CNLU Patna Admission 2026: Dates, Form, Online Process, Fees

Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) Patna invites applications for its 2026-27 academic session through CLAT 2026, the common national entrance for law aspirants. The university offers integrated BA LLB (Hons) and BBA LLB (Hons) programs (69 seats each), LLM (66 seats), a recently introduced 3-Year LLB (Hons) (60 seats via internal entrance), and PhD programs emphasizing interdisciplinary legal research. The CLAT 2026 exam is scheduled for December 7, 2025, with applications closing on October 31, 2025. Candidates must score at least 45% in 10+2 for UG and 50% in LLB for PG, while Bihar domiciles benefit from a 75% state quota under the reservation matrix (EBC 18%, BC 12%, SC/ST 17%).

Admission at CNLU Patna follows a merit-based, multi-round counseling process conducted by the Consortium of NLUs, beginning January 2027, where aspirants lock their choices, pay a ₹25,000 seat confirmation fee, and complete document verification at the campus. The 3-Year LLB entrance exam and PhD admission tests are independently managed by CNLU in September and August 2026, respectively. Fee structures remain competitive, with UG programs at ₹2.72 lakh, LLM at ₹1.83 lakh, and PhD coursework at ₹25,000 annually, excluding optional hostel charges.

Recognized under the NIRF 2024 Law Ranking (Rank 31), CNLU maintains academic excellence, modern infrastructure, and high placement records—making it a preferred destination for law aspirants seeking both academic rigor and professional growth.

CNLU Patna offers diverse programs in 2026, including 5-year UG courses (BA LLB/BBA LLB, 69 seats each, NRI quota 5), 3-Year LLB (60 seats, graduation 60%, no CLAT), 1-year LLM (66 seats, CLAT PG), PG Diplomas (120 seats, merit + interview), and PhD/Research (31 seats, Master’s + UGC NET), with fees and selection processes varying by program, emphasizing merit, CLAT scores, and Bihar domicile benefits. These courses focus on practical learning, moot courts, advanced litigation, and interdisciplinary research, maintaining strong placement trends like 2025’s ₹10.1 LPA median for UG.

For More Details, Visit Chanakya National Law University Patna Page.

CNLU Patna sets clear, CLAT-aligned thresholds to ensure only prepared candidates join its rigorous programs. No surprises here: 45% minimum in qualifying exams for most, with relaxations for reserved categories.

Applying to CNLU Patna means nailing CLAT first, then seamless counseling. Unlike generic processes, CNLU's involves direct university verification for Bihar quotas, cutting delays.

1. Register for CLAT 2026: Head to consortiumofnlus.ac.in; upload 10+2 marksheets.
2. Appear and Score: Aim above 2025's general cutoff (1,358 for BA LLB) via mock tests.
3. Choice Filling: During CLAT counseling, prioritize CNLU Patna (code: 17).
4. Seat Allotment: Three rounds in January 2027; pay Rs 25,000 lock-in fee.
5. Document Verification: At CNLU campus—originals checked within 7 days.
6. Fee Payment: Online via cnlu.ac.in; full Rs 2,72,253 due by February end.

Missed the 2025 cycle? CNLU Patna's 2026 admissions kick off with CLAT notifications in July 2026, but prep now via the ongoing CLAT 2026 window. Here's the confirmed timeline based on the 2025–26 pattern:

CNLU Patna's 2026 application form serves as the CLAT ticket for UG/PG, while 3-Year LLB, PhD, and LLD forms are standalone and submitted offline; all processes are digital or post-based for faster processing. Fees vary from Rs 3,000–5,000, with required uploads including photo, signature, category certificate, Aadhaar, and 10+2 marksheet (under 2MB each).

CNLU Patna verifies originals on-site—no proxies—to confirm CLAT ranks and quotas.

• CLAT 2026 scorecard and admit card.
• 10+2/graduation marksheets (attested).
• Category certificate (Bihar EBC/BC format).
• Domicile proof for state quota.
• Passport photos (6) and Aadhaar.
• NOC for PhD employed applicants.