National Law University, Cuttack

National Law University Odisha (NLUO), located in Cuttack’s CDA Sector-13, was born from the Odisha State Legislature’s Act of 2008 and welcomed its first law batch in 2009–10 . Over its compact yet verdant 50-acre campus, NLUO embodies a modern legal institution with air-conditioned lecture halls, purpose-built moot courtrooms, a multi-level library, and abundant student amenities including hostels, auditorium, sports facilities, and round-the-clock Wi‑Fi .

Affiliated with UGC and the Bar Council of India, accredited with an 'A' grade by NAAC, and repeatedly ranked among India’s top ten law schools (7th by India Today, 9th by NIRF in 2024), NLUO offers rigorous academic programs: a five-year integrated B.A./LL.B. (Honours) and B.B.A./LL.B. (Honours), a one-year LL.M. with specializations in Corporate & Commercial and Constitutional Law, and a vibrant Ph.D. program . Admission is through CLAT, the country’s premier law entrance exam .

What truly sets NLUO apart is its philosophy of "justice education." It integrates clinical legal education deeply into its curriculum—students engage with legal aid clinics in Cuttack and surrounding communities, take part in Project Kutumb to uplift rural villages, and work on real socio-legal issues like juvenile justice and prison advocacy .

NLUO’s placement record is impressive and steadily improving. For the class of 2025, 50 out of 80 graduating students secured placements, with the highest salary hitting ₹22.5 LPA and an average of ₹14.33 LPA . Earlier placements show a 2023 median of ₹14.5 LPA for graduates and ₹7 LPA for postgraduates . Major recruiters include top law firms like Saraf & Partners, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, Argus Partners, Khaitan & Co., Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, alongside opportunities in PSUs, law chambers, fellowships, and study options at prestigious international universities .

Academically, NLUO offers subject-focused excellence through specialized centers in Corporate Law, Child Rights, Maritime Law, and Banking & Insurance . Its faculty of around 43 experienced scholars ensures close mentorship, while research output—especially international publications—continues to rise .

Student life balances intense study with vibrant extracurriculars: national and international moot courts, legal aid clinics, film festivals, credit courses on human rights, and community outreach events reflect a lively culture of engagement .

There are challenges, such as campus distance—nearly 10 km from Cuttack Railway Station and 35 km from Bhubaneswar Airport—and some students note that on-campus medical services are limited . However, many applaud the academic freedoms, supportive peer environment, and the practical orientation of their training .