UPES School of Law Dehradun: The Complete Guide to Courses, Fees, Eligibility, Admission & Everything You Need to Know in 2026
If you are dreaming of
UPES School of Law Dehradun: The Complete Guide to Courses, Fees, Eligibility, Admission & Everything You Need to Know in 2026
If you are dreaming of a career in law and want to study at one of the most modern and forward-thinking law schools in India, then UPES School of Law in Dehradun deserves your full attention. Nestled in the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand, this institution has grown from a small beginning in 2007 to become one of the top 20 law schools in the entire country. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through everything — from the courses they offer to the fees you will pay, from the eligibility rules to the admission process, and from important dates to placement records. We have kept the language simple and human, so you can easily understand every single detail.
Why UPES School of Law Dehradun Stands Out from the Crowd
Before we dive into the technical details, let us understand what makes this law school special. UPES School of Law is not just another traditional college where you memorize sections of the Indian Penal Code and call it a day. It is a "New Age Law School" that believes in blending law with technology, energy, corporate sectors, and emerging fields like artificial intelligence and blockchain. The campus is located at P.O. Kandoli Via Premnagar, Dehradun, and it spreads across a scenic 44-acre campus that gives students a peaceful environment to focus on their studies.
The institution has earned some really impressive rankings that prove its growing reputation:
- NIRF 2025 Rank: 18th in India for Law — this is a massive jump from 28th rank in 2024, showing how fast the school is improving
- IIRF 2025 Rank: 22nd among all law colleges in India
- QS Asia Rankings 2025: 148th position
- THE World Rankings 2026: 501–600 band globally
- BW Legal Rankings 2024: 4th in India and 3rd in the North Zone among private universities
The school is approved by the Bar Council of India (BCI) and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It holds NAAC 'A' Grade accreditation, which means the quality of education here meets national standards. The faculty strength is around 90 experienced teachers, and the gender ratio is fairly balanced with 49% male and 51% female students. Interestingly, 88% of students come from outside Uttarakhand, which shows the national appeal of this institution.
All Courses Offered at UPES School of Law Dehradun
UPES School of Law offers a wide range of programs that cater to different career goals. Whether you are a fresh 12th-pass student looking for an integrated law degree or a graduate wanting to pursue a 3-year LLB, or even a law graduate aiming for a master's degree — there is something for everyone.
5-Year Integrated Law Programs (After Class 12)
These are the flagship programs that most students opt for right after completing their higher secondary education:
- BA LL.B (Hons.) — This program combines Bachelor of Arts with Bachelor of Laws. It is perfect for students who want a strong foundation in humanities subjects along with legal education. The program runs for 5 years and is one of the most popular choices at UPES.
- BBA LL.B (Hons.) — This is the flagship program of UPES School of Law. It merges Business Administration with Law, making it ideal for students who dream of working in corporate law firms, business consultancies, or starting their own legal practice with a business edge. The total program fee ranges from approximately ₹22.62 lakhs to ₹23.81 lakhs depending on the exact specialization and batch.
- B.Com LL.B (Hons.) — This integrates Commerce with Law, suitable for those interested in taxation law, banking law, and financial regulations.
- B.A. (AI & Law) — This is a unique and futuristic program that focuses on the legal aspects of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. It is one of the few programs in India that prepares students for the intersection of technology and law.
3-Year LL.B. Program (After Graduation)
If you have already completed your graduation in any stream and now want to switch to law, UPES offers a 3-year LL.B. (Hons.) program. This is a great option for working professionals or graduates who realize their passion for law later in their academic journey. The total fee for this program is approximately ₹14.29 lakhs for the entire course duration. The program covers all core legal subjects and prepares you for the Bar Council examination.
1-Year LL.M. Program (Postgraduate)
For law graduates who want to specialize further, UPES offers a 1-year LL.M. program with multiple specializations. This is a postgraduate degree that can open doors to teaching, research, senior corporate positions, and even judiciary preparations. The specializations available include:
- Corporate Law
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
- Cyber Law
- Environmental Law
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
The LL.M. program fee is approximately ₹2.79 lakhs for the entire one-year duration, which is quite competitive compared to other top law schools in India.
Ph.D. in Law
For those who want to enter the world of legal research and academia, UPES also offers full-time and part-time Ph.D. programs in Law. The research focus areas include energy law, environmental law, corporate law, and emerging technology laws.
Detailed Fee Structure for UPES School of Law Programs
Let us break down the fee structure in a clear and transparent manner. Please note that fees are subject to change, and you should always verify the latest figures from the official UPES website before applying.
BA LL.B (Hons.) — 5 Years
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹23.81 lakhs for the entire 5-year duration
- Per Semester Fee: Ranges from ₹1,14,000 to ₹2,54,000 depending on the semester and any specializations
- The fee increases slightly each year as you progress through the program
BBA LL.B (Hons.) — 5 Years
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹22.62 lakhs for the entire course
- Per Semester Fee: Ranges from ₹1,09,000 to ₹2,43,500
- This is the flagship program and offers excellent value considering the placement records
LL.B. — 3 Years
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹14.29 lakhs for the full 3-year program
- Per Semester Fee: Ranges from ₹1,56,000 to ₹2,35,000
- This program is specifically designed for graduates from any discipline
LL.M. — 1 Year
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹2.79 lakhs
- Per Semester Fee: Around ₹1,39,536 per semester
- This is one of the most affordable LL.M. programs among top-ranked private law schools
Additional Costs to Consider
- Application Fee: ₹1,750 when you apply online or offline
- Hostel Fees: Approximately ₹1.70 lakhs to ₹2.13 lakhs per year depending on the type of accommodation (triple sharing, double sharing, or air-conditioned rooms)
- Mess Charges: Additional monthly charges apply for food
- Other Expenses: Books, moot court participation, internships, and personal expenses
The university offers various payment plans and installment options to ease the financial burden on families.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
UPES School of Law has clearly defined eligibility criteria for each program. Make sure you meet these requirements before spending time and money on the application process.
For 5-Year Integrated Law Programs (BA LL.B / BBA LL.B / B.Com LL.B / B.A. AI & Law)
- You must have passed Class 12 (Higher Secondary) from any recognized board
- You need a minimum of 50% marks in both Class 10 and Class 12
- Any stream is acceptable — Science, Commerce, or Arts students can all apply
- You must have a valid score in one of these entrance exams: CLAT, ULSAT, LSAT-India, CUET-UG, or you can apply through the Board Merit pathway (based on your Class 12 percentage)
For 3-Year LL.B. Program
- You must have completed Graduation in any stream from a recognized university
- You need a minimum of 50% marks in Class 10, Class 12, and your Graduation
- A Personal Interview is part of the selection process for this program
- Entrance exam scores may be required depending on the admission pathway you choose
For LL.M. Program
- You must have completed your LL.B. or equivalent degree with a minimum of 50% marks
- You need a valid score in CLAT-PG, ULSAT-LLM, or other accepted postgraduate law entrance exams
- Some specializations may have additional requirements based on the subject area
Important Notes on Eligibility
- There is no specific age limit mentioned for most programs
- Students who are appearing for their final year exams can apply provisionally, but they must submit proof of qualification at the time of counseling
- NRI and foreign students have a separate admission pathway with slightly different criteria
Admission Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting into UPES School of Law is a structured process that tests your academic abilities, entrance exam performance, and sometimes your communication skills through personal interviews. Here is the complete step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Choose Your Entrance Exam Pathway
UPES offers multiple pathways for admission, which is a huge advantage because you are not dependent on just one exam:
- Pathway 1 — CLAT: If you have appeared for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) for UG or CLAT-PG for LL.M., your score is accepted
- Pathway 2 — ULSAT: This is UPES's own entrance exam called the UPES Law Studies Aptitude Test. It is conducted for students who did not appear for CLAT or LSAT-India
- Pathway 3 — LSAT-India: Scores from the Law School Admission Test (India) are accepted
- Pathway 4 — CUET-UG/CUET-PG: If you have taken the Common University Entrance Test, your score can be used for admission
- Pathway 5 — Board Merit: For students with excellent Class 12 marks (typically 80% and above), direct admission may be possible without an entrance exam
- Pathway 6 — Non-Exam Pathway: Based on your academic record and personal interview performance
Step 2: Fill the Application Form
- Visit the official UPES website at upes.ac.in
- Click on the admissions section and select the law program you want
- Fill out all personal details, academic qualifications, and entrance exam scores (if applicable)
- Upload required documents including:
- Class 10 and Class 12 marksheets
- Graduation marksheet (for LL.B. and LL.M. applicants)
- Entrance exam scorecard
- ID proof (Aadhaar Card is mandatory)
- Passport-size photographs
- Income Tax PAN Card (mandatory if you opt for hostel)
- Migration/Transfer Certificate
- Sthai Niwas Praman Patra (for bonafide Uttarakhand residents applying for domicile scholarship)
- Pay the application fee of ₹1,750 through debit card, credit card, or net banking
Step 3: Entrance Exam and Shortlisting
- If you are applying through ULSAT, you will need to appear for the UPES Law Studies Aptitude Test on the scheduled date
- If you are applying through CLAT, LSAT-India, or CUET, your existing scores will be considered
- Based on your exam performance and academic record, UPES will release a shortlist of candidates
Step 4: Personal Interview (If Required)
- For some programs, especially the 3-year LL.B. and certain LL.M. specializations, a Personal Interview may be conducted
- The interview tests your communication skills, legal awareness, and motivation for pursuing law
- For MBA and some other programs, a Group Discussion (GD) round may also be included
Step 5: Document Verification and Fee Payment
- Once shortlisted, you will receive an offer letter from UPES
- You must submit attested copies of all original documents along with two recent stamp-size photographs (signed on the back)
- Pay the first semester fee to confirm your seat
- Pay the hostel deposit of ₹10,000 (refundable) if you want on-campus accommodation
Step 6: Join the Personality Enhancement Program (PEP)
- Before regular classes begin, UPES conducts a Personality Enhancement Program for all new students
- This program helps you develop a positive outlook, communication skills, and other essential soft skills
Important Admission Dates for 2026
Timing is everything when it comes to college admissions. Here are the key dates you need to mark on your calendar:
- Early Admissions Started: Applications for 5-year integrated LLB programs began in December 2025
- Early Admission Deadline: January 20, 2026 (for the first round of early admissions)
- General Application Deadline: May 30, 2026 (this is the last date to apply for most law programs)
- ULSAT Exam Dates: Conducted on a rolling basis throughout the admission season
- CUET UG 2026 Exam: Expected in May 2026
- CUET PG 2026 Exam: March 19–27, 2026
- Classes Begin: August 2026 for the new academic session
Please note that these dates are indicative and subject to change. Always check the official UPES website for the most current information.
Scholarships and Financial Aid at UPES School of Law
One of the biggest concerns for students and parents is the cost of education. UPES understands this and offers a wide range of scholarships that can significantly reduce your financial burden. Here are the major scholarship programs available:
- Academic Scholarships: Awarded based on your past academic performance and entrance exam scores
- Merit-Based Scholarships: For students with exceptional academic records
- Girl Student Scholarship (Shakti Scheme): Special scholarships for female students to encourage gender diversity in legal education
- Uttarakhand Domicile Scholarship: 30% fee concession for bonafide residents of Uttarakhand state across all undergraduate programs
- Sports Scholarships: For national and international level athletes
- Alumni Scholarships: Special fee waivers for wards of UPES alumni
- Jyoti Scholarship: Full tuition fee waiver for students from economically weaker sections and special categories
- Board Merit Scholarship: For students who score very high in their Class 12 board examinations (typically 80% and above)
The scholarship application process is usually integrated with the admission process, but some scholarships may require separate applications. Make sure to inquire about all available options when you apply.
Placement Records and Career Opportunities
Let us talk about what really matters — jobs and career growth. UPES School of Law has an impressive placement record that gets better every year.
Placement Statistics for 2025
- Highest Salary Package: ₹22.5 LPA (Lakhs Per Annum) — this is the highest ever for the law school
- Top 10% Average Package: ₹8.9 LPA
- Overall Average Package: Approximately ₹8.2 LPA for the 2025 batch
- Placement Percentage: Around 70–75% of law graduates get placed through campus recruitment
- Total Recruiters: Over 100+ law firms and companies visit specifically for law placements, while the university-wide number crosses 800+ companies
Major Recruiters and Law Firms
The caliber of companies visiting UPES for law placements is truly impressive:
- Top Tier Law Firms: Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Khaitan & Co., AZB & Partners, Luthra & Luthra, Trilegal, Link Legal, IC Universal Legal, Chadha & Chadha Intellectual Property Law Firm
- Corporate Giants: EY (Ernst & Young), PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), HCL, Samsung Research, Reliance, Jio
- PSUs and Energy Sector: ONGC, Sterlite Power, Indian Oil, Noida Power Company Ltd (NPCL)
- Consultancies and Research: Various legal research organizations and policy think tanks
Career Paths After Graduation
Apart from campus placements, UPES law graduates have multiple career options:
- Corporate Lawyer: Working in the legal departments of companies and MNCs
- Litigation: Practicing in courts under senior advocates
- Judicial Services: Preparing for state and central judiciary examinations
- Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO): Working with international legal support companies
- Academia and Research: Teaching in law schools or pursuing Ph.D.
- Civil Services: Many law graduates successfully crack UPSC and state PSC exams
- Entrepreneurship: Starting your own legal practice or legal-tech startup
The university's Centre of Excellence with The University of Law, UK, and the Runway Incubator for startups give students unique global exposure and entrepreneurial opportunities.
World-Class Infrastructure and Campus Life
The Kandoli Campus of UPES School of Law is designed to provide a complete learning environment that goes beyond textbooks and classrooms.
Academic Facilities
- Moot Court Rooms: Replica courtrooms where students practice mock trials, develop oratory skills, and learn courtroom etiquette
- AR/VR Labs: Immersive Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality labs that help students understand complex legal scenarios through technology
- M&A and ADR Labs: Special labs developed in collaboration with leading law firms for learning Merger & Acquisition laws and Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Library: The central library has a seating capacity of over 400 students and houses more than 73,000 volumes including rare legal reports, international journals, and digital resources
- Smart Classrooms: All classrooms are multimedia-enabled with smart boards, projectors, and ergonomic seating
Residential and Lifestyle Facilities
- Hostels: Separate blocks for boys and girls with options for triple sharing, double sharing, and air-conditioned rooms. All hostels are Wi-Fi enabled with 24/7 power backup
- Food Courts: Multi-storied cafeterias serving North Indian, South Indian, and continental cuisines with special attention to vegetarian options
- Medical Facilities: A 24/7 infirmary with qualified doctors and an ambulance for emergencies
- Gymnasium and Sports: Modern gym equipment and sports facilities for basketball, volleyball, cricket, and indoor games
- Student Committees: Cultural Committee, Sports Committee, Student Discipline Committee, Gender Champions, and the prestigious Moot Court Committee (MCC)
Student Activities and Moot Courts
The Moot Court Committee organizes prestigious competitions like:
- International Moot Court Competition
- Surana & Surana and UPES National Insolvency Law Moot
- Vidhi Utsav — the flagship annual law fest
In 2025, the UPES mooting team achieved quarter-finalist status at the 23rd Red Cross International Humanitarian Law Moot in Hong Kong, proving their global competitiveness.
Specializations and Unique Features
What truly sets UPES apart from traditional law schools is its focus on sector-specific specializations. While most law colleges teach generic law, UPES prepares students for specific industries:
- Energy and Environmental Law: Given UPES's heritage in petroleum and energy studies, this specialization is unmatched in India
- Corporate and Business Law: Integrated with the BBA and B.Com programs for deep business understanding
- Intellectual Property Rights: Critical for India's growing innovation and startup ecosystem
- Cyber Law and Data Protection: Essential in the digital age where data breaches and cybercrimes are rampant
- Banking and Insolvency Law: Highly relevant after the implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)
- Fashion Law and Sports Law: Niche but growing areas with excellent career prospects
- Disruptive Technologies Law: Covering AI, blockchain, and emerging tech regulations
The curriculum is regularly updated in collaboration with industry experts who serve on the advisory board, ensuring that what you learn is relevant to what the market needs.
How to Prepare for UPES School of Law Admission
If you are serious about getting into UPES, here is a practical preparation roadmap:
- For Class 12 Students: Focus on scoring at least 50% in your boards, though higher marks (80%+) can get you direct admission through the Board Merit pathway. Start preparing for CLAT or ULSAT at least 6–8 months before the exam.
- For Graduates: If you are applying for the 3-year LL.B., brush up on current affairs, basic legal knowledge, and communication skills for the personal interview.
- For LL.M. Aspirants: Deep knowledge in your chosen specialization area is crucial. Read recent judgments, research papers, and industry reports.
- General Tips: Work on your English language skills, logical reasoning, and general knowledge. Participate in debate competitions and moot courts if possible — they add weight to your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UPES School of Law approved by the Bar Council of India?
Yes, absolutely. All law programs at UPES School of Law are BCI-approved, which means your degree will be valid for practicing law in India and appearing for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE).
Can I get admission without CLAT?
Yes! UPES accepts multiple entrance exams including ULSAT, LSAT-India, and CUET. You can also apply through the Board Merit pathway if you have excellent Class 12 marks.
Is there any age limit for admission?
No specific age limit is mentioned for most programs. However, you should check the latest prospectus for any updates.
Does UPES provide hostel facilities?
Yes, separate hostels for boys and girls are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. The annual hostel fee ranges from ₹1.70 to ₹2.13 lakhs.
What is the nearest airport to UPES Dehradun?
The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to the campus.
Are there any international collaborations?
Yes, UPES has collaborations with the University of Law, UK, and is a member of the International Association of Universities and the Association of Indian Universities.
How is the faculty at UPES School of Law?
The school has around 90 faculty members with a good mix of academic scholars and industry practitioners. The faculty-to-student ratio is healthy, ensuring personal attention.
Final Thoughts: Is UPES School of Law Right for You?
Choosing a law school is one of the most important decisions of your career. UPES School of Law Dehradun offers a compelling package — top 20 NIRF ranking, excellent placement records with packages going up to ₹22.5 LPA, modern infrastructure with AR/VR labs and moot courts, industry-aligned curriculum with specializations in energy law, corporate law, and tech law, and multiple admission pathways so you are not dependent on just one exam.
Yes, the fees are on the higher side compared to government law colleges, but the scholarship programs, placement support, and quality of education make it a worthwhile investment for many students. The campus life in Dehradun, surrounded by the beautiful Himalayas, adds a unique charm to your five-year journey.
If you are someone who wants to study law in a modern, technology-driven environment with strong industry connections and global exposure, UPES School of Law should definitely be on your shortlist. The institution has proven that it is not just keeping up with the times — it is ahead of the curve, preparing lawyers for the challenges of the 21st century.
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