The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore has opened applications for the NLSIU Litigation Fellowships 2026, offering 30 positions to early-career litigators with a monthly stipend of Rs 30,000 for a period of two years. The application deadline is 19 April 2026 at 5:00 PM IST.
What has changed
NLSIU has launched a new fellowship programme aimed at supporting early-career lawyers who are already practising litigation and demonstrate a commitment to advancing the rule of law and constitutional values. The fellowship provides professional mentorship, structured learning opportunities, and financial support to help young litigators establish sustainable practices.
The programme was initially restricted to lawyers practising in Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. However, following a corrigendum, NLSIU has removed the geographical restriction — lawyers practising anywhere in India are now eligible to apply.
Key fellowship details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of positions | 30 |
| Monthly stipend | Rs 30,000 |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Application deadline | 19 April 2026, 5:00 PM IST |
| Geographic restriction | None (nationwide, per corrigendum) |
| Application method | Google Form via NLSIU website |
Who is affected
- Early-career litigators with up to 5 years of post-graduation experience who are currently practising or intend to practise litigation
- Final-year law students graduating in 2026, subject to meeting all eligibility conditions before the fellowship begins
- First-generation lawyers and candidates from marginalised communities are given preference in selection
- Women litigators are encouraged to apply, with additional professional development opportunities available
Eligibility criteria
- Holds a 3-year or 5-year law degree with minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA
- Enrolled with a State Bar Council and has passed the All India Bar Examination (AIBE)
- Age 30 years or below on the application deadline
- Not more than 5 years since graduation
- Must secure a position with a practising lawyer or law office (or intend to do so)
- Must submit a statement of purpose explaining how their litigation career contributes to advancing constitutional values
What students should do
- Check eligibility — Confirm you meet the degree, Bar Council enrollment, AIBE, age, and experience requirements before applying
- Prepare your application — Draft a strong statement of purpose focused on your commitment to the rule of law and constitutional values. Gather your CV, degree certificate, Bar Council enrollment proof, and AIBE pass certificate
- Apply before the deadline — Submit the Google Form available on the NLSIU website at nls.ac.in/news-events/call-for-applications-nlsiu-litigation-fellowships/ by 19 April 2026, 5:00 PM IST