Degree Subject

Study Law Abroad

Law degrees (LLB) provide comprehensive training in legal principles, critical thinking, and advocacy.The course typically takes 3 years in the UK or 4 years in the USA (JD), combining academic study with practical legal skills.

Entry Requirements

A-Levels: AAA-AAB (no specific subjects required, but essay-based subjects preferred)
International Baccalaureate: 38-40 points
LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law) for some UK universities
Minimum IELTS 7.0 for international students
Strong written communication skills
Demonstrated interest in law and current affairs

Required High School Subjects

No specific A-level subjects required
Essay-based subjects recommended: English Literature, History, Politics, Philosophy
Subjects that develop analytical and argumentative skills

Personal Statement Tips

Your law personal statement should demonstrate genuine interest in law beyond watching TV legal dramas, critical engagement with legal issues and current affairs, evidence of mooting, debating or public speaking, work experience in legal settings (law firms, courts, Citizens Advice), and analytical skills developed through wider reading of legal journals and landmark cases.

Admissions Tests

LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law)

Computer-based test assessing verbal reasoning and essay writing. Required by Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, and other top UK law schools.

Sections: Multiple Choice (42 questions on verbal reasoning) and Essay (one from three questions)

Interview Preparation

Law interviews often involve discussing a legal problem or case provided beforehand. Be prepared to analyse legal scenarios, demonstrate logical reasoning, discuss why you want to study law, and show awareness of legal current affairs. Practice structuring legal arguments and defending your positions.

Top Universities for Law

University of Oxford

AAA + LNAT + Interview

University of Cambridge

A*AA + Interview

London School of Economics (LSE)

A*AA + Essay

Harvard Law School

USA

Undergraduate degree + LSAT + Interview

Yale Law School

USA

Undergraduate degree + LSAT + Interview

University of Melbourne

Australia

ATAR 99+ or undergraduate degree + Interview

Career Opportunities

Barrister

Solicitor

Corporate Lawyer

Criminal Law

Legal Consultant

Judge

Legal Academia

Policy Adviser

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to study specific A-levels to study law?

No, UK law schools do not require specific A-level subjects. However, essay-based subjects like English Literature, History, and Politics are advantageous as they develop the analytical writing and critical thinking skills essential for law. Avoid taking "Law" A-level as it's not necessary and universities prefer traditional academic subjects.

What is the LNAT and which universities require it?

The LNAT is an admissions test used by universities including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, and Bristol. It tests verbal reasoning and essay writing, not legal knowledge. You should take it in September-January of your application year. Practice tests are essential for achieving a competitive score (typically 24+).

What work experience do I need for law applications?

While not mandatory for all universities, relevant work experience strengthens your application. This can include law firm internships, court observations, volunteering at Citizens Advice, paralegal work, or attending legal conferences. The key is to reflect on what you learned about the legal profession and legal practice.

What is the difference between studying law in the UK vs the USA?

In the UK, you can study law as an undergraduate degree (LLB, 3 years) straight from school. In the USA, law is a graduate degree (JD, 3 years) requiring an undergraduate degree first. UK law degrees are more specialized from the start, while US legal education provides broader training after a liberal arts foundation.

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