Graduates celebrate together at the Spring 2025 JD and LLM Convocation ceremony

LLM admission

What is the LLM program?

The Master of Laws (LLM) is a one-year, 24 credit hour degree program for those who want to expand their legal knowledge or specialize in a legal field, and already hold a JD or foreign equivalent. The LLM program is flexible, with fall and spring starts, and full-time, part-time, on-campus and online options. For a full overview of the program, visit the LLM homepage.

Applicants to the LLM program must have completed a JD degree or a law degree at a foreign institution that qualifies you to practice law. ASU Law graduates receive an exclusive, low-cost preferred tuition rate for the LLM degree through our Law for Life program.

What qualities does ASU Law look for in LLM candidates?

ASU Law seeks to enroll a dynamic group of individuals who will provide an engaging learning environment. The admissions committee makes decisions after considering all the information provided by the applicant. Among the factors influencing the admission decision are previous education, quality and grading patterns of institutions attended, demonstrated commitment to public service, work and leadership experience, extracurricular or community activities, uniqueness of experience and background, maturity, ability to communicate, foreign language proficiency, honors and awards, service in the armed forces, and publications. Academic background and strength of performance, though important, are not the only criteria evaluated in the application process. Your experience and the value of this LLM program to your professional goals are important considerations.

The exterior of the Beus Center for Law and Society

Application deadlines

The next LLM cohort starts on January 12, 2026

The application is available online through LSAC

Application components

The application fee ($65) is waived for all applicants

Completed applications must be submitted online to ASU Law through LSAC and include the following:

All applicants must register with LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS).

Transcripts from all institutions attended, including the transcript showing that the bachelor's degree and law degree were conferred, must be sent to LSAC.

The statement of interest should be written by you. The statement should be two to three double-spaced typed pages. In this statement we seek information about you, including your interest in pursuing the LLM. Please provide details about your preferred course of study in our LLM program, and describe your interest in that area, including any background or experience you have in that area of law. The statement should also provide information about your distinctive qualities, talents, successes, achievements and life experiences.

Explore how to write a strong personal statement for law school.

Your resume should include details about your educational background, work history, military service, leadership roles, honor societies, scholarships, extracurricular activities, public/community service, honors and awards, publications, foreign language proficiencies, and any other significant achievements and involvements. As to work history, include significant employment during and post-college (including organization name, dates of employment and hours worked). Your resume should be no more than three typed pages and in a font size no smaller than 11 point.

A sample of your legal writing, written in the English language and a minimum of three pages.

If you answer "yes" to any of the questions in the Character and Fitness section, you must include a separate statement providing a complete description of your actions and full details of the charges and sanctions against you. For example, to be complete, the statement must include a description of all charges or adjudications, including the level of degree and whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. You also must include the date(s) of the matter(s), the status or final disposition of the charge(s) (with the type of plea, such as not guilty, no contest, Alford or guilty), including your current status with the disciplinary or criminal authorities (for example, the status of your probation or parole), and the name and address of the authority in possession of those records. You must also include any charges that have been expunged, sealed or set aside, even if told you do not need to by a judge or attorney. If you participated in a deferment program in order to expunge a criminal activity, you will also need to include that information. Additionally, you must provide your personal account of the events that led to the charges or discipline.

Recommenders should submit their letters directly to LSAC.

Please refer to the special instructions for Foreign Educated Applicants.

Please call LSAC help desk if you encounter any problems.