NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Qualification & Marks Required

Overview: If you wish to study law at the elite National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bangalore, the initial step is to clarify the NLSAT eligibility criteria in detail.

The NLSAT (National Law School Admission Test) opens the doors to the prestigious 3-year LLB course at NLSIU, and understanding the eligibility criteria is essential for a hitch-free admission process.

This detailed guide provides all the necessary information on the NLSAT eligibility criteria for 2026, including answers to common questions, such as whether one is eligible for the NLSAT 3-year LLB.

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What is NLSAT?

Before discussing NLSAT eligibility, it is crucial to understand the NLSAT. The NLSAT is the exclusive entrance test conducted by NLSIU for admission into its  3-year LLB course. NLSIU conducts its own test, making the NLSAT eligibility unique to NLSIU's admissions process.

The exam checks aspirants based on legal aptitude, logical reasoning, general knowledge, and command of the English language. An example of a legal aptitude question is presenting a hypothetical situation and asking which law should apply.

The 3-year LLB course is highly popular among law courses in India, and students take the NLSAT to secure admission to the prestigious school.

Read more: All-in-one Book for NLSAT Preparation

Download Official NLSAT 2026 Notification

NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Overview

The eligibility criteria for applying to the program are as follows:

1. Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised national or international university.

2. Minimum Marks Requirement:

   • General Category: Applicants should have graduated with an aggregate of at least 45% of the total marks.
   • SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PWD Category: Applicants should have graduated with an aggregate of at least 40% of the total marks.

3. Final Year Students: Candidates in the final year of their Bachelor's degree are also eligible to apply. However, their final admission offer is subject to completing their degree with the specified minimum aggregate marks.

4. Submission of Proof: Proof of completion of the qualifying degree, meeting the required aggregate marks, must be submitted no later than December 31, 2026.

These criteria ensure that applicants meet the necessary academic standards for admission into the program.

Read More: Online Coaching for NLSAT 2026 by LegalEdge

International Students

Candidates can apply for the NLSAT 2026– International Examination for the “international student” category if they fulfil the following conditions:

• They should be a citizen of a country other than India; AND
• They should have completed at least 10 years of their education at a school/college/university outside India.

Read More: How to fill the NLSAT Application form?

NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Educational Qualification

To be eligible for the NLSAT 3-year LLB program 2026, candidates must have:

• The NLSAT 3-year LLB program 2026 offers a flexible approach to eligibility, welcoming candidates with a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised university, regardless of their discipline (e.g., Arts, Science, Commerce). 
• The only requirement is that the degree must be completed by the time of admission.
• It should be remembered that the degree must be from an institution recognised by the UGC or an equivalent statutory body. This verifies the authenticity and quality of your academic credentials.
• Here is some news for final-year undergraduate students: You can take admission to the NLSAT 3-year LLB course 2026. Just do not forget to furnish evidence of your graduation at the start of the NLSAT.

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NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Minimum Marks Requirement

The  NLSAT eligibility criteria 2026 require the minimum marks by candidates from their undergraduate degree to apply:

• General Category: Candidates must have at least 45% marks in their undergraduate program.
• SC/ST/OBC Category: Candidates from these categories must have a minimum of 40% marks in their undergraduate program.

Explore: NLSAT 2026 Paper Pattern

NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit

NLSAT has no specific age limit for candidates applying for the 3-year LLB program.

This flexibility makes it a popular choice for candidates switching careers or taking a gap after completing their undergraduate studies.

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NLSAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Nationality

The NLSAT eligibility criteria 2026 are open to both Indian and foreign nationals. However, foreign nationals may need to provide proof of their citizenship and meet specific university criteria.

International candidates may also have additional language proficiency requirements.

Read More: NLSAT Syllabus

NLSAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Residency Criteria for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals seeking admission to NLSIU for the 3-year LLB programme must satisfy specific requirements to meet the NLSAT eligibility criteria:

• They should have obtained their higher secondary and secondary education abroad or be abroad at the time of application.
• They must fulfil the same eligibility criteria stipulated by NLSIU for Indian applicants.

Additionally, candidates outside India may have to appear for an interview or submit extra documents, such as a valid passport, visa, and English proficiency certificates.

Read more: NLSAT Test Series by LegalEdge

What is the Eligibility for NLSAT 3-Year LLB 2026?

The answer to eligibility for the NLSAT 3-year LLB is simple and follows the points mentioned above.

Candidates must hold a recognised bachelor’s degree and meet the specified percentage requirements based on their category.

The exam has no upper age limit, and students from all backgrounds, including those in their final year of study, can apply.

Read More: Best Books for NLSAT Prep

Conclusion

The NLSAT eligibility criteria for 2026 are reasonably simple yet must be studied meticulously. Being a recent graduate, in one's final year of study, or an Indian national abroad, will find it relatively easier to pass the test, provided they understand the requirements and ensure they meet the prerequisites.

Always check the official NLSIU website for the latest information, as eligibility can change each year. Stay on top of deadlines, prepare well for the exam, and follow the correct procedures for a hassle-free experience.

In a nutshell, to determine whether you are eligible for the NLSAT 3-year LLB 2026, you must have a bachelor's degree that the board has recognised and the prerequisite percentage, and you're good to go to apply for the exam.

For more details keep checking the official website nls.ac.in