Students pursuing higher education frequently travel to different parts of the globe in search of the finest chances to advance their job prospects. The LLM (Master of Laws) degree, a distinguished postgraduate legal degree providing law aspirants with a rewarding profession, is one of these increasingly well-liked higher education programs. The USA, a popular study abroad location for international students, is home to outstanding law schools known for their demanding academic programs and international acclaim. With its broad legal system and global viewpoints, studying law in the US may be a worthwhile and fulfilling experience. If you're an Indian student passionate about law, earning a Master's in Law in the USA could lead to interesting chances for your legal career. Read through the blog to discover the advantages of obtaining an LLM in the USA and take a step towards furthering your legal education and professional possibilities.
Why seek an LLM in the USA?
- Worldwide renowned law schools are located in the United States.
- The variety of specializations offered by universities in the USA enable students to acquire in-depth knowledge in their preferred legal field.
- The USA has a robust legal job market that offers international students many chances to get real-world experience and launch a lucrative legal career.
- Over the past few years, solicitors' incomes have soared.
An Overview of LLM in USA
Applicants must have completed a LLB (Bachelor of Laws) from a recognised university in their country of residence, or a first professional law degree, viz., a Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD) to be eligible to pursue the LLM (Master of Laws) degree in the USA, a 2 year program. This degree offers a range of specializations viz., International Tax Law, Criminal Law, Business law, Public International Law, among others. Students are required to take certain entrance tests like the TOEFL, GRE, IELTS, or PTE.
Admission Requirements to Pursue LLM in USA
- Students must have earned a Juris Doctor (JD) from a U.S. law school recognized by the ABA or an equivalent Bachelor's degree.
- He/she must have scored a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
- He/she must possess 2-3 years of work experience.
- Must show evidence of your English linguistic ability.
Pursuing LLM in USA: Documentation
Though document requirements may vary depending on the university and program; the following are the essential documents needed to apply for an LLM in the USA.
- 10th, 12th, and Bachelor’s degree Marksheets
- LSAC's LLM Credential Assembly Service (CAS) should analyse transcripts
- IELTS/TOEFL test results
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- 2-3 Recommendation Letters
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Top LLM Universities in USA
A few well-known universities in USA offering LLM programs include:
- George Mason University
- Arizona State University
- Berkeley College - Woodland Park
- Northeastern University - Boston
- Saint Louis University
- University of Dayton
- Suffolk University
LLM in USA: Specializations To Choose From
LLM programs with a variety of specializations are available in the USA, allowing students to become experts in the legal area of their choice. Indian students who study in USA can choose from among the following LLM specializations:
Corporate Law, Health Law, Banking and Finance Law, Cybersecurity and Privacy Law, International Law, Administrative Law, Family Law, Tax Law, Arbitration and Dispute Resolution, Constitutional Law, Labour and Employment Law, Technology Law, Criminal Law, Entertainment and Media Law, Human Rights Law, Energy Law, Intellectual Property Law, Securities Law, Environmental Law, and Immigration Law.
U.S. LLM Admissions Process
Applying to an LLM program in the USA requires students to follow the steps mentioned below:
- Research and select universities: Find and narrow down universities that best fit your profile and program of interest.
- Appear for standardized exams: Prepare for and take standardised exams like the TOEFL or IELTS. For the purpose of admission, some universities in USA may also demand entrance exams.
- Compile documentation: Essential documents like academic marksheets, test results, resume/CV, SOP, and LoRs, should be collected and assembled.
- Submit an application to the chosen university: Before the application deadline, submit your applications and all necessary supporting documentation.
- Interview Preparation: As part of the admissions process, some LLM programs could ask applicants to attend interviews.
- Accept the offer and sign up for the course: Accept the admissions offer you've been given after which you should apply for a student visa in the US.
Scholarships available for Indian students pursuing LLM in USA:
Studying LLM in the USA can be a costly affair. However, many scholarships are available to Indian students to help with tuition and living costs. These include:
- Inlaks Scholarships
- Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship
- University-specific scholarships
- UCLA Law Distinguished Scholars Program
- Fulbright Scholarship
- Hauser Global Scholars Program
Employment Opportunities in USA following an LLM
Indian students may have ample work options after earning an LLM from a reputable American law school. Although graduates of LLM programs in USA have favourable employment prospects, candidates should be aware of the fiercely competitive job market for lawyers. To increase their chances of getting hired, Indian LLM students in the USA must acquire real-world experience through internships or legal positions. Among the most sought-after positions are:
- Attorney
- Judge: Oversee Legal Cases
- Legal Counsel
- Legal Consultant
- Associate Attorney
- Private Banker for customised financial services
- Legal Advisor
- Legal Associate
International Students' US Visa Requirements
The F-1 visa is the most popular US student visa and is required for international students who wish to study in USA. The prerequisites to obtain a USA student visa are:
- Letter of Acceptance from the college/university
- Education Marksheets
- Form I-20
- Evidence of English language competency
- SOP
- LoRs
- Curriculum vitae/Resume
- Proof of Adequate Funds (bank statements, letters confirming scholarships or letters from sponsors)
- Value of Assets
- Receipt of SEVIS Fee
- Interview post documents submission
An LLM degree from the US provides Indian students with important legal knowledge and competence.
