Research Degree Programmes – Apply Now for 2026-27 Opportunity.
The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore, is soon opening admissions for its Research Degree Programmes for the Academic Year 2026-27. These programmes are designed to equip candidates with advanced research skills in law, while also providing opportunities to participate in teaching and ongoing research initiatives at NLSIU. Aspiring legal scholars and professionals seeking to develop an academic career in law will find these programmes an ideal platform to cultivate expertise, contribute to cutting-edge legal research, and engage in interdisciplinary learning.
NLSIU’s Research Degree Programmes emphasize rigorous analytical training, theoretical and empirical research methodologies, and professional development through teaching assistance and academic mentorship. Candidates are selected through the All-India National Law School Admission Test for PhD (NLSAT-PhD), ensuring a competitive and merit-based entry process. The programmes offer an immersive experience, allowing students to work closely with faculty, participate in seminars, and contribute to scholarly publications.
These research opportunities are particularly beneficial for individuals looking to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, policy-making bodies, and international organizations. The combination of teaching experience and research exposure ensures that participants gain practical academic skills alongside theoretical insights, preparing them to excel as legal researchers and educators.
About NLSIU
Established in 1987, the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore is India’s premier law school, renowned for pioneering legal education and scholarship. NLSIU has consistently been at the forefront of legal research and academic innovation, producing alumni who are influential in law, policy, and governance globally.
The Research Degree Programmes at NLSIU aim to strengthen the university’s legacy of academic excellence by training scholars who can contribute to legal knowledge and public policy. Students enrolled in these programmes engage in independent research, contribute to ongoing faculty projects, and gain exposure to national and international legal scholarship. The curriculum is designed to combine structured coursework with practical research methodology training, ensuring students develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and scholarly writing proficiency.
Candidates also benefit from mentorship by leading faculty members, opportunities to present research at conferences, and participation in teaching assistance roles, providing hands-on experience in academia. NLSIU’s vibrant research culture and interdisciplinary approach make it an ideal environment for aspiring legal scholars to develop expertise in specialized areas of law.
About the Opportunity
The Research Degree Programmes at NLSIU offer candidates an integrated academic experience encompassing research, teaching, and scholarly development. Participants are expected to:
- Engage in rigorous legal research under the guidance of faculty mentors
- Contribute to ongoing research projects, policy analysis, and publications
- Assist in teaching, including preparing course material and guiding students
- Present research findings in seminars, conferences, and workshops
- Develop interdisciplinary insights by exploring emerging legal, social, and technological issues
The programmes foster an environment of critical inquiry, collaborative learning, and professional development, preparing candidates for academic, research, and policy-making careers.
Event Timeline
Event | Date |
---|---|
Application Opens | 1st October 2025 |
Application Deadline | 15th March 2026 |
Programme Start | July 2026 |
Location and Mode
Hybrid – NLSIU Campus, Bangalore, with online components for select courses and research workshops
Format and Structure
- Duration: 3–5 years depending on the programme (PhD/LLM by Research)
- Working Hours: Full-time commitment with flexible research scheduling
- Supervisor / Mentor: Faculty members of NLSIU assigned based on research area
Eligibility & Requirements
- Master of Laws (LLM) or equivalent degree in law
- Strong academic record and research aptitude
- Demonstrated interest in legal scholarship or prior research experience
- Commitment to participate in teaching and research activities
- Proficiency in legal writing and analysis
Additional Highlights
- Certificate of Completion for teaching or research contributions
- Stipend or research fellowship (if applicable, based on NLSIU guidelines)
- Networking opportunities with distinguished faculty, researchers, and visiting scholars
- Access to NLSIU’s library, research resources, and international collaborations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for these Research Degree Programmes?
Candidates with a Master of Laws (LLM) or equivalent legal qualification can apply for NLSIU’s Research Degree Programmes 2026-27.
Q2: Is this Research Degree Programme paid or unpaid?
The programme may offer fellowships or stipends to eligible candidates. Teaching and research responsibilities may include additional compensation per NLSIU policy.
Q3: What is the last date to apply for the programme?
Applications must be submitted by 15th March 2026.
Q4: What is the selection process for these Research Degree Programmes?
Candidates are selected through the NLSAT-PhD, followed by evaluation of academic records, research proposals, and interviews conducted by NLSIU faculty.
Q5: Will I get a certificate after completion?
Yes, candidates who complete the research and teaching components successfully will receive a certificate and degree as per the programme requirements.
Important Links
- Application Form Link: Express Interest / Apply Here
- Organization Website: NLSIU Bangalore
Downloadables
- Admission Poster

Contact
- Email: admissions@nls.ac.in
- Address: National Law School of India University, Nagarbhavi, Bangalore, Karnataka
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