Hello!

I'm a second year law student at The University of Nottingham doing my LLB degree. Recently, having messed up my second year exams, I am being led to believe that a 2.2 is more likely to see the likes of my graduating certificate.

My question in this post is whether any good university takes on candidates with a 2.2 score for their master's degree. What are the basic requirements that a student needs to suffice to get a seat at a good university for their LLM? Would extra-curricular activities or internships help?

Unfortunately almost all good uk unis require a minimum of a 2.1 for their LLM programs. However, if i remember correctly, queen mary does take in 2.2s provided they have working experience.

From my experience, uk universities do not usually take into account extracurricular activities. However, if you do have extenuating factors (e.g. medical reasons etc) which led to a drop in your grades, they do take it into consideration.

Thanks for that Interalia. Blast Land Law...lol.. I do hope I get back on track during the third year.

Hi Shiladitya.

From my experience, I'd say that a 2:2 jointly with other credentials such as relevant working experience, publications, good recommendations... might get you into a good university in the UK. You'll probably find it very hard to get into Oxbridge (even 2:1's holders are unlikely to get into those - my case!!!), but I think you'd have a chance at LSE, UCL, KCL, QM, Durham, Edinburgh...

Of course you're already starting in disadvantage with a 2:2, but I don't think it's impossible to get in... you're just gonna have to work harder in other academic activities.

Regards,

Hi Beicon,

Thanks for the reply. I am trying to get an internship with one of the leading firms in India during the summers. I will also make it a point to work really hard during the last year at university. I guess factors like mooting and societies would also help with one's application.

I shall keep your advice in mind and I take this opportunity again to thank you!

Thanking You,
Shiladitya

Shiladitya, while an internship will certainly help your application, it won't necessarily fulfil the 'work experience' qualification within the meaning of LLM admission requirements. When they refer to work experience, it normally means you have a number of years of legal experience experience under your belt (i.e. you're a qualified lawyer or other professional), and this will offset a lower degree classification. E.g. QMUL asks for 5 yrs work exp on their admissions site.

That said, with a 2.2 from a British university you'll probably still gain entry into many good LLM programmes (especially if you're paying international fees)- you'll only have problems with the London colleges and Oxbridge because they are very competitive. If you are perform very well in your final year at Nottingham, they may admit you to the LLM.

Some institutions take into account 'exit velocity' if you are near the 2,1 borderline - so a 2,2 performance in your penultimate year can be compensated for by a good (high 2,1) performance in your final year. On that basis, I'd focus on my academic work and not get sidetracked by extracurricular activities.

Queen Mary will take you,,,also u can apply to UCL and if you have good working experience and good extracurricular activities you can also be admitted there

just try to do your best in your last semester(s)! good luck :)

Hello!

Thanks for the very prompt response. I was dreading the result I had obtained and still do. The difference however is now I do see a possible door open.

I thank everyone for their guidance and boy oh boy am I happy to have joined LLM Guide.

Thanks to one and all again.

Regards,
Shiladitya