A Masters in Law abroad offers Indian students access to specialized legal education and enhanced career prospects. For instance, the London School of Economics (LSE) ranks first in the UK for graduate earnings in law, with an average salary of £69,400 (INR 81L) for its law graduates. 

Similarly, the University of Oxford reports that 80% of its recent graduates were employed in paid positions 15 months after graduation, with an average annual salary of £41,600 (INR 48.5L). These statistics reflect the value of pursuing an LLM from top universities.

This blog discovers some of the top universities and countries offering Master's in Law programs abroad, helping you make an informed decision for your higher education journey.

Masters in Law Abroad: Overview

Pursuing a Master's in Law (LL.M.) abroad offers Indian students an opportunity to gain specialized legal knowledge, enhancing career options in the future in an increasingly globalized market. 

An LL.M. degree not only provides academic enrichment but also offers networking opportunities with international peers and access to prestigious internships. Over 85% of LL.M. graduates from top universities find their jobs within ten months.

Let’s have a quick overview of Masters in Law abroad:

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing a Masters in Law abroad.

Why Pursue Masters in Law Abroad?

Pursuing a Masters in Law abroad offers a unique opportunity to enhance your legal career. Around 70% of international law firms in the U.S. hire graduates from prestigious LL.M. programs for corporate law and litigation roles.

The increasing complexity of global legal systems and the growing demand for specialized legal professionals make an LL.M. appealing. Here are some reasons why studying law abroad could be the key to advancing your career:

• Global Recognition of Degrees
  Many top universities, such as Harvard Law School and the University of Oxford, offer LL.M. programs that are globally recognized. Graduates from these institutions often have a distinct edge in the job market.
• Access to International Career Opportunities
  Top law firms in the U.S., UK, and Europe often prefer LL.M. graduates, especially those specializing in international law, business law, or human rights law. 
• Exposure to Diverse Legal Systems
  Studying law abroad allows you to immerse yourself in different legal frameworks. Students at institutions like the University of Cambridge study comparative law, which helps them understand how legal systems differ across countries.
• Networking Opportunities
  An LL.M. program provides networking with peers, professors, and industry professionals. Around 85% of LL.M. graduates cited networking as a key benefit, with many securing jobs through connections made during their studies.
• Specialization in Cutting-Edge Areas of Law
  The world of law is evolving, with emerging areas like cyber law, climate change law, and intellectual property rights in the digital space. LL.M. programs abroad offer opportunities to specialize in these fields, which are increasingly in demand.
• Cultural and Academic Enrichment
  Studying abroad allows you to gain a broader cultural perspective. Students in international programs develop strong cross-cultural competencies, making them suitable for multinational legal firms.

After discussing the benefits of a Masters in Law abroad, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities For Studying Masters in Law Abroad

Legal studies from a prestigious institution can significantly enhance career prospects, offering specialized knowledge and access to global legal networks. Harvard Law School's LL.M. program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and distinguished faculty. 

Similarly, the top law course in the UK, the Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL), is highly regarded, particularly for those with a common law background. When selecting a university, it's essential to consider factors such as specialization areas, faculty expertise, alumni success, and financial investment to align with individual career goals.

Below are some of the top universities offering a Masters in Law abroad, along with their respective tuition fees.

In addition to these universities, there are other popular institutions offering a Masters in Law abroad.

Popular Universities for Masters in Law Abroad

Knowing alternative universities expands your options and helps you select the best fit based on your personal preferences and goals. For example, universities like McGill University are well-known for their reputable Masters in Law.

Below are some popular universities offering these:

After exploring the top universities offering a Masters in Law abroad, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for applying.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Law Abroad

When considering an LL.M. abroad, it's essential to understand the eligibility requirements that differ between universities and countries. Most institutions require a solid academic background (like GPA scores), proficiency in English, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT). 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the standard eligibility criteria for pursuing a Masters in Law abroad:

Now that you’ve seen the admission requirements to study a Masters in Law abroad, let’s check out the application process.

Application Process for Masters in Law Abroad

Applying for an LL.M. abroad involves several critical steps. Understanding each phase can help you figure out the process efficiently and increase your chances of acceptance. 

For instance, Harvard Law School's LL.M. program is highly competitive, with approximately 1,600 applicants vying for around 180 spots, resulting in an acceptance rate of about 11%.

Knowing what to expect can reduce stress and ensure you submit a well-prepared application. Below are the steps to apply:

Step 1: Submit University Admission Application

Begin by completing the online application through the university's official portal. Ensure that you meet all the specific requirements and deadlines.

Step 2: Submit Additional Documents if Required

After submitting your application, you may need to provide additional documents such as:

• Recommendation Letters: Most top universities require at least two letters of recommendation for a master's from professors or employers.
• Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement explaining your motivation for pursuing the LL.M. and your career aspirations.
• Writing Samples: Some programs may ask for a writing sample, particularly if you apply for specialized programs such as international law.

Step 3: Attend Interview (If Required)

Some universities may require an interview as part of the selection process. These interviews help the admissions committee assess your interpersonal communication, motivation, and fit for the program. 

• For example, Yale Law School conducts interviews with a limited number of applicants to further evaluate their suitability for the LL.M. program.

Step 4: Check the Application Status

After submitting all required materials, regularly check the status of your application through the university's applicant portal. 

• For instance, the University of Cambridge provides an Applicant Portal where you can track the progress of your application and receive notifications about interview invitations or admission decisions.

Step 5: Apply for a Student Visa

Once you receive an offer of admission, the next step is to apply for a student visa. Visa requirements vary by country. For example:

• In the U.S., international students must apply for an F-1 visa, which requires proof of financial support and acceptance into a program.
• UK students need a Tier 4 (General) student visa. The UK government provides a specific list of documents required, such as a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS),

The Masters in Law abroad will equip you with advanced skills in the field. Let’s take a closer look at the details of the program.

Course details for Masters in Law Abroad

A Masters in Law abroad equips students with the specialized skills and in-depth legal knowledge necessary for a successful career in law. To excel in these programs, students must develop analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and proficiency in legal research. 

Graduates are expected to apply legal theories to practical scenarios and demonstrate communication skills in both written and oral formats. Additionally, effective presentation skills, cross-cultural understanding, and legal ethics are often emphasized.

Here's a quick guide to the LLM subjects list: 

Now that you’ve explored the courses and specializations, let’s discuss the costs involved in studying for a Masters in Law abroad.

Cost of Pursuing Masters in Law Abroad

The cost of studying abroad for Masters in Law includes tuition fees as well as additional expenses like accommodation, food, and miscellaneous costs such as internet access. 

These costs vary by country and university. For example, the cost of studying in the US is around $79,954 (INR 68.8L), while the cost of studying in Canada amounts to CAD 54,367 (INR 34.4L). 

Here is an overview of the annual cost of studying Masters in Law abroad for students:

Next, let’s understand the cost of living while studying abroad.

Cost of Living Abroad

The cost of living abroad varies based on your lifestyle and preferences. For example, the cost of living in the US is around USD 13,200 (INR 11.3L) and that of the UAE is AED 95,280 (INR 22.1L). In contrast, Canada is more affordable, with living costs of around CAD 12,000 (INR 7.4L). 

Below is a breakdown of the cost of living for students studying a Masters in Law abroad.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Studying abroad can be financially challenging. However, you can apply for both internal and external scholarships to make your journey more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Masters in Law Abroad: Scholarships for Students

Pursuing an LL.M. abroad can be financially challenging, but numerous study abroad scholarships are available to make this opportunity more accessible. These help in tuition costs, provide living stipends, and offer networking and career-building opportunities. 

These aids can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad, covering anywhere from 30% to 90% of your expenses, depending on the country and university. Let's explore some of the top scholarships:

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are typically provided directly by the universities offering the LL.M. programs. These highly competitive scholarships may be awarded based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both. 

Some universities like Abo Akademi University also offer specialized scholarships for students pursuing certain areas of law, such as international law or human rights law.

Here are some internal scholarships:

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Masters in Law abroad.

External Scholarships

Governments, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies fund external scholarships. These scholarships typically target students from specific countries or regions or those pursuing specialized fields of law. 

They often cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and sometimes living stipends, making them an attractive option for students studying abroad without the financial burden.

Below are some external scholarship options.

These scholarships provide excellent opportunities to fund an LL.M. degree and gain access to a global network of legal professionals.

After a detailed look at scholarships, let’s explore the job opportunities available for graduates with a Masters in Law abroad.

Job Opportunities After Masters in Law Abroad

After completing an LL.M. abroad, graduates can access various career options in law across both private and public sector roles. The salary prospects for LL.M. graduates can vary significantly depending on the region, specialization, and employer. 

For example, LL.M. graduates in the U.S. can expect an average salary of $160,000 (INR 1.3 Cr), whereas those in other regions, like the UK or Singapore, may earn slightly less but still enjoy competitive salaries.

Here's an overview of typical job roles and their average salaries.

Source: Glassdoor

The salaries for these roles reflect the high level of expertise and the demand for skilled legal professionals globally.

Now, let’s take a look at the top recruiters hiring graduates with a Masters in Law.

Top Recruiters Hiring Masters in Law Abroad Graduates

After completing an LL.M. abroad, graduates often can access lucrative job offers from top-tier law firms, multinational corporations, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations. 

These employers value the specialized knowledge that LL.M. graduates bring, particularly in international business law, intellectual property, and human rights law. With competitive career opportunities in corporate and financial Law, many secure high-paying roles within six months of graduation.

Here are some of the top recruiters that actively hire LL.M. graduates from prestigious law schools:

• International Law Firms
  Global law firms always need lawyers with expertise in international law, corporate law, and dispute resolution. Firms like Baker McKenzie, Clifford Chance, and Linklaters have a long history of recruiting LL.M. graduates from top universities.
• Multinational Corporations
  Companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft constantly seek legal experts, especially in intellectual property and technology law. Microsoft, for instance, hires more than 200 legal professionals annually.
• Governmental Bodies & International Organizations
  LL.M. graduates interested in international law and policy often find rewarding careers with global organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, and the European Union.
• Financial Institutions
  Top financial institutions such as Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Barclays recruit LL.M. graduates for roles in regulation, mergers and acquisitions, and securities law.
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
  For those interested in human rights or environmental law, top NGOs like Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the Red Cross regularly recruit LL.M. graduates. 

These recruiters are actively seeking legal professionals who have gained specialized expertise through advanced studies.

After exploring potential job roles, let’s see how upGrad can assist you in pursuing a Masters in Law abroad.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Masters in Law Abroad?

Pursuing a Masters in Law abroad offers immense career opportunities, but the process can feel overwhelming, choosing the right program, securing funding, and managing the application process. 

upGrad simplifies this journey by providing expert guidance every step of the way. From university selection to application assistance, scholarships, and career counseling, upGrad ensures you're fully prepared to succeed.

Ready to start your LL.M. journey? Book a career counseling session with upGrad experts today and let us help you easily blend into the process, ensuring you achieve your dreams of studying law abroad!