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LLM Admission

What is the Masters of Laws (LLM) program?

The Masters of Laws (LLM) is a one-year, 24 credit hour degree program for those who have already completed their first degree in law. The LLM incorporates more specialized legal training to help you expand your legal knowledge or become an expert in a field of law.

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, history of overcoming economic or other disadvantages, 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.

ASU Law is committed to a more sustainable and resilient future and requires applicants to apply online through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) website at LSAC.org.

Application deadlines

Fall: July 31 (June 1 for students requiring a visa)
Spring: November 30 (November 1 for students requiring a visa)

Application components

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

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

Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

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

Official Transcripts

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

Statement of Interest

The statement of interest should be written by you and no longer than 1,250 words on double-spaced, typed pages. In this statement we seek information about you, including your interest in pursuing the LL.M. Please provide details about your preferred course of study in our LL.M. 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.

Resume

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.

Writing Sample

A sample of your legal writing must be submitted.

Character and fitness statement

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.

Two letters of recommendation

Recommenders should submit their letters directly to LSAC.

Foreign-educated applicants

Foreign-educated applicants should refer to special instructions here.

Please call LSAC help desk at 215-968-1001 if you encounter any problems.

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Request LLM information

In order to be admitted to the LLM program, you must have completed a JD degree or a law degree at a foreign institution that would qualify you to practice law.

LLM Emphasis Areas

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