Private Law Admissions 2026: Active Portals and Independent Entrance Updates
While CLAT and AILET processes are in their final stages, premier institutions like NMIMS, UPES, and Amity remain open for independent applications. Aspirants can still register for university-specific tests such as NMIMS LAT or utilize LSAT—India 2026 scores for multi-campus enrollment. The current window is particularly vital for candidates seeking specialized integrated programs or three-year LLB degrees starting this August. Official portals for these high-ranking private law schools are providing updated schedules for upcoming entrance exams and interview rounds.

Following the conclusion of major national-level tests, several elite Institutions are maintaining active enrollment portals for their flagship five-year and three-year law programs. This secondary admission track is proving essential for students who wish to explore diverse pedagogical models beyond the NLU system. High-ranking Colleges such as NMIMS, UPES, and Jindal Global are currently processing Phase 1 applications, offering a blend of entrance-based and merit-based pathways. For a comprehensive list of participating universities, candidates can refer to the LSAT—India Official Partner Page.
Independent Entrance Tests and Application Windows
Unlike the centralized counseling of public universities, these private Institutions often manage their own testing calendars. The 2026 Intake features multiple opportunities for students to prove their aptitude through autonomous exams.
- NMIMS LAT 2026: The Kirit P. Mehta School of Law is currently accepting registrations for its Phase 1 test, with the portal expected to remain active through March.
- ULSAT 2026: UPES Dehradun continues to invite applications for its law programs, highlighting specialized tracks in Energy Law and Cyber Law.
- Jindal Global Law School: This institute is still processing applications for the 2026 Intake based on the January and upcoming May sessions of the LSAT—India.
- Symbiosis Law School (SLAT): While early rounds have ended, certain campuses and categories may still have active links for the May 2026 testing cycle.
- Amity Law School: Most Amity campuses across India are currently accepting applications based on CLAT 2026 scores or 10+2 merit for their non-honors streams.
Comparison of Active Admission Portals
Several private Institutions have synchronized their calendars to allow students to apply to multiple Colleges simultaneously. The following table provides the status of major applications as of early February 2026:
| University / Institute | Primary Entrance Exam | Application Status | Tentative Deadline |
| NMIMS (KPMSOL) | NMIMS LAT | Active | March 2026 |
| Jindal Global (JGLS) | LSAT—India | Active | May 2026 |
| UPES Dehradun | ULSAT / CLAT | Active | April 2026 |
| Amity Law School | Merit / CLAT | Active | June 2026 |
| LPU Phagwara | LPUNEST | Active | April 2026 |
- These Colleges require a minimum of 45% aggregate in Class 12 for general category aspirants to be eligible for the 2026 Intake.
- Many high-ranking private Institutions have also introduced virtual personal interview rounds as a mandatory final selection component.
- Prospective students are encouraged to check the Symbiosis International University (SIU) portal for specific registration updates regarding the May cycle.
Holistic Evaluation and Specializations
The 2026 Intake marks a significant shift toward holistic evaluation in private legal education. Many Institutions now look beyond scores, requiring a Statement of Purpose (SOP) or a digital portfolio to assess a candidate's passion for the law.
- Early-Bird Scholarships: Most private Colleges are currently offering merit-based fee waivers for students who complete their 2026 Intake formalities by February 28.
- International Quotas: Dedicated seats for NRI and OCI candidates are still available across premier campuses in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai.
- Specialized Tracks: Institutions are highlighting early enrollment for niche law streams such as Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and Corporate Litigation.
- Direct Merit Path: Emerging private Institutions are providing direct admission opportunities for their three-year LLB programs based on graduation percentages.
- For scholarship details, candidates can visit the Official UPES Admissions and Scholarship page.
Conclusion
The ongoing admission processes at private law universities provide a critical and flexible pathway for the 2026 intake. By maintaining active application portals into February and March, these institutions ensure that students have ample time to pivot their strategy following the national exam results. The focus on university-specific entrance tests and holistic selection criteria allows these colleges to build diverse cohorts of students who are uniquely suited for their specialized curricula. As the Phase 1 deadlines approach, aspirants are encouraged to complete their documentation and capitalize on early-bird scholarship windows. This proactive approach remains the most effective way for students to secure a place in a high-ranking legal program for the 2026-27 academic session.
