I'm thinking of applying to either or both of these schools for the 2006 session. I would prefer to apply to only one of them though.
I'm basically a commercially-oriented lawyer (taxation, but interested in other things); graduated from a commonlaw bckgrd in Africa; v.good results as well. I'm on a fellowship doing my LLM (thesis) at a non-top ranked US-school and want to 'explore' Harv./Cam/Ox when I'm done here; or do a PhD if possible at a 'nice' school. (I've discovered that non-hyped schools can have fantastic advantages too!) I applied to a number of schools last yr, but didn't get admitted (Harv.) or didn't get a fellowship (Cornell) for my Ivy league admissions so couldn't go (money's always an issue!). I guess my chances for admission and funding support are much better this yr since I have a lot more to offer (wrk experience, LLM, publication, better references)
I'd really appreciate it if some1 who's been to/is informed about cambridge/ox cld give me something beyond the ordinary about either of these schools.
I hope to teach somewhere in my not-so-distant future, but I want to practice in the couple yrs just after studying.
Pls help, fast...
Cheers!

Could you be a bit more specific about the type of information you're interested in please. Based on what you've said all I'd say is don't limit yourself by applying to just one university. Hedge your bets apply to both and hopefully you'll have a choice.

I just finished a LLM in Cambridge. It was a great program, but it was really hard to get in there. Unfortunately, the application is not designed for a well-rounded attorney (e.g. work experience, etc.). In fact, take a look at the tiny 9 line box for "work experience" on the application form. It's unfortunate but it seems that the grades take an undue place in the selection process. I once asked one of the Lecturer in charge of such process, why they were not considering additional factors (like in US law schools), and she mentioned that just for the 2004-05 academic year, CAM received over 1600 applications, yet made about 170 offers (taking into account those who might defer), and they have a limited amount of time to complete the process. Last year, there were 131 of us. So the grades seem to be the "easier" way to justify rejecting one's application.

So basically, to answer your question, make sure you emphasize your grades, and don't hesitate to add a separate resume if you have a couple of years of relevant experience (e.g. 5+ years).

Hope this helps,

Melia

Err...sorry made a mistake...it was about 150 offers that were given, not 170 (memory....you're failing me!!)

How likely am I to be successful I apply to Oxbridge, LSE, UCL AND King with a Canadian B.A. (3.5 GPA) from McGill? If any American or Canadian has been accepted by those schools, please tell me about your profile (i.e. undergrad school attended, GPA, Major, etc.).