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Best Law Colleges in London 2024

Updated on 04 July, 2024

Akansha SemwalTanya Rai

Akansha, Tanya

Top Law Schools in London in 2024

London has always been a center of attraction for Law aspirants, and there’s a big reason for it. The common law tradition originated in the UK and serves as the foundation for 27% of legal systems globally, including those in India, Australia, and the US. 

And this is not a very recent attraction for students. Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi also studied law in London. Law is a sought-after field among university students globally, with the best law universities concentrated in London. 

The eligibility to pursue law is just a high school diploma and a good IELTS score. To know more about it read the blog. 

5 Best Law Schools in London

Discover the top law colleges in London renowned for their prestigious programs, global law universities in London ranking, and comprehensive admission requirements.

1. London School of Economics (LSE)

QS subject  Ranking 2024

Program

Duration

Annual Fees (GBP)

Application Deadline

Course Start

Entry Requirements

7th

LLB 3 years (full-time) £ 28,176 January, Rolling Admissions September Personal Statement, Previous Qualifications, English Proficiency with A-level
LLM Full-time (1 year), Part-time (2-4 years) £36,168,£18,084 January September Undergraduate law degree, English Proficiency, CV, SOP, Two academic references
PhD Full-time (4 yrs), Part-time (8 yrs) £22,632,£11,316 January September English language proficiency score, Postgraduate law degree with above 70% in PG degree

2. University College London (UCL)

QS subject Ranking 2024

Program

Duration

Annual Fees (GBP)

Application Deadline

Course Start

Entry Requirements

14th

LLB 3 years (full-time) £31,100 January September Higher Secondary education or first-degree grades with A Level, English Proficiency (GCSE grade 6)
LLM Full-time (1 Year), Part-time (2-5 years)

£34,400

(full-time)

 £17,200

(part-time)

Rolling Admissions September Undergraduate law degree, CV, Statement of Purpose, English Proficiency, Two academic references
PhD Full-time (3-4 Years), Part-time (5-7 years)

£24,200

(full-time)

 £12,100 

(part-time)

November September English language proficiency score, Postgraduate law degree

Read About: Acceptance Rate for University of UCL London

3. King’s College London

QS subject Ranking 2024

Program

Duration

Annual Fees (GBP)

Application Deadline

Course Start

Entry Requirements

15th

LLB 3 years (full-time) £29,472 January September English proficiency scores, Higher secondary education, or first degree with Grade A level
LLM Full-time (1 year), Part-time (2 years) £33,450 (full-time), £16,725 (part-time) March September Undergraduate law degree with 65%, English Proficiency scores
PhD 3 years (full-time) £23,820(full-time), £11,910(part-time) February October Postgraduate law degree, English Proficiency scores

4. Queen Mary University of London

QS subject Ranking 2024

Program

Duration

Annual Fees (GBP)

Application Deadline

Course Start

Entry Requirements

38th

LLB 3 years (full-time) £27,450  January September Higher secondary education or first-degree grade with A-level, IB with 36 points, English Proficiency score
LLM Full-time (1 year), Part-time (2 years) £29,950 November/January September Law UG with 2:1 level, Non-law graduates with 60%, SOP, CV, English Proficiency score
PhD Full-time (3 years), Part-time (6 years) £23,050(full-time), £11,525 (part-time) June-October September LLM or equivalent qualification, English Proficiency score, CV, Personal statement

5. SOAS University of London

QS subject Ranking 2024

Program

Duration

Annual Fees (GBP)

Application Deadline

Course Start

Entry Requirements

101-150th

LLB 3 years (full-time) £21,990  June September Higher secondary education or first-degree grades, English proficiency score
LLM Full-time (1 year), Part-time (2-4 years) £25,740  July September Bachelor’s degree, 60% degree score, English proficiency scores

Unleash Your Legal Superpowers: How a Masters in Law Abroad Can Transform Your Career!

Why to Choose London to Study Law: Top 8 Reasons 

Here is why you should choose London to study law:

UK Law is Globally Dominating and Recognized

The UK's legal system, which has developed over more than 900 years, influences legal systems internationally. The UK is where common law originated, and it is recognized globally, with over a third of the world having a legal system based on English common law.

The UK is Home to Top International Law Firms

The UK hosts hundreds of international law firms, with some of the world’s biggest firms basing their headquarters here, offering great opportunities for training contracts and career development. The prestigious law firms Allen & Overy, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Clifford Chance, Linklaters, and Slaughter & May are based in the UK. 

Other famous law firms in the UK include Ashurst, CMS, Dentons, Eversheds Sutherland, Hogan Lovells, Herbert Smith Freehills, Latham & Watkins, Norton Rose Fulbright, RPC, Simmons & Simmons, Taylor Wessing, Travers Smith, Addleshaw Goddard, Clyde & Co, DLA Piper, Pinsent Masons, and Womble Bond Dickinson.

Simple Process for Admission Application

The application process is well-structured and simplified, with clear guidelines compared to the USA, Canada, and Australia. The entry requirements are designed to give a chance to study law for students from almost all backgrounds.

Shorter Course Duration

Law degrees in the UK are often shorter: an undergraduate LLB degree is three years, and a postgraduate LLM is one year. This is significantly less than in other countries such as Canada and the USA, where a law degree can last up to 7 years, costing students more money and time. UK law degrees are the quickest route to entering legal careers.

Practice-Based Teaching and Learning

Students studying law in the UK have a golden opportunity to learn from a variety of experiential opportunities. There are pupillages, vacation schemes, legal clinics, Moot Courts, chances to work on Pro-bono cases, and shadowing in court as options for work experience. 

Some universities have volunteering or internship arrangements with law firms, allowing international students to engage with these.

Improvement of Academic and Professional English

In addition to high-level technical academic English, law students in the UK can look forward to better communication skills and high adaptability towards various career transitions. 

Law students develop the ability to argue from a basis of evidence in a way that can be hard for others to do, this actively develops advanced communication skills, keen problem-solving abilities, and the capacity for independent thinking. As a result, UK law graduates adapt very well to various situations or career transitions.

Transferable Skills with Added Value

UK law courses are designed to provide transferable skills, including critical thinking, analytical reasoning, problem-solving, leadership, adaptability, teamwork, writing, listening, creativity, attention to detail, relationship building, report and draft writing, debating, negotiation, communication, organizing, decision-making, meeting deadlines, commercial awareness, and other soft skills. 

These skills add extra value to your professional profile for career commencement and enhancement.

UK Law Degree Earns Prestigious Careers

UK degree from law universities in London for international students can lead you to highly respected and rewarding careers such as Solicitor, Barrister, Arbitrator, Costs Lawyer, Legal Executive, Company Secretary, Patent Attorney, and Licensed Conveyancer. 

Some graduates prefer careers as Government Research Officers, Civil Service Administrators, Human Resource Officers, Political Risk Analysts, Stockbrokers, Trading Standards Officers, Legal Writers, Law Teachers, or freelance advisers.

Further Read: Why Pursuing a Master’s in the UK Can Be Your Best Decision Yet

Cost of Study & Scholarships for International Students to Study Law in London

Understand the costs and scholarships for international students studying in top law colleges in London, covering LLB, LLM, and PhD programs.

LLB (Bachelor of Laws) Programs:

  • Three-year Full-time Degree:
    • Non-London: £16,700 per year
    • London: £17,550 per year
  • Four-year Full-time Degree with Foundation Year:
    • Non-London: £16,700 per year
    • London: £17,550 per year
  • Two-year LLB (Hons) Senior Status:
    • Non-London: £16,700 per year
    • London: £17,550 per year
  • Two-year LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated / Two-year BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Accelerated:
    • Non-London: £20,350 per year
    • London: £22,150 per year

LLM (Master of Laws) Programs:

  • Full-time Study:
    • Home: £18,850
    • Overseas: £29,950
  • Part-time Study:
    • Home: £9,450 per year
    • Overseas: £15,000 per year

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) Programs:

For Overseas students:

  • PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) Programs:
    • Full-time study: £20,622 per year
    • Part-time study: N/A

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Scholarships for International Students to Study Law in London

Scholarship Type

Benefit

Funded by

Chevening Scholarships £18,000 Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, Partner org
GREAT Scholarship for Justice and Law £10,000 British Council, Great Britain Campaign, UK higher ed
Commonwealth Scholarship Economy return international travel, Tuition fees, Basic Allowance Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, others
Postgraduate Funding Scholarships £3,000-5,000 Queen Mary University of London
UCL faculty research scholarship Covers your tuition fees and provides an annual living allowance of around £20,622 for full-time students.  UCL Londen

Admission Requirements to Study Law in London

LLB Admission Requirements in London Universities

Admission requirements for LLB programs in London universities typically include a mix of academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and other criteria. 

Here are the common requirements:

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • A-Levels: Most universities require AAA to BBB grades in A-Levels.
    • International Baccalaureate (IB): A score of 34-38 points, with higher level subjects relevant to law.
    • Equivalent Qualifications: Recognized equivalent qualifications from other countries are accepted.
    • Subject Requirements: While specific subjects may not always be mandatory, some universities prefer students with a background in humanities or social sciences.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • IELTS: Typically, a score of 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0.
    • TOEFL: Equivalent scores as per university requirements (around 100-110).
    • Other Tests: Some universities accept other English language tests like PTE Academic.

LLM Admission Requirements in London Universities

For LLM programs, the requirements are slightly different and typically include:

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • Undergraduate Degree: A first or upper-second-class honors degree in law or a related discipline from a recognized university.
    • Equivalent Qualifications: Accepted from international institutions, often requiring a GPA equivalent of 3.3-3.7 on a 4.0 scale.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • IELTS: Generally, a score of 7.0 overall, with no component below 5.5.
    • TOEFL: Equivalent scores as per university requirements (around 100).
    • Other Tests: PTE Academic and other recognized tests are also accepted.

PhD Admission Requirements in London Universities

Admission to PhD programs in the law requires meeting higher academic standards and demonstrating research capability. 

Here are the typical requirements:

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in law or a related discipline with a merit or distinction.
    • Undergraduate Degree: A strong undergraduate degree (usually a first or upper-second-class honors) in law or a related field.
  2. Research Proposal:
    • A detailed research proposal outlining your intended research, its significance, methodology, and how it fits with the university’s research strengths.
  3. English Language Proficiency:
    • IELTS: Usually, a score of 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5.
    • TOEFL: Equivalent scores as per university requirements (around 100-110).

Career Prospects After Pursuing Education From Best Law Colleges in London

Discover a world of career opportunities after graduating from the top law colleges in London, whether you pursue an LLB, LLM, or a PhD program.

After LLB from Top Law College in London

LLB graduates from the prestigious best law universities in London can pursue various career paths in the legal field. Here are some potential job titles and their average salary according to PayScale:

Job Title

Average Salary 

Solicitor £61,974 per year
Barrister £35,000 per year
Legal Advisor £57,000 per year
Paralegal £29,000 per year
Compliance Officer £49,000 per year
Corporate Lawyer £93,000+ per year

Source: Indeed

After LLM from Top Law College in London

Completing an LLM program from a leading law college in London opens up diverse career opportunities. Here are potential job titles and their average salary ranges based on industry standards:

Job Title

Average Salary Range 

Legal Counsel £74,000 per year
Legal Secretary £33,000 per year
Corporate Lawyer £93,000 per year
Law Clerk £23,000 per year

Source: Indeed

After PhD from Top Law Colleges in London: 

PhD graduates from esteemed and good universities in London for law can pursue academic and specialized roles. Here are potential job titles and their average salary according to industry standards:

Job Title

Average Salary 

Law Professor £74,000 per year
Business Consultant £44,000 per year
Law Firm Partner £73,000 per year
Lecturer/ Speaker £50,000 per year

Source: Indeed

Employers Hiring Law Graduates in London, UK

Explore employment opportunities for law graduates in London, UK, with these top employers offering competitive salaries and diverse career paths.

Company

Average Annual Salary (GBP)

Linklaters LLP £91,000 - £2,00,000
Clifford Chance £1,00,000
Sellick Partnership Limited £46,000 - £98,000
The Nursing and Midwifery Council £50,000 - £60,000
UK Government - Government Legal Department £56,339

Source: Indeed

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Conclusion

Studying in London's top 5 law universities offers a gateway to prestigious careers with global recognition. These top London law university list above offer exceptional programs and diverse career paths in the legal field. Graduates from these esteemed institutions earn competitive salaries and contribute significantly to the legal landscape. 

With London's vibrant legal scene and renowned educational institutions, it's an ideal destination for aspiring legal professionals aiming for excellence and success in their careers.

FAQs

What factors should I consider when choosing a law school in London?

Deciding on a university for your law degree is a significant step. Here's a simplified guide to help you choose.

Key considerations when choosing a university for law:

Reputation and Rankings: Consider university rankings but understand their subjectivity.

Entry Requirements: Check specific grade requirements like AAA or A*AA.

Location: Decide on proximity to home and preference for urban or rural settings.

Costs: Compare tuition fees and living expenses; explore scholarships and bursaries.

Facilities and Social Life: Assess the quality of facilities and availability of clubs/societies.

Course Details: Review law course specifics, optional modules, and study abroad opportunities.

Graduate Prospects: Research employment outcomes for law graduates from the university.

What makes LSE a good choice for law students?

LSE offers a unique approach to legal education, emphasizing that law is not just a collection of texts but a living entity influencing our daily lives. Here's what makes LSE a standout choice for law students:

1. Practical and Relevant Learning

At LSE, students understand that law is omnipresent in social, civil, and business interactions. This practical perspective is crucial for aspiring lawyers who want to see the real-world impact of their studies.

2. Immersive Academic Environment

LSE students are immersed in an environment where faculty members are knowledgeable and actively involved in cutting-edge research. This means students learn from those shaping the law's development and addressing contemporary legal issues.

3. Engagement with Pressing Legal Problems

LSE Law explores key legal issues:

  • Displacement by conflict: Legal protections for displaced individuals.
  • Corporate executive pay: Legal restraints on excessive compensation.
  • Assisted suicide: Legal frameworks for prevention and punishment.
  • Other topics include Brexit's constitutional impact, contract law enforcement, punishment in legal systems, and social media regulation.

How important is the location of the law school in London?

Here are the reasons why the location of the law school in London is important:

1) Proximity to key legal institutions like the Royal Courts of Justice and the Supreme Court offers direct exposure to legal proceedings.

2)Abundant professional opportunities with top law firms for internships and jobs enhance practical experience.

3)A networking hub with frequent legal conferences and diverse legal practices enriches students' professional connections and knowledge base.

Which law school gives the best scholarships in the UK?

Several law schools in the UK offer excellent scholarships for international students. Here are a few renowned ones:

  • University of Cambridge
  • University College London (UCL)
  • Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), School of Law

What are the best A levels to study for law?

Choosing the right A-Levels is crucial for aspiring law students. Subjects like English Literature, History, and Politics develop essential skills in critical thinking, analysis, and argumentation, laying a strong foundation for legal studies. 

Additionally, subjects such as Economics, Maths, and Modern Languages offer valuable knowledge and versatility for specialized legal fields.

Which field is the best in law?

The best field in law depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals. Here are some promising fields to consider:

  1. Complex Litigation
  2. Corporate Law
  3. Tax Law
  4. Intellectual Property
  5. Blockchain
  6. Healthcare
  7. Environmental Law
  8. Criminal Law
  9. Civil Rights Law
  10. Animal Rights Law
  11. Immigration Law
  12. Sports and Entertainment Law
  13. Labor Law
  14. Family Law
  15. Elder Law
  16. Education (Teaching Law)

Which lawyer is most in demand?

Here are the six law specializations with the highest-paid lawyers and their average salaries:

  1. Corporate Law - £70,850 per year
  2. Human Rights Law - Salary not specified
  3. Employment Law - £52,920 per year
  4. Criminal Law - £51,928 per year
  5. Intellectual Property Law - £47,794 per year
  6. Clinical Negligence Law - £41,756 per year

What job in law pays the most?

Here are some of the highest-paying legal jobs across the globe, as per Indeed:

  1. Patent attorney: £171,346 per year
  2. General counsel: £148,465 per year
  3. Chief legal officer: £135,307 per year
  4. Employment lawyer: £120,956 per year
  5. Contracts lawyer: £111,921per year
  6. Litigation lawyer: £108,588 per year
  7. Counsel: £105,339 per year
  8. Intellectual property paralegal: £97,599 per year
  9. Attorney: £97,777 per year
  10. Family lawyer: £93,821 per year

What type of lawyers make the most money in the UK?

Lawyers specializing in commercial and corporate law tend to make the most money in the UK. They can earn over £100,000 a year, especially if they work for US-based firms or top-tier firms. These firms handle high-value transactions and have prestigious clients, contributing to higher salaries for their lawyers. 

On the other hand, lawyers in areas such as personal injury, immigration, and family law earn less than those in commercial and corporate law. 

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Akansha Semwal

Study Abroad Expert

Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.

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