How would you rank the top London schools for LLMs? I'm particularly interested in Tax Law. Are LSE and UCL considerably more highly regarded than KCL and QMUL or is the difference not that big?

These are all very highly regarded schools, so you can't really go wrong, but if you want to get to the specifics, UCL and LSE are usually more highly ranked than the other two. KCL is still up there, whereas QMUL falls a bit further behind and the student satisfaction levels are quite a bit lower.

Thank you. I guess I'll get more into the specific details of each program now that I have a clearer idea :).

[Edited by nucjake on Aug 02, 2024]

For overall reputation in law, the difference between UCL, KCL, and LSE is slight. In fact, all three very often rank right after Oxbridge in the top 5. QMUL is typically further down, but still very good.

For tax specifically, I’d suggest LSE or King’s, probably in that order, before UCL. QMUL is actually well-known for tax and you might want to consider it too. Look at the individual modules and see what appeals.

Thank you. I guess I'll get more into the specific details of each program now that I have a clearer idea :).

[Edited by csaa26 on Aug 11, 2024]

A note: the LLM is not worthless, as many Brits say. For foreign lawyers, it is a first point of contact with the UK law regime, and you can land on in-house positions (even a law firm if you have significant experience).

I received two job offers for compliance analyst positions from a brokerage firm and an offshore law firm. The modules related to compliance demonstrated my interest to the subject during the interviews. Further, I know Kings and QMUL alumni who received job offers at big and small law firms. Nevertheless, they have more than 10 years of work experience, just as I.

[Edited by csaa26 on Aug 11, 2024]

Please beware that the KCL LLM is merely a cash-cow for milking International Students. There is no substantive value in comparison to the undergraduate degree. This is reflected in how it is even taught and the administration of LLM students. Before you waste time, money and precious resources, please look to see who is actually in a senior position of employment because of a KCL LLM.

Thank you for the warning, dunson.

I see what you mean csaa26. I am indeed a foreign lawyer so I'm seeing an LLM as a good pivot and first point of entry. I'll look more deeply into the specifics of each program, as you suggest, based on my goals and expectations. I appreciate the detailed insight you've provided and will reflect on it!