Can Americans get an LLM?

Asked by: Ms. Rosanna Herman  |  Last update: October 14, 2025
Score: 5/5 (3 votes)

If you're an American or Canadian student, to pursue an LLM, you'll need to already have a JD degree. International students who want to pursue an LLM are required to have earned a first professional degree in law, such as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or an equivalent credential that permits entry into legal practice.

Can I do LLM in the USA?

Yes, you can pursue LLM in the USA after completing your LLB in India. However, you must match the eligibility criteria of the university you choose.

Is it worth doing LLM in USA?

A US based LLM degree can boost the career prospects of international students both inside and outside the country. Through an LLM program employers find value within a strict academic training and an international exposure which also give opportunities for growth through different sectors within the legal profession.

What is the U.S. equivalent of an LLM?

Master of Laws (LL.

For students with J.D. degrees from a U.S. law school, the LL. M. degree is often a path to an academic career or to further a career in law practice areas that demand high levels of expertise such as antitrust, taxation, or environmental law.

What is LLM called in the USA?

A Master of Laws (M.L. or LL. M.; Latin: Magister Legum or Legum Magister) is an advanced postgraduate academic degree, pursued by those either holding an undergraduate academic law degree, a professional law degree, or an undergraduate degree in a related subject.

Is a master's degree worth it? | My LLM experience

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Is an LLM higher than a JD?

An LLM takes a lawyer deeper, to gain "advanced knowledge in a specific area of law for career advancement, upward mobility, and/or expanded practice opportunities." The primary difference in the curriculum is that a JD program covers general law concepts; the LLM is focused on a specific area of expertise.

What is the salary of LLM in USA?

How much does a Llm make? As of Jan 18, 2025, the average annual pay for the Llm jobs category in the United States is $142,663 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $68.59 an hour. This is the equivalent of $2,743/week or $11,888/month.

Are you a lawyer with an LLM?

An LLM will provide you with advanced training in law, but it doesn't qualify you as a licensed lawyer. A JD prepares you for legal practice by teaching you everything you need to pass the bar exam and be an effective lawyer. An LLM is more theoretical than a J.D.

Is an LLM prestigious?

Holding an LLM from a top university could significantly lift your earning potential as well as your chances of getting that fabulous promotion or job offer from a top firm once you are more settled.

What is the acceptance rate for LLM in the US?

The median acceptance rate for law schools in the United States is 41-42%, with some institutions boasting acceptance rates surpassing 65%. Gaining admission to the top 15 law schools, such as Stanford and Yale, is more challenging, as they have an average acceptance rate of 14%.

Which LLM is most in demand?

Have a look at some of the most popular LLM programs below!
  • Master of laws in Administrative Law Studies.
  • Master of laws in National Law Studies.
  • Master of laws in Economic Law Studies.
  • Master of laws in Jurisprudence.
  • Master of laws in Human Rights Law Studies.
  • Master of laws in Dispute Resolution Studies.

Is LLM cash cow?

The Cost of LLM Programs

However, for many law schools, LLM degrees are a major cash cow. For a majority of students currently enrolled in law school, an LLM is a fourth year of study. That fourth year of study is on top of three years of law school tuition, expenses, cost of living, etc.…. In other words – Debt.

How hard is LLM?

LLM programmes may sometimes seem tough due to their study environment. Strong time management skills are required for LLM completion. The course emphasises legal analysis and problem-solving, which requires sophisticated legal terminology.

How much does LLM cost in the USA?

LLM tuition fees and the cost of living can vary significantly based on factors such as the law school's location, program duration, and personal spending habits. As of my last update in September 2021, the approximate tuition fees for LLM programs in top US law schools range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year.

Can you get an LLM without going to law school?

If you're an American or Canadian student, to pursue an LLM, you'll need to already have a JD degree. International students who want to pursue an LLM are required to have earned a first professional degree in law, such as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or an equivalent credential that permits entry into legal practice.

Which country is the cheapest for LLM?

Germany. Germany is one of the best study option destinations abroad due to the free educational programs they offer. LLM, a master's degree can be pursued free of charge with a small university fee of INR 8 lakhs for the first year.

Is a JD or LLM better?

While a JD program provides the foundational knowledge you need to practice law, an LLM allows you to specialize in your specific area of interest and distinguish yourself in the legal market. Since an LLM allows you to dig deeper into specialized subject matter, it can also open up more job opportunities.

What is a good GPA for LLM?

GPA Requirements by the program of study: J.D. Students must have a 2.23 by the end of their first year, and a 2.33 every year after the first year. LLM must have a GPA of 2.23. M.T. and MLS must have a 2.5 by the end of their first year, and a 3.0 every year after the first year.

What is the most prestigious LLM in the world?

The Best LLM colleges in the world include some prestigious global institutions like Harvard University, Stanford University, University of Cambridge and Columbia University. LLM degree across top 15 colleges in the world typically lasts 1 year.

Can an LLM take the bar?

Enrollment in an LLM degree does not guarantee that you will be eligible to take a U.S. bar exam or practice law in the United States. You should review the requirements set by each state in which you wish to sit for the exam.

Do I need LSAT for LLM?

LLM applicants are lucky not to have to take this test as it is a challenging exam that requires great preparation. Many students take the LSAT twice or even three times in an attempt to improve their score. Most LLM applicants will have to take the TOEFL test, which tests reading, writing, and comprehension.

How long does an LLM degree take?

The Master of Laws (LL. M.) degree is an advanced, one-year graduate program in which students have the flexibility to enroll in one of several distinct specializations or customize their studies in pursuit of their unique professional goals. Designed for those who already hold a J.D. or equivalent law degree, the LL.

Can I become a lawyer with USA LLM?

1-Year LLM and 2-Year LLM graduates may be eligible to sit for the bar exam in New York, California, Washington D.C., or Washington. Online LLM graduates may be eligible to sit for the bar exam in California.

Which is better for LLM USA or UK?

LLM in USA vs the UK

The United States of America is one of the best choices for LLM as it is home to prestigious institutions in the world for law. LLM in the USA is highly preferable as it helps in improving communication skills, making strategies, and making you patient enough to tackle changing legal problems.

How much does LLM Harvard pay?

Employees who graduate from Harvard Law School earn an average of ₹50.0lakhs, mostly ranging from ₹50.0lakhs per year to ₹50.0lakhs per year based on 1 profiles. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹50.0lakhs per year.