Can I study law in another country and practice in the US?
Asked by: Miss Sally Runte | Last update: September 13, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (64 votes)
Yes. Many states recognize foreign law degrees. However, these degrees are subject to review by state bar regulators.
Can I study law abroad and practice in the US?
Other LLM students earned their law degree in another country; some did so at the undergraduate level. Law licensure in the US is controlled by each US state within their territory. To practice in a private law firm, foreign-trained attorneys must become licensed to practice law in that US state.
Which states accept foreign law degrees?
Most states do require a J.D. degree for a US law school in order to sit for the bar exam. There are some states which do allow foreign law graduates to sit for the bar exam, including New York, California, New Hampshire, Alabama, and Virginia.
Can you study international law in the US?
Why Study International Law in United States. Studying International Law in United States is a great choice, as there are 101 universities that offer Bachelor's degrees on our portal.
Can I get into law school with a foreign degree?
An increasing number of law schools also offer two-year J.D. programs designed for graduates of foreign law schools, which can save applicants time and money. Many such programs do not require the LSAT, which can make applying even simpler.
Steps to Study Law in the U.S. | with a Foreign College Degree
Is it harder to get into law school as international?
Is it Harder for International Students to Get into US Law Programs? Yes, it's harder for international students to get into a US law program.
Can I practice law in the US with an UK degree?
To practice law in the U.S., you'll typically need to pass the state bar exam. However, with a UK law degree, you're well-equipped to tackle this challenge. The U.S. offers a diverse range of legal careers, from corporate law and intellectual property to entertainment law.
Can a foreign trained lawyer practice in USA?
Can a foreign lawyer give counsel in the United States? A foreign lawyer cannot provide legal services in the United States without being admitted to at least one state's bar. Exceptions may exist in some states for example, where foreign lawyers may apply for a license as a foreign law consultant.
Which law schools offer international law?
- New York University.
- Harvard University.
- Yale University.
- Columbia University.
- Georgetown University.
- University of Michigan--Ann Arbor.
- Cornell University.
- University of California, Berkeley.
What is the cheapest law school in the US?
The cheapest law schools in the US are the University of the District of Columbia law school and the University of North Dakota law school, which are cheapest only for in-state residents.
How long is law school in the US?
As a law student, you can expect to spend at least three years in law school. Full-time students typically complete their studies within three years, while part-time students take up to five years. Graduating from law school is an impressive achievement for many aspiring lawyers.
What is the hardest bar exam in the US?
Which bar exam is hardest? California is considered by many to be the most difficult bar exam. It has a relatively low pass rate and a relatively high minimum passing score and covers a lot of state law.
Can you practice law outside of your country?
There are many ways to find legal work abroad. Some American attorneys join the overseas branch of a large international law firm. Some find work abroad with a multinational corporation that needs an American attorney.
Is it wise to study law abroad?
You'll gain country-specific expertise.
While pursuing law studies abroad gives you a more comprehensive understanding of the law, it also offers the opportunity to hone your knowledge of a specific domestic legal system.
What is the average salary for a lawyer in the US?
How much does a Lawyer make in USA? The average lawyer salary in the USA is $110,224 per year or $52.99 per hour. Entry level positions start at $88,290 per year while most experienced workers make up to $170,294 per year.
How many years does it take to become an international lawyer?
How Long Does It Take to Become an International Lawyer? It will take at least seven years to join this profession: four years to obtain an undergrad and three years to obtain a JD degree. If you choose to pursue an LLM in International Law, it will add one more year to your timeline.
What is the best major for international law?
What Major Can I Pursue to Study International Law? Most bachelor's degree programs that touch on international law issues award a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International Studies or a B.A. in International Relations.
What is the LSAT score range?
This is the score you receive in your score report. The LSAT scale ranges from 120 to 180, with 120 being the lowest possible score and 180 being the highest possible score.
In what state is it easiest to become a lawyer?
Statistically speaking, Oklahoma has one of the easiest bar exams based on first-time passing rates. Nearly 87% of first-time exam takers pass the Oklahoma state bar exam. In comparison, California has a much lower first-time passing rate at 58.1%.
What is the easiest bar exam for foreign lawyers in the US?
Texas and New York administer the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE®), while California has its own, state-specific bar exam. The Texas Bar is now one of the most accessible US bars for foreign attorneys who are licensed to practice in their home country or who have a first professional degree in law from a common law system.
What is the difference between LLM and JD?
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.
How hard is the bar exam?
The bar exam is difficult. It's a two-day test with low pass rates, making it a big challenge for those aiming to become lawyers. While some other exams, like the CFA or CPA, might be tough, the bar exam is widely considered one of the hardest. Passing it requires serious studying and dedication.
What does llb mean?
"stands for 'Legum Baccalaureus,' the formal Latin designation for what was once almost universally the first professional law degree in the United States, the Bachelor of Laws.
How long is the LLM program?
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.