The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme is the foundational undergraduate degree for aspiring legal professionals in the United Kingdom. This rigorous course prepares international students with core legal principles and develops practical skills. The universities in the UK have more than 1,000 law programmes, which are competitive and highly pursued by international students. The average salary for a lawyer in the UK is £79,581 per year after LLB.
The LLB curriculum in the UK typically incorporates legal analysis, mooting exercises, argumentation development, and negotiation strategies. These programmes are rigorously reviewed and accredited by esteemed bodies such as the Law Society of England and Wales and the Bar Council of England and Wales, ensuring they meet the qualifications necessary for a successful legal career.
If all of this resonates with you, understand how to study LLB in the UK with this read!
LLB In The UK For International Students: Highlights
| Overview On LLB In The UK For International Students | |
| Duration of the programme | 2- 3 years |
| Eligibility Criteria | High School degree or Bachelor’s from the UK or any other accredited university overseas |
| Required GPA | 2.7 on a scale of 4.0 |
| English Language Proficiency scores | IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5TOEFL: 80 – 90PTE: 55 – 59 |
| Average tuition fees | Range from £40,000 to £75,000 and, in some cases reach as high as £109,000 for premier institutes |
| Average Salary | Approximately £79,581 |
Why Study An LLB In The UK As An Indian Student?
Studying for an LLB in the UK as an Indian student offers many benefits and opportunities. The UK provides a world-class legal education that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for diverse legal careers globally. The advantages of pursuing an LLB in the UK include:
Top Universities For LLB In The UK
More than 100 universities in the UK offer a qualifying law degree. Below, we have highlighted the top law schools in the UK which are known for delivering exceptional legal education. These universities also consistently attract a talented pool of students worldwide, adding to the international exposure of students enrolled! Check the top universities here:
| Name Of The University | LLB In The UK Colleges And Fees | QS Ranking 2024 |
| University of Cambridge | £22,227 – £32,566 | #2 |
| University of Oxford | £22,515 – £32,277 | #3 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | £23,172 – £32,472 | #45 |
| University College London | £23,300 – £32,300 | #9 |
| University of Glasgow | £15,100 – £22,360 | #76 |
| Durham University | £20,000 – £28,000 | #78 |
| King’s College London | £23,100 – £32,100 | #40 |
| University of Edinburgh | £20,300 – £28,300 | #22 |
| University of Warwick | £20,360 – £28,360 | #67 |
| Queen Mary University of London | £18,100 – £25,100 | #145 |
Popular Specialisations For Bachelors Of Law In The UK
Students can work in several law fields after completing their law degree. Here are the most popular specialisations for Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programmes in the UK:
- Law: This broad specialisation provides a foundation in all core areas of law. Students gain a solid understanding of legal principles, legal analysis, and practical legal skills.
- Commercial Law: This specialisation focuses on the legal aspects of business and commerce. Students study topics like contract law, company law, mergers and acquisitions, and intellectual property law.
- Criminal Law: This specialisation deals with crimes and the legal system’s response. Students examine criminal law principles, evidence, criminal procedure, and sentencing.
- Family Law: This specialisation covers legal issues related to families, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and child support. Family law graduates can work in private practice, government agencies, or non-profit organisations focusing on family law issues.
- Human Rights Law: This specialisation explores the legal framework protecting human rights at the national and international levels. Human rights law graduates can pursue careers in advocacy groups, international organisations, or government agencies.
- Intellectual Property Law: This specialisation focuses on the laws protecting intangible property creations, such as copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets.
- International Law: This specialisation examines the legal principles governing relations between countries. Students study international treaties, international organisations, human rights law, and the law of war.
- Environmental Law: This specialisation explores the laws and regulations protecting the environment. Environmental law graduates can work in government agencies, environmental advocacy groups, or private law firms specialising in environmental law.
Eligibility Criteria For LLB In The UK
Meeting eligibility requirements is quite important for international students planning to study LLB abroad. While these criteria can vary depending on the university and specific course, here are some common law entry requirements in the UK:
| Requirement | Details |
| Academic Qualification | High School degree |
| Common Academic Route | GCSEs followed by A-Levels for most students in England and Wales |
| GCSE Requirements | Most law schools require at least a grade C or B, or a level 4 or above in English and Math. Some may require proficiency in a subject like foreign languages |
| A-Level Requirements | Top Law schools often require three A levels with AAA or AAB grades. In some cases, one A-level may be sufficient. |
| Age Eligibility | 18 or above |
| LSAT Requirement | Only certain universities |
| English Language Proficiency | IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5TOEFL: 80 – 90 |
Documents Required
While the above table identifies the eligibility criteria, the following section will help one understand the documents that back their history of education. Find the list here:
Scholarships Offered For International Students
Below, you’ll find a selection of scholarships available to students aspiring to pursue an LLB in the UK. These opportunities are offered by both the UK government and various UK law schools and aim to support talented students in achieving their academic and career goals while studying for an LLB degree in the UK.
| Scholarship Name | Scholarship Provider | Scholarship Coverage | Eligibility Criteria |
| LLB and LLB for Graduates Scholarships | University of Birmingham | £3,000 per year towards tuition fees | – Be classed as an overseas fee-payer- Have an offer and selected Birmingham as a firm choice- Not already registered at Birmingham- Be self-funding and have funds to cover living costs- Accept the offer by 30 June 2024- Undertake LLB, LLB for Graduates, LLB International Law, LLB with Business, LLB with Criminology, LLB with French Law or LLB with German Law |
| Chevening Scholarship | UK Government | It covers tuition fees, living costs and return flight | – Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country- Have an undergraduate degree- Have at least two years’ work experience- Not hold refugee status in a non-Chevening country- Not have previously studied in the UK on a UK government scholarship |
| Felix Scholarship | Felix Trust | Covers 100% of course fees and living costs of around £15,840 | – Apply for a full-time master’s or DPhil at the University of Oxford- Have not previously studied at the same level- Cannot attend Oxford without financial assistance- Expected to return to India after completing the course |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree Scholarship | European Union | Covers tuition, travel and living allowance | – Apply for an LLM at a pre-approved European higher education institution- The programme must provide 60, 90 or 120 ECTS credits and last 12-24 months |
Can UK Law Degree Holders Practise In Other Countries?
UK law degree holders can practice law in other countries, but the specific requirements vary depending on the country. Students will have to appear for the examinations of a particular country and clear them in some cases. Here are a few key points:
Practising Law In India
Indian students who complete an LLB degree from a Bar Council of India (BCI) recognised UK university can practice law in India after passing the All India Bar Examination conducted by the BCI. The BCI recognises law degrees from over 40 UK universities.
Practising Law In Canada
UK law graduates must pass the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) exams and fulfil the provincial law society’s requirements to become lawyers in Canada. Many lawyers in Canada have completed their law degrees in the UK and successfully practice in the country.
Practising Law In The US
The requirements to practice law in the US vary by state. Some states may require UK law graduates to complete an LLM degree from an ABA-accredited law school and pass the bar exam, while others may allow them to sit for the bar exam directly with a UK law degree. It’s best to check with the specific state bar association.
Practising Law In Australia
UK law graduates can apply for admission to practice law in Australia if their degree is recognised by the relevant state or territory admitting authority. Depending on the jurisdiction, they may need further study or training.
While a UK law degree is well-respected globally, graduates must check the specific requirements to practice in their country of choice. In some cases, additional exams, training, or further study may be necessary.
Cost Of Studying In The UK
LLB fees in the UK for international students are a significant component of the overall expenses. The cost of this course can vary considerably, which falls within the range of £40,000 to £75,000 and sometimes reaches as high as £109,000. These variations depend on the university, course popularity, reputation, and location. Otherwise, these are the other costs which you will incur living in the UK:
| Particulars | Monthly Cost Across the UK in £ |
| Off-campus Accommodation | £1220 |
| On-campus Accommodation | £1200 |
| Transportation | £68 |
| Food | £420 |
| Entertainment | £40 |
| Groceries | £120 |
| Clothes | £75 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-campus Accommodation | £1943 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-campus Accommodation | £1923 |
| Total Annual Cost of Living | £23316 |
Cost Of Living In The UK For Indian Students
| Particulars | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Off-campus Accommodation | ₹1,28,878 |
| On-campus Accommodation | ₹1,26,765 |
| Transportation | ₹7183 |
| Food | ₹44,368 |
| Entertainment | ₹4225 |
| Groceries | ₹12,676 |
| Clothes | ₹7922 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-campus Accommodation | ₹2,05,255 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-campus Accommodation | ₹2,03,142 |
| Total Annual Cost of Living | ₹24,63,062 |
Scope After An LLB Programme In The UK
Obtaining an LLB degree from a leading UK law school will give career opportunities. Graduates will have the skills to pursue legal careers as solicitors or barristers and cultivate versatile skills, enabling them to enter diverse fields, including business, criminology, and academia. For instance,
- Legal Professions: The LLB qualifies graduates to pursue a career as solicitors in the UK. However, this path necessitates further completion of the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and a training contract with a law firm.
- Non-Legal Professions: An LLB degree also equips graduates with valuable skills applicable to various non-legal professions. For instance, their legal knowledge can be leveraged for careers in journalism, mainly when reporting on legal matters.
- Further Education: LLB is a strong foundation for further academic pursuits. Graduates may pursue a postgraduate degree, such as a Master of Laws (LLM), to specialise in a specific area of law or delve deeper into legal research.
Law Graduate Salaries In The UK
Benefits Of Studying Law In The UK
UK universities boast a long and respected history in legal education. A law degree from a UK university is recognised and valued internationally, opening doors to a global legal career. Here are some benefits of studying law in the UK:
- Strong Academic Foundation: The UK legal education system is rigorous and comprehensive. LLB programmes thoroughly ground core legal principles, legal analysis, and practical skills like negotiation and advocacy.
- Diverse Specialisation Options: UK universities offer a wide range of law programmes with specialisations in various areas like international law, commercial law, intellectual property law, and environmental law.
- Exposure to a Globalised Legal System: The UK legal system is influential internationally, and studying law in the UK provides valuable insights into legal frameworks used in other countries.
- Transferable Skills Development: Even for those who don’t pursue a strictly legal career, a law degree equips graduates with valuable transferable skills like critical thinking, research, problem-solving, communication, and negotiation.
- Professional Networking Opportunities: Studying law in the UK provides opportunities to connect with legal professionals, academics, and fellow students.
- Pathway to Further Studies: An LLB degree is a strong foundation for further legal education. Graduates can pursue postgraduate degrees like an LLM to specialise in a specific area of law or embark on a research-focused programme.
In addition to these core benefits, some students may also find advantages in:
- The Cultural Experience: Studying in the UK immerses students in a rich culture with a long legal history.
- The English Language Advantage: Earning a law degree in English can be a significant advantage for students who want to work internationally or in countries where English is the primary language of law.
Applying To Study Law In The UK
Earning a law degree in the UK is a prestigious path for aspiring legal professionals. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved in applying for an undergraduate law programme:
Step 1: Research Your Options:
- Explore Universities: The UK boasts many universities offering LLB (Bachelor of Laws) programmes—research universities based on location, programme specialisations, entry requirements, and student life.
- Specialisation Options: Many universities offer LLB programmes with international law, commercial law, or intellectual property law specialisations. When choosing a programme, consider your interests and career goals.
Step 2: Meet Entry Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Typically, UK universities require strong secondary school grades and leaving exams (e.g., A-levels, IB Diploma) with a focus on subjects relevant to law.
- English Language Proficiency: If you’re an international student, you must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Law-Specific Requirements: Some universities may require additional tests, personal statements, or interviews focusing on your aptitude for law studies.
Step 3: Application Process:
- UCAS Application: Most applications for undergraduate programmes in the UK are submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). UCAS allows you to apply to up to five universities through a single platform.
- Supporting Documents: Prepare transcripts, standardised test scores, a personal statement highlighting your interest in law, and any required references.
Visa Process & Costs Involved
The cost to apply for a student visa outside the UK is currently £490 (subject to change) as of May 2024. Additional costs are associated with the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The IHS fee depends on the length of your programme:
- Up to 9 months: £388
- 9 months to 4 years: £776 per year
How To Apply For A UK Student Visa?
The UK visa application process for international students involves several steps:
- Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of acceptance from a UK university for a law programme
- Proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses during your studies
- English language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required for your nationality)
- Sponsor letter (if applicable)
- Complete Online Application: Submit your application through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Pay Visa Application Fee and IHS: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge online.
- Biometric Enrollment: Attend a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.
- Visa Decision: The UKVI will process your application and inform you of their decision. Processing times can vary, so plan and apply well in advance.
We hope this blog has provided a comprehensive understanding of pursuing an LLB in the UK. Remembering the eligibility criteria and ensuring you have all the necessary documents ready when applying to offer a seamless and hassle-free application process.
FAQs
How many years is LLB in the UK?
LLB in the UK typically lasts for three years. Students can extend their studies by a semester or two or even take a mid-semester break, which might affect the course of their studies.
How much does LLB from the UK cost?
The cost of an LLB in the UK ranges from £20,000 to £40,000 per academic year. Students can get help funding their studies through loans and scholarships.
Is the UK LLB valid in India?
Yes, a UK LLB is recognised in India. Students can choose to practise in India after their course in the UK.
Is studying LLB in the UK worth it?
Studying LLB in the UK offers global recognition and diverse career opportunities, making it a worthwhile choice. Students can also get a good ROI on the funds spent during their studies after their studies. The average salary for a lawyer in the UK is £79,581 ( INR 83+ Lakhs approx.) per year after LLB.
Which country is best for Indian lawyers?
The UK, USA, Canada, and Australia are popular destinations for Indian lawyers due to their legal systems and career opportunities.
How can I convert my Indian law degree to the UK?
Indian law graduates can pursue a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) in the UK to transition into the UK legal system.
Which UK universities offer 2-year LLB courses?
The University of Buckingham and the University of Northampton offer accelerated 2-year LLB programmes, but availability may vary.
Is a 2-year LLB in the UK valid in India?
A two-year LLB from the UK is recognised in India. However, students must first appear for and clear the Indian BAR exam to start their practice.
Is work experience required for admission to LLB programmes in the UK?
Work experience is optional for admission to LLB programmes in the UK. Freshers can also apply to become a lawyer by studying in the UK.
Can you practise in the UK with an Indian LLB?
Students can practise in the UK with an Indian LLB; however, to be accredited by UK law, they must clear the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
We hope this blog on LLB in the UK has cleared up several doubts about this topic. Continue reading similar articles on international education:
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further