Hello!
I've received offers to study LLM in International Law from IHEID and LLM in Public International Law at Leiden University. I've not got scholarship from either, and the fee for IHEID is significantly higher. Which one would be better to for a future career in International law?? Appreciate any feedback. Thanks in advance

Hi ankita_91,


I have also received an offer from Leiden today! I haven't really looked into IHEID, but I can give you my opinion about your dilemma. Leiden is well established in the world of academia and especially law, being the oldest university in The Netherlands, and one of the oldest in Europe. It's almost 450 years old. It also has a long tradition in International Law, with Hugo Grotius, considered the father of the idea of International Law receiving his alma mater in Leiden. The teachers are just superb and true experts in their areas of focus. IHEID is a relatively modern construct compared to Leiden, and I think it has neither the prestige nor quality of education to be a worthy rival.


That's my thoughts about it, as I said I am not very well-informed about IHEID, and I only approached your question from a historical perspective.


The decision remains, of course, entirely yours!


Best of luck,
flow

Hi Ankita,

I am also in a similar situation where I am deciding between the LLM at Geneva Graduate Institute and Leiden Uni.

I have been talking to a couple of people from both institutes and they all have great things to say about both places. While IHEID is definitely newer, it has a great reputation (from what I've heard) and the opportunity to have a concentration is great. I have found that both places seems to be on par in terms of reputation, career opportunities, faculty and facilities. I only see a difference in the course structure and fee.

However, I would love to hear if you have arrived at any decision and if so, would you have any relevant information to share with me to help me make my decision?

[Edited by nidhihanji on Apr 09, 2024]

Hi Nidhi!
I struggled with the decision for a long time, and after speaking to many people also realised basically what you have said. That both are on par in terms of reputation, faculty and career opportunities. Since I didn't have any scholarship, the decision was easy for me. Since IHEID was significantly higher in terms of fee and living expenses, I have chosen to go with Leiden! All the best with your decision. Would love to connect if you decide to go with Leiden!

Best,
Ankita

Congratulations on your decision! Do connect with me on LinkedIn regardless www.linkedin.com/in/nidhihanji :)

Also, would you know anything about this - Netherlands provides a 1-year residence permit post LLM to look for a job (I believe it's called an orientation year). Do you know if, during this year, one can apply for jobs anywhere in the EU or are we permitted to only look within NL? Similarly Switzerland provides a 6 month permit instead, but would we be limited to looking for jobs only within SWZ?