Law: LL.M. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the LL.M. Program in the American Legal System?

This two semester program  provides advanced training for students from outside the United States who wish to increase their familiarity with the American legal system.

How do I apply to the William & Mary Law School LL.M. program?

We prefer applicants to apply online through LSAC; however, we will accept the paper application which can be located on the LL.M. admission site.

When do you begin accepting applications?

September 1.

When is the application deadline?

February 1.

When will I receive a decision after submitting my application?

Applications will be reviewed as they become complete and most decisions are emailed in early March.

What are the requirements to be considered for admission?

1. An applicant must have a law degree from a country outside the United States from a college or university that is accredited and recognized by the relevant educational authority in that country, or be qualified to practice law in a foreign county.

2. A final transcript and degree certificate from those who have received their law degree prior to their LL.M. application.  Those who will graduate after the application is submitted must submit their most recent transcript and, if admitted, the final transcript and degree certificate will be required prior to the start of classes. 

Important Note: If you plan to sit for a bar examination in the United States, you need to obtain an additional set of “official” transcripts showing your degree conferral to submit with your bar application.

3. An applicant must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) if (a) the applicant’s native language is not English and (2) the applicant did not obtain a law degree from an educational institution in which the language of instruction is English.  William & Mary will not consider TOEFL scores more than two years old at the time of application.

4. Two letters of recommendation (in sealed envelopes) from law professors, employers or other people who can attest to your professional or academic capabilities.

What factors are considered for admission to the LL.M. Program?

In an attempt to create a qualified and well-rounded entering class, William & Mary Law School considers a variety of factors including general academic ability (using factors such as academic transcripts, strength of school and schedule), extracurricular activities and work experience, capacity for legal study, and other relevant personal qualities and characteristics.

Does William & Mary Law School require seat deposits for the LL.M. Program?

Yes, William & Mary requires a $250 nonrefundable seat deposit that will be credited to the first semester tuition bill.

If admitted to the program, how do I get a visa?

Instructions for obtaining a certificate of eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) from the College of William & Mary will be included with the admission materials.

What is the minimum TOEFL score you will accept?

The minimum acceptable scores for admission on the TOEFL are 600 (paper-based total); 250 (computer-based total); and 100 (Internet-based total). In certain exceptional cases, William & Mary may accept a student with a slightly lower TOEFL score; however, an applicant with such a score should re-take the TOEFL to attempt to raise their score.

How do I submit transcripts from a college or university outside the United States or Canada?

Use the LSAC service for international transcripts or include them (with translations) in sealed envelopes with your paper application.

Is there a word limit for answers to the essay questions on the application for the LL.M. Program?

No. Please feel free to submit a statement that is long enough to express whatever you believe we should know.

How much does it cost to attend William & Mary Law School?

Are scholarships available to LL.M. students?

Scholarships for the LL.M. Program are limited and are based on merit. The probability of receiving aid through the Law School depends on the availability of funds and applicant qualifications. Students must be prepared to pay necessary travel, living and educational expenses from outside sources.

What additional aid is available to international students?

Although some scholarships are offered to LL.M. students, most of our students use individual or family savings and resources to fund their LL.M. Program expenses.  Some international students have been funded by their employers for career enhancement.