Funding Your LL.M.

An LL.M. can be an expensive investment. But from grants to scholarships and loans, funding resources are available

One of the biggest challenges facing many prospective LL.M. students is finding a way to afford the high costs of studying on a postgraduate law course for one or two years. There are, however, many sources of funding that are worth exploring. Some students combine their own financial means (savings, family assistance, etc.) with outside sources of funding. Others have to rely entirely on a combination of grants, loans, and employment.

Grants & scholarships

A good way to begin searching for financial support is by investigating what grants and scholarships are available from governments and private foundations. Grants and scholarships are awards that do not have to be repaid. Merit-based scholarships for LL.M. programs are prestigious and substantial awards given to applicants who can demonstrate an exceptional academic and professional record, and show potential for future success. Some scholarships, such as those offered by the US-based Fulbright Commission, are highly competitive.

There are also many other grants that are offered to a limited range of students - to students of a certain religion, ethnicity, nationality, or academic interest, for example. To see which scholarships you might be eligible for, please consult one of the many publications that provide extensive lists of scholarships and educational grants.

LLM GUIDE Scholarship Directory

Law school resources

Law schools also frequently offer merit-based scholarships and grants to some of their top LL.M. applicants. It is always a good idea to establish contact with the financial aid offices of law schools (if available). These offices can be valuable resources in the hunt for sources of financing, and they may be able to tell you about some of the more obscure grant and scholarship opportunities out there. Sometimes even a quick browse around a law school website can raise awareness about funding possibilities.

Loans

Even after securing some assistance through scholarships and grants, many LL.M. students will still find it necessary to take out a loan to finance their studies and living expenses. There are several banks, private institutions, and online lenders that offer student loans. Some also offer loans to international students. It is important to recognize that the terms, conditions, and rates that apply to these loans will vary. Some loans, such as Stafford Loans in the United States or Career Development Loans in the United Kingdom, can be subsidized by the government if one can demonstrate financial need or eligibility for government assistance.

Employment

Some law schools allow LL.M. students to secure part-time work during the program. Check with the schools you're interested to see if this is a possibility, and if there are limits to what you can do and the number of hours you can work. If you are an international student, your ability to work might also depend on your visa and the country's rules.

LLM FAQs

What is an LL.M.?
What is an LL.M.?

Basic information about the Legum Magister or LL.M., degree

How Do I Prepare For An LL.M.?
How Do I Prepare For An LL.M.?

Accepted to an LL.M.? Make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running

Is an LL.M. Right for Me?
Is an LL.M. Right for Me?

Thinking about applying for an LL.M.? Read on to see if an LL.M. might be the right step for your career

Law School Glossary
Law School Glossary

From ABA to TOEFL, a short list of frequently used acronyms and terms relevant to LL.M.s.

LL.M. Basics: Types of Law Degrees
LL.M. Basics: Types of Law Degrees

J.D. or LL.B.? How about an LL.M. or J.M.? A breakdown of the different law degrees on offer in the US and abroad.

LL.M. Essential Facts
LL.M. Essential Facts

The Master of Laws Degree—LL.M.—can be a great résumé builder for many legal professionals. Here are some quick facts about the degree

Short FAQs
Short FAQs

A series of short Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about LL.M. programs and LLM GUIDE

What are the TOEFL and IELTS?
What are the TOEFL and IELTS?

If you’re an international student applying from an LL.M. in an English-speaking country, chances are you’ll have to take one of these English-language tests. Here’s some essential information on the TOEFL and IELTS

What Do I Need to Apply for an LL.M. Program?
What Do I Need to Apply for an LL.M. Program?

A list of the typical requirements you’ll need to meet and materials you’ll need to submit when applying for an LL.M.

What is an LL.M. Concentration?
What is an LL.M. Concentration?

Should you get an LL.M. with a concentration? And if so, what should you choose?

What Kind of LL.M. Program is Right for Me?
What Kind of LL.M. Program is Right for Me?

From a full-time LL.M. to online and blended programs, you can choose the right LL.M. for your needs

Where Should I Do My LL.M.?
Where Should I Do My LL.M.?

Should you stay close to home or go abroad?

Which Law School?
Which Law School?

With so many law schools around the world, how do you find the right LL.M. program for you?

Why Should I do an LL.M.?
Why Should I do an LL.M.?

Outside of the legal world, the LL.M. is not a well-known degree. But there are plenty of reasons why lawyers or legal students might decide to do an LL.M.