Established in 2006, Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna, is a premier National Law University (NLU) in India. It was founded by the Government of Bihar under the Chanakya National Law University Act, 2006. The university is recognized by the Bar Council of India (BCI) and the University Grants Commission (UGC).
CNLU is known for its rigorous academic programs, experienced faculty, and strong emphasis on legal research and advocacy. The university is committed to shaping future legal professionals, policymakers, and scholars through high-quality legal education and practical training.
Vice Chancellor
Vice Chancellor’s name: Prof. (Dr.) Faizan Mustafa
Background: Dr. Mustafa has held several distinguished positions in the field of legal education. He has served as the Dean and Registrar at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and was the Vice-Chancellor of the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR). Additionally, he was the founding Vice-Chancellor of National Law University Odisha (NLU Odisha).
Academically, Dr. Mustafa holds a B.A. LL.B., an LL.M. in Criminal Law, and a Ph.D. in Copyright Law from Aligarh Muslim University. He has also earned a Diploma in International and Comparative Human Rights Law from the International Institute of Human Rights.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has served as the Director of the Kalinga Institute of Information Technology (KIIT) School of Law and has been a visiting faculty at the Kautilya School of Public Policy.
Courses Offered (Law)
CNLU offers various undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in law, catering to students with diverse academic interests.
Undergraduate Programs (UG)
B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) – 5-year integrated program
BB.A. LL.B. (Hons.) – 5-year integrated program
Postgraduate Programs (PG)
LL.M. (Master of Laws) – 1-year program with specializations
Doctoral Programs
Ph.D. in Law – Research-based program in various legal disciplines
Other Programs
PG Diploma & Certification Courses – Specialized short-term courses on contemporary legal topics.
Fee Structure
1. Undergraduate Programs (B.A., LL.B. / B.B.A., LL.B. – 5 Years)
Total Fee (With Hostel): ₹2,62,718 (1st Year)Total Fee (Without Hostel): ₹2,32,718 (1st Year)Key Components: Tuition Fee ₹1,20,698 per annum, Development Fee ₹10,000, Moot Court & Activities Fee ₹5,000 each, Mess Fee ₹31,500, Room Rent ₹22,000.
2. Postgraduate Program (LL.M. – 1 Year)
Total Fee (With Hostel): ₹2,39,000Total Fee (Without Hostel): ₹1,77,500Key Components: Tuition Fee ₹1,15,500, Library & Internet Fees ₹8,000 & ₹3,000, Room Rent ₹22,000, Mess Fee ₹31,500.
3. Postgraduate Diploma (1 Year)
Total Fee: ₹96,000Key Components: Tuition Fee ₹90,000, Exam Fee ₹5,000.
4. Ph.D. (Law)
Total Fee (1st Year): ₹35,000Key Components: Tuition Fee ₹15,000, Admission Fee ₹5,000, Thesis Evaluation ₹10,000.
Scholarship
Central Sector Scheme (OBC, EBC, DNT Students) – Government-funded financial aid covering tuition and education expenses.
Admission Process
Entrance Exam: Admission to B.A., LL.B. (Hons.) and B.B.A., LL.B. (Hons.) at CNLU is through CLAT, conducted annually for NLUs.Eligibility: Candidates must have 10+2 with at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST). No upper age limit.Application: Registration for CLAT is done online via the Consortium of NLUs website, typically starting in January, with the exam held in May.Counselling & Seat Allotment: Based on CLAT ranks, candidates participate in centralized counselling to select preferred NLUs. Seats are allotted as per merit and choice.Admission Confirmation: Once allotted a seat, candidates must complete formalities like document verification and fee payment.LL.M. Admission: CNLU conducts its entrance exam for postgraduate law programs.
For the latest updates, visit the official CNLU website.
Infrastructure
Academic Facilities:
Classrooms: 17 air-conditioned classrooms with projectors and AV facilities.Library: 160-seat library with Wi-Fi, CCTV, law journals, and extensive legal resources. (E-Resource includes Legal Bites IP Subscription) Moot Court Hall: Dedicated space for advocacy training and courtroom simulations.Conference & Seminar Halls: One conference hall and two seminar halls for academic events.
Residential & Student Amenities:
Hostels: Separate accommodations for male and female students.Cafeteria: Serves hygienic and nutritious food.Medical Facilities: On-campus dispensary with medical staff and an ambulance.
Sports & Recreation:
Sports Facilities: Football ground, basketball court, and table tennis equipment.
CNLU provides a well-equipped campus that fosters academic excellence along with extracurricular and recreational activities.
Student Cells at CNLU
Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna, has several student-run cells aimed at fostering academic growth, professional development, and social responsibility:
Alumni Cell: Strengthens alumni-student connections through events like the Annual Alumni Meet.
Anti-Ragging Cell: Ensures a safe, ragging-free campus environment.Legal Aid Cell: Provides free legal assistance to underprivileged communities.Career Development Cell: Guides students in internships, placements, and career planning.Equal Opportunity Cell: Promotes inclusivity and addresses discrimination-related concerns.NSS Cell: Encourages student involvement in community service and social initiatives.SC-ST Cell: Supports SC/ST students by addressing grievances and ensuring welfare.
These cells contribute to a holistic and enriching campus experience at CNLU.
Accreditation of CNLU
The university received its first NAAC accreditation in 2016 with a CGPA of 2.17, valid until June 13, 2027. Additionally, CNLU has been a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) since 2006.
