pursuant to german judicial service exams, I could not commence any LL.M. until December or January.
Does anyone of you guys know prestigious programs commencing at this time particularly in Europe?

Kind regards

Hi Denislaw,

as far as I know, the University of Aberdeen is one of the few universities featuring LLM programmes commencing in January.

http://www.abdn.ac.uk/law/graduate/how.shtml

The School of Law has a very good reputation, but of course it is not as prestigious as Oxford etc. It also regularly scores quite high in rankings, albeit it is noteworthy to mention that the Times Good University Guide scandal has illustrated that rankings can be deceptive...:-)

In any event, you should keep in mind that the application process takes some time, particularly with regard to preparing for the IELTS/TOEFL or applying for scholarships. Thus, October next year also may be a viable option.

If you are not restricted to Europe, you could also apply to universities in Australia or New Zealand, as those programmes regularly commence in January.

All the best and good luck.

Pit, thank you for the response. Just noticed the aberdeen programme, which seemes to correspond with my interests. I won´t be able to start studies until January 2013 though Aberdeen is definately on top of my list.
I did not get any information about the Times Scandal you mentioned. Maybe you can post some more information about that issue...
Didn´t give much about the ranking themes.
Anyway, I have just passed the IELTS Test and scored 7.0, so Aberdeen would be in sight but I will get trouble with the academic references. I passed my exams in late 2009 and lectureres are supposed to be retired or have research semesters now. I am working in a law firm and I hope that my partner will be signing a professional reference. Hope Aberdeen will accept this one. They will respond this week but this issue will be hard though.

Funny you mentioned Australia, because I just had long quarrels with my wife about the LL.M. abroad. Our marriage would be more relaxing in Europe, I guess. Aside from the higher fees in Australia ( La Trobe about 30T AUSD).

Have you already commenced a programme?

kind regards
Denislaw