legal tech, choosing the right institute matters. In this blog, we break down the leading colleges, what they’re known for, the kind of careers they prepare you for, and what makes Mumbai such a powerful foundation for any law student.

 

Top Law Colleges in Mumbai: Fee and Average Placement

Mumbai, the financial and legal capital of India, is home to over 100 law colleges. Sixty-nine are private, six are government-backed, and two are semi-government institutions. Each of them claims to be “top-tier.” Where you study law in Mumbai determines not just your job prospects, but your entire professional trajectory.

Law College/University	Fee Per Annum	Average Placement
GLC	6,890	~ 8 LPA
NMIMS	3,50,000	6-7 LPA
NMIMS, Navi Mumbai	2,75,000	14 LPA
Maharashtra National Law University	3,97,476	10 LPA
SVKM’s PGCL	83,500	6 LPA
Bits Law School	10,64,700	6-9 LPA
UMLA, Thane	51,500	8 LPA
UMLA, Santacruz	51,500	8 LPA
Amity University	1,10,000	4-15 LPA
KC Law College	7,289	–

 

Top Law Colleges in  Mumbai: Law Programs and Admission Tests

The best law colleges in Mumbai offer various law programs which are as follows:

• UG 5‑Year Integrated (e.g., BA LLB / BLS LLB)
• UG 3‑Year LLB (after graduation)
• PG LLM (Master of Laws)
• PhD in Law

Also read, Law Careers in India  |  Career after 3 years LLB

Here is a list of the best Mumbai law colleges and their law courses:

Law College/University	Courses Offered	Tests Accepted
GLC	BA LLB, BLS LLB	MH CET
NMIMS	BA LLB, BBA LLB (Hons.), LLM	NLAT | CLAT
NMIMS, Navi Mumbai	BA LLB, BBA LLB	NLAT | CLAT
Maharashtra National Law University	BA LLB, LLM	CLAT
SVKM’s PGCL	BA LLB, BLS LLB, LLM	MH CET
Bits Law School	BA LLB (Hons.), BBA LLB (Hons.)	BITS Law Admissions Test | CLAT | MH CET Law | AILET
UMLA, Thane	BA LLB	MH CET
UMLA, Santacruz	BA LLB	MH CET
Amity University	BA LLB, BCom LLB	CLAT | MH CET Law | AILET
KC Law College	BA LLB	MH CET

 

 

Top 5 Law Colleges of Mumbai: Let’s Understand in Detail

1. Government Law College (GLC) Mumbai: Overview & History

Government Law College (GLC) Mumbai stands as one of Asia’s oldest and most prestigious law institutions, established in 1855—165 years of legal excellence. Unlike most colleges, GLC isn’t just an educational institution; it’s a legal ecosystem. Alumni include judges of the Bombay High Court, Supreme Court advocates, and some of India’s most respected legal minds.

Fee Structure & Affordability: Annual Fee is₹6,890 (the lowest among top institutions). This makes GLC extraordinarily accessible. The affordability democratizes legal education. Additional optional fees for library and laboratory.

Government funding allows GLC to charge minimal fees while maintaining exceptional quality. The average placement package is about ~₹8 LPA and the top 10-15% secure ₹12-18+ LPA at premier firms. The placement rate is 95%+.

Partners in top firms are GLC alumni and they actively recruit. This network seniors help juniors to grow further. The courses offered are B.L.S. LL.B. (5-year integrated), L.L.B. (3-year), and LL.M. (Master of Laws). The course offer specializations in Corporate Law, Constitutional Law, and Criminal Law.

Why Choose GLC?
✅ Unmatched Legal Prestige: 165 years of excellence, judges and advocates as alumni
✅ Affordable Excellence: ₹6,890 annually—impossible to beat for quality
✅ Network Legacy: Alumni across judiciary, bureaucracy, top law firms
✅ Court Proximity: Walking distance to Bombay High Court—unparalleled internship access
✅ Proven Placements: Consistent 95%+ placement despite competitive job market
✅ Best for Judiciary/Civil Services: Strong reputation with government legal positions

 

2. NMIMS Mumbai (Keval Puram Campus): Overview

NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies) is one of India’s premier private universities, established 1821 (over 200 years old). Its law school is a relatively newer addition but operates with NMIMS’s characteristic excellence.

NMIMS law school operates as part of the broader NMIMS ecosystem, meaning law students benefit from cross-disciplinary learning, business school resources, and NMIMS’s corporate connections.

Fee Structure & Value Proposition: Annual Fee is ₹3,50,000 and 5-Year Total Cost would be ₹17.5 lakhs. The Infrastructure/Technology is included and facilities includes are modern campus, technology labs, and library access.

The average placement package is about ₹6-7 LPA. The NMIMS places students across diverse career paths (corporate, consulting, academics, startups). Besides this those pursuing corporate law and consulting gets an average of ₹8-12 LPA.

The top placements are from Corporate Law Firms, like AZB & Partners and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (₹10-12 LPA). Management Consulting firms, like BCG, McKinsey, Bain (₹12-15 LPA).

Why Choose NMIMS Mumbai?
✅ Premium Infrastructure: Modern, comfortable, tech-enabled
✅ BBA LLB Uniqueness: Only NMIMS offers this combination (business + law)
✅ Corporate Career Path: Excellent for aspiring corporate lawyers and business law specialists
✅ Access to NMIMS Network: 200-year-old institution’s connections across industries
✅ Alternative Career Paths: Consulting, compliance, corporate finance opportunities
✅ Interview-Based Selection: Merit + personality both valued

 

3. NMIMS, Navi Mumbai Campus: Overview

NMIMS Navi Mumbai is a second campus of NMIMS located in the satellite city of Navi Mumbai. It is the same as main campus of NMIMS. The infrastructure is generally similar and the annual fee is about ₹2,75,000 (Slightly lower than main campus in Mumbai).

The average package is about ₹14 LPA

Why Choose Navi Mumbai Campus?
✅ Lower fees than main campus (₹2,75,000 vs ₹3,50,000)
✅ Less crowded, more personal attention
✅ Same NMIMS degree and network
✅ Good for students living in Navi Mumbai/Eastern suburbs

 

4. Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU) Mumbai: Overview

MNLU Mumbai is a National Law University and it’s autonomous. It sets its own curriculum and not affiliated with state university. Established in 2014, MNLU represents India’s modern legal education paradigm.

The annual fee is ₹3,97,476 and 5-Year Total is ~₹20 lakhs. The cost justifies itself through national-level education. The average placement package is about ₹10 LPA and the top tier placements is about ₹18+ LPA.

Recruiting organizations include premier law firms, like Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Trilegal, Big 4 Consulting, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and World Bank.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

✅ Modern campus built with latest standards

✅ Advanced digital library with international law databases (LexisNexis, Westlaw)

✅ Professional moot courtroom

✅ Research centers (Alternative Dispute Resolution Center, etc.)

✅ Auditorium for seminars, speaker events, Hostel facilities

 

Why Choose MNLU?
✅ #31 NIRF National Ranking: Highest-ranked in Maharashtra
✅ Modern Curriculum: Cybersecurity, ADR, blockchain law—prepared for tomorrow’s practice
✅ Faculty Excellence: Doctorate-holders from top global universities
✅ National-Level Network: Graduates placed nationwide, international opportunities
✅ Research Culture: Emphasis on legal scholarship, publication
✅ Modern Infrastructure: State-of-art campus and academic facilities
✅ Cutting-Edge Specializations: Only NLU offering these advanced options

 

5. SVKM’s Pravin Gandhi College of Law (PGCL): Overview

SVKM’s Pravin Gandhi College of Law (PGCL) is a mid-tier private law college in Mumbai, affiliated with University of Mumbai. Established relatively recently, PGCL positions itself as offering “quality legal education” with modern approach.

The annual fee is about ₹83,500 (Mid-tier private college). The average placement package is about ₹6 LPA. The recruiters include Mid-tier law firms, Corporate legal departments, and Government organizations.

Why Choose SVKM PGCL?
✅ Affordable private option (₹4.2 lakhs total)
✅ Decent infrastructure
✅ Focuses on practical legal education
✅ Easier admission than GLC/MNLU

 

 

Total Seats in The Best Law Colleges of Mumbai

Here is a list of Mumbai’s top law colleges with their total intake seats:

Law College/University	Total Seats
GLC	3-year LLB: 320 seats 5-year BLS LLB: 240 seats
NMIMS	BA LLB (Hons.): 240 seats BBA LLB (Hons.): 180 seats LLM (1-year): 180 seats
NMIMS, Navi Mumbai	BA LLB (Hons.): 60 seats BBA LLB (Hons.): 60 seats
Maharashtra National Law University	UG: 122 seats LLM: 298 seats
SVKM’s PGCL	BA LLB and BLS LLB: 120 seats LLM: 60 seats
Bits Law School	BA LLB (Hons.): 120 seats BBA LLB (Hons.): 60 seats
UMLA, Thane	120
UMLA, Santacruz	BBA LLB: 60
Amity University	3-Year LLB: 60 seats BA LLB (Hons): 120 seats BBA LLB (Hons): 60 seats BSc LLB (Hons): 60 seats BCom LLB (Hons): 60 seats
KC Law College	3-Year LLB: 240 seats LLM: 60 seats

 

Also read, Top Law Colleges in India

 

What are Top Government Law Colleges in Mumbai

If you’re looking for affordability, academic legacy, experienced faculty, and strong courtroom exposure, government law institutes in Mumbai are some of the best in India. Many of these colleges have shaped generations of judges, senior advocates, policy experts, and corporate lawyers.

Here are the top government law colleges in Mumbai:

Law College/University	Fee	Average Placement
GLC	19.7k	~ 8 LPA
University of Mumbai	1.10 Lakhs	6.50 – 8.60 LPA
MNLU	11.92 Lakhs	10 LPA
UMLA, Mumbai	2.16 Lakhs	8 LPA
Institute of Forensic Science	11.05 Lakhs	8-10 Lakhs
Dr. Ambedkar College of Law	22.5k	3.5 Lakhs

 

What are Top Private Law Colleges in Mumbai?

Mumbai’s private law schools bring modern facilities, global exposure, corporate-focused curricula, and strong placement cells. If you’re aiming for corporate law, business law, international law, or want a more structured campus experience, private colleges may be the better fit.

Here are the top private law colleges in Mumbai:

1. SVKM’s NMIMS Kirit P. Mehta School of Law

One of the fastest-growing private law schools in India, known for its industry-driven curriculum. It stands out due to its modern, integrated BA LL.B. and BBA LL.B. programs. It’s strong focus on corporate law, mergers & acquisitions, fintech law, and arbitration along with an excellent placement support makes it a top choice. It also has a vibrant campus life and  structured internships from the first year.

2. Amity University, Mumbai – School of Law

A popular choice among students looking for a well-rounded law degree with good infrastructure. What makes it strong are faculty with both academic and industry experience, moot court training and international seminars, and multiple specialization choices. Additionally it gives professional grooming programs and internships to the students.

3. DY Patil Deemed University – School of Law

Known for experiential learning and a practice-driven curriculum. Its highlights are strong focus on practical skills, like drafting, legal writing, negotiation, and a good exposure to corporate and commercial law.

 

Other Private Law Colleges in Mumbai:

Colleges	Fee	Courses
Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai	Rs 73,000	LLM
Pravin Gandhi College of Law, Mumbai	Rs 3.37 lakh	BA LLB
BITS Law School, Mumbai	Rs 33.75 lakh	BBA LLB Hons
MKES College of Law, Mumbai	Rs 79,230	BLS LLB Integrated

 

 

What’s the Fee Comparison Between The Best Law Colleges in Mumbai?

College	Type	Annual Fee	Total 5-Year Cost
GLC	Government	10k-20k	~50k-1 Lakh
University of Mumbai	Government	8.7k-250k	~₹5-12.5 Lakh
MNLU Mumbai NLU	Private	5-10 LPA	~₹25-50 Lakh
KC Law College	Private	60k-1 Lakh	~₹3-5 Lakh
NMIMS	Premium Private	1.27-10.1 LPA	~₹60+ Lakh
Amity University	Premium Private	₹1.55-9.45 LPA	~₹50+ Lakh

Best ROI: Government colleges (GLC, University of Mumbai) for cost-effectiveness. Premium colleges require strong financial backing.

Also read, Top Law colleges Accepting MH CET Law Scores

 

 

How to Choose the Best Law School in Mumbai

First, find your career aspiration and career trajectory. Whether you want to be a judge or pursue corporate law. The choice of the best law college also depends on your financial budget and capacity.

Your entrance score in exam like CLAT or MH-CET will also drive your choices. If you scored 95+ in CLAT, you will have bigger pool of choices.

You can also take help from IMS Law School Zone which is a user-friendly, interactive online platform by IMS India. It’s designed to help law aspirants navigate the complex law school admissions process in India. It is part of the larger IMS Grad School Zone initiative.

Key Features and Functionality: The platform consolidates crucial data of all law colleges and top NLUs in India to help students make informed decisions.

• Comprehensive College Information: The platform features a detailed list of premier law institutes, including National Law Universities (NLUs) like NLSIU Bangalore and NALSAR Hyderabad, as well as top private and government colleges.
• College Comparison: Users can compare different law colleges side-by-side based on various factors like seat availability, reservation policies, placement statistics, and fees.
• Cut-offs and Deadlines: It provides category-specific cut-off data from previous years, helping students understand their admission chances. It also tracks important application and test deadlines.
• “myNLU Target Rank” Tool: This crucial feature allows students to input their potential scores or state of domicile to predict which colleges they might be eligible for based on past trends.

 

What are the Entrance Exams for The Top Law Colleges in Mumbai

Law aspirants can take the admission to India’s top law colleges through law entrance exams, such as CLAT, SLAT, NLAT, AILET, and LSAT. These exams are held every year.

Read More about the Law Entrance Exams
CLAT Full Form	Everything About CLAT Exam	CLAT Syllabus
SLAT Exam Pattern	Everything About SLAT Exam	Law Careers
CLAT vs AILET vs LSAT	Everything About AILET Exam	NLAT Exam
Prepare for MH CET Law	MH CET Law Syllabus	MH CET Law Exam Pattern

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FAQs About Top Law Colleges in Mumbai

What’s the difference between government law colleges and private law colleges in Mumbai?

The primary differences are as follows:

Cost: Government colleges (GLC, University of Mumbai) charge around ₹8,000-₹2,50,000 annually. Private colleges (MNLU, KC, NMIMS) charge ₹5-10 LPA annually.

Network & Prestige: Government colleges have 100+ year alumni networks with judges, advocates, and bureaucrats.

Curriculum: The topics and subjects of law programs in private colleges often have more modern, specialized curricula (cybersecurity law, alternative dispute resolution).

Infrastructure: Private colleges typically have better physical infrastructure and government colleges prioritize academics over facilities.

Admission Tests: Government colleges require MHCET or CLAT and private colleges may use their own entrance exams or offer CLAT-based admissions.

 

What are the main entrance exams for the law colleges in Mumbai?

The main entrance exams for some of the best law colleges in Mumbai are, CLAT, SLAT, and MH-CET Law.

• CLAT Exam – A national-level exam required for admission into NLUs and law colleges. It’s conducted annually in December and required for both BA LLB and LLM admissions.
• MHCET Law – Maharashtra state entrance exam required for Government Law College, University of Mumbai, KC Law College. Conducted annually by Maharashtra’s government.
• College-Specific Entrance Tests – Some private colleges like SVKM’s Pravin Gandhi or Rizvi Law College conduct their own entrance exams. Symbiosis colleges accept SLAT exam scores.

 

Which law college in Mumbai has the best placement record?

GLC (Government Law College) has an average placement of ₹6-8 LPA, and top 10-15% get ₹12+ LPA. The MNLU Mumbai has average placement of ₹7-14 LPA, and top tier get ₹15+ LPA.

KC Law College gets an average of ₹6-8 LPA, and top tier get ₹12-15+ LPA. MNLU has the best average package, but GLC’s network advantage means alumni often transition to more lucrative positions after initial placement.

 

Is a government law college or private law college better for career growth?

Both paths work, but for different reasons:

Government Law Colleges in Mumbai Offer:

✅ Bigger judiciary aspirations (UPSC, civil services)

✅ Better chances for high court practice

✅ Cheaper, more accessible resources

❌ May require more personal effort to break into corporate law

 

Private Law Colleges in Mumbai Offer:

✅ Superior corporate law firms.

✅ Better international law careers.

✅ Specialized practice in IP, cyber, Merger & Acquisitions.

❌ Fewer opportunities in judiciary (social prestige factor)

 

What’s the best law college in Mumbai overall?

The list of the top law colleges in Mumbai includes names, such as Government Law College, NMIMS, MNLU, Government Law College, and KC Law College.

 

Should I choose a Mumbai law college or study in another city?

Mumbai city has clear advantages for law aspirants, like;

1. Legal Hub: Bombay High Court is one of India’s most active courts with prestige and legacy.
2. Corporate Law Capital: Mumbai is headquarters for India’s corporate law practice. Top firms (AZB, Freshfields, etc.) are Mumbai-based.
3. Financial Services Law: With stock exchange, banking headquarters, and financial institutions, specialized practice in securities/finance law is easier in Mumbai.
4. International Exposure: Being a financial hub, Mumbai attracts international law firms, making overseas career opportunities more accessible.

 

What should I consider when choosing between top law colleges in Mumbai?

First, clarify your career aspiration and how do you want your career trajectory to be. If you want to be a judge, join GLC. If you want to pursue to become a corporate lawyer, join MNLU.

• The choice of best law college also depends on your financial budget and capacity. If someone can afford ₹50+ LPA for fee, they should choose NMIMS or Symbiosis schools. If they are budget-conscious, they can choose the GLC or University of Mumbai.
• Another aspect to select the college is ‘specialization’. If someone’s is interested in Cybersecurity law or alternative dispute resolution, they should choose MNLU. Those interested in General law, choose GLC or KC college for LLB courses.
• Your entrance score in exam like CLAT or MH-CET will drive your choices. If you scored 95+ in CLAT, you will have bigger pool of choices. If someone scored 70-80 in CLAT, they can go for the private law colleges in Mumbai.

 

How do top law colleges in Mumbai compare to national law colleges outside Mumbai?

Mumbai law colleges offer certain advantages like:

• Greater legal job market with more placements and higher salaries.
• Physical proximity to courts and law firms.
• Specialization in corporate/commercial law.

 

Law colleges in other cities advantages: (NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad, GNLU Gandhinagar)

• More prestige nationally (top 5-10 rankings)
• Better for civil services preparation
• Larger pan-India network

Verdict: For practical legal career, Mumbai wins. For academic prestige, national NLUs have slight edge.