Pursuing an LLM in the UK can be a golden chance for you to take a step forward towards a successful law career, with over 262 LLM programs to choose from.
Studying law and practising it may be a decision of passion towards bringing justice to people, but it’s a choice that requires careful consideration of various factors. Law education, for instance, is important to shape your career as an attorney. The United Kingdom is known for high-quality law education.
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Right from commercial law to criminal justice and even corporate law, you can be a master of law in a different specialisation. Renowned institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) are ranked in the top positions #2, #3, and #7 respectively, as the best law colleges. So, there is no denying that the UK is one of the best places to pursue law education.
However, if you are thinking of studying LLM In the UK after LLB in India, you have to consider several factors like costs, eligibility, scholarships, and others. But fret not! We have got you covered with everything you need to know about LLM In the UK for Indian students.
Key Highlights:
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-2 years |
| Top Specialisations for LLM in UK | European Law Corporate Law International Business Law Commercial Law Intellectual Property Law |
| Top Institutions | University of Oxford University of Cambridge The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) |
| Average Tuition Fees | £23,000 to £50,000 (INR 25L – INR 55L) per year |
| Cost of Living | £13,000 to £15,000 (INR 14L – INR 16L) per year |
| Language Proficiency Test Required | IELTS, PTE, TOEFL |
Why Study LLM in UK?
The UK is a developed country known for its esteemed legal education system. Studying LLM in the UK can be exciting and a great opportunity for you to learn from the best legal experts in the world.
Here are some reasons to study LLM in the UK:
1. Globally recognised universities: The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities offering LLM programs. As per the QS World University Subject Rankings for Law & Legal Studies, 3 out of the top 10 law universities are in the UK.
2. Academic excellence: UK universities have some of the best leading experts in the field of law, helping students deepen their knowledge through the multiple specialisations offered. Additionally, you can gain experience by working on real-life cases with the help of these experts.
3. Cultural diversity: The UK is known for its vibrant and diverse student community, allowing you to network with people from all over the world. This means you can interact with judges, researchers, practitioners, and lawyers to enhance your knowledge of the law system.
4. Different legal system: The UK has one of the oldest legal systems, dating back around 900 years, serving as the foundation of law in many countries, including India. Hence, Indian students find it easy to get familiar with the UK’s legal system, enabling them to practise in other European countries as well.
5. Scholarships: Many UK universities offer scholarships to ease the financial burden of students who want to pursue LLM in the UK.
6. Shorter duration: One of the best things is that you can complete a full-time LLM course in the UK in just one year. This means you can save on your studying costs because of the shorter course duration.
7. Rewarding career prospects: An LLM degree from the UK is recognised globally, increasing your chances of employment in your desired law field and firm. There are around 100 law firms in the UK from where you can practise and do internships.
Top 5 Universities for LLM in UK
LLM(Masters in Law) is a postgraduate programme for students looking to make a career in law practice. Some of the top-ranked universities in England offer master’s programs with a high acceptance rate of EU and international students.
Here are some of these top-ranked LLM universities in the UK:
| Top Universities for LLM in UK | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | 3 | £31,000 – £50,000 (INR 34K – INR 55K) |
| University of Cambridge | 4 | £40,000 – £42,000 (INR 44K – INR 46K) |
| King’s College London | 40 | £28,000 – £34,000 (INR 31K – INR 37K) |
| London School of Economics and Political Science | 50 | £30,000 – £37,000 (INR 33K – INR 41K) |
| Queen Mary University of London | 120 | £24,000- £30,000 (INR 26K – INR 33K) |
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1. University of Oxford
One of the top law schools in England and ranked 2nd in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024(Law & Legal Studies), the University of Oxford can be an ideal choice for postgraduate studies. It offers many different types of specialisation for the LLM programme:
- Magister Juris
- MSc in Law and Finance
- MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- MSc in International Human Rights Law
- MSc in Intellectual Property
- MPhil in Socio-Legal Studies
- MPhil in Law
- DPhil in Law & Criminology
- DPhil in Socio-Legal Studies
- Postgraduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law and Practice
Eligibility Requirements
- LLB with 65-70% aggregate score in the third or fourth year.
- English language requirements:
| Test | Minimum overall score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 7.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 110 |
| C1 Advanced | 191 |
| C2 Proficiency | 191 |
- Personal statement
- Copy of previous academic transcripts
2. University of Cambridge
Ranked 3rd among the top law schools in the world, the University of Cambridge provides high-quality law education. Every year, it accepts applications from law students across 150 countries in Europe, Asia, and other continents. The University of Cambridge provides some of the best law programs, such as LLM, a Master in Commercial Law, and a doctorate in law.
Eligibility Requirements
- Upper second class 2:1 honours degree from a UK university
- English language requirements:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 110 |
- Research submission for part-time law courses
- Should be living in the vicinity of the campus for higher attendance
- An interview with the admission department.
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3. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
The London School of Economics and Political Science is ranked 7th among the top law schools in the world. It provides different types of postgraduate law courses like General LLM, Finance and Market Regulation, and Executive LLM. Further, it also offers doctorate and graduation programs for international students.
Eligibility Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree with 65%-75% marks
- English proficiency tests with high scores(IELTS- minimum of 7.5, TOEFL- minimum of 109, PTE- 78 overall, Cambridge english test- 91 overall)
- English language requirements:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 109 |
| PTE | 78 |
| C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency. | 91 |
- Personal statement submission
- Original transcripts from a previous academic institution
4. King’s College London
Ranked 15th among the best law schools in the world, King’s College of London provides a master’s program for law students from Europe and many other countries. King’s College London provides LLM in nine different specialisations apart from the general public law program, which includes Competition Law, European Law, Intellectual Property & Information Law, International Business Law, International Financial Law, International Dispute Resolution, International Tax Law, Law & Technology and Transnational Law.
Eligibility Requirements
- An application fee of £120
- A minimum high 2:1 undergraduate Bachelor’s (honours) degree with 65% of marks.
- For Indian students or international students, the differentiation of university grading will be considered.
- Indian students need to have 67% of marks in their law degree for admission qualification or an 8.3 GPA out of 10.
- English language requirements:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 100 |
| PTE Academic | 75 |
| C1 Advanced/C1 Proficiency | 191 |
- A copy of official academic transcripts
- Personal statement
5. Queen Mary University of London
The Queen Mary University of London is one of the top universities in the world, ranking 38 among other law schools. The university provides several specialisations for masters in law in the UK like- Banking and Finance Law, Commercial and Corporate Law, Comparative and International Dispute Resolution, Competition Law, Criminal Justice, Energy and Climate Change Law, Environmental Law, European Law, and Human Rights Law.
Eligibility Requirements
- An undergraduate degree equivalent to 2:1 level or 2:2 level law graduation with legal work experience
- English language requirements:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 100 |
| PTE Academic | 76 |
| C1 advanced/C2 proficiency | 181 |
- A student visa that strictly abides by the OISC (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner)
- Personal statement and original transcripts from previous academic institutions.
Popular Specialisations for LLM in UK
Studying LLM in the UK is like having a foot in many pies. You’ll find a wide variety of specialisation options to choose from, allowing you to delve deeper into your chosen area of expertise. The UK universities offer 20 specialisation options, ranging from beginner to advanced level(specific niche).
Here are some popular specialisations that you might consider for LLM in the UK:
- European Law: Examines the legal framework, laws and regulations of the European Union
- Corporate Law: Governs the laws related to formation and management of business entities in aspects such as merger, acquisition, economic regulations and more.
- International Business Law: Covers all laws and regulations governing cross-border transactions, business operations and disputes to ensure legal business continuity.
- Human Rights Law: Examines human rights protection, international laws and social justice.
- International Economics Law: Explore the legal frameworks governing international economic relations, trade, investments and financial transactions.
- Commercial Law: Focuses on regulations related to international trade, industry, and commerce.
- Environmental Law: Delve into legal frameworks governing the protection of the environment, conservation of natural resources and sustainable development.
- Criminology and Criminal Justice: Learn about the laws that govern the causes and consequences of crime and how the whole criminal justice system works.
- Intellectual Property Law: Focuses on laws related to patents, trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property management.
Each of the above specialisations is available with both full-time and part-time study options, giving you the flexibility to study at your own pace. Also, with such diverse options, you can choose a specialisation that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Admission Process for LLM in UK
The admission process for LLM in the UK is quite simple and similar for all universities. Here is a step by step process to apply for an LLM in the UK.
Research the Universities
Create a list of all important parameters such as courses offered, fees, rankings, scholarships, admission deadlines, intakes and specific requirements. Then, head towards the official website of your preferred university to check all these parameters. This will help you to make a wise decision about the university that best fits your needs and interests.
Check for any Additional Test Requirements
The UK universities does not require LSAT tests, unlike other countries offering law degrees. However, some UK universities may ask for the LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) when applying for a law degree in the UK. It’s always best to check with your preferred university.
Apply Online
Once you’ve chosen the university and checked the requirements, you can apply on the official university website. Always try to apply before the deadline to avoid any delay in your application.
Gather Supporting Documents
During the registration process, you will need some documents to be ready. Here’s the list of documents required:
- A valid passport ID
- Official transcripts from previous academic institute
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Statement of purpose(SOP)
- Letter of recommendations(LORs)
- A resume(if required)
- Any additional document required by the university
Submit and Track your Application
After you have filled in all the information, verify all details and submit your application by paying the fees. You can also track your application through the university admission portal.
Here, it is vital to understand that you need to prepare for an interview with the admission committee of different universities for admissions to LLM programs. So, you should know the admission process beforehand.
LLM in UK Eligibility Criteria
As per the qualification requirements of different universities across the UK, you can apply for the LLM course through the university’s application portal. It is essential to understand that each of these law schools has different entry requirements.
Here are some general requirements for LLM in the UK followed by most universities:
- Students must have a bachelor’s degree in law with a 65-75% score for top universities and 50-55% for moderate universities.
- A high score in english language proficiency exams:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 -7.5 |
| TOEFL | 110+ |
| PTE | 75 |
| C1 Advanced | 191 |
| C2 Proficiency | 191 |
Please note that there may be some additional requirements based on the university you choose. So, it’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Scholarships Available to Study LLM in UK for Indian Students
There are several scholarships available to study LLM in the UK to reduce your financial burden. These scholarships not only help in terms of financial support but also in achieving your academic and professional goals. Make sure to research scholarships offered by your preferred university.
Here are some scholarships that you may consider:
| Scholarship | Offered By | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Oxford-Finnis Graduate Scholarship in Law | University of Oxford | Partial or full tuition fee waiver |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | University of Cambridge | -Tuition fees covered -Maintenance allowance for a single student (£20,000(INR 22L)) -Travel Airfare -Inbound visa costs -Cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge |
| Prathiba M Singh Cambridge Scholarship | University of Cambridge | Partial tuition fee waiver |
| The Roy Goode Scholarship | Queen Mary University of London | Half tuition fee waiver |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship | European Union | -Full tuition fee waiver -Living Allowance -Travel-Health Insurance -Visa costs |
Read more about Scholarships for Masters in UK for Indian Students in 2024-2025
Cost of Studying LLM in UK
When pursuing an LLM in the UK, one of the first things that you might look for is cost. While the UK offers high-quality education in the field of law, it comes with hefty expenses such as living expenses, application fees, study visa costs, etc. So, it’s important to know and plan how and where you’ll spend your money to keep your focus solely on your studies and enjoy your time abroad.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the cost of studying LLM in the UK as an Indian student.
| Expense | Average Cost per month |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (annual) | £23,000-£50,000 (INR 25K – INR 55K) |
| Living Costs | £ 812.7 (INR 89K) |
| Living Costs with Rent | £1931 (INR 2L) |
| Accommodation Costs | £856 – £1,000 (INR 94K – INR 1L) |
| Food Expenses | £200 (INR 22K) |
| Transportation Costs | £70 (INR 7K) |
Remember that the cost of living in bigger cities like London and England will be higher than in smaller cities like Birmingham and Nottingham.
Hence, proper budgeting is crucial to managing your expenses effectively in the UK. With smart planning, you can explore everything the UK has to offer, leading to a smooth and successful study abroad experience.
Also Read: Cost of Studying In UK For Indian Students In 2024: Fees and Salary
High-Paying Jobs Available After LLM in UK
Indian students have ample career opportunities after completing graduation in LLM in the UK. According to Glassdoor, the average salary of LLM graduates in the UK ranges from £31,000 to £56,000 annually depending on experience level, profession and academic qualification. Many UK universities offer LLM with placement in the UK.
Some of the career paths that you can pursue as a LLM graduate are:
- Work in law firms, corporate legal departments, or as in-house counsel.
- Get employed at organisations like the International Court of Justice, UN or WTO.
- Enter in the academic domain through PhD or become a professor.
- Find work in government ministries, regulatory bodies or public sector organisations.
- Get into different roles in sectors such as banking, management, business and more.
Here are some in-demanding jobs, along with their average salary:
| Job | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Lawyer | £40,000- £80,000 (INR 44L – INR 89L) |
| Arbitrator | £28,000 – £65,000 (INR 31L – INR 72L) |
| Paralegal | £20,000 – £40,000 (INR 22L – INR 44L) |
| Legal Executive | £17,000 – £60,000 (INR 17L – INR 66L) |
| Solicitor | £25,000 – £100,000 (INR 27L – INR 1 Cr) |
| Barrister | £21,000 – £200,000 (INR 23L – INR 2 Cr) |
Some of the top recruiters employ LLM graduates of the UK, notably Bird & Bird, CMS Cameron McKenna, Fox Williams, Kirkland & Ellis, PwC Legal, White & Case, Clifford Chance, Linklaters, Allen & Over and many more. There are endless opportunities and great career prospects for students pursuing LLM in the UK.
Conclusion
When it comes to legal practice and a career in the law, an LLM course is your best bet. You can choose many specialisations with a master’s in law from the UK, like public law, international law on human rights, and others. This article aims to provide you with the best choice of universities for LLM in the UK. However, choosing a law school is one thing, and getting accepted for the LLM course is another. For example, some of these universities are strict about immigration laws and student visas.
Fortunately, Leap Scholar is here to guide you and make your journey smoother towards a promising law career.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the duration of LLM in the UK?
Many top universities in the UK offer master’s programs with a period of 9 months, 10 months, or a year. However, if you choose a part-time degree course, you can have a period ranging between 2 years to 5 years.
2. How much does it cost to pursue LLM in the UK?
Every university has a different set of tuition fees for programs that range from executive to corporate law. However, if you consider a range of tuition fees for a master’s in law in the UK, it can be anywhere between £23,195-£51,570 (INR 25L – INR 56L).
3. How do I apply for an LLM in the UK?
If you have a bachelor’s degree in courses related to the law like politics, economics, or others, you can apply for an LLM in the UK. Further, applicants need to have high IELTS and TOEFL scores with transcripts from their previous academic institutions.
Q. Is LLM worth it in the UK?
Ans. Yes, an LLM from a UK university can be valuable, offering advanced legal knowledge, career opportunities, and global recognition. It can enhance your career prospects, especially in international law firms, organisations, or academia. Additionally, UK universities offer a world-class education, diverse perspectives, and networking opportunities. An LLM can also lead to specialised knowledge, expertise, and a competitive edge in the job market.
Q. What is the salary of LLM in the UK?
Ans. The salaries for LLM graduates in the UK vary depending on factors like location, industry, experience, and specialisation. On average, LLM graduates can expect salaries ranging from £35,000 to £60,000(INR 38L – INR 66L) or more in law firms, corporations, or government agencies. Experienced professionals can earn upwards of £80,000-£100,000(INR 88L – INR 1 Cr). Salaries also depend on specific roles, such as solicitors, barristers, or in-house counsel.
Q. Who is eligible for LLM in the UK?
Ans. To be eligible for an LLM in the UK, you typically need a good honours degree in law (LLB) or a related field, along with English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). Some universities may also consider non-law graduates with relevant work experience. Additionally, universities may require letters of recommendation, personal statements, and CVs as part of the application process. Meeting the eligibility criteria ensures a smooth admission process.
Q. Is UK LLM valid in India?
Ans. Yes, an LLM from a UK university is recognised in India, and many Indian students pursue LLM in the UK to enhance their career prospects. However, to practise law in India, you may need to register with the Bar Council of India and meet additional requirements. The LLM degree can also be useful for academic or research roles in India. It’s essential to check with the relevant authorities for specific requirements.
Q. Can I get a job after LLM in the UK?
Ans. Yes, an LLM from a UK university can open up various job opportunities in law firms, corporations, government agencies, NGOs, or academia. Many UK universities have strong industry connections, career services, and alumni networks to support graduates in finding employment. Graduates can also consider internships, volunteering, or part-time work to gain practical experience. Building a professional network and tailoring your CV and cover letter can increase job prospects.
Q. Which subject is best for LLM in the UK?
Ans. The best subject for LLM in the UK depends on your interests, career goals, and industry demands. Popular specialisations include International Commercial Law, Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, and Corporate Law, among others. Consider your strengths, passions, and job market trends when choosing a specialisation. Some universities also offer unique or interdisciplinary programs, such as Law and Technology or Law and Economics.
Q. Is LLM difficult in the UK?
Ans. An LLM in the UK can be challenging, requiring advanced legal knowledge, critical thinking, and research skills. However, with dedication and hard work, students can excel and achieve their academic and career goals. The program involves rigorous coursework, seminars, and assessments, pushing students to think critically and analytically. Additionally, UK universities offer support services, academic guidance, and resources to help students succeed.
Q. Can I become a lawyer with an LLM in the UK?
Ans. Yes, an LLM from a UK university can be a step towards becoming a lawyer, especially for international students. However, additional requirements like the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) may be necessary to practise law in the UK. Some universities offer courses or programs that prepare students for these exams. It’s essential to research and understand the specific requirements for becoming a lawyer in the UK.
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