Hi,

I'm pretty sure that you guys are also wondering the same!

In my opinion there is not much difference for the academic side - they're both great schools.

My concern is that in NYC I'm gonna have lots of opportunities for networking. Also, the city is amazing!

On the other hand, Chicago is a lot cheaper (both tuition and living expenses) and that surely should be taken into consideration in my case. I've never been there though.

Really hoping for some insights on the subject - I can't make up my mind and the deadline is approaching! What should we do? How did you choose?

Did you receive any financial aid from these schools?

Nothing so far... Columbia informed me in the admission email that I wouldn't have financial assistance. Chicago will send emails on Thursday, so there is still a chance - which would make Chicago even cheaper than Columbia.

what will you be studying at either school?

Well... do you need other reasons to base your decision than the fact that the overall expenses would be 10k less and that you might receive a 10-20k waiver from Chicago? I mean, if you have concerns with regard to the cost, I think this makes a big difference. And given the good reputation of Chicago Law School and its more selective LLM program, I 'd choose this one. You will still be able to sit the NY Bar Exam :)

Dominium, you're right! But at the same time I think "well, as I'm gonna have to spend a lot of money anyway, I should spent it at Columbia"... It's silly. Everyone is telling me that I should not consider the financial aspect - they are not gonna have to declare bankruptcy afterwards, I will! lol

Creature, I work with white collar and compliance. My focus during the LLM will be in white collar and a bit of corporate governance.

I think that if you could get a substantial financial award (>US$10k) or a scholarship from UChicago that you can state on your CV, then you should go for it. Columbia is a massive programme in terms of no. of students and while you may get the name on your CV and the NYC networking etc, the rigour of the education will depend on what courses you are able to (or not!) register for etc. this uncertainty is eliminated in a smaller programme.
Now, if Chicago is a wholly unknown school back home then by all means go for Columbia.
Am not sure which is better for your area though and if Columbia is better than you have your answer. My guess is that for corporate governance type courses, you will be better off at Columbia and you can take courses at the SIPA.

Just my tuppence!

I think that if you could get a substantial financial award (>US$10k) or a scholarship from UChicago that you can state on your CV, then you should go for it. Columbia is a massive programme in terms of no. of students and while you may get the name on your CV and the NYC networking etc, the rigour of the education will depend on what courses you are able to (or not!) register for etc. this uncertainty is eliminated in a smaller programme.
Now, if Chicago is a wholly unknown school back home then by all means go for Columbia.
Am not sure which is better for your area though and if Columbia is better than you have your answer. My guess is that for corporate governance type courses, you will be better off at Columbia and you can take courses at the SIPA.

Just my tuppence!

Does anyone know which program is better for students interested in antitrust/competition law? Any specific professors from these schools? Thanks for the help!

Hi everyone,

I'm in the very same situation as EKK : I've been admitted to both Columbia (no financial assistance) and Chicago (with financial assistance of more than 10k). My LL.M program would focus on corp. law / Chinese law.

I really don't know which university I should chose. What do you guys think about it? Thanks!

@Taiwangirl: I would definetely go to UC for anti-trust

I plan to attend Columbia, frankly, because it is "Ivey League", baby blue (one of my favourite colours), and in the city I will be living next year anyway (family). I am sure it is a good school, with great professors, good network among students and professionals, NYC etc. But, frankly it seems to me (like all American private LLMs) far overpriced.

In my opinion, if you get a scholarship at Chicago, go there for sure!

Chicago is an amazing school with a beautiful campus (albeit near a rough neighbourhood on the south side). It is reputed to be an intellectual and quality of education equal of Columbia too. Chicago and NYC are both amazing cities, but much of Manhatten is merely rich and has lost its character (starbucks on every corner... lacking in soul), whereas Chicago is still a really cool place I think.

Anyway, I will go to Columbia myself, and be grateful for it everytime I forget the price.