Hello all,

I have a few questions. Currently I am going into my 3L year and have interest in applying to some programs for a Tax LLM. Currently I have been taking tax classes and receiving top grades, include a few #1 rankings for the classes. My questions are broad and most likely simple questions but thought I would ask.

First when is the appropriate time to start applying?
Second how hard is it to get into the top Tax Programs? I am really interested in NYU, GeorgeTown, Northwestern, BU, San Diego, Uwash, Chapman. My current tax GPA is around 3.7 with my overal GPA around 3.3 with a median of 2.8. I have a decent law school resume centered around tax, mostly working for government agencies.
Third is it worth it to get my tax llm? I haven't really gotten a definite answer from anyone. Is the increase in salary worth another year of possible debt?
Fourth, would I take the bar before entering the LLM program or would you wait?

Thank you for all your help.

1. The applications will become available in September, and you'll want to apply as soon as possible. You can start by getting your letters of recommendation lined up and personal statement written beforehand.

2. It is pretty difficult to get into one of the top 3 programs, but I would guess you will get into most of the places you listed (NYU and Florida seem to be the toughest). I would need to know what school you attend to compare with my friends who have been admitted.

3. That's completely up to you, if I were you and had a firm job offer elsewhere I would probably take it. If you don't have any job prospects, then go for it.

4. Take the Bar the summer before you attend your LLM.

Does anyone know when should early applicants expect their decisions?

The applicant's instructions says that: "Full-time LL.M. Program in New York City
Full-time programs begin in August. Decisions regarding the full-time LL.M. program in New York City will be communicated in mid-March to applicants with foreign education credentials who supply to LSAC all materials necessary to complete their files by the December 17 deadline."

However, I've noticed that in previous years people got good news in Christmas.

Here's a very interesting article on how the US law firms are seeing LLM degree holders on the current job market, plus a few other considerations:

http://www.taxanalysts.com/www/features.nsf/Articles/7962D670479653E2852579190062D128?OpenDocument