Top Universities for Master in Law (LLM) in UK for International Students

Inspired by the sharp minds and high-stakes world of Suits, do you dream of a career in law? If you want to turn those legal aspirations into reality, the UK could be the perfect place to begin your legal journey. 

The UK boasts a prestigious and well-respected legal system, and the demand for qualified lawyers across a diverse range of practice areas is high. This translates to excellent job prospects and competitive salary packages, making you a valued and in-demand professional in the legal field.

According to the Indian Express, the UK government granted 1,42,848 sponsored study visas to Indian students last year. This was an impressive 54% increase compared to previous years. Additionally, 42% of the extensions granted under the Graduate Route were given to Indian students who completed their studies in the UK.

In recent years, the number of students graduating in law across England and Wales reached an all-time high of 18,927. More than one-fourth of the graduates achieved a first-class degree, while over half recorded a 2:1 degree.

From advocating for clients in court as a Barrister or Solicitor to providing expert legal support as a Paralegal or Legal Executive, a rewarding career in UK law awaits ambitious individuals.

Based on data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), 92.5% of law graduates in the UK have secured employment within 6 months of completing their studies in recent years. 

This reflects a highly positive trend in the UK job market for those pursuing a career in law, providing them with a strong foundation to kick-start their professional journey.

So, scroll down and delve into the detailed information regarding LLM in UK.

Key Highlights Table:

Why Study LLM in UK?

Studying an LLM in the UK can be a great way to gain a deeper understanding of law and its application in a global context. The UK is home to some of the world's most prestigious and respected universities, offering a range of LLM courses that cater to different interests and career goals. 

Here are some key reasons why studying an LLM in the UK could be the right choice for you:

• Globally Recognised Qualification: LLM in UK degree holds immense weight internationally. The reputation of the UK legal system ensures your qualification is respected by legal communities worldwide, opening doors to potential career opportunities across the globe.
• Exposure to Common Law: The UK legal system is based on Common Law, a foundation for legal systems in many countries. Studying law in the UK provides a deep understanding of these principles, making your knowledge highly adaptable in various jurisdictions.
• Multicultural Learning Environment:  UK universities attract students and faculty from all corners of the world. This creates a vibrant and diverse learning environment, fostering intercultural understanding and valuable professional connections with international peers.
• Strong Emphasis on Practical Skills:  Many UK LLM programs go beyond theoretical knowledge. They incorporate practical workshops, simulations, and guest lectures from practising lawyers. This equips you with the skills and experience to hit the ground running in your legal career, regardless of your home country.
• Potential for Post-Study Work Visa:  The UK offers post-study work visa opportunities for international graduates. This allows you to gain valuable professional experience in the UK legal market after completing your LLM, potentially boosting your employability both within the UK and internationally.
• Rich Legal History and Tradition:  The UK legal system boasts a long and fascinating history. Studying law in the UK allows you to immerse yourself in this rich tradition and gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of legal principles.
• Opportunity to Experience UK Culture:  Studying in the UK allows you to experience a vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning scenery. This can be a personally enriching experience alongside your academic pursuits.

What are the top 10 LLM Universities in UK?

The UK is home to over 60 universities offering LLM courses, with 1 of them ranked among the top three universities and 4 among the top 20 universities in the world for LLM degrees in the World.

The University of Cambridge is ranked as the 3rd-best university in the world for law. Other top-ranking universities for LLM courses in the UK include the University of Edinburgh, King's College London, and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). 

Below is a table of the top 10 universities offering LLM in the UK:

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

What are the top specialisations for LLM in UK?

The LLM programs in the UK offer a diverse range of specialisations to cater to the varied interests and career goals of students. From traditional areas such as commercial law and human rights law to emerging fields like technology law and environmental law, the options are endless. 

Some of the top specialisations that students can expect to study during their LLM in UK include:

• Contract Law
• Corporate Law
• International Law
• Intellectual Property Law
• Human Rights Law
• Environmental Law
• Tax Law
• Criminal Law
• Employment Law
• Family Law

These subjects are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research. The course also involves practical exercises, such as mooting and client interviewing, to develop students' legal skills.

LLM in UK Course curriculum

LLM in UK generally consists of 180 credits, with 120 credits allocated for taught courses and 60 credits for dissertations. The dissertation is focused on your chosen area of specialisation and has a maximum word limit of 15,000 words. 

Here's a general overview of the Course curriculum for LLM in UK:

Core Courses:

• Legal Research and Writing: This course hones your research skills, legal analysis abilities, and effective legal writing techniques, which are the foundation for success in any legal specialisation.
• Advanced Legal Theory: Delve deeper into the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of law, fostering critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of legal principles.
• Comparative Law: Explore legal systems from different countries, broadening your legal perspective and appreciating the diversity of legal approaches.

Dissertation/Research Project:

• Conduct in-depth research on a specific legal topic within your chosen specialisation.
• Develop a comprehensive dissertation or research project showcasing your ability to independently research, analyse, and critically evaluate complex legal issues.
• Present your research findings through a written dissertation and potentially an oral presentation.

What are the top 10 UG Courses for LLM in UK?

If you're looking to pursue a Master's degree in Law in the UK, it's essential to have a strong undergraduate background in the subject. These courses provide a solid foundation in legal studies that will help you excel in your postgraduate studies. 

Most undergraduate law courses in the UK are 3 years long, with some offering the option of a 4-year course or gaining work experience. 

Here are some of the top undergraduate law courses in the UK:

• LLB Law
• BA in Law and Business
• LLB Law with Criminology
• LLB Law with Politics
• LLB Law with International Relations
• LLB Law with European Legal Systems
• BA in Law and Social Sciences
• BA Law and Politics
• LLB Law with French Law
• LLB Law with German Law

Each of these courses has its own unique focus, but they all provide a strong foundation in legal theory and practice that will prepare you for postgraduate study in Law.

What is the LLM in UK: Eligibility Requirements?

If you are considering pursuing an LLM in the UK, it's important to be aware of the eligibility requirements for admission. The following are some general eligibility criteria that you may need to meet to be considered for an LLM program in the UK:

• A Bachelor's degree in Law or a related field from a recognised institution.
• Some universities may require a minimum grade point average (GPA) or class ranking.
• Proof of English language proficiency, such as a valid IELTS score of minimum 6.5 or TOEFL score of more than 600, for non-native English speakers.
• Relevant work experience or extracurricular activities may also be considered.
• Some universities may require additional documents, such as a personal statement or letters of recommendation, as part of the application process.
• For some Universities, you will have to pass the LSAT exam.

It's important to note that specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the university and the LLM program you are applying for. Therefore, it's recommended to check the admission requirements of your chosen university thoroughly before applying.

Documents required for LLM in UK

When considering studying for an LLM in UK, it's essential to know the documents you'll need to apply for admission. 

Here are the documents required for LLM in UK:

• Certified copies of academic transcripts: This includes your bachelor's degree in law (LLB) transcripts and any relevant postgraduate studies from a recognised Indian university.
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP):  This is a crucial essay outlining your academic background, career goals, and motivations for pursuing an LLM in the UK. Tailor your SOP to the specific program you're applying to and highlight your interest in the chosen specialisation.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Showcase your professional experience, skills, and achievements, particularly any relevant legal work experience in India.
• Letters of Recommendation: One or two letters from professors familiar with your academic abilities and potential for postgraduate studies are typically required. Ideally, these letters come from professors who can speak to your legal knowledge and aptitude.
• English language proficiency test scores: Provide official results from IELTS or TOEFL to demonstrate your English language skills. The specific score requirements can vary by university, so check their websites for details.
• Proof of financial support:  You might need to submit documents demonstrating your ability to financially support yourself during your LLM studies in the UK. This could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or evidence of financial sponsorship.
• Passport: A valid passport is essential for studying abroad. Make sure it is sufficiently valid for your studies and any visa applications.

Visa required for LLM in the UK

Indian students planning to study an LLM in the UK may require a Tier 4 (General) student visa. This visa allows you to study a full-time degree program in the UK for a specific duration.

Documents required for the student visa application for LLM in the UK may include:

• A valid passport
• An acceptance letter from a UK university for your LLM course
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in the UK
• Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores
• A tuberculosis (TB) test report (if applicable)
• Academic transcripts and certificates from previous qualifications
• Any other documents are required as per the visa category and your individual circumstances.

Also Read: Study in the UK for Indian Students

Work Permit after LLM in the UK

The UK offers a "Graduate Route" visa specifically designed for international students who have completed a higher education course in the UK. This route allows graduates time to find skilled work after their studies for at least 2 years. 

To be eligible, you must have completed your LLM program at a credible UK university with a sponsor license. Specific requirements and application processes can change, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest UK immigration regulations.

What is the cost of studying LLM in UK?

The cost of studying LLM in UK varies depending on the university and the program. On average, international students can expect to pay tuition fees ranging from INR 28L (GBP  26700) to INR 41L (GBP  39378) per year. 

These fees cover the cost of tuition and learning materials such as textbooks and course materials. It's important to note that additional costs such as accommodation, transportation, and living expenses are not included in these fees. 

International students may also have to pay for health insurance and visa fees. 

Cost of Living in the UK

The cost of living in the UK for international students can vary depending on the location and lifestyle choices. On average, students should expect to spend around INR 84,600 (GBP  811.3), excluding rent per year, on living expenses, including food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. However, this can vary depending on the city and the student's individual lifestyle choices.

To help you better understand the cost of living in the UK, we have compiled a detailed table of expenses below. 

Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

What are the top Scholarships for LLM in UK?

There are several scholarships available for international students interested in pursuing an LLM in UK. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying abroad. 

Some of the top scholarships in the UK include the Chevening Scholarship, the Commonwealth Scholarship, and the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. But today, let's explore some of the top University scholarships, especially for international students for LLM in the UK.

Here's a table of the top 5 scholarships for LLM in the UK:

Want to know more about scholarships in the UK?

What are the top jobs after LLM in UK?

Completing an LLM in the UK opens up a world of career opportunities in the legal field. As per data from Glassdoor, the average salary of lawyers in the UK is around INR 83L (GBP 79,590), which is approximately 11 times higher than that of the average salary in India, which is INR 7.6L per year. 

This reflects the high demand for qualified lawyers across a diverse range of practice areas in the UK, providing lucrative job opportunities for LLM graduates. 

Below is a table of the top 10 jobs after LLM in the UK:

Note: The salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the location, experience, recruiters and currency exchange rates.

Top Recruiters after LLM in UK

According to the UK's Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the employment rate for law graduates in the UK was 92.5% six months after graduation in recent academic years.

This reflects the high demand for qualified lawyers in various practice areas, making LLM graduates in the UK highly employable. Some of the top recruiters for LLM graduates in the UK include international law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organisations. 

Here's a list of the top 10 recruiters for LLM graduates in the UK:

• Clifford Chance 
• Allen & Overy 
• Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 
• Linklaters 
• Slaughter and May 
• Herbert Smith Freehills 
• Hogan Lovells 
• Baker McKenzie 
• White & Case 
• Ashurst