Hi there,

I plan to apply for LLM programs in the US for the school year 2010-2011. I know it's a bit early to start looking but I find myself quite obsessed with it to be honest (am I the only one ??!) ...

So, here's is my main concern : grades.

Because I'm from France and because in France professors have definitely a serious problem when it comes to giving good grades, even to people who deserve it, I'm worried. I mean, really, how weird do you feel when you hear that you got a 9/20 and the professor tells you it's NOT BAD. How 9/20 can be "not bad" if it's under 10... I remember this one class when I was in second year, contract law it was. Well, all semester long, the "best" grade was 9/20 and no one could ever exceed it, in fact, most were between 3 and 6.

My grades have never been outstanding. I have a Master in international business law but no distinctions. However, considering the kind of grades that most students get in my school, I'm above average. Unfortunately, I'm afraid there's no way to rationally explain what's irrational.

If some of you feel that they're in the same situation or if you found an LLM program in spite of poor grades because everything else in your application was just perfect, your comments would be highly appreciated.

Thanks in advance :)

And good luck to those who are beeing rushed by the 2009 application deadline.

Hey Aeon,

I, too, will apply for the 2010 LLM in the US. I will be doing my first LLM at Sydney Law School this coming semester. My GPA is not outstanding, so I think I'd better highlight my other credenttials which are quite interesting. I think you can convey them to see your other qualifications such as work experience, other degrees, TOEFL, Moot, Law review, pro bono work and activities and so on.

If your grade doesn't look nice, use your rank in class. I'm sure that is self-explanatory. I don't think that they will see it that all the students in ur law school are stupid :P

Let's talk more until we submit our application in a year to come!

Hey Aeon,

I, too, will apply for the 2010 LLM in the US. I will be doing my first LLM at Sydney Law School this coming semester. My GPA is not outstanding, so I think I'd better highlight my other credenttials which are quite interesting. I think you can convey them to see your other qualifications such as work experience, other degrees, TOEFL, Moot, Law review, pro bono work and activities and so on.

Let's talk more until we submit our application in a year to come!

Hey,

I haven't decided yet either. But I think my aim would be Columbia or NYU. I will also try other law schools as well and will apply one for back up.