Good Afternoon/Evening,

I am interested in going to law school in the UK; however as the subject states I am an American and am a bit confused about applying. I do understand the difference of obtaining an LLM from the UK as opposed to a JD from the States. I also understand my "limitations" of where I can practice.

A little background about me. I received a BS in Accounting from a top 10 University; however I slacked off a bit towards the end and ended with a 3.0. I also received an MBA from the same school ending with a 3.4 / 3.6 (depends on if looked at with electives or just core). When I look at admission requirements I see everything with SAT and ACT scores; but as you can see I'm a bit past that.

How would someone in my shoes apply for Oxbridge or UCL for pursuing an LLM. I know I will need to start back as an undergrad but a three year program would be no different than in the states. I know I must take the LNAT which I am preparing for now, but how would someone with my academic past look? I'm also interested about how I would get along there as I would be 25 entering an undergraduate program.

Any information would be greatly appreciated. I apologize for any misspellings as I am on my phone.

Dear Rydsmith,

I am not a UK graduate still but did quite a research on the topic. It seems that LLM is intended for students who already have a first degree in law (Bachelor of Law in Europe or JD in US) and is not intended for graduates from other faculties. This also stems from the fact that LLM should in fact be a specialization in a filed of law that you already are quite familiar with and be a good springboard for a candidate to further focus on a particular area of legal practice. Moreover, an LLM program would not allow you to practice law in UK and Europe as you would have to be admitted to a bar (which requires additional training, depending on the country). The fact that you are seriously qualified in your own field already might be a disadvantage in comparison to other students who are applying straight after their high school and you would have to endure people who are 7 years your juniors...

That said, I am sure that a JD from a top 10 university in USA would be a waaaaay better option for you in any event as practicing in EU with a NewYork bar is also an option. Additionally, JD degree is intended for people who already have a college education and are thus closer to your age - think about the fact that your class is a group of people that will surround you for the time of your studies. If the bunch is being waaay younger than you are, this might be a serious downside (at least in my opinion)...

Anyhow, let me know if you want to know more;) hope this helped!