LLM in USA: Top Universities, Eligibility, Fees, Scholarships and Placements 2023

LLM in USA is a postgraduate degree course for 1-2 years. LLM degree in USA deals with various disciplines like international law, environmental law, human rights law, business law and taxation law. Candidates must have a valid 3-year bachelor's degree in law with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 to attain the best universities for LLM in USA. The average LLM fees in USA varies from USD 12000 to USD 70,000 (INR 9,83,166-INR 57,35,135). A minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or higher and TOEFL score of 100 or above is required for studying LLM in USA for Indian students. Top universities offering best LLM programs in the US include Harvard University, Yale University, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley and others. Average annual salary after pursuing LLM in USA is approximately USD 96,200 (INR 78,80,564).

ROI for LLM in USA graph above shows that UCLA provides students the highest return on investment at 47%. University of California, Berkeley provides an ROI of 45%, followed by 42% of University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. What students can notice here that the ROI is not exponenetially high. USA does not offer low international student tuition fee. The lowest ROI is offered by Columbia University at 28%. Although the placements provided by the universities offer high paying jobs, but the total cost of living and tuition fee range of the student is often higher than the salary range. Students who receive scholarships to study in USA will find it easier to study in USA, and get a better ROI.

Students get an opportunity to work for firms like Major, Lindsey & Africa, Axiom, Parker Lynch, etc. Candidates can choose to study any of the specialization option like Corporate Law, Business Law, Cybersecurity Law, Energy Law, Human Rights, etc. If you study full-time, then you will need only an year to get the degree. Application fee range is between USD 75 (INR 6,170.44) and USD 100 (INR 8,227.25) , for new applicants. Students can expect an entry level salary in legal sectors that varies from USD 58,000 to USD 70,000(INR 47,50,490-INR 57,33,350). The employment rate of LLM in USA is expected to rise by 10% from 2021 to 2031. Students have to be aware of student housing in USA to avoid any issue after reaching there. The average cost of living an international student will have to incur is USD 36,074 (INR 29,60,719.44). Scholarships offered up to USD 66,350 (INR 54,60,969.93) to international students at Columbia University.

Table Of Contents

LLM in USA Highlights
Why Study LLM in USA?
Area of Specialisation
3.1 LLM vs LLB
Top Universities
Admission Process
5.1 Eligibility Criteria
5.2 Documents Required
5.3 Application Fee
5.4 Admission Deadline
Admission Requirement
Cost of Living
Scholarships Offered
Jobs
9.1 Top Recruiters
Work Permit
FAQs

LLM in USA Highlights

Degree Types	LLM from USA
Course Duration	LLM Duration in USA is of 1-2 Years
Program Types	Part-Time, Full-Time, Offline and Online LLM Programs in USA
Intake Seasons	Fall; Spring; Summer
Admission requirements	Bachelors (Hons) degree in law or related fields from an accredited university, test scores, GPA 3.0, LSAC
English Proficiency	IELTS score: 7.0 or above TOEFL score: 100 or above
Tuition Fee	Cost of studying in USA is USD12000 to USD 70,000 (INR 9,83,166-INR 57,35,135)
Average Salary	USD 96,200 (INR 78,80,564)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Why Study LLM in USA?

Pursuing LLM programs offers following benefits of studying in USA to international students:

Candidates get the chance of working on pro bono cases during their academic sessions.
There are also certain universities offering the cheapest LLM in USA for international students.
The lawyer employment rate is expected to rise by 10% from 2021 to 2031.
The average lawyer salary increment in USA witnesses a 12% increment every 16 months.
There is no discrimination in the law sectors to seek LLM in USA for Indian students.
The salary at the entry level in legal sectors varies from USD 58,000 to USD 70,000(INR 47,50,490-INR 57,33,350)
Scholarships offered up to USD 66,350 (INR 54,60,969.93)

LLM in USA: Area of Specializations

LLM curriculum is available in both private as well as public universities in USA. Mentioned below are the specialization offered under LLM programs in USA:

LLM in Criminal Law USA: The curriculum teaches about policies to deal with criminal cases and its preventions.
LLM in Corporate Law in USA: Teaches about process of dealing with employers, staffs, and managers in a corporate sector.
LLM in Business Law USA: The curriculum teaches to deal with complex business transactions.
LLM in Cybersecurity Law USA: Students gets knowledge to deal in protection of digital informations.
LLM in Energy Law USA: The curriculum designed for enhancement of in-depth legal knowledge.
LLM in Environmental Law USA: Teaches about environmental, energy and resource law and policy.
LLM in Human Rights Law USA: Curriculum teaches students the knowledge of proecting human rights worldwide.

LLM vs LLB in USA

Getting insights of US education system in details is important before getting into comparison of any courses. Detailed course comparison of LLM from USA and LLB from USA are as follows:

Parameters	LLM in USA	LLB in USA
Educational Requirements	Bachelors degree with 3.0 in law is LLM USA requirements	High school degree from an accredited instituition is required for LLB in USA
Exam Requirement	LSAC is accepted	LSAT is accepted
ELP Requirements	IELTS score: 7.0 or above TOEFL score: 100 or above	IELTS score: 7.0 or above TOEFL score: 90 or above
Tuition Fees	Cost of LLM in USA ranges from 12000 USD to 70,000 USD (INR 9,83,166-INR 57,35,135) per year	Cost of LLB in USA is on an average of USD 64,350 (INR 5276313.90) per year
Job Outlook (2020-2030)	10% (Faster than average)	9% (As fast as average)
Average Annual Salary	Salary of LLM from USA is USD 96,200 (INR 79,22,324.93)	Salary of LLB from USA is USD 80,000 (INR 65,88,476.00)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Top Universities Offering LLM in USA

There are certain universities offering cheap LLM Programs in USA for international students. A list of top universities in USA for LLM program along with annual tuition fees are as follows:

Name of Universities	LLM in USA for Indian Students Fees
Harvard University	USD 73,600 (INR 60,61,478.88)
Yale University	USD 71,540 (INR 58,91,991.48)
Stanford University	USD 71,609 (INR 58,97,674.27)
University of California, Berkeley	USD 69,000 (INR 56,82,291.45)
Columbia University	USD 82,467 (INR 67,90,782.23)
New York University (NYU)	USD 73,216 (INR 60,28,451.69)
University of Chicago	USD 73,185 (INR 60,25,899.21)
Georgetown University	USD 75,950 (INR 62,52,785.02)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	USD 67,248.00 (INR 55,34,880.26)
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	USD 70,808 (INR 58,27,887.84)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Admission Process for LLM in USA

Certain universities also offers LLM to study in USA without IELTS. Candidates seeking LLM in USA after LLB in India have to follow the admission process to attend the best universities in USA. The admission process from LLM in USA is detailed below:

Choose the law school as per aspirants’ budget, specialized program and interest.
Visit the websites to check the application deadline and other details.
Registration of new student account.
Fill out the application form properly.
Checking US universities with high acceptance rates.
Submit all required documents and transcripts via mail or post.

Eligibility Criteria for LLM in USA

There are certain Duolingo accepted universities in USA for LLM program. Eligibility criteria for LLM in USA requires candidates to follow certain category which includes the following:

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Documents Required for LLM in USA

Provided below are the documents that candidates must produce are mentioned below:

LSAC Score cards
English Language proficiency test score cards
LOR for USA (Letter of Recommendation)
Academic reports of earlier degrees
F1 visa application
Bank statements
Scholarship documents (if applied for)
SOP for USA (Statement of Purpose)

University-wise Application Fee

There are certain universities in USA without application fees. Table below highlights university-wise application fees for LLM in USA:

Name of Universities	Application Fee
Harvard University	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
Yale University	USD 75 (INR 6,170.44)
Stanford University	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
University of California, Berkeley	USD 80 (INR 6,581.80)
Columbia University	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
New York University (NYU)	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
University of Chicago	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
Georgetown University	USD 90 (INR 7,404.53) for timely application and USD 100 (INR 8,227.25) for late application
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	USD 85 (INR 6,993.59)
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	USD 75 (INR 6,170.44)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

University-Wise Application Deadline

The application deadlines for top universities in USA for LLM programs are tabulated below:

LLM Universities in USA	Application Deadline
Harvard University	December 1 (closed)
Yale University	August 1 to December 1 (closed)
Stanford University	December 1 (closed)
University of California, Berkeley	Decemeber 18 (closed)
Columbia University	December 21 (closed)
New York University (NYU)	December 15- April 1
University of Chicago	February 1 (closed)
Georgetown University	March 15
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	September 2024
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	January 15 (closed)

LLM in USA Score Requirements

A list of required scores for exams to study in USA for LLM program are as follows:

LLM Universities in USA	Admission Requirements
Harvard University	TOEFL: 100 (25 in each section) IELTS: 7.0
Yale University	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7 Duolingo English Test: 120
Stanford University	TOEFL iBT: 100 IELTS:7.0
University of California, Berkeley	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7
Columbia University	TOEFL: 105
New York University (NYU)	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7.0 DET: 130 PTE: 70
University of Chicago	TOEFL: 104 IELTS: 7.5
Georgetown University	TOEFL iBT: 100 IELTS: 7.0
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	TOEFL iBT: 96 IELTS: 7.5
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7.0

Cost of Living in USA

The annual cost of living in USA for international students varies according to universities. Candidates pursuing LLM course in USA must be aware of the cost of living. The table below highlights the LLM USA cost for Indian students:

Criteria of Expenses	Annual Estimated Cost
Health, Registration, Service, and Tech Fees	USD 3,074 (INR 2,52,278.57)
Room and Board	USD 26,059 (INR 21,38,623.04)
Books and Supplies	USD 1,500 (INR 1,23,102.75)
Health Insurance (Basic)	USD 4,077 (INR 3,34,593.27)
Miscellaneous	USD 1,144 (INR 93,886.36)
Loan Fees	USD 220 (NR 18,056.17)
TOTAL	USD 36,074 (INR 29,60,719.44)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Scholarships Offered for LLM in USA

A list of popular scholarships for Indian students in USA for LLM candidates are as follows:

Best LLM Colleges in USA	Name Scholarship	Eligbility	Rewards or Grants
Harvard University	ULI Kenneth M. Good Graduate Student Fellowship	Nomination by faculty based on academic performance and capabilities	USD 5,000 (INR 4,11,552.50)
Yale University	Yale University Scholarship	TOEFL scores of at least the following: 100 on the internet-based TOEFL 600 on the paper-based TOEFL 250 on the computer-based TOEFL IELTS scores of 7 or higher and Pearson Test scores of 70 or higher.	USD 70,000 (INR 57,61,875.00)
Stanford University	Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) program	No minimum eligibility criteria	Varies
University of California, Berkeley	Gates Cambridge Scholarship	be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom be applying to pursue one of the following full-time residential courses	Varies based on course opted
Columbia University	Need-Based Financial Aid	Based on need demonstrated by the candidate	USD 66,350 (INR 54,60,969.93)
New York University (NYU)	Global Citizen Scholarship	Non-US citizen with good academic record	Varies based on course and capabilities
University of Chicago	Merit Scholarships for International Students	All first-year applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships	Varies
Georgetown University	International Scholarships	Online application Personal statement Supplemental data sheet Official transcripts and test scores (GRE, TOEFL or IELTS) Three letters of recommendation	Varies based on course
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	Fulbright Nehru Masters Fellowships	Based on need demonstrated by the candidate	USD 2,500 (INR 2,05,752.00)
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	International and Comparative Law Scholarships	Students who are admitted to the LLM program and request financial aid will be automatically considered for this award.	Varies

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Jobs after LLM in USA

The top LLM colleges in USA offer vast career scope to develop the life of the aspirants. The jobs in USA after completing LLM program available for Indian students are as follows:

Job Profile	Average Salary
Attorney / Lawyer	99,987 USD (INR 81,88,640)
Associate Attorney	85,601 USD (INR 70,10,469)
General Counsel	176,380 USD (INR 1,44,45,001)
Corporate Counsel	152,608 USD (INR 1,24,97,114)
Law Firm Partner	228,001 USD (INR 1,86,71,070)
Associate General Counsel	160,637 USD (INR 1,31,54,612)
Chief Compliance Officer	159,094 USD (INR 1,30,28,414)

Note: Amount 1 USD= INR 83.06 as per 13th February 2024

Top Recruiters for LLM Course in USA

The top recruiters offering both full-time and part-time jobs in USA post-compleion of LLM curriculum are as follows:

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Work Permit

Candidates need to issue F1 visa to seek their graduation degree from US universities. LLM candidates must apply for OPT (optional practical training) at least 6 months before the expiry of the F1 visa. This OPT visa lasts for 1 year and permits jobs on a paid, non-paid or contractual basis. Graduates can apply for H1 B visa after the expiry of OPT visa. The H1B visa allows candidates to work as an employer in the United States. Approximately 65000 H1 B visas are issued every year to get permission to work in the United States. Candidates must have the below-mentioned list of documents for availing a US student visa:

Application fee of USD 160 (INR 13119.04) along with additional fees.
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity period.
Printed application form DS-160.
Form I-20 provided by the institution at the time of enrolling for the course.
Appointment letter original copy.
Original transcripts
Standardized test scores.
Payslips.
Return Air ticket proof.

International students can above-mentioned eligibility, salary, and LLM fees in USA for International students. The sector of LLM in USA is likely to increase by 10% up to year 2031.

FAQs

Ques. Is an LLM degree from the USA recognized internationally?

Ans: Yes, an LLM degree from a reputable university in the USA is widely recognized and respected internationally. It demonstrates a high level of legal expertise and can enhance career prospects both within the USA and globally.

Ques. Can I pursue an LLM program in the USA without a law degree?

Ans: While most LLM programs in the USA require applicants to have a law degree (Juris Doctor or its equivalent), some universities offer specialized LLM programs designed for non-lawyers or professionals in related fields. These programs may have specific eligibility requirements, so it's advisable to check with individual universities.

Ques. What are the popular specializations offered in LLM programs?

Ans: LLM programs in the USA offer a wide range of specializations to cater to different legal interests. Some popular specializations include International Law, Intellectual Property Law, Corporate Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights Law, Tax Law, and Constitutional Law, among others.

Ques. Are there part-time or online LLM programs available?

Ans: Yes, many universities offer part-time or online LLM programs to accommodate the needs of working professionals or those who prefer a flexible study schedule. These programs provide the opportunity to balance work and studies effectively.

Ques. How long does an LLM program typically take to complete?

Ans: The duration of an LLM program in the USA usually ranges from one to two years, depending on the university and whether you choose to study full-time or part-time.

Ques. Can international students work in the USA during or after their LLM program?

Ans: International students in the USA on an F-1 student visa can typically work on-campus for a limited number of hours during their studies. After completing their LLM program, they may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in the USA for up to one year. However, specific immigration regulations apply, and it's essential to consult with the university's international student office for guidance.

Ques. What is the difference between a JD and an LLM degree?

Ans: A Juris Doctor (JD) degree is the primary law degree in the USA, typically earned by students who wish to become practicing attorneys. An LLM degree, on the other hand, is a postgraduate degree pursued by individuals who already hold a law degree and want to specialize in a specific legal field or gain additional expertise.

Ques. How competitive is the admission process for LLM programs?

Ans: Admission to LLM programs in the USA can be competitive due to the limited number of seats available and the high caliber of applicants. Each university sets its own admission criteria, which may include academic performance, professional experience, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores.

Ques. Can I practice law in the USA with an LLM degree?

Ans: An LLM degree alone does not typically qualify graduates to practice law in the USA. However, some states allow foreign-trained lawyers with an LLM degree to sit for the bar exam and qualify for admission to the bar. The specific requirements vary by state, so it's important to research the regulations of the state in which you plan to practice.

Ques. What are the career prospects after completing an LLM program in the USA?

Ans: Completing an LLM program in the USA can open up a range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in law firms, multinational corporations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, academia, and international organizations. The specialized knowledge gained through an LLM degree can also lead to higher positions, increased responsibilities, and potentially higher salaries in the legal field.

Ques: How many years is an LLM in USA?

Ans: The LLM, which is normally a one-year program that introduces students to the US legal system, is most frequently required of bar applicants who received their education or professional experience outside of the US.

Ques: Is LLM worth it in USA?

Ans: An LLM from the USA might be worthwhile if you want to practice law in the United States or if you want to specialize in a certain area of the law. You can write the Bar Exam if you complete an LLM program in the United States. If you have studied US law, even if your post-LLM plans involve returning home, that knowledge could be advantageous.

Ques: Can I stay in USA after LLM?

Ans: You are allowed to leave the United States 60 days after earning your LL. M. You will need to apply to change your visa status or enroll in a higher program if you want to stay in the United States. OPT is work study abroad that is temporarily associated with your primary field of study.

Ques:Can I do LLM in USA after LLB in India?

Ans: In order to enroll a student for an LLM, many universities in the USA accept a three-year legal degree. To find out more, check with the universities as some only require a JD degree.

Ques: Which is better for LLM USA or UK?

Ans: The UK is the more affordable option if the primary consideration is the cost of an LLM. In the US, law schools are well-known for their high costs and demanding curriculum.

Ques: Can you get a job in US with an LLM?

Ans: The majority of graduates work as private practitioners at law firms all over the world, including many of the top legal practices in the world. Every year, between 15 and 25 percent of LLM students with foreign training report landing jobs in the US, both in the public and private sectors, and for both short- and long-term periods.

Ques: Can Indians do LLM in USA?

Ans: For instance, you can apply to the majority of LLM programs in the USA if you have a law bachelor's degree from India. But before applying to an LLM program, you might need to finish a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or a Juris Doctor (JD) if your bachelor's degree is in a different field.

Ques: Do LLM students get placement?

Ans: Graduates enjoy the freedom to apply for jobs in a variety of industries that are associated with their academic field. There are numerous career options in the public and private sectors for individuals who complete their LLM degree with success.

Ques: What is the next step after LLM?

Ans: After obtaining your LLM degree, you can select a domestic or international law firm if you have a specific area of interest. Additionally, you are able to work for any business, university, non-governmental organization, start-up, global organization, etc.

Ques: Can I get a job in USA after LLM from India?

Ans: A foreign law degree holder is also eligible to practice in a number of states, including California and New York. Nonetheless, only students from law schools accredited by the ABA are eligible to sit for the bar exam in about 23 states in the US.