Law School Spotlight | Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna

If you are preparing for CLAT and thinking about studying law at a National Law University, Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna is a name you must understand properly. This article is written especially for students who are planning to join a five-year integrated law course after Class 12. 

What is CNLU Patna?

Chanakya National Law University, commonly known as CNLU Patna, is one of India’s National Law Universities. It was established in 2006 by the Government of Bihar. The university is named after Chanakya, the ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, and legal thinker.

CNLU is a government law university, recognised by the UGC and approved by the Bar Council of India. Over the years, it has built a strong academic reputation and is today counted among the top NLUs in India.

Where is CNLU Located and Why Does Location Matter?

CNLU is located in Patna, Bihar, the capital city of the state. The campus is situated in Nyaya Nagar, which is well connected to the city.

Why location matters for law students:

• Patna has a High Court, district courts, and many senior advocates
• Students interested in litigation and judiciary get good exposure
• Access to courts helps in internships during semesters

For students aiming for courtroom practice or judicial services in the future, Patna is a practical location.

Which Course Should CLAT Aspirants Focus On?

For CLAT aspirants, the most important course at CNLU is:

B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) – 5 Years

This is the main undergraduate law programme offered through CLAT.

What does this course include?

• Law subjects: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contract Law, Family Law, Property Law
• Arts subjects: Political Science, Sociology, Economics, History
• Moot courts, research projects, internships

The course is designed in a way that helps students build strong legal basics in the first years and practical legal skills in later years.

How Do You Get Admission into CNLU Patna?

Admission to the BA LL.B. (Hons.) programme at CNLU is done through CLAT (Common Law Admission Test).

Basic eligibility

• Must have passed Class 12 (any stream)
• Minimum marks as prescribed by CLAT rules
• A valid CLAT rank

Cut-off idea (for understanding)

CNLU usually falls in the upper-mid tier of NLUs. This means:

• General category students often need a good CLAT rank
• It is more competitive than newer NLUs but slightly less than top 5 NLUs

Exact cut-offs change every year, so focus on maximising your CLAT score.

How is Academic Life at CNLU?

Academics are taken seriously at CNLU. The university follows a structured semester system with regular classes, exams, and evaluations.

What to expect in academics

• Experienced professors and visiting faculty
• Emphasis on class participation and presentations
• Regular internal assessments and end-term exams

Students who attend classes regularly and stay disciplined usually perform well.

Moot Courts, Internships and Practical Exposure

CNLU encourages students to go beyond textbooks.

Moot Courts

• Regular intra-university moot competitions
• Students participate in national-level moots
• Helps in learning legal research, drafting, and oral arguments

Internships

• Law firms
• Senior advocates
• NGOs and legal aid organisations
• Courts and judges

Internships usually begin from the first year itself, which is very useful for career clarity.

How Are Placements at CNLU Patna?

Placements at CNLU have improved steadily over the years.

Placement highlights

• Recruiters include law firms, companies, chambers, and policy organisations
• Students also opt for litigation, higher studies, and judiciary preparation
• Median packages are competitive among mid-to-upper NLUs

CNLU is a good choice for students who are self-driven and willing to work hard on skills.

Campus Life, Hostels and Facilities

CNLU has a fully residential campus, which means most students stay in hostels.

Facilities include

• Separate hostels for boys and girls
• Library with law books, journals, and online databases
• Sports facilities and gym
• Student committees and societies

Living on campus helps students build friendships, discipline, and independence.

Student Societies and Activities

CNLU has active student committees, including:

• Moot Court Committee
• Legal Aid Society
• Debate and Literary Committees
• Cultural and Sports Committees

Annual fests and academic events give students a break from studies and help in personality development.

Who Should Choose CNLU Patna?

CNLU Patna is a good choice if:

• You want a National Law University degree
• You are interested in litigation, judiciary, or public service
• You are disciplined and ready to work hard on your skills
• You want strong academics with growing placement opportunities

Final Thoughts for CLAT Aspirants

CNLU Patna is not just about rankings. It is about what you make of your five years. Students who actively participate in moots, internships, research, and societies often do very well after graduation.

If your CLAT rank allows you to get CNLU, it is definitely worth serious consideration.

For more such simple and honest law college guides, keep following CLATBuddy and prepare smart for CLAT.