What do you need for LLM in UK?
Asked by: Lessie Hahn | Last update: November 27, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (18 votes)
You need a law qualification to be considered for the LLM, i.e. Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Juris Doctor (JD), Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). In exceptional circumstances, graduates without a law qualification but with work experience will be considered, however, experience must be relevant and a minimum of five years.
What do you need to get into LLM in the UK?
In order to meet the academic entry requirements for this programme you should have a minimum high 2:1 undergraduate degree with a final mark of at least 65% or above in the UK marking scheme. If you are still studying you should be achieving an average of at least 65% or above in the UK marking scheme.
What are the requirements for LLM?
Candidates must have completed LLB or five-year integrated LLB from recognised university. They must have also scored 50% in average in their course in order to be eligible to pursue LLM. For candidates belonging to reserved categories, the minimum marks scored in graduation is 45% in aggregate.
Can I do LLM without LLB in the UK?
7. Can I apply if I do not have a law degree? Students without a law background may apply to the LLM programme, but they need to demonstrate a high level of professional or academic experience in areas closely related to the subjects they wish to study.
What do you need to get an LLM?
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.
How to become a lawyer in the UK (4 different ways)
Can a non lawyer get an LLM?
Technically, you can pursue an LLM degree without ever earning your JD. That's only possible, however, if you're an international student who studied law outside of the U.S. “You have to have what we call a first law degree. In the U.S., your basic first law degree is the JD, so you do need it to get your LLM.
Which LLM is most in demand?
- 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.
How many years is LLM in the UK?
You can complete a full-time LLM degree in the UK in just one year. It is not mandatory to clear the CLAT examination to get admission in UK universities. The course allows you to practice Law in the UK and other European countries where the constitution has many similarities.
Does an LLM make you a lawyer UK?
The LLM is not a direct route to qualification. You will still need to complete the SQE and a two-year period of qualifying legal work experience in order to become a solicitor. LLMs also don't automatically strengthen applications for training contracts.
Can I get a job in UK after LLM?
LLM students from different cultural backgrounds, freshers, and experiences can work in the UK legal sector. Candidates can also apply for jobs for law graduates in banks as a legal manager, legal advisor or legal associate jobs.
Who is a candidate for LLM?
Many LLM CAS–participating schools require that applicants have completed, or be in the process of completing, a first professional degree in law, be licensed to practice law, or have significant experience in legal practice.
Which subject is best for LLM?
- LLM in International Law. If you want to study law, an LLM in International Law is a good choice. ...
- LLM in Tax Law. ...
- LLM in Intellectual Property Law. ...
- LLM in Human Rights Law. ...
- LLM in Legal Practice.
Can I do LLM in Canada without LLB?
Master of Laws (LLM)
Candidates should have obtained high standing in an undergraduate or first law degree (LLB, JD or equivalent). In exceptional circumstances we will accept candidates whose previous degree(s) are not in law but in cognate fields.
Is UK LLM worth it?
Yes, an LLM graduate can earn up to £35,000 for the first job out of the master's programme in the UK—building up to £45,000 as they build experience in the field.
Which country is best for LLM?
Q: Which country is best for studying LLM abroad? A: Any country is "best" if they are offering quality education and post-study work options. Canada, the USA, UK, and Australia are well-known study destinations for this.
Can I practice in UK after LLM?
Obtaining the right to practice law in the UK
“An LL. M is a specialist degree, but not a qualifying law degree for the purposes of the bar.” Those wishing to become barristers would either need to complete the undergraduate LL. B., which takes three years, or the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), which takes one year.
Is it better to have JD or LLM?
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.
Can you practice law with just 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 it better to do LLM in UK or US?
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 old are LLM students?
The majority (58%) of LLM students are between the ages of 26 and 40.
How long is LLM in Canada?
LLM Non-Thesis students are expected to complete their program of study in 12 months (three academic terms: Fall, Winter, and Summer). LLM Thesis students typically complete their program within 16 to 24 months.
What Master's degree is best for law?
While pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) is a surefire way to practicing law, students can also consider the Master of Laws (LLM) and Master of Studies in Law (MSL) based on their experience and career goals.
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.
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.