Hi all,

I'm really very keen to do the LLM but I'm worried about my current grades. I think with the grades I have, there may be no point in applying.

First year: I got a low 2:1 but did achieve a 68 in one module

Second year (currently): Due to mitigating circumstances my first term results were poor, but NOW I'm better my results have ranged from 65 - 68.

I haven't had my exams so this could all change

A - Levels: AABC

So I want to apply to Warwick, UCL, SOAS and King's.

Do you think with my grades it's just not worth applying?

Thanks in advance!

Hi tizzybelle

I think this is a concern that many students share, so you're not alone. Students at my University in Australia are marked in accordance with a bell curve, simply meaning not everyone can achieve the top grades. I have noticed that all of the LLM applications request not only academic transcripts but also motivational letters, letters of reference and work experience, all of which receive consideration. If you can indicate that you work in a relevant field or endeavour to, I believe this would go a long way to alleviating some poor grades.

Don't get me wrong, grades are important, but if they were the final benchmark what would be the point of requesting the ancillaries? So in short, don't let your past grades hold you back from making applications for LLM courses. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Cheers
JPM

Hi JPM,

Thanks for the advice!

I'm only a second year atm so I don't necessarily have that much work experience. Although I have been involved in various pro bono projects, so hopefully this will reflect well in my applications.

Thanks

TB

Tizzy, if you achieve a 2.1 you shouldn't have any problem getting into SOAS/KCL etc. The only one you will have a problem with is LSE because it strongly favours international students (I assume you're a domestic student as you're at Kent). Obviously Oxbridge will want a First. UCL may want a high 2.1.

Hi Pluto,

I do have my fears about UCL too. One of my friends applied to LSE, UCL and Oxford but got rejected... she had a 1st first year (in sociology then transferred to law) and got a mid 2:1. I assumed that a 1st in any given degree would be looked upon highly; but clearly the competition is very, very tough.

I'm assuming that a lot goes into your personal statement too and really tailoring it to each university and the law school and what it looks for.

Pluto - are you talking from experience?