When it comes to studying law and the way of the constitution, what better way is there to enrol yourself in some of the top law schools in the UK? With world-famous law graduates such as Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, this degree has a remarkable reputation. Law graduates are looked upon with great respect, and when UK universities churn out law enthusiasts every year, it only strengthens the economy and justice system.
With this, our top picks of law schools in the UK will help you decide on your next course of action and bring opportunities to your doorstep.
Top 8 Law Schools In The UK For International Students
The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious law schools, offering international students an exceptional legal education. These institutions provide rigorous academic training and open doors to many opportunities. Whether you aspire to practise law globally or contribute to legal research, the top UK law schools equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.
| University | QS World Ranking 2024 | THE – WUR by Subject Law 2024 |
| University of Oxford | 2 | 7 |
| University of Cambridge | 3 | 3 |
| University College London (UCL) | 12 | 12 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 14 | 14 |
| King’s College London | 27 | 27 |
| University of Edinburgh | 28 | 13 |
| University of Glasgow | 43 | =43 |
| Queen Mary University of London | 50 | 50 |
1. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge has been teaching law since the 13th century. Its Faculty of Law is known for international, comparative and corporate law courses. Students learn civil, tort, criminal and constitutional law in the first year before specialising in family, international or commercial law. Cambridge also offers LLM and PhD programmes.
- Top Law Specialisations: International law, Commercial law, Family law, Jurisprudence, and Legal history.
- Average Fee: £22,227 per year for international students, while LLM (Master of Law) fees are £34,800.
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate law programme at Cambridge usually lasts three years and leads to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Law. For postgraduate studies, the LLM programme is a one-year taught course.
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
2. University of Oxford
Oxford has one of the largest law faculties in the UK. Undergraduates can pursue a 3-year LLB or a 4-year LLB with a year abroad in Europe. Oxford is renowned for its rigorous legal education, one-on-one tutorials, and extensive library resources. The university also offers an MJur postgraduate degree with 40+ optional modules.
- Top Law Specialisations: Jurisprudence, law with law studies in Europe, criminology and criminal justice, and law and finance.
- Average Fee: The average tuition fee for undergraduate law students at the University of Oxford is approximately £35,600 per year for UK students. International students can expect to pay around £38,000 per year. For postgraduate programmes, such as the BCL (Bachelor of Civil Law) and MJur (Magister Juris), fees are typically around £31,400 per year.
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate law degree at Oxford, the BA in Jurisprudence, usually lasts three years. For postgraduate studies, the BCL and MJur are one-year programmes, while the MSc in Law and Finance is ten months.
- Acceptance Rate: Around 16%
3. UCL (University College London)
UCL’s Faculty of Laws is a diverse community of students, researchers and leading academics. The LLB programme provides an outstanding grounding in legal theory and practice through student activities and competitions. UCL also offers an LLM with specialisations in intellectual property, competition, and international economic law.
- Top Law Specialisations: International law, commercial law, human rights law, corporate law, and environmental law.
- Average Fee: The average tuition fee for undergraduate law students at UCL is approximately £24,000 per year for UK students and around £32,100 per year for international students pursuing postgraduate studies.
- Average Course Duration: Three years.
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
4. London School of Economics (LSE)
LSE is highly regarded for its focus on the intersection of law with social sciences. The LLB curriculum is flexible, allowing students to shape their degree. LSE also offers LLM programmes in various fields, including corporate and commercial law, criminal justice policy, and international business law.
- Top Law Specialisations: Banking law, taxation law, commercial law, human rights law, and environmental law
- Average Fee: Around £24,600 per year for international students. International students typically pay around £31,000 per year for postgraduate programmes like the LLM.
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate law degree at LSE typically lasts three years, while the LLM programme can be completed in one year (full-time) or two years (part-time).
- Acceptance Rate: 10-15%
5. King’s College London
King’s has strong links to the legal profession and offers opportunities for practical experience. The LLB covers foundational subjects like contract, tort, criminal and constitutional law. King’s also provides LLM programmes in transnational and international business and European law.
- Top Law Specialisations: International law, human rights law, commercial law, criminal justice, and transnational law.
- Average Fee: £23,100 per year for International students
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate law degree at King’s College London typically lasts for three years, while the LLM programme can be completed in one year (full-time) or two years (part-time)
6. Durham University
Durham’s research-led teaching attracts a diverse student body. The LLB covers core modules in the first year before allowing specialisation. Durham also offers LLM programmes in commercial law, international trade law, and international economic law.
- Top Law Specialisations: Biolaw, Chinese law, comparative law, criminal law and criminal justice, English private and commercial law, EU law, gender and law, and human rights law.
- Average Fee: Postgraduate programmes, such as the LLM, fees are typically around £24,000 per year for international students.
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate LLB programme at Durham typically lasts three years, while the LLB with a Year Abroad lasts four years. Postgraduate programmes like the LLM can be completed in one year (full-time).
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
7. University of Glasgow
Glasgow teaches Scots law and common law, preparing students for careers across the UK. The LLB covers foundational subjects and allows specialisation. Glasgow recently launched a law clinic to increase access to justice. The university also offers an LLM in mediation and conflict resolution.
- Top Law Specialisations: Commercial law, intellectual property law, international law, human rights law, environmental law, and criminal law. The School of Law is particularly noted for its research strengths in corporate law, financial regulation, and the intersection of law and technology
- Average Fee: Postgraduate programmes, such as the LLM, fees are typically around £24,000 per year for international students
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate LLB programme at the University of Glasgow typically lasts for four years. Postgraduate programmes like the LLM can be completed in one year (full-time)
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
8. Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary is known for its diverse student body, with 66% coming from outside the UK. The 3-year LLB provides training in legal reasoning, communication and analysis. Students can extend the LLB by a year to work at leading law firms. Queen Mary also offers LLM programmes in international business law, criminal justice, and banking and finance law.
- Top Law Specialisations: Commercial law, banking and finance law, human rights law, intellectual property law, international business law, and environmental law.
- Average Fee: Postgraduate programmes, such as the LLM, fees are typically around £25,000 per year for international students
- Average Course Duration: The undergraduate LLB programme at Queen Mary typically lasts for three years, while the LLM programme can be completed in one year (full-time) or two years (part-time).
- Acceptance Rate: 15-20%
General Law Eligibility Criteria In The UK
To study law in the UK, students must meet specific eligibility criteria that can vary by university and programme. However, there are general requirements that most law colleges in the UK follow:
- Educational Background: Students must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification that equates to 12 years of study. Typically, this includes completing GCSEs followed by A-Levels. Most law schools require at least three A-Levels, often with grades of AAA or AAB and a grade C or above in GCSE English and Mathematics.
- Age Requirement: Applicants should be at least 17 years old by the time they begin their studies.
- English Language Proficiency: A high level of English proficiency is essential for international students. This is usually demonstrated through standardised tests such as IELTS, with an average requirement of around 6.5 overall and no less than 6.0 in each component.
- Entrance Exams: Some universities may require applicants to take the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) as part of their application process.
- Documents Required: Applicants typically need to submit several documents, including:
- A valid passport
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement or statement of purpose
These criteria ensure that students are adequately prepared for the rigours of legal education and can succeed in a competitive academic environment.
Documents Required For Law Applications
When applying for law programmes in the UK, candidates typically need to prepare and submit several important documents. Here’s a general list of the documents required for law applications:
- Valid Passport: A copy of your current passport is necessary for identification purposes.
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from previous educational institutions, including high school and any higher education qualifications.
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores: For international students, proof of English proficiency is required, usually demonstrated through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Personal Statement: A statement outlining your motivations for studying law, your career aspirations, and why you are applying to that specific programme.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two or three letters from teachers or professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV may be required, especially for postgraduate applications, highlighting your academic achievements and relevant experience.
- Photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph may be required for application forms.
- Application Form: Completion of the university’s specific application form, which may include personal details and educational background.
- Disability Certificate: If applicable, a certificate issued by the government for disability support.
- Domicile or Caste Certificate: If applicable, especially for students seeking reservation benefits.
These documents help universities assess the qualifications and suitability of candidates for their law programmes. It is essential to check each university’s specific requirements, as they may vary slightly.
Work And Career Prospects For Law Students In The UK
Studying law in the UK opens up a wide array of career opportunities for graduates. Here are some key insights into the work and career prospects available for law students:
- Diverse Career Options: Graduates with a law degree can pursue various legal professions, including becoming a solicitor, barrister, legal advisor, or advocate. However, the skills acquired during their studies also enable them to enter non-legal fields such as business, journalism, politics, and academia.
- Further Qualifications: To practise as a solicitor in England and Wales, graduates must complete the Legal Practice Course (LPC), while those aiming to become barristers must undertake the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC). Following these courses, candidates typically need to secure training contracts or pupillages to gain practical experience.
- Employment Sectors: Law graduates can find employment in various sectors, including:
- Private law firms
- Public sector organisations
- Corporate legal departments
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- International institutions
- Academia and research
- Employability Programmes: Many universities, such as the University of Glasgow, offer dedicated employability programmes that provide students with tailored events and networking opportunities with legal professionals. These initiatives help students gain real-world legal experience through placements and internships.
- Global Recognition: A law degree from a UK institution is globally recognised, allowing graduates to pursue legal careers not only in the UK but also in other jurisdictions that follow common law principles.
- Salary Expectations: The average starting salary for law graduates varies by role and location but typically ranges from £20,000 to £25,000 per year for entry-level positions. With experience, salaries can increase significantly, especially for roles in corporate law or specialised legal fields.
- Career Development Opportunities: Graduates often have access to various career development resources provided by their universities, including CV writing workshops, interview preparation sessions, and career fairs featuring potential employers.
Why Study Law In UK Universities?
Studying law in UK universities offers numerous advantages for both domestic and international students. Here are some compelling reasons to consider pursuing a law degree in the UK:
- Globally Recognised Qualifications:
UK law degrees are highly respected and recognised worldwide, making graduates attractive to employers globally. This recognition facilitates opportunities in various jurisdictions, including common law countries.
- Shorter Duration of Programmes:
Law programmes in the UK typically have a shorter duration compared to other countries. For instance, an undergraduate Bachelor of Laws (LLB) can be completed in three years, and a Master of Laws (LLM) in one year, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner.
- High Graduate Prospects:
Graduates from UK law schools enjoy strong employment prospects. The skills acquired during their studies—such as analytical thinking, research capabilities, and effective communication—are highly valued across multiple sectors.
- Diverse Specialisations:
UK universities offer a wide range of specialisations within law, including but not limited to criminal law, commercial law, human rights law, and environmental law. This allows students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals.
- Access to World-Class Facilities:
Many UK universities provide state-of-the-art facilities, including extensive libraries, legal databases, and resources for practical training, such as mock courtrooms and legal clinics.
- Cultural and Academic Diversity:
Studying in the UK exposes students to a rich cultural environment with peers from diverse backgrounds. This enhances learning through varied perspectives and experiences.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities:
The UK offers post-study work visas that allow graduates to remain in the country for up to two years after completing their degree (three years for PhD graduates) to seek employment.
- Development of Transferable Skills:
Law studies equip students with essential skills such as critical thinking, negotiation, problem-solving, and effective communication, which are applicable in many professions beyond law.
- Historic Legal Framework:
The UK has a long-standing legal tradition that influences legal systems worldwide. Students gain insights into both historical and contemporary legal issues.
- Networking Opportunities:
Studying law in the UK provides access to a vast network of professionals, including alumni who can offer mentorship and job opportunities. The networks that you create, last for long and are boons for additional resources further in your career.
These schools not only provide students with a solid foundation in legal principles but also emphasise critical thinking, research skills, and practical experiences through mooting and internships. As the demand for legal education continues to grow, prospective students are encouraged to carefully consider factors such as academic reputation, specialisation options, and financial support when selecting a law school in the UK. With ample opportunities for both domestic and international students, pursuing a law degree in the UK can lead to rewarding career prospects in various fields of law.
FAQs
What is the best law school in the UK?
The best law schools in the UK are often considered to be the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, both renowned for their academic rigour and prestigious legal programmes. Other top contenders include the London School of Economics (LSE) and University College London (UCL), which also offer exceptional legal education and resources.
What is the hardest law school to get into in the UK?
The hardest law school to get into in the UK is generally considered to be the University of Cambridge. It is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, competitive entry requirements, and a high volume of applications relative to available places.
Is studying LLB in the UK worth it?
Studying LLB in the UK is worth it due to the global recognition of UK law degrees, high-quality education, and diverse career opportunities. Graduating from prestigious institutions like Oxford or Cambridge can significantly enhance career prospects both in the UK and internationally, making it a valuable investment for aspiring legal professionals.
Is LLB in demand in the UK?
Yes, the LLB (Bachelor of Laws) degree remains in high demand in the UK due to the global recognition of UK law degrees, the strong reputation of UK universities for legal education, and the diverse career opportunities available to LLB graduates in various fields beyond traditional legal practice.
Which field of law is the best in the UK?
The three types of laws that are the most sought after in the UK are, Commercial and Corporate Law, International Law, and Public Law. This gives the students an edge and understanding about the intricacies that go within law and the world more clearly.
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