Kiranpreet Litt, student success and wellness counsellor at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School, says burnout among LL.M. students often comes from juggling too many demands at once.

“With the intense nature of the program, I see a lot of burnout from just trying to balance a heavy workload, [commitments] outside of school with family and work, and learning another jurisdiction and legal system,” she says.

International students face added pressures

For international LL.M. students, stress often extends beyond academics. Many are also navigating homesickness, financial pressure, unfamiliar healthcare systems, housing concerns and loneliness while adjusting to life in a new country.

Jennifer Glickman, director of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center, says many international students struggle with the academic rigor of U.S. legal education while adapting to cultural and social differences within a short period of time.

“The volume of reading and legal writing can often be more overwhelming than what many students have experienced in their home countries,” she says.

Alexis Williams, director of wellness at the University of Houston Law Center, adds that the transition can be especially difficult for students who are used to excelling academically. Uncertainty about where they stand can push some students to overwork themselves or withdraw completely, both of which can worsen stress over time.

Burnout rarely appears all at once

Wellness professionals say burnout often shows up first through small behavioral changes.

According to Williams, some of the earliest signs of burnout are subtle shifts in behavior. Students who were once engaged in class may begin withdrawing socially, missing appointments, disengaging from campus life, or becoming difficult to reach.

“Physical signs show up too: not eating consistently, not sleeping, showing up to things looking completely depleted,” Williams explains.

Litt points out that burnout rarely happens overnight, yet many students wait until they are already overwhelmed before seeking help, even though the warning signs often appear much earlier.

She encourages students to seek support as soon as they notice changes in their sleep, eating habits, anxiety levels or ability to function day to day, before stress escalates to the point of needing extensions, deferring exams, or struggling academically and emotionally.

Despite growing conversations around mental health, many law students still hesitate to seek support because of stigma.

For students coming from cultures where mental health is rarely discussed openly, asking for help can feel especially difficult.

“There’s a culture in law school, and more broadly in legal culture, that treats needing help as a weakness,” Williams says.

Litt adds that some students worry counseling would affect their professional future or that employers may eventually find out. She reminds students that counseling is confidential and that seeking support is a normal part of managing stress.

Small habits that support well-being

Wellness professionals say the first steps toward managing stress are often practical rather than dramatic.

Litt says managing burnout begins with a realistic look at current commitments and cutting back where possible.

“Stress relief comes from a mix of things. I encourage students to find what works for them, whether that’s walking, meditation, or social interaction,” she states.

Williams encourages students to “resist the urge to fix everything at once,” noting that this tendency often keeps people stuck.

Instead, she advises focusing on one step at a time and writing tasks down in a manageable list rather than letting them build up mentally. 

“When you’re overwhelmed, your brain treats the whole mountain as the problem, but you can only take one step at a time,” Williams says.

She also highlights the importance of sleep and balanced meals, noting that both are closely linked to clear thinking, memory and stress regulation.

Utilize your school’s resources

Both schools emphasize that students do not need to wait until they are in crisis to access support services.

At the University of Houston Law Center, Williams says campus resources often go underused because students assume they should manage everything on their own.

“A lot of students don’t come in until they have reached a breaking point, and by then we’re doing more triage than real support,” she says. “I want students to know they don’t need a crisis to walk through our door.”

Williams adds that wellness in law school is not optional or secondary but foundational.

She encourages students to make use of one-on-one conversations within the Office of Student Affairs, where support is more individualized and focused on specific needs.

Early support and simple, consistent coping strategies can help students manage stress before it becomes overwhelming.

One method is to attend events and engage in conversations, building confidence and learning to present themselves.  

Kevin J. Handly, director of graduate programs in tax, banking & financial law at Boston University School of Law, advises students to develop a concise “professional profile,” which is  a “one-paragraph spiel the student would want a moderator” to use if they were being introduced in a speaker panel.

“What would you want someone to say about you?” asked Handly. “That professional profile is something that they can use to develop their network.”

Ulises Berlanga, a lawyer from Mexico, in a two-year LL.M. program in American law at Boston University School of Law, says when he first arrived in the U.S., he listened to interactions at Boston Bar Association events. Later, he used these observations to practice and develop his own way of conversing with others.

“I started hearing conversations between students and law firm associates or law firm partners, and I started learning how to deliver my speech,” he says.

Reflecting on his experience, Berlanga says that, as students invest significant time and money in enrolling in an LL.M. program, networking and learning from others are effective ways to maximize this investment. Expanding your network broadens professional opportunities in the long run.

“It's really important to meet different people from various industries, these may be future clients or employers," Berlanga says. 

Adapting to cultural norms

International LL.M. students should be prepared for and be aware of cultural differences in networking. Berlanga notes that he approaches partners and associates at law firms in America differently than he would in Mexico.

“Here, you cannot go really straight to talk with a partner or associate about a position or an opportunity,” he says.

“It's more like a dance, you need to have a really good skill in conversation, talking about random things, and then just little by little, you get closer to them and talk about the position.”

Others agree that international students should take note of networking norms in the U.S. and how they may differ from those in their home countries.

For instance, Cornell University LL.M. student Mariana Ghizini says she had to adjust to a more self‑promotional style of networking, explaining that there’s often more subtlety in Brazil. Now, she is learning effective ways to discuss her achievements.

“People here know how to highlight things that they have done,” she says.

Sharma also described the additional hurdle of English being a second language and feeling less confident than his classmates from Europe or the U.S.

But he continues to push himself to talk with others at networking events because he knows that is the best way to stand out and be memorable. 

“Sometimes people, in the back  of their mind, they will recognize and will [remember] your face,” he says.

Likewise, Taruni Kavuri, a former mergers and acquisitions attorney from India and currently enrolled in the corporate governance and practice LL.M. at Stanford University, observed that in India, an existing relationship is often needed before contacting someone, and was surprised that in the U.S., “cold emailing” is acceptable.

“I was really amazed by how responsive so many people have been in terms of just responding and being happy to chat, and I think everyone's just very willing to just give you 20 minutes of their time to answer all of your questions,” she says.

Being Genuine and Curious While Networking

Getting internships or jobs after an LL.M. is a challenge, students say, because employers know they are in the country temporarily.

For that reason, others emphasize that networking is even more crucial for international students, as it’s a way to present the advantages of pursuing an LL.M. and make a case for yourself, especially since many international students already have years of work experience.

“It’s a really good deal to hire an LL.M. for one year,” Ghizini says. “Even though the position might be entry-level, I have a lot of experience. It's important for you to give them that context.”

While networking might feel awkward and unnatural, one way to make it feel less transactional is to approach conversations with curiosity and genuine interest in people, their backgrounds, and their specialties.

Kavuri says, “Don’t go into it thinking, this needs to convert into a job,” adding that the goal is to learn from others, build understanding, and naturally expand your network.

“I want to learn something from them; if they like me, they might introduce me to someone else.”

Marnette Federis is a multimedia journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She previously covered higher education and has a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley.

Grades matter, but the people you meet and who remember you often determine what comes next. Ulises Berlanga, a lawyer from Mexico currently enrolled in a two-year LL.M. program in American law at Boston University School of Law, believes most international students come to a different country not just to earn a degree but also to learn from diverse people. That was true for him after he worked for 12 years as a business lawyer in Mexico.

“One of my goals [was] to find people, meet people, and build this network,” he says.

Administrators say it’s essential to start networking at the beginning of any program to better understand the specialized areas international students want to enter and to get their bearings in the U.S. legal industry.

Kevin J. Handly, Boston University School of Law’s director of graduate programs in tax, banking & financial law, says gone are the days when an aspiring lawyer only sends out dozens of resumés. While that is still part of the process, Handly says it’s even more crucial to make one-on-one connections.

“It’s all about networking these days, that’s how you find clients, that’s how you find positions with firms,” he says, adding that when a student keeps in touch with a contact who knows their interests and qualifications, “they’re much more likely to think of you when something opens up.”

On-Campus Networks

International students in a new environment can start networking in the place they will be most familiar with — their campus. The pool of people students can reach out to is vast and will include classmates, professors and alumni.

Being able to connect with the campus community was one of the things that drew Mariana Ghizini to the general LL.M. program at Cornell University. After working in corporate and technology law, Ghizini chose the school because of its smaller size and the opportunity to get close to colleagues, faculty and former students.

“Whenever you talk to someone from Cornell, it is 100% different,” she says. “They know how hard it is because [Cornell is] kind of in the middle of nowhere, so they know exactly how hard it is to do networking, how hard it is to reach out to people, and they really want to help you out.”

Taruni Kavuri, a former mergers and acquisitions attorney from India and currently enrolled in the corporate governance and practice LL.M. at Stanford University, says her professors have been key in helping her make connections.

“[Professors] have been really helpful in terms of just getting me those introductions,” she says. “They're all really high up in their fields … vouching for you really helps.”

Akshay Sharma, an attorney from India currently pursuing a LL.M. in international and comparative law at the University of Pittsburgh, focused on learning from fellow students.

“I just go to every student, the J.D. students, I ask them how did you get your internship?” he says.

Beyond Campus and Digital Platforms

Beyond campus, international LL.M. students can attend off-campus professional events and make use of digital platforms like LinkedIn.

Sharma recalls attending a conference and feeling nervous because he did not know anyone else. He chatted with one attorney during a networking session, and to his surprise, this person ended up being in a panel that interviewed him for a summer internship.

“I was very surprised to see her during my interview, and she was the one who made me comfortable … asking me about my wife and my child,” he said.

That familiarity made him more at ease during the interview and helped him secure the position.

Handly urges international students to look for connections at firms and lawyers operating across borders. He advises them to focus on places where they have a “marginal advantage” due to cultural, legal and linguistic backgrounds, and to seek opportunities with employers interested in their home jurisdiction.

LinkedIn has also been essential to many students for learning about local events, such as meetups for foreign attorneys, and for finding lawyers with a similar background.

Once that connection is made and you’re on top of people’s minds, “They will give you an opportunity, or they will suggest other opportunities, and the more visibility you do have in your career … that is how your career will progress,” said Kavuri.

Marnette Federis is a multimedia journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She previously covered higher education and has a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley.

Eduardo Alvarez, a lawyer licensed in Mexico, followed this path while already living in Houston. Without a U.S. license, he could only advise on international transactions or seek a foreign practitioner license. He saw an LL.M. as the most effective way to practice law in the country. 

He eventually chose the University of Houston (UH) Law Center for its location, strong ranking, affordability, and a foreign LL.M. program that allowed him to meet the requirements for the Texas bar exam. For Alvarez, the degree offered professional advancement and a chance to establish his U.S. career. 

What international students can expect

Alvarez found the academic rigor in the U.S. higher than what he experienced in law school back home, particularly in terms of class preparation and performance expectations. The workload required sustained effort and discipline, especially in the compressed one-year program. 

“It was a very rigorous program, and students are expected to be prepared for class,” he adds. For students coming from different legal systems, the adjustment can be demanding, but it mirrors the expectations of U.S. legal practice and prepares students for the bar exam and legal career.

Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at UH Law Center, stresses that an LL.M. should be approached as a strategic investment, rather than a pause from professional life. Students who arrive with clarity about what they want the degree to do for them tend to navigate the workload and the broader experience more effectively.

Thinking beyond the classroom

Both Alvarez and Jones highlight the importance of looking beyond coursework. Jones points out that Houston’s legal ecosystem can play a major role in shaping one’s career.

The city’s concentration of global industries such as energy, health care and sports law, creates opportunities for students to connect theory with practice. 

She advises students to engage early with professors, classmates, alumni, clinics, bar associations and professional organizations, emphasizing that career planning should begin well before graduation.

Alvarez valued the sense of community at UH Law Center and stresses that it needs to be built with intention.

“It’s a great cliché,” he says. “But when you’re studying – and especially as an international student – it will be very hard to find opportunities when you’re out of school.”

“The school’s network gives you an endorsement of knowledge, experience, and work ethic. And UH Law Center is very well-esteemed in the legal field in Texas.”

He encourages students to gain legal experience during the one-year program, even though time is limited.

“To be marketable, you have to demonstrate something,” he says, adding that even brief experience strengthens a résumé, shows familiarity with U.S. legal practice, and translates prior international experience for U.S. employers.

Reframing career expectations after graduation

As graduation nears, many LL.M. students reconsider how to stay in the U.S. 

Alvarez’s path illustrates the importance of flexibility. He began as a commercial litigator in Mexico but shifted focus to where he could add the most value.

Using his corporate expertise, bilingual skills, and knowledge of civil and common law, Alvarez moved into corporate and in-house roles, now overseeing legal operations across the Americas.

His advice to LL.M. students is to avoid narrow expectations shaped solely by prior roles in their home countries. Being open to adjacent practice areas or alternative roles can create unexpected opportunities, and adaptability matters.

Jones says that academic choices, visa planning, and career goals should align.

“Learn the mechanics of OPT, STEM extensions if applicable, and employer sponsorship early,” she explains.

Early conversations with career and international student centers help students understand work authorization, OPT timelines, and employer expectations. This knowledge reduces uncertainty and allows students to plan intentionally rather than reactively.

Marketing your value

Jones emphasizes the importance of articulating your value. 

“As an international student, you are not ‘behind’,” she says. “You bring comparative legal insight, language, cultural fluency, and global perspective.”

Employers are looking for people who can solve problems they cannot solve, making it essential to “make your story clear and your value persuasive.” 

Alvarez encourages being open to opportunities and identifying where you can add value. He adds that letting go of competition and comparison makes it easier to build genuine relationships and learn from peers.

Lastly, remember that resilience is part of the professional toolkit.

“The U.S. job market tends to reward initiative, even when outcomes are uncertain,” Jones says. “It’s not only about learning U.S. law, but also about learning how to adapt and position yourself in the world.”

With clarity, flexibility, and effort, an LL.M. year can lay a strong foundation for a U.S. legal career.

Shaistha Khan is a journalist, writer, and communications specialist with 14 years of experience across business and professional development, personal finance, oil and gas, and travel and tourism industries. She has worked in seven countries, with Canada being the most recent. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) and a diploma in Public Relations and Reputation Management.

For many, it comes down to one important question: how far will this program advance my professional goals?

The latest cohort of international LL.M. students are picking programs that align with their specialization, impart skills useful across legal jurisdictions, provide meaningful faculty access and effective networks, and offer a return on investment that lasts long after graduation.

LL.M. candidates pick law schools that align with career ambitions

Amalia Kurniaputri, from Indonesia, wanted an LL.M. whose coursework aligned with both her current role in business law and the areas she hoped to enter – media, entertainment, technology and sports law.

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law offered that combination. “I had the option to pursue two specializations,” she says.

“Looking back, because I was coming from practice and was acutely aware of the tools and expertise I needed to sharpen to propel my career, I was pragmatic and intentional about choosing my program,” she adds.

Kurniaputri was certainly swayed by UCLA’s reputation, “but they were not the sole driver of my decision,” she says. What mattered more was access to training, faculty and networks that would strengthen how she handles cross-border matters and deepen her commercial judgment. 

Kurniaputri met UCLA alumni and future mentors in Indonesia before the program began, which convinced her she had chosen the right place.

The cost of an LL.M. at UCLA, however, can be on the steeper side. Does the value the program brings to Kurniaputri’s career justify the cost? 

Kurniaputri thinks so. “I’ve come to the realization that the affiliation – whether as a student or an alum – only becomes meaningful if you actively use it.” For her, UCLA provided not just a credential but “a set of relationships, instincts and skills that compound quietly over time”.

International students pursue LL.M.s to develop cross-border expertise

For Jaime Cruzat from Chile, who came from a practice focused on natural resources regulation, UCLA helped deepen his expertise in the field and gain exposure to a different legal system. 

Cruzat says the LL.M. sharpened skills like negotiation, analysis and strategic thinking – abilities he now uses when advising clients internationally. The experience has also improved his ability to work effectively in a common law system, opening up U.S. work opportunities. 

“As a non-native English speaker, studying in an English-speaking country was another decisive factor,” he says. The intensive reading and writing required at UCLA helped him build the legal English essential for cross-border work.

Cruzat had also deliberated on the cost of the program, but the long-term value of the degree ultimately drove his choice. “UCLA’s academic reputation, faculty and international network justified the investment over less established alternatives,” he says. 

“The personal and professional networks built during the program,” he adds, created lasting value beyond academics.

LL.M. candidates balance reputation with fit and cost

Miguel Amado was certainly influenced by Vanderbilt University Law School’s reputation and ranking, but his decision was also balanced by how well the program fit his ambitions and the benefits offered to offset the cost.

When Amado began looking into law schools, he focused on programs near the top of the league tables because reputation mattered to him, but a small class size was equally important. He wanted “real relationships with professors” and an environment where he could fully engage.

“I looked for a combination of academic strength, personal connection and long-term value,” he says.

Cost was also an important consideration, and a merit scholarship offered by Vanderbilt created what Amado calls “exceptional value.” 

The program has delivered exactly what Amado had hoped for. 

“The small class size has allowed me to build genuine relationships with professors,” he explains, leading to mentorship and career guidance he might not have received at a larger school. 

However, Canada has introduced an exemption for master’s students that will make it easier for them to go to the country to study, which the government said was a recognition of their “contributions to Canada’s economic growth and innovation.”​

Starting this year through 2027, ​graduate students enrolled in designated learning institutions (DLIs), are exempt from a cap on the number of new study permits given to international students. Spouses or common-law partners of certain students can also apply to live and work in the country. 

Myrto Leivadarou, president of McGill University’s Graduate Law Students Association, points out that for graduate students enrolling in a Quebec university, the cap exemption doesn’t eliminate the requirement for an approval letter from the province.

Still, the cap exemption could provide “faster, simpler “paperwork pathway” for incoming master’s and Ph.D. students … and improved predictability for prospective students planning timelines and funding start dates,” according to Leivadarou.​

Ravi Jain, founder of Jain Immigration Law and a member of the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association, said the government continues to recognize the need for global talent and is signaling a willingness to prioritize applicants with advanced degrees.​

“The government basically said …. we want the [students] going to master’s and Ph.D. programs, because their [economic] outcomes are better … they get better jobs, they pay more tax,” said Jain.

Despite these changes, the country’s reputation for high-quality education could be the most compelling reason for prospective students to consider Canada.​

Canada’s academic draw

Canada has long been a destination for international students. At McGill University’s Faculty of Law, Bianca Bourgeois, graduate student affairs supervisor, says LL.M. programs can have 50-70% of their students come from abroad.

Bourgeois said students who come to McGill are attracted to the General Law LL.M. program’s flexibility, which lets them tailor their studies by choosing electives that align with their career goals and academic interests after fulfilling core requirements. This flexibility accommodates both thesis and non-thesis tracks.

“We get students from different walks of life,” said Bourgeois. She notes that the university’s strong faculty and its location in Montreal, Quebec, also attract a wide range of students.

Leivadarou received a law degree and articled in her home country of Greece. Afterward, she obtained an LL.M. in Germany, where she studied European climate change laws. 

Leivadarou said she was interested in further research and wanted to obtain a doctorate. She decided to enroll in McGill’s General Law LL.M. program to bridge into a Ph.D. program. 

“I was looking into McGill because of the opportunities that Canada offers, academically, … the focus on research, and the funding that the universities give on research,” she said, adding that McGill is a great place for people who want to do comparative studies. 

Another factor in her decision was the opportunity to work with a faculty member who was focused on environmental law and human rights.

Today, Leivadarou is in the second year of her doctoral program, conducting research around wildfires and floods. Leivadarou said Montreal itself felt welcoming and vibrant, and she appreciates McGill’s support systems for incoming students, even hosting a webinar on “how to survive winter” in Canada.

Immigration and work pathways

Study and work opportunities in Canada are complex. Immigration lawyers say those eyeing Canada as a destination for higher education should be aware of recent changes.

In 2024, new post-graduate work permit requirements were introduced, such as a foreign language test. Eligibility also depends on a student’s field of study and their institution’s classification, with the list of approved fields regularly updated.  ​

International law students should keep in mind that they would need to qualify for and obtain accreditation in order to be licensed to practice law in Canada.

York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School offers an LL.M. in Canadian Common Law with courses to help students meet the requirements of the Federation of Law Societies of Canada’s National Committee on Accreditation. 

The province of Quebec, which follows civil law, has some different requirements, including having proficiency in French.

Jain said doing graduate studies can be a possible stepping stone toward longer-term residency. 

According to Jain, those with an advanced degree, such as an LL.M., receive more points under Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System, which determines a person’s eligibility for permanent residence. 

Jain adds that, along with work experience after graduation, “those things really increase your points.”​

Marina Sedai, an immigration lawyer in British Columbia who is also a founding member of the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association, said the path to permanent residence is not as straightforward as some might assume.

“At the end, [people] discover that it’s a funnel … at the top is everybody coming to study and at the bottom are a few trickling out to permanent residents,” she said.

Practical tips if you’re considering Canada

Students eyeing Canada for an LL.M. should be thoughtful about why they want to pursue the degree and what their long-term goals are. For example, McGill’s research culture, faculty expertise and focus on comparative law all aligned with Leivadarou’s desire for further study and academic research.  

“Before committing to a big move like this, one kind of needs to have a reason why they want to take this step,” said Leivadarou, who also encourages prospective students to ask as many questions as possible about the programs they are applying to and to talk with current or former students. 

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to people,” she said. “I found the community of the graduate students really welcoming [in McGill], the people talk to each other, the people help each other. There’s a lot of information sharing, which is very special.”​

Sedai said it’s also important to be thoughtful about the reasons for enrolling in a program and to assess future plans. For those with the ultimate goal of future residency in the country, planning begins early.

“It would be better if they had their case assessed for permanent residence… rather than making the assumption that, ‘I'll do this LL.M. now and then, when I'm done, I'll see what the situation is,’” she said. 

“One can only get a study permit in Canada if the federal government has the educational institution listed as a DLI, and on the list of DLIs, they have to say, ‘Can I also get a post-graduation work permit after finishing that program?’ And the answer might be yes or no.”

Students should confirm their institution’s DLI status, as the list changes and could affect eligibility for a work permit after graduation. ​

“That is a little bit of shifting sand; there’s some stability to that list, but one needs to be cautious because it does change,” she said. Staying up to date on provincial programs can also help, as territories can nominate individuals for permanent residency with specific educational backgrounds, skills and work experience to meet local job-market needs.

Marnette Federis is a multimedia journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She previously covered higher education and has a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley.

Law schools, which often offer specialized support services to help students navigate this period, say the key is connecting LL.M. coursework with employer needs, understanding market timing, and using every part of the LL.M. experience to show readiness for practice. 

Successful students tend to choose courses that match their career goals and use assignments to demonstrate capability. They also build strong relationships with faculty and employers, tailor every application to specific needs, and can clearly explain how their LL.M. fits into their professional journey.

Leveraging LL.M. coursework to demonstrate skill and ambition

For many LL.M. candidates, the courses they choose during the program send a strong message to employers about their ambition and commitment. At the University of Texas School of Law, LL.M. student Sean Newhouse says this is especially true for him as a UK-qualified lawyer transitioning into the U.S. market.

Recruiters want evidence that candidates understand the demands of U.S. practice, and Newhouse finds his coursework helps bridge the gap between his UK training and their expectations.

“As a commercial litigator, I’m using my selection of LL.M. courses to demonstrate both the knowledge I am looking to gain (such as important aspects of American litigation practice like evidence and procedure) and my particular subject matter interests (such as intellectual property),” he says.

Newhouse emphasizes the point with an example: “Given that I have been speaking with firms with significant intellectual property litigation practices, my fall course in intellectual property has been a useful one to mention.” 

Admissions teams and career offices say this strategy – using specific classes, papers, or projects to demonstrate commitment to a practice area and awareness of industry trends – has become common. Students also use seminars, research papers, and class discussions to show employers their ability to analyze complex issues. 

Even doctrinal courses can become talking points if students frame them correctly. An LL.M. paper on arbitration may become an example of comparative reasoning. A group project on human rights law can demonstrate collaboration and cross-cultural communication. A seminar debate on AI governance or ESG regulation may show commercial awareness. 

Students who draw clear links between academic work and real-world legal problems often find interviews more natural.

LL.M. students use events and connections to refine their professional profile

The final stretch of recruiting can be intense. LL.M. students balance classes, interviews, work authorization issues, and employer outreach, while presenting a profile that stands out. 

Career teams report that recruitment cycles are changing across markets. Some employers hire early in the fall, while others wait until late spring. For international students, timelines often depend on work authorization rules, especially in the U.S.

For students enrolled in programs located in legal hubs like Washington, New York, London, Madrid, or Brussels, proximity still plays a major role in recruitment. It allows students opportunities to meet legal practitioners and recruiters in both casual and formal settings. Workshops, employer presentations, and alumni events can often lead to fruitful interactions or informational interviews, which can then lead to job applications and referrals.

Many LL.M. students also use faculty networks to access opportunities. Professors who practice or consult in specialized fields often introduce students to organizations that match their interests.

Law schools step up support to LL.M. students

Schools, meanwhile, are building support systems to help candidates make the leap from coursework to job offers. 

At IE University’s Law School in Spain, each program has a dedicated advisor who works closely with students to understand backgrounds, interests, and goals. This helps students create a clear plan regarding whether they want to work in Spain or abroad.

“During the job search stage, LL.M. students are supported,” says María Mercedes Blanco, executive director of international graduate programs, adding that students benefit most when preparation starts from day one.

The school’s Career Success Module builds the basics: drafting CVs, crafting tailored cover letters, and learning what different legal markets expect. Once the foundation is set, students move into targeted interview preparation, and in parallel, use the school’s Career Portal to track job postings and gain visibility with employers. 

Blanco says the goal is to “reinforce the transition from the classroom to the professional world.”

Students entering LL.M. programs today know they will face a legal profession transformed by AI – one where they must understand not just its applications, but also its risks. 

Law schools say AI systems are forcing legal-tech education to evolve. While core legal skills still matter, they now sit alongside AI literacy, an awareness of ethical risks, and the ability to interpret emerging case law. 

The challenge now is keeping legal education both rigorous and relevant as new precedents emerge.

LL.M. programs balance fundamentals with a fast-changing legal landscape

While many LL.M. programs already offered courses on AI and digital law, the pace and visibility of new cases are accelerating the shift from theoretical understanding to practical readiness. 

At Tilburg Law School in the Netherlands, generative AI is integrated across teaching, experimentation and policy. Faculty are encouraged to use AI tools when developing materials, but the school also asks tougher questions.

“What is the impact of AI on writing skills in general, and on assessment and theses in particular? What do students need to know about the use of AI in legal practice?” says vice-dean Gert-Jan Leenknegt. 

A dedicated Innovation Team at the school helps test tools, support experimentation and guide faculty. The aim, Leenknegt says, is to ensure that “the quality of our education remains our focus in relation to the use of AI.” 

At the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, AI issues already feature throughout the LL.M. curriculum. Courses such as Legal Technology and the Justice System, Robotics, AI and the Law, and Software and the Law explore how AI tools are being used by law firms, courts and dispute-resolution bodies. 

Students analyze them “in terms of efficiency, ethical and legal compliance,” says professor Burkhard Schafer.

But when it comes to adapting coursework, Tilburg still stresses the fundamentals. 

“Students need to acquire [reading, writing and analytical] skills to be able to work with AI tools in a responsible and critical way in their future professional lives,” says Leenknegt. Generative AI, he adds, “can be used as an efficiency tool, not as a replacement for legal knowledge and skills.” 

LL.M. programs adapt to new cases in real time

Cases involving OpenAI, the ChatGPT maker, as well as media copyright claims and errors made by AI-generated filings, have expanded the scope – and urgency – of the legal-tech field.

The Edinburgh LL.M. program adapts quickly when real-world cases provide useful material. “Our courses adapt in real time to these developments by including examples and discussions from the latest developments in legal practice,” says Schafer. 

Students even use certain technologies directly, followed by reflective essays – a way to prepare them for academic rules on plagiarism and “potential sanctions from courts or professional bodies once they are in practice”.

The Dickson Poon School of Law at King’s College London has taken a similar approach of documenting student use of AI. Dr John Zerilli, senior lecturer in digital law, says his students now submit a report “documenting which models they used for their essays and why … with explanations of their reasoning”.

Lecturer Petros Terzis – who teaches a course called Generative AI and Law at the same school – uses current cases as material but cautions against over-interpretation. “It is the nature of existing GenAI case-law as very narrow and fact-specific that does not really allow for broader conclusions or ramifications,” he says.

For now, many teaching materials still come from earlier algorithmic cases – such as Dutch welfare-fraud systems – which offer clearer legal takeaways. 

“I suspect that when the dust has settled on these cases … we will be able to make better use of them for teaching,” Zerilli says. Terzis agrees: “I think they are still largely theoretical … things are moving in all sorts of directions at the moment.”

The limits of teaching AI in LL.M. programs

For most law schools, the challenge now is designing instruction that is both grounded enough to build expertise and flexible enough to reflect a moving target.

Schafer admits there are limits. Edinburgh Law does not currently offer a systematic introductory course on AI, primarily “because it does not align with the degree-level requirements.” Instead, the school supplements its teaching with talks from AI developers and lawyers working with AI systems.

At King’s College, faculty say the legal fallout from generative AI is highly relevant, but not always easy to incorporate into teaching immediately. “In my own modules, I haven’t been directly influenced by ongoing cases involving generative AI,” says Zerilli. 

But graduates and faculty say the real return on investment of an LL.M. is often more nuanced than simply finding better employment. For some, the value is immediate and concrete. For others, it unfolds gradually, shaping careers and personal lives in less obvious but equally meaningful ways.

Chris Bisping, a professor at Germany’s Bucerius Law School, stresses that the return on investment of an LL.M. should be defined broadly.

“A promotion or salary increase is only one way of measuring the outcome of further study,” he says. 

Other outcomes can be equally meaningful. “For many adult learners, switching track to work in-house with more predictable hours and less stress can be a huge benefit despite a stagnation in income,” he adds.

When an LL.M. pays off through immediate career outcomes

For Anil Can Cetinkaya, the return on investment of his LL.M. was clear from the outset. Cetinkaya holds an LL.M. from the University of Minnesota Law School and now works as an attorney in New York City.

“First, the LL.M. degree was essential for me to take and pass the New York Bar Exam,” he says. “I am currently a practicing attorney in New York and could not have done so without it.”

Beyond meeting bar requirements, he says the program delivered more practical value than he expected. “I learned directly from judges and attorneys through field placement courses,” Cetinkaya says.

The school’s network also opened more opportunities than Cetinkaya anticipated, thanks to Minnesota Law’s strong alumni community across the United States.

Bisping says many students also use the LL.M. to change direction, rather than simply accelerate along an existing path.

“Often, students choose an LL.M. to make the next step on the career ladder or to switch track, e.g., from private practice to in-house,” 

“A good program will not only convey legal knowledge; the acquisition of new skills can help with the aims of students, and can often shape those aims,” Bisping adds. 

The long-term value of an LL.M.

According to Bisping, LL.M. students pursue the degree for many different reasons, and its return on investment is not always immediate or purely financial.

“Students study LL.M. programs for a wide variety of reasons. A good program will always be useful for the intellectual development of the student, and often in more tangible ways,” he says.

Speaking of his own experience as an LL.M. student, Bisping says the program he completed at Edinburgh Law School in the UK helped him move beyond the limits of his original legal training.

“The LL.M. helped me to break out of the shackles of my home legal system, to become acquainted with a different legal tradition and to work in common law systems,” he says.

Choosing an LL.M. with return on investment in mind

When evaluating return on investment, both Cetinkaya and Bisping advise applicants to look beyond brand recognition alone and focus on fit, outcomes and positioning. 

“I think it depends entirely on their specific career goals,” says Cetinkaya. “For applicants who know exactly what kind of law they want to practice, a regional school can offer a higher return on investment than a general degree from a larger school.”

Bisping concurs.

“When comparing niche schools to the standard large ones, bear in mind that in today’s work environment, a degree from a legacy institution is no longer sufficient to guarantee you a job,” Bisping says. 

“Having an interesting degree from a good school is of more value, in particular if you can tell a convincing story as to why you decided to pursue that program and how it fits into your CV,” he adds.

Bisping encourages prospective students to test schools’ claims.

“Do your homework,” he says. “Research the schools you are applying to. Is there independently verified information available? Are they accredited? Do they offer a program that matches your interests?”

“In terms of return on investment, ask whether the school can put you in touch with alumni,” he adds. 

The field offers lawyers the chance to work on issues that transcend borders, from human rights and humanitarian crises to sovereign debt, climate finance, and international accountability.

Students point out that the field’s appeal is both in its scope and its purpose. Unlike traditional legal practice, which deals with private clients, PIL deals with states, international organizations and multilateral systems. The work blends law with politics and policy, and the stakes are collective, affecting whole populations. 

LL.M. in Public International Law draws students with skin in the game

For Amisha Adhikari, an LL.M. student from Nepal at Georgetown University Law Center taking the Certificate in Human Rights, the pull is personal and political.

Growing up in Nepal during and after an armed conflict, Adhikari witnessed first-hand “how violence, displacement, and state inaction affected ordinary people.” As a lawyer, she worked on supporting survivors.

Adhikari was drawn to Public International Law because it speaks directly to questions of power, accountability, and protection of individuals under international legal frameworks. It reframes national failures as violations of shared norms. 

“Unlike domestic or private law fields I considered, it operates at the intersection of law, politics, and ethics.” What distinguishes it, she says, is “its normative ambition,” not only settling disputes but shaping how states exercise power.

The role of LL.M.s in shaping global affairs

Felipe Arias, an LL.M. student in International Business and Economic Law at Georgetown, says he was drawn to Public International Law after nearly a decade working in finance and development. He saw that “many of the most impactful legal questions operate beyond purely domestic frameworks.” 

Arias, who is from Colombia, had observed how Public International Law influences development financing, climate finance, and the work of multilateral institutions. 

Unlike purely private law fields, he says, it “combines legal analysis with economic policy and institutional design” – giving lawyers a role in shaping outcomes for countries and communities.

Raphael Pierfederici, an LL.M. graduate from Leiden Law School in the Netherlands, developed an interest in the field through his background in political science and international relations.

Public International Law aligned directly with the way he understood international affairs and global institutions. He describes the field as “the natural choice.”

Students value PIL’s practical lessons and real-world exposure

Public International Law is not only broad, but it is also deeply practical. LL.M. programs in the field emphasize legal analysis, writing, and exposure to real decision-making environments.

At Georgetown Law, Adhikari says her program helped her turn field experience “into solid legal analysis, sharp writing, and more strategic reflection.” 

The courses she took strengthened her understanding of “state responsibility, accountability mechanisms, and dispute settlement in real-world contexts.” Simulations, discussions and diverse classrooms also helped her connect national issues in Nepal to broader comparative perspectives.

Arias says the LL.M. provided “the knowledge, resources, and tools to not only pursue my professional aspirations, but also to transform them into tangible projects that make an impact.” 

How law school location opens up opportunities for LL.M.s

For Adhikari, location matters just as much as coursework. 

Being in Washington, D.C. made it easier for her to “learn from and develop relationships with practitioners in international organizations, NGOs, and government institutions.” The career office and alumni network provided ongoing guidance, and the community itself, she says, is collaborative and supportive.

For Arias, the Georgetown setting created direct access to the institutions he hopes to influence. Within months, he was attending the World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s Fall Meetings and later joined the Sovereign Debt Forum as a research assistant.

At Leiden, Pierfederici says the LL.M. directly shaped his international career. The program’s reputation opened the door to a Judicial Fellowship at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, followed by a role as a Junior Legal Officer at the court’s Administrative Tribunal. 

“Pursuing a legal career within international organizations would have been unthinkable without the LL.M.,” he says.

Recent LL.M. graduates and students suggest that a program’s subtle strengths -- such as campus size, faculty diversity, the language of instruction, and opportunities  for teamwork -- can be far more impactful than academic prestige alone. Furthermore, practical factors like the strength of the alumni network and access to local bar exams or employment visas often dictate the true long-term value of a degree. 

Choosing an LL.M. that aligns with career goals

The best LL.M. program for a candidate is often dependent on the job they are looking to pursue or the jurisdiction in which they plan to want to work after graduation. 

Francesco Mauri had his eyes on securing a traineeship at the Court of Justice of the European Union in Luxembourg. To do so, he needed to deepen his expertise in constitutional law. Mauri researched and found that the College of Europe in Bruges provides structured training and courses to help students prepare for careers in EU institutions or private practice. He chose to pursue an LL.M. at the college, focusing on fundamental rights and judicial independence. 

Ana Valero Martí enrolled at IE Law School in Madrid for an LL.M. in international business law, after four years as a general practice lawyer, looking to break into Spain’s legal market. The school had a reputation for providing hands-on experience, which she realized would strengthen her professional skills and profile. 

Martí points out that an LL.M. is a significant investment of time and money, and its value varies by career stage. She advises applicants to focus on programs that align with their professional goals. 

“Look at the skills you want to gain and how the program helps you achieve your goals, whether that’s a career change or a different role,” she says.

The power of the right campus and classroom environment

For Martí, IE Law School stood out because the program bridges the gap between theory and legal practice. The faculty, though primarily Spanish, bring extensive international legal experience.

“They have worked across different legal systems, including the UK and the U.S.,” she explains. “And as most of them are practicing lawyers or partners in large firms, they bring real cases into the classroom.”  

The cohort itself was equally varied, much like Martí, a Spanish national with legal experience across Brussels, Luxembourg, and Madrid. This diversity sharpened classroom debate and grounded discussions in real-world perspectives.

Another aspect Martí appreciated was the program’s collaborative culture, with its strong emphasis on soft skills such as communication and group work. While demanding at times, this approach closely mirrored real working environments. 

Marti cites an example of the capstone project, a simulated M&A deal, where she worked with peers from different legal backgrounds to apply technical knowledge, alongside negotiation and teamwork skills.

Mauri describes the College of Europe as a small and intimate campus in Bruges, Belgium, where living and studying are closely intertwined. With around 350 students, mostly living on campus and sharing meals, it can be intense academically and socially.

“The human experience can be challenging but also rewarding,” the Italian student says.

Mauri notes that while the academic workload is rigorous and expectations are high, the close-knit environment encourages collaboration and support among students.

Mauri also found adapting to professors from different legal traditions challenging, but this exposure broadened his understanding of law across countries.

LL.M. alumni network that open up “hidden” job markets

The European College leverages its alumni in European institutions to guide students through the recruitment processes and offer targeted training and networking. Mauri drew on this network while preparing his traineeship application.

“I asked one of the academic assistants if she had any tips on when to apply to the Court of Justice,” he says.

With advice from someone who had followed a similar path, Mauri was able to shape his application strategically. He emphasizes the value of seeking guidance early.

“Some paths may be hidden. But if you show genuine interest, professionals are always happy to share their tips or experience.”

Networking through alumni, events, and peers played a key role for both students in uncovering opportunities that formal channels alone might not reveal. Martí also recommends being proactive with research and networking. 

“Check LinkedIn to see what the different requirements across countries like France, Germany, Spain, and Poland are to understand employer expectations,” she says. Conferences and coffee chats with other professionals offer unexpected opportunities.

Stepping out of your comfort zone and speaking with peers who recently navigated the job market provides practical insights into resume building, interviews, and current application practices. 

Mauri stresses persistence and flexibility. He advises keeping options open, leveraging alumni networks, and seeking guidance from academic assistants.

“Never give up or be let down by the difficulty of it,” he says.

The importance of location and logistics while picking an LL.M.

For international students, Martí highlights practical considerations like visas, bar access, and language skills. Language skills are essential for integration and daily professional communication. For Martí, the English-language LL.M. program at IE also strengthened her legal vocabulary and ability to communicate across jurisdictions.

“Being able to communicate in the local language is a huge advantage, especially if you’re looking to work in a law firm and have to communicate with external parties,” she says, adding that researching bar rules and firm requirements prevents surprises and sets realistic expectations.

Law schools say they are seeing a growing number of LL.M. candidates arrive with families in tow, prompting institutions to rethink program design, academic flexibility and campus support systems.

Rather than treating family obligations as an exception, many law schools are beginning to incorporate flexibility as a core feature of the LL.M. experience.

Managing family, parenting and an LL.M. at the same time

Rafaela Jacob relocated from Brazil to Washington D.C., with her husband and two young daughters, to pursue an LL.M. in Taxation student at Georgetown University Law Center.

“The beginning, especially the first two months, was very challenging,” she says. “My six-year-old had a hard time adjusting because she started first grade here… I found it hard to be mentally present in class and to keep up with the readings because all my energy was focused on helping my family settle in.”

At the Peter A. Allard School of Law, in Canada, recent LL.M. graduate Wei William Tao balanced parenting two children, running a law practice and completing his degree simultaneously. 

Tao says the emotional challenges were significant.

“The biggest challenge was the guilt of feeling selfish for pursuing studies and having to rely on my partner and my other family members throughout the two years,” he says.

Time pressure forced changes in how he studied. 

“As someone who used to read everything and over-prepare, I found myself often underprepared for lectures,” Tao says. “I had to be much more strategic in preparing only what I needed to know.”

He also describes the difficulty of separating academic stress from family life. 

“Thesis-writing tends to be a bit like being in your own little world,” he says. “However, with parenting, you need to be a bit more organized, certain – and set clearer boundaries.”

How flexible LL.M. program design supports student parents

For Jacoby, one feature of the LL.M. program at Georgetown made a crucial difference in enabling her to overcome the early challenges of focusing on family and coursework at the same time. 

“I began watching the recorded lectures, and that helped me tremendously to stay on track,” Jacoby says. “It’s one of the best resources Georgetown offers – you can rewatch the classes as many times as you need.”

That flexibility allowed her to keep up academically while managing family transitions. Jacoby says preparation is essential, but it does not eliminate uncertainty.

“For anyone planning to come, I’d say: try to organize as much as possible before moving, to minimize surprises. But know that they will come anyway,” she says.

She also stresses the importance of structure. 

“Organization is everything. Create a study schedule and stick to it religiously. It has to be treated like a full-time job.”

Tao says there were several support systems at Allard that allowed him to balance family, work and LL.M. 

“First, my supervisor and other professors had lived experiences with similar situations… They made it so that the struggles of parenting and accommodations… were provided.”

Flexibility in program design was also critical. 

“Having only a mandatory course per semester for two semesters and then giving flexibility for students to pursue course work… were very helpful,” Tao says.

He also highlights the importance of ongoing administrative support. 

“Our program coordinator… was extremely helpful in making herself available so that I could keep checking in with her on my plans, timelines and strategies for graduating.”

Childcare, campus culture and support beyond the classroom

At Duke University School of Law, in North Carolina, support for LL.M. students with families extends beyond academics.

The campus is intentionally family-inclusive. 

“The entire campus is open to the public, allowing spouses and children to participate in numerous family-friendly events throughout the year,” says Oleg Kobelev, associate dean of international studies. 

Student-led initiatives also play a role. The Older and Wiser Law Students group brings students with families together through informal gatherings outside the classroom setting.

Kobelev advises prospective students to look beyond curriculum and rankings. 

“Do thorough research on the program’s location, paying special attention to the availability and quality of childcare,” he says.

At Duke, for example, “the university operates two childcare centers near campus exclusively for students, faculty and staff – a resource many LL.M. students find invaluable,” he says. 

He also encourages families to assess broader lifestyle factors. “Cost of living, availability and affordability of family-friendly housing, public safety, climate, quality of public schools, and access to amenities like parks” all matter.

Students and schools agree that balancing an LL.M. with family responsibilities is demanding, but entirely possible – with the right institutional support and personal planning.

“If I said it was easy, I’d be lying – it’s not,” Jacoby says. “But it’s worth every second of effort and financial investment.”

Most U.S. law schools now begin orientation well before students arrive on campus, helping them navigate the logistics of relocation, immigration requirements and daily life in a new country, while also gaining a clear understanding of the curriculum. Orientation itself is typically an intense, fast-paced period, filled with events and sessions designed to help students settle in quickly. 

Law school administrators say the sooner students feel grounded and supported, the stronger and more confident their academic start tends to be.

Orientation designed to support, connect and help LL.M. candidates thrive

The University of Miami School of Law begins supporting incoming LL.M. students months before they set foot on campus. Sandra Friedrich, assistant dean for international law programs, says the aim is to reduce uncertainty and build confidence well before arrival.

“We provide admitted students with a curated monthly memo that offers guidance on next steps as the start of the program approaches,” Friedrich says.

Students are walked through housing options, health requirements and transportation logistics via a series of virtual sessions, while the school’s academic webinars introduce them to the LL.M. curriculum and U.S. bar exam pathways. Once on campus, LL.M. candidates participate in an intensive, in-person orientation designed to connect them quickly with classmates, faculty and staff.

Friedrich says social and academic integration are deliberately structured to reinforce each other at Miami Law. “We actively encourage students to engage and become part of both the Miami Law community and the broader University of Miami network,” she explains. Events include a welcome barbecue, networking lunches and a Thanksgiving dinner, while workshops on study and research skills continue well into the semester.

Support that caters to the needs of each LL.M. candidate

At Duke University School of Law, LL.M. students begin receiving individualized support well before they arrive on campus.

“We pair each of them with a current student or recent alum, assign an academic advisor and host webinars on course selection, bar exams and professional development,” says Oleg Kobelev, associate dean of international studies. 

“We also create a WhatsApp group to connect incoming students with peers and recent graduates.”

Orientation week intentionally blends academic and social programming, from alumni panels to small group advising sessions and a campus scavenger hunt. 

“The hallmark of the Duke Law experience is personalized, one-on-one support which begins on day one and continues through graduation,” Kobelev says.

Helping LL.M candidates plan courses and bar exam tracks in advance

The University of Southern California’s Gould School of Law, like its peers, starts providing support months before classes begin. The school hosts virtual sessions, posts information on the Admitted Students Portal, shares a New Student Checklist and emails the weekly Getting to Gould bulletin to all incoming LL.M. candidates. Advisors also lead dedicated webinars to help students map out course selections and bar exam tracks well in advance.

Ashley Sim, director of admissions, says clear communication and early structure make all the difference. Once students arrive in Los Angeles, they take part in a week-long, in-person orientation program. 

“We host orientation to help them acclimate to the law school,” she says. “And as the year progresses, our office continues to provide events, resources and individual meetings to support our students through their journey.”

USC also places strong emphasis on building social connections early. 

“Before they come to campus, we connect incoming students with Student Ambassadors and Alumni Ambassadors, and host a virtual social event, so they can meet each other,” Sim says. 

On campus, students join community events, including a USC football game, and can also take part in an alumni mentorship program.

Advising LL.M. students on navigating visa issues

Visa delays remain a concern for LL.M. candidates admitted to U.S. law schools. In 2025, however, most schools reported smoother outcomes than in previous years. 

Kobelev says some Duke students struggled to secure interview slots but “were ultimately able to obtain visas without major issues”. Miami and USC both offered one-on-one advising and mock interviews to help students prepare for consular appointments.

Despite these logistical hurdles, administrators say international LL.M. students are adjusting more quickly each year thanks to earlier communication and stronger community support.

Beyond the pre-program phase, law schools continue to provide mentorship and social engagement opportunities to help international LL.M. students thrive. 

At Duke, staff and alumni remain closely involved with students throughout the year, while Miami Law maintains follow-up programming and advising sessions during the first semester, reinforcing skills introduced during its pre-arrival webinars and workshops.

And at USC Gould, staff continue to organize events, send weekly guidance bulletins and host one-on-one meetings to track student progress. 

Those efforts, administrators say, help sustain the sense of community that begins even before classes start.

“I quickly noticed that there are zillions of universities in the US,” he laughs, realizing that online research alone wasn’t going to be enough to find his perfect program.

Schlemmer soon decided that he needed to “meet some people in person” to get a sense of which university would be the right fit for him. That’s when he first came across LL.M. Day.

The LL.M. Day events, organized by e-fellows.net, are held throughout the year in Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, as well as online. The aim is to connect German and European students and young lawyers considering an LL.M. abroad with representatives of leading law schools. Attendees can look forward to face-to-face discussions with admissions representatives and the opportunity for fee waivers and scholarships valued at up to US$40,000. 

How LL.M. Day can connect you with prestigious US and UK programs

“LL.M. Day enables ambitious law students to find their ideal LL.M. program,” explains Thomas Graf, the event’s founder. “At each event, they meet renowned law schools from around the world and learn about course content, selection criteria, and financing options in small groups, through presentations or in one-on-one conversations with university representatives.”

The next LL.M. Day will be held in Berlin on March 14, followed by Munich (March 21 and November 21, 2026) and Frankfurt (November 14, 2026), plus an online LL.M. Forum (May 12, 2026). Attendance is always free for students, but application is required. To attend the upcoming Berlin event, the deadline to apply is March 1. 

Schlemmer attended an LL.M. Day in 2023 with the intention of “finalizing” his choice of program. At the event he not only connected with the university he would end up attending, he also took the first steps towards securing a scholarship.

"The representative I met from Boston University had the best vibe and our connection felt good, and that's why I ended up going to BU,” he explains. 

"Also, just attending the LL.M. Day and meeting with the rep [helped to] get me a very generous scholarship. Some of the universities who send reps to the day give it as a direct result of attending."

The career advantages of studying an LL.M. abroad

For Schlemmer, studying an LL.M. abroad was hugely beneficial for his legal career. He was able to specialize in new areas of law such as intellectual property and mergers and acquisitions, and also developed his international network and English language skills.

Nils Andräs, who completed an LL.M. at the University of Edinburgh in 2017, says that the chance to develop one’s professional English skills is perhaps “the most obvious benefit” of studying an LL.M. abroad. Andräs now works at an international law firm where 70 percent of his work is in English, “so clearly this has benefited me a lot.” 

Schlemmer even found new career opportunities as a result of his LL.M. abroad. "There were so many big recruiting events hosted by law firms in the US, and that was a very good opportunity to make professional contacts,” he recalls. “For example, in April I'll start working with a big international law firm who I first met at one of these events."

It’s a similar story for David Wiebe, who graduated from the LL.M. program at Trinity College Dublin in 2024. "The law firms that I'm working with right now like to see that you have an LL.M.,” he says. “It proves that you can speak English to a professional level and that you went abroad and grew as a person."

Like Andräs and Schlemmer, Wiebe also attended an LL.M. Day event while researching potential schools and programs. 

While studying in Ireland, Wiebe says, major German law firms would organize events in London and invite students like him, even flying him over to the UK. At those events he made connections that have secured him job opportunities back in Germany.

"Now I'm working at a big law firm in Hamburg. I met one of the partners at one of those events in London, and so in the end it was an easy application process."

Growing as a person during your LL.M.

Though there are plenty of professional benefits to be had from studying an LL.M. abroad, Andräs is keen to point out the personal side, too. He chose Edinburgh not only for the quality of the university, but also because of the “real student experience” he thought he would get there.

"Look at the best course for you, not your CV,” he says. "Every LL.M. will be good for your CV. So don't just look at the rankings—look at the city, look at the university, and see what the vibe is like.”

Wiebe agrees that an LL.M. is about so much more than your studies. He took the chance to explore the “beautiful” Ireland during his semester breaks, and believes the chance to grow as a person was every bit as important as the grade he received.

Ultimately, this focus on the personal side of things made Wiebe’s LL.M. experience a truly memorable one. 

"I met some of my best friends during my LL.M. It was really intense, but I had a really great time," he says. "It was maybe the most amazing 10 months I've had."

Nick Harland is a freelance higher education writer based in Sheffield, UK. His work has appeared in the likes of QS, AACSB Insights,MBA.com, BusinessBecause and The PIE News. He has also written content for various universities and business schools around the world.

Top image courtesy of e-fellows.net. Other images courtesy of Johannes Schlemmer and Nils Andräs.

But academics across leading law schools caution that rankings alone are an imperfect guide. They urge students to think just as carefully about personal and professional fit – whether a program aligns with post-LL.M. career plans, offers the right kind of academic and career support, and provides an environment in which students are most likely to thrive. 

Picking an LL.M. that aligns with personal and professional goals

The defining features of a strong LL.M. program generally include skilled faculty, diverse course offerings, supportive staff and a setting that promotes learning and growth.

However, what ultimately matters most is whether an LL.M. program fits a student’s goals, learning style and long-term plans, says Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center. 

“Don’t just look at rankings. Although rankings can be important, it’s most important to identify your personal and professional goals and then identify schools that are the best fit for you,” Jones says, offering simple but pointed advice to prospective students. 

Practical considerations – such as a program’s location, its areas of specialization, how accessible the local bar is for foreign-trained lawyers – are sometimes more important than a program’s global ranking, she points out. 

“For those planning to sit for a U.S. bar exam or enter a specific legal market, it’s essential to choose a program that aligns with those goals,” Jones says. 

Overlooking these details can be costly. 

“Choosing the wrong school can result in lost time and money,” she says. “But choosing the right fit can be transformative: providing a respected credential, deeper expertise, industry credibility, access to a strong alumni network and an experience that strengthens both career and confidence.”

Choosing an LL.M. that provides the right environment

The Melbourne Law School in Australia is one of the largest LL.M. programs in the world. The school takes pride in the wide range of subject choices it offers students, the flexibility of its teaching methods, as well as the diversity of its student body and faculty.

Yet, professor Andrew Godwin, director of Melbourne Law Masters, warns against viewing LL.M. programs only through the lens of faculty quality or course range. 

“It’s not just about the quality of the teachers and the range of subjects. It’s also about the administrative and educational support that is provided by the program,” he says. 

That support might include subject planning, skills development, career advice, language training, mentorship, or internship opportunities.

“Being part of a vibrant on-campus community is also a key issue to consider,” he adds. “Although online offerings have improved over the years, nothing replaces the benefits of attending class in person and interacting with fellow students and teachers.”

Kelly-Ann Bahiraei, assistant dean for legal studies at Vanderbilt Law School, Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, says that alignment with career goals should come before brand prestige. While rankings capture reputation, they rarely reflect the actual student experience. 

“I would encourage students to think about where they will be happiest for a year, in addition to what makes sense financially and career-wise,” Bahiraei says. “A year is short and long at the same time.”

Both Godwin and Jones stress the importance of human connections and networks that endure well beyond graduation.

“Talk to as many people as possible – current students, past students and academics – to find out about their experience,” Godwin says. 

LL.M. programs are moving quickly to keep pace. Law schools around the world are revising their curricula to include courses, certificates, and practical projects focused on artificial intelligence, data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital regulation. 

Graduates are carrying this expertise into a widening range of roles. Many work in areas such as regulatory reform, data privacy, data governance, and AI policy, while others apply it within technology-focused law firms, corporate legal departments, consulting firms, and public-sector institutions. 

Alumni are also shaping AI regulatory strategy inside global companies, reflecting how AI and data regulation have become central to legal practice rather than a niche specialty.

AI and data regulation moves to the center of LL.M. curricula

Across leading law schools, AI and data regulation are moving from elective topics to central pillars of LL.M. curricula.

At University of California, Berkeley School of Law, the curriculum now includes a certificate of specialization in AI Law and Regulation, created last spring for LL.M. executive-track students. The certificate provides foundational expertise in key areas such as data privacy, intellectual property and risk management. 

“Beyond the core curriculum, students can explore advanced topics in copyright law, antitrust, licensing and transactions and cybersecurity,” says Anya Grossman, senior director of admissions for advanced degree programs.

Berkeley also launched the Atticus Fellowship, a scholarship for LL.M. executive-track students interested in AI law. 

“This merit-based scholarship is awarded annually to two outstanding admits with a demonstrated regard for artificial intelligence and its legal implications,” Grossman says.

At Cornell University, Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School have also put AI and data regulation at the center of their joint LL.M. program in Law, Technology and Entrepreneurship. The program is supported by leading scholars, and students work directly on policy issues. 

“Last year, several [students] partnered with a state elected official to analyze pending AI legislation,” says Matthew D’Amore, director of the LL.M. program.

In addition, through the Tech school’s Studio program, students participate in the product ideation and development process, “so they can see first-hand how these regulatory changes impact developing businesses,” D’Amore adds. 

At University of Miami School of Law, LL.M. students explore how AI is shaping industries such as entertainment and finance.

“We integrate data and digital regulation into our curriculum, with courses such as Digital Assets and Blockchain Regulation, Blockchain Technology, and Business Strategies,” says Michele DeStefano, professor of law. 

“Our LL.M. program embraces AI as a defining force shaping the future of legal practice, preparing students to leverage it as a problem-solving tool across diverse sectors,” she adds.

Meanwhile, Duke University School of Law has added multiple options for LL.M. students interested in technology and AI. Courses include AI Law and Policy as well as Data Governance.

We have “significantly expanded [the] curriculum in AI and technology law”, said Oleg Kobelev, associate dean for international studies. “It is worth noting that many Duke courses without ‘AI’ or ‘data’ in their titles frequently integrate AI-related discussions, reflecting its growing relevance across multiple legal fields,” he adds. 

AI and big data open a new world of opportunities for LL.M. graduates

AI and data regulation are now central to legal practice, and LL.M. graduates with expertise in this area are in demand. For today’s LL.M. students, this means entering a field that is not fixed but still being written — and one in which they may help define its future.

 “Many of our students and alumni cite the ‘freshness’ of the field as a major draw, the sense that tech law is still being shaped, offering a malleable and intellectually stimulating space within the legal profession,” explains Grossman.

According to Grossman, Berkeley graduates are taking their LL.M. lessons into many fields. 

“Our LL.M. students often take what they’ve learned in our intellectual property and AI-focused courses and apply it to a wide range of fields –  from tax administration and institutional governance to regulatory reform and beyond,” she adds. Some also start nonprofits or explore emerging areas such as fashion law. 

Miami Law graduates also find roles across various industries. 

“One recent graduate serves as a Legal Specialist and AI Advocate at Microsoft, shaping AI regulatory strategy across Latin America,” says DeStefano.

DeStefano sees continued growth in such roles.

“We believe these types of roles will continue to grow — for our J.D. students too — given the pace of change and how much AI and agentic AI is going to reconfigure how we think about what lawyers do and what value we bring.”

D’Amore says Cornell graduates pursue careers in many areas. 

“Any legal position advising technology companies now involves AI and data regulation, but many of our students choose to specialize more deeply in areas such as data privacy, data governance, AI policy and implementation,” he says.

Kobelev sees similar a career trend among Duke graduates. 

“They often pursue roles in technology-focused law firms… corporate legal departments or consulting firms… [and] government agencies or international organizations,” he says. A smaller group launches or joins legal tech startups and entrepreneurial ventures.

The shift is being driven by the increasing complexity of the fashion supply chains, sustainability mandates and digital commerce disputes, as well as growing demand from students for programs that combine legal training with industry-specific insight.

Schools in New York, one of the world’s fashion capitals, are leading the way. The Fashion Law LL.M. at Fordham Law School is one of the oldest among such degrees, and this year the Fashion Law Institute at the school is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Meanwhile, the Cardozo School of Law in New York has taken a slightly wider approach through its FAME Center — fashion, arts, media and entertainment — which draws in law students interested not just in luxury brands, but also music, art, film and sports.

The concentration of industry players in New York — from design houses to auction houses — makes the city a natural home for this kind of degree. As fashion and luxury brands expand globally, the trend is likely to spread.

The growth of the Fashion Law LL.M.

The growth of fashion law degrees reflects a wider trend in specialized LL.M.s. Much as technology, health, and banking law programs expanded in past decades, today’s fashion and luxury law offerings have emerged to meet a clear and growing demand in the market.

The fashion industry’s legal challenges are growing at pace: counterfeit crackdowns, intellectual property in the age of AI, cross-border trade disputes and ESG compliance. Law students are also seeking LL.M. programs that are not only academically rigorous but also career relevant.

Susan Scafidi, founder and director of Fashion Law institute at Fordham Law, says the program was established to train professionals to understand and address the legal issues related to the fashion industry.

If other industries have their own legal fields, fashion should too, Scafidi states simply. 

“Attorneys had already specialized in banking law, health law, art law, entertainment law, sports law — why not fashion law?” she says. “To truly understand the law of fashion, it’s vital to also understand the business of fashion, and our program has made that possible.”

Fordham’s alumni now work across the spectrum. 

“Our graduates are in-house counsel at fashion companies ranging from luxury to manufacturing, as well as related fields like cosmetics and modeling,” Scafidi says. 

“They are also law firm partners and associates specializing in fashion law, fashion-related trade association and nonprofit executives, and fashion industry entrepreneurs.”

LL.M.s designed to navigate the creative world

The FAME Center, now in its tenth year, was set up by dean Melanie Leslie and Barbara Kolsun, a Cardozo alum and veteran fashion lawyer. Its aim was to bring together the school’s courses and alumni activities in fashion, art, media, music, entertainment and sports, and give students structured preparation for internships and jobs in those industries.

“Our graduates work in all major fashion companies. They always make the list of top music lawyers in Billboard magazine,” Kolsun, the center’s director, says. “They work at Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Gagosian Galleries and law firms that represent artists. They work for sports leagues, streaming and TV networks and firms that represent these entities.”

This interest in the laws pertaining to the wider creative world is spreading outside New York as well. Queen Mary University of London, in the UK, offers an Art and Cultural Heritage Law LL.M. degree that focuses on issues like returning stolen or looted art, tracing ownership history, and following the international rules. 

Graduates learn how to handle disputes over sending art back to its country of origin, selling works from museum collections and moving art across borders.

Students are embracing these programs and are successfully finding jobs. As Scafidi at Fordham puts it: “The students and faculty delight in the creativity and artistry of fashion but also appreciate its tremendous contribution to the global economy.”

Law schools are increasingly embracing these digital tools – but in many cases, the informal channels created by students themselves are proving even more effective, keeping alumni active and engaged long after they leave campus.

A layered system where LL.M. alumni offices and social media coexist

At the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law, the alumni network is intentionally broad. The school has embraced a layered system in which official alumni offices, social media channels and student-driven initiatives operate side by side, says Tiffany Parnell, assistant director of international programs.

“There are several avenues through which our LL.M. alumni can tap into the network and remain connected,” Parnell says. 

Membership in the UCLA Law Alumni Association – which represents more than 22,000 graduates – offers access to reunions, volunteer opportunities and continuing education. LL.M. graduates also participate in dedicated alumni groups and platforms on social media, including LinkedIn, Facebook and WeChat. 

The school also invests in face-to-face gatherings abroad. 

“The Office of Graduate Studies and International Programs organizes receptions in cities across the globe exclusively for LL.M. alumni, which serve as outlets for graduates to reconnect, build community and grow their professional network,” she says.

LL.M. student WhatsApp groups that persist across years – and continents

Karen Jones, head of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center, says student-led initiatives often outlast school-run platforms when it comes to LL.M. student alumni networks.

“They usually create a WhatsApp group and keep that group even after they graduate,” she says. These groups rarely disappear, she adds.

While the school maintains a Facebook group and uses email for official updates, WhatsApp has effectively become the primary communication channel. Its global reach makes it a natural hub for graduates who disperse across continents. 

“Since many of our students come from all over the world, WhatsApp works well as a way to stay connected,” Jones notes.

LinkedIn supplements this by allowing graduates to follow one another’s career trajectories and stay updated on institutional news.

Different platforms for different LL.M alumni conversations
 

Georgetown University Law Center has adopted a dual-track approach, combining its official alumni platform with informal tools. The distinction often comes down to purpose: quick updates and peer-to-peer conversations flow through WhatsApp, while LinkedIn broadens connections across industries and regions. 

But for structured mentoring and institutional engagement, the school continues to invest in Hoya Gateway, its proprietary networking system with more than 4,000 members.

Chris Payne, assistant vice president for international law alumni, says both models now coexist. “Alumni are increasingly connecting through LinkedIn and informal alumni-led groups on platforms such as WhatsApp,” he notes. 

Laying the groundwork while LL.M. candidates are still in school

At Bucerius Law School in Hamburg, the emphasis is on helping LL.M. students build their networks before they even arrive on campus. Maite Anna Schewe, marketing and admissions manager for the Master of Law and Business program, says the school encourages incoming students to connect with alumni while they are still preparing for their move – laying the foundation for long-term relationships.

 “At Bucerius, we offer 1:1 consultations with staff members and also direct contacts to current students and alumni who are willing to share their experience,” she says.

Those conversations – covering everything from housing to health insurance – help students adapt to life in Germany and establish connections that often last long after graduation, she adds.

A layered future for LL.M. alumni networks

Taken together, these examples show a clear shift toward multi-layered alumni ecosystems. WhatsApp groups allow for instant, global conversations. LinkedIn provides visibility and career tracking. University-led platforms continue to anchor mentoring and formal engagement.

The emerging model is less about replacing old systems with new ones, and more about layering them. UCLA still hosts global receptions. Georgetown steers alumni toward Hoya Gateway. Houston supports student-led groups while acknowledging their independence. Bucerius begins building relationships even before students arrive.

For graduates, the options are wider than ever. Alumni networks no longer sit inside a single directory or office – they exist across apps, continents and interest groups. For law schools, the challenge is to stay relevant in a landscape where students are fully capable of building their own networks — and often already do.

But recent cohorts are no longer confined to that binary. Shifts in the global economy, hiring practices and dynamic professional networks are creating opportunities for LL.M. graduates to pursue roles that cut across sectors, borders and even traditional legal tracks. 

Today, LL.M. alumni can be found working in capital markets in Los Angeles, arbitration in New York, and corporate advisory roles in Luxembourg. New data and anecdotal evidence from law schools point to a far more fluid and international post-LL.M. landscape.

International Business opens new avenues for LL.M. graduates

Many students are strategizing early in their LL.M. programs to build a global legal career. 

Amanda Thyden, assistant director of graduate career services at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law, says interest in international business law has surged as it allows graduates to move to global financial hubs more easily. 

“I’d say we have more students who are interested in international business than before,” Thyden says. “Many of our students are hoping to find positions in corporate or business law and are finding their niche markets within those sectors.” 

Businesses increasingly view international LL.M. graduates’ exposure to multiple legal systems as a competitive asset, she notes. 

“Recent grads have landed on international business because their experience in foreign laws and markets makes them unique assets for companies looking to expand or conduct business with foreign clients,” she explains.

For many graduates, this work can be a steppingstone. 

“Many of their longer-term goals may be in other areas of law,” she says, “but they appreciate the value of understanding the nexus between law and business, and plan to use that knowledge and experience to leverage new positions as they advance and grow their careers.”

LL.M. cohorts turn to professional networks for newer opportunities

Some recent graduates are taking an unusual tack to increase their chances of international mobility. They are pursuing opportunities through professional networks, rather than formal employment routes, to pursue international roles. 

“I have noticed that our students are incredibly versatile and therefore do well in adjusting to a changing market in a variety of areas,” says Kelly-Ann Bahiraei, assistant dean of legal studies at Vanderbilt Law School. “The time spent in the U.S. on an LL.M. degree is a transformational year, and many unexpected opportunities arise.”

Some of those transformations blur the line between the personal and the professional. 

“Some recent LL.M. alumni have met spouses or significant others during the program, leading to a geographic location in a new country,” Bahiraei explains. “Others met LL.M. alumni during the program, which led to professional opportunities in completely new geographic directions.”

She credits the school’s alumni network with amplifying those connections. The result, she adds, is a graduate population that defies easy categorization. 

“It’s less about ‘stay or go home’ now,” Bahiraei notes. “It’s about where opportunity, family and curiosity intersect.”

How graduates are using the LL.M. for international mobility

In Europe, lawyers are using the LL.M. degree for career pivots that increase their chances of finding employment across the continent. 

Pablo Castro Rodríguez, senior associate director for the legal sector at IE Law School in Madrid, Spain, says his school’s data show that while many students still return to their home countries, a growing share are using the LL.M. as a springboard for international mobility.

“A big percentage is looking to change their career from a geographical standpoint or even use this master to completely revamp their career,” he says. 

For those aiming to stay in Europe, one noticeable shift has been from traditional law firm roles to corporate positions as in-house counsel. 

“A trend we are seeing for those who want to start a legal career in Europe is to switch from a law firm in their country of origin to an in-house position at a company,” Castro Rodríguez explains. “Employers find their knowledge of their country of origin’s legal system, the international vision and languages, very useful for these positions.”

Even though many students use the LL.M. to relocate to the U.S., the UK, and other major European countries, smaller destinations are becoming increasingly attractive. 

“A country that is very open for our international LL.M. profiles is Luxembourg,” Rodríguez says. “In the center of Europe, it is a hub for investment funds, tax and international banking. As a gateway for a career in Europe, Luxembourg offers plenty of opportunities.”

Luxembourg’s proximity to other financial centers has made the small nation even more appealing. 

“Surrounded by Brussels, Germany and France allows for our LL.M. graduates to live in either of these countries and shortly commute to work,” he notes.

IE Law has also seen more graduates moving into international organizations, including the United Nations in New York and the World Trade Organization in Geneva.

Together, these stories suggest a larger evolution in how LL.M. graduates imagine their careers. Once a credential sought mainly for U.S. bar eligibility or home-country prestige, the LL.M. is increasingly a bridge to global roles spanning business, policy and international institutions.

Eduardo Alvarez, a lawyer licensed in Mexico, followed this path while already living in Houston. Without a U.S. license, he could only advise on international transactions or seek a foreign practitioner license. He saw an LL.M. as the most effective way to practice law in the country.

He eventually chose the University of Houston (UH) Law Center for its location, strong ranking, affordability, and a foreign LL.M. program that allowed him to meet the requirements for the Texas bar exam. For Alvarez, the degree offered professional advancement and a chance to establish his U.S. career.

What international students can expect

Alvarez found the academic rigor in the U.S. higher than what he experienced in law school back home, particularly in terms of class preparation and performance expectations. The workload required sustained effort and discipline, especially in the compressed one-year program.

“It was a very rigorous program, and students are expected to be prepared for class,” he adds. 

For students coming from different legal systems, the adjustment can be demanding, but it mirrors the expectations of U.S. legal practice and prepares students for the bar exam and legal career.

Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at UH Law Center, stresses that an LL.M. should be approached as a strategic investment, rather than a pause from professional life. Students who arrive with clarity about what they want the degree to do for them tend to navigate the workload and the broader experience more effectively.

Thinking beyond the classroom

Both Alvarez and Jones highlight the importance of looking beyond coursework. Jones points out that Houston’s legal ecosystem can play a major role in shaping one’s career.

The city’s concentration of global industries such as energy, healthcare, and sports law creates opportunities for students to connect theory with practice.

She advises students to engage early with professors, classmates, alumni, clinics, bar associations, and professional organizations, emphasizing that career planning should begin well before graduation.

Alvarez valued the sense of community at UH Law Center and stresses that it needs to be built with intention.

“It will be hard to find opportunities when you’re out of school,” he says.

“The school’s network gives you an endorsement of knowledge, experience, and work ethic. And UH Law Center is very well-esteemed in the legal field in Texas.”

He encourages students to gain legal experience during the one-year program, even though time is limited.

“To be marketable, you have to demonstrate something,” he says, adding that even brief experience strengthens a résumé, shows familiarity with U.S. legal practice, and translates prior international experience for U.S. employers.

Career expectations after graduation

As graduation nears, many LL.M. students reconsider how to stay in the U.S.

Alvarez’s path illustrates the importance of flexibility. He began as a commercial litigator in Mexico but shifted focus to where he could add the most value. Using his corporate expertise, bilingual skills, and knowledge of civil and common law, Alvarez moved into corporate and in-house roles, now overseeing legal operations across the Americas.

His advice to LL.M. students is to avoid narrow expectations shaped solely by prior roles in their home countries. Being open to adjacent practice areas or alternative roles can create unexpected opportunities, and adaptability matters.

Jones says that academic choices, visa planning, and career goals should align.

“Learn the mechanics of OPT, STEM extensions if applicable, and employer sponsorship early,” she states.

Early conversations with career and international student centers help students understand work authorization, OPT timelines, and employer expectations. This knowledge reduces uncertainty and allows students to plan intentionally rather than reactively.

Marketing your value

Jones emphasizes the importance of articulating your value.

“As an international student, you are not ‘behind’,” she states. “You bring comparative legal insight, language, cultural fluency, and global perspective.”

Alvarez encourages being open to opportunities and identifying where you can add value. He adds that letting go of competition and comparison makes it easier to build genuine relationships and learn from peers.

Lastly, remember that resilience is part of the professional toolkit.

“The U.S. job market tends to reward initiative, even when outcomes are uncertain,” Jones says. “It’s not only about learning U.S. law, but also about learning how to adapt and position yourself in the world,” he says.

With clarity, flexibility, and effort, an LL.M. year can lay a strong foundation for a U.S. legal career. 

Shaistha Khan is a journalist, writer, and communications specialist with 14 years of experience across business and professional development, personal finance, oil and gas, and travel and tourism industries. She has worked in seven countries, with Canada being the most recent. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) and a diploma in Public Relations and Reputation Management.

Currency fluctuations, rising housing costs and delayed transfer of funds can leave some students struggling to cover tuition or living expenses. Law schools say the problem is not new, but recent global instability has made it more visible and acute. 

“This can be due to an unexpected change in their local currency conversion rate to the U.S. dollar, the sudden outbreak of war or civil unrest in their home country, or a temporary liquidity problem due to higher than anticipated initial expenses,” says Sandra Friedrich, assistant dean for international law programs at the University of Miami School of Law. 

Campus jobs, emergency support and other lifelines for LL.M. students

At Miami Law, campus jobs, emergency aid – including scholarships, loans and help with rent and groceries – as well as occasional paid internship placements, help alleviate students’ financial difficulties. 

International students on F-1 study visas may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week, while students affected by war or severe economic crises may qualify for expanded work authorization under Special Student Relief (SSR), allowing additional work hours. 

“In the recent past, SSR was granted to eligible students from Ukraine to help mitigate the adverse impact on them resulting from the Russian invasion,” Friedrich says.

Friedrich notes the university’s campus jobs have served as a lifeline for those needing short-term assistance.

“In addition to traditional teaching or research assistant jobs at the law school, our LL.M. students also work in other departments across campus, including the library, bookstore, gym, swimming pool – even the university hospital system,” she says. 

Miami Law also maintains several safety nets, including a food pantry, emergency assistance with groceries and short-term loans to cover rent. 

“In some cases, Miami Law has also established emergency scholarship support, often in collaboration with law firms and other sponsors, such as a full-tuition scholarship and living expense stipend for graduates of Ukrainian law schools.”

The school’s LL.M. Practicum program, which gives students practical experience during their first year of study, can also offer support. 

“While most practicum placements are unpaid, paid placements are possible and can help students overcome funding shortfalls,” Friedrich says.

Friedrich, however, cautions students against relying too heavily on work income. “On-campus employment is permitted but is limited to a small number of hours per week and should not be relied upon as a primary source of income.”  

Funding beyond campus: How LL.M. students can turn to sources outside school

While universities can offer limited relief, the strongest safeguard against sudden financial strain is careful, early preparation. LL.M. students are encouraged to look beyond school-based aid and pursue external scholarships, private and government-backed loans and employer sponsorship. 

“One of the biggest mistakes students make is relying solely on the admissions office for scholarships,” says Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center. “Most schools, especially at the LL.M. level, have very limited scholarship funding.” 

She advises students to tap into wider networks: “Students should look beyond the school they are attending to outside organizations, associations, and other entities. For example, some students have been funded through Fulbright,” she adds.

Jones notes that employers can also be an unexpected – and often overlooked – source of financial support. 

“Students may also approach their employers about covering all or part of tuition, particularly if they plan to continue working with that employer during or after the program,” she says.

When deadlines loom and options narrow, borrowing can become unavoidable. “For addressing last-minute shortfalls, loans are usually the most practical option,” Jones explains. The UH Law Center offers limited emergency loans, but the amounts tend to be modest.

Both Jones and Friedrich stress the importance of arriving financially prepared. 

“Students should arrive with sufficient funds to cover both direct and indirect costs,” says Friedrich. “While it is possible that students may spend less – for example, by sharing housing or budgeting carefully – it is important to be prepared for unexpected expenses.” 

Instead of asking students to recall long lists of doctrines, the NextGen exam will assess how students apply legal principles to real-world fact patterns. It will still cover core subjects — including contracts, property and criminal law — but will also integrate tasks such as legal writing, analytical exercises and simulated client counseling.

The aim is to better reflect what lawyers do in practice. But for international LL.M. students, who have only a limited period to learn U.S. law before graduating, the new format raises fresh questions about how best to prepare — and whether to sit for the exam at all.

For students trained outside the U.S., the shift could make the bar both more accessible and more demanding. Less reliance on memorization may narrow the advantage held by American J.D. graduates, yet the emphasis on written communication, professional judgment and U.S. legal reasoning may require stronger English skills and deeper cultural fluency in the way American lawyers are taught to analyze problems.

Law schools adapt LL.M. training to NextGen bar requirements

Across the U.S., law schools and prep providers are adjusting their support systems to prepare LL.M. students for the upcoming exam changes. 

“We’re redesigning our curriculum to match the NextGen Bar Exam’s emphasis on integrated legal skills and analysis,” says Amit Schlesinger, executive director of legal and government programs at Kaplan, a test prep firm. 

“For international LL.M. students, we’re building targeted modules that address common knowledge gaps and focus on practical application.”

At the University of Miami School of Law, faculty and career advisors are helping international students consider all their options – from taking the bar to exploring other legal career paths.

“We are seeing a number of our international LL.M. students explore alternative legal careers and non-U.S. qualification pathways,” says Yazmyne Vasquez Eterovic, associate director and international LL.M. advisor at Miami Law. 

“While many students still pursue U.S. bar admission, others are increasingly seeking roles in international arbitration, compliance and regulatory work, policy, legal consulting, or returning to their home countries to engage in cross-border or international legal practice,” Vasquez Eterovic adds.

Still, Schlesinger says most LL.M. students plan to stay the course.

“Most international LL.M. students remain focused on sitting for the U.S. bar as planned, even with the upcoming changes,” he says. “While some have questions about the new format, we haven’t seen a clear shift toward other qualification routes.”

NextGen Bar ushers in a skill-based era for LL.M. candidates

The new exam will be introduced gradually – first in select states,  then nationwide. In response, law schools and bar-prep providers are already updating their materials and teaching methods, adding simulations, writing exercises, and client-interview scenarios that mirror the integrated format of the NextGen Bar Exam.

Many legal educators see the shift as part of a broader trend in U.S. legal training: prioritizing practical skills over rote recall. Law firms and employers increasingly put communication, analytical reasoning and collaboration on par with doctrinal knowledge.

For LL.M. students, this evolution could serve as an advantage. Stronger emphasis on applied training not only improves preparation for the bar but also builds the competencies global employers look for.

At Miami Law, for example, international students can participate in externships and practicums that pair coursework with hands-on legal work. “These experiences help students demonstrate value to employers even if they don’t pursue bar qualification,” says Vasquez Eterovic.

The rollout of the NextGen Bar Exam marks one of the most significant changes to U.S. legal education in decades. For international LL.M. students, it presents both opportunity and uncertainty. Some may find that the integrated format better reflects their analytical strengths, while others may use the LL.M. as a pathway into careers that extend beyond bar admission.

Many LL.M. students go abroad after their LL.M., with some returning to their home countries, some embarking on new opportunities, and some returning to a country they were previously working in, like Straupenieks.

“In my specific situation, there weren't that many challenges, because I was meant to return to the same employer, to the same firm, just in a different role... But the dilemma was to figure out whether to do that, or try to take a different path, look for maybe something in the U.S.,” says Straupenieks. 

“At the time in the U.S. it would have been a bit of a gamble to try to secure employment long term.”

Even returning to one’s home country or to a third country where they’ve previously worked can bring up challenges and interesting transitions after a degree.

Smoother back-to-work transition

Karla Bernardo is from the Philippines, and studied for her LL.M. at the University of New Hampshire’s Franklin Pierce School of Law. After completing her degree, she returned to Manila, which made more sense logistically. 

“I wanted to go back to the Philippines and continue my practice here, because I felt like there's a lot more that I can do here. Vis-à-vis practicing in the U.S., I'd have to take the bar exam again and get another license so that I can practice there,” she stated.

Bernardo returned to the firm she was working at before her LL.M., so the transition back was easier. But she did gain many opportunities thanks to her LL.M., and had to sort through the imposter syndrome that triggered. 

“[My workplace] did give me more responsibilities after that, more doors opened for me… I was offered teaching positions, and I was also invited to do lectures by the IPO, our local IP Office, which was quite challenging, because at the time, I was only 30 years old,” says Bernardo. 

Part of the appeal of doing her LL.M. outside of the Philippines was to learn about the law in other countries, particularly in the U.S. 

That knowledge has been helpful since she returned to her home country. “Having taken the LL.M., you have an additional POV… because this is how it is in the U.S., for instance. So it gives you a little more perspective, and you're able to be more direct in addressing your client’s concerns,” says Bernardo. 

“Or, I'm able to come up with good examples that they can understand or relate to, because I've caught a glimpse of how it operates, for instance, in the U.S. or in other jurisdictions.”

Gaining an international perspective

Hitarth Parikh also completed his LL.M. at UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law and returned to his home country afterwards, settling in Mumbai, India upon completing his degree, which focused on Intellectual Property. 

He also sought an international law perspective when he chose to study in the U.S. 

“I was looking for practical applications while studying and it was a very good experience for me, because when I was doing my LL.M., I got to know how the IP law, trademark law, copyright law, patent law, is applied. And then I was able to compare and contrast with Indian scenarios, like, what happens in India, if this is the scenario, what happens in the U.S.? What are the differences? What are the commonalities?,” he stated.

While Parikh always planned to return to India after his time in the U.S., he didn’t have a job lined up ahead of time. The biggest challenge he faced was explaining the gap in his work résumé to potential employers who didn’t understand the benefits of an advanced degree. 

“I had to explain to people that although I took a break from my work life, it was basically for enhancement of knowledge and how to apply the law. And I had to explain to them what I learned in the U.S. and how practically I can apply that knowledge in practice in India, and how, if they hire me, they will be benefited with that knowledge,” says Parikh.

Parikh advises that if you’re returning to your home country after an LL.M., try to have some work experience on your résumé in your country before you go abroad in the first place. 

It also helps to stay open-minded about potential opportunities, including staying abroad if that makes sense for you.

Overall, students found that doing their LL.M. abroad was beneficial, whether they returned to their home country or to another country to work. “When I returned to Singapore to practice there, having taken those courses and gotten that knowledge was very helpful,” says Straupenieks.

Katie Nadworny is a writer based in Istanbul, Turkey. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, National Geographic, BBC, Politico, and many other publications.

LL.M. Guide spoke with the editor-in-chief of the University of Dayton Law Review, Jonathan Huelsman, and the editor-in-chief of the Albany Law Review, Dana Wakeman, both third-year JD students.

Their perspectives offer insight into how students can participate in law journals, the expectations that come with the role, and the professional significance of the experience.

How to submit to law journals

The path to publication in law journals varies by institution, but most follow a similar structure that includes student writing, academic research, and professional scholarship. 

At the University of Dayton, submissions are open to LL.M. students, along with second-year JD students, Ph.D. candidates from other institutions, and legal practitioners. Student work, known as comments, forms the core of the Dayton Law Review.

Students typically begin as staff writers in their second year, a trajectory that also led Huelsman to his current role as editor-in-chief.

“Students write a 40-to-60-page comment that is reviewed and graded by the editorial board at the end of the academic year. The strongest pieces are selected for publication in the following volume,” Huelsman explains.

In addition to student contributions, the journal publishes articles from professors, scholars, and practitioners. Articles may be submitted directly by email or through Scholastica, a platform commonly used for external authors.

Albany Law Review takes a broader approach, according to editor-in-chief Wakeman. Submissions are open not only to law students and legal professionals but also to academics from other disciplines. The journal receives work from LL.M. and Ph.D. graduates, as well as current students from Albany and other institutions.

Submissions are accepted via Scholastica, email, and internal student competitions, making the process more flexible than many students expect.

What makes for a compelling submission

At Dayton Law Review, clarity, relevance, and a fresh perspective are central to a strong submission. The editorial board looks for articles that are relevant to current legal debates, shaped by today’s political climate. Recent topics have included presidential veto power, immigration, and smart contracts.

Beyond topical relevance, Huelsman highlights the importance of intellectual curiosity and a fresh perspective. Submissions that explore niche or underexamined legal arguments often stand out. 

The editorial team looks for pieces that raise thoughtful questions or present angles they have not considered before. A well-argued piece not only draws readers to the journal, but also advances debate and contributes to legal discourse.

The Albany Law Review is organized into four “books,” each with a thematic or topical focus, from general legal issues to justice commentaries, New York appeals, and state constitutional law.

Wakeman and the editorial team enjoy articles that are “clear to read, approachable and accessible to a wide variety of audiences.”

Strong submissions engage the assigned book editor, and present well-structured, understandable arguments while meeting the journal’s editorial standards.

Managing the workload

Participating in law reviews demands significant time, along with discipline and time management skills.

“The work of the author doesn’t end once you submit,” Wakeman says. Accepted articles go through multiple rounds of collaborative editing, with authors reviewing every change and providing input on substantive edits. 

Students should keep timelines and expectations in mind and embrace the collaborative, iterative process of publication as a key part of the learning experience.

Huelsman highlights the personal qualities that help students succeed: passion for the topic, attention to detail, and commitment to the work.

How law reviews support career goals

Being published in or working as a staff writer on a law review signals discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex work under pressure. Huelsman explains that many law firms explicitly value journal experience.

“It can open a lot of doors for students, particularly those interested in federal clerkships, academia, or specialized areas of practice,” he says.

Wakeman adds that publication is especially valuable for those pursuing academic careers, as it is often considered in tenure-track and promotion decisions. 

From a student perspective, she notes that being published is also a point of pride and credibility, especially when students can speak clearly about their research in the hiring process. 

For many authors, publication reflects both the desire to see their work reach a wider audience and the importance of contributing a voice to ongoing legal debates.

Contributing to law reviews remains one of the most rigorous and rewarding experiences in legal education. 

Beyond publication, it offers students a deeper understanding of legal scholarship, collaboration, and professional standards. For those who take on the commitment, law reviews provide tangible benefits, from stronger writing and editing skills to greater access to clerkships, academia, and competitive legal roles.

Shaistha Khan is a journalist, writer, and communications specialist with 14 years of experience across business and professional development, personal finance, oil and gas, and travel and tourism industries. She has worked in seven countries, with Canada being the most recent. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) and a diploma in Public Relations and Reputation Management.

The H-1B visa has been a key route for international LL.M. graduates to work in the U.S., but new costs and legal uncertainties may make companies less willing to sponsor them, forcing students to consider other options.​

Professor Raquel Aldana, who teaches criminal law, asylum and refugee law and immigration law at the University of California, Davis, said there’s an overall sense among international LL.M. students that “opportunities are not as great as they were.” 

And they’re worried, said Aldana.​

“They're very concerned about the arbitrariness of what is happening,” said Aldana. “Many of them feel like… the rug is being pulled from underneath them.”​

Experts note silver linings: that current student visa holders changing to H-1B won’t pay the new fee, legal decisions may delay changes, and alternative visas exist for some students.

They urge students and employers to plan based on current rules, not future possibilities.

“Plan for the current rules,” says immigration lawyer Sophie Alcorn. “If things change, adjust then, but don’t wait.”

H-1B visas are a common route to employment for international LL.M. students 

The H-1B visa allows companies to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, including lawyers, and is often the only way for international LL.M. graduates to work long-term or even stay permanently in the U.S.

H-1B visas have an annual cap and use a lottery system, with some exemptions for non-profits and research institutions.

Even before the changes, the H-1B was never guaranteed. International LL.M. graduates typically arrive on F-1 visas and can work for one year post-graduation under Optional Practical Training, or longer if in STEM fields.

But in order to get an H-1B visa, international LL.M.s often need to pass the bar exam in order to get hired by a company that is then willing to sponsor them.

Aldana said international LL.M.s are already contending with a competitive job market along with the need to find a job requiring specific skills and education level to even apply for the visa.

“To have immigration hurdles on top of the other hurdles that you usually have to meet is really difficult for these students,” Aldana said.​

The steep new $100,000 fee, implemented in September, could make employers even more reluctant to hire international LL.M.s. In previous years, employers only paid between $2,000 to $5,000 per petition.​

There is also increased background vetting and higher compliance expectations for visa applicants, immigration experts said.

Companies must show the job requires specialized knowledge, pay a prevailing wage, and that hiring won’t harm U.S. workers.

Officials are considering more changes, such as moving to wage-based requirements, but the lottery still remains.

“Overall, the process is becoming more complex, which makes early planning even more important,” said Alcorn.

One key exception for current LL.M. international students

Immigration attorneys said it’s important to understand that the higher fees only apply to new applicants. Those who are already H-1B visa holders or need to renew are not subject to the new charge.

Most current LL.M. students changing from F-1 to H-1B are not subject to the new fee, and the “cap gap” provisions allow them to remain in the U.S. until the H-1B takes effect.

However, they cannot leave the U.S. until their H-1B takes effect on October 1.

“There is an exception there, and it’s a very important exception,” said Amy Link, an immigration attorney in Florida.

Britta Glennon, a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, warns that international students may choose other countries instead of the U.S.

“One of the major motivators for getting an education in the U.S. is the labor market opportunities afterwards,” said Glennon, who has studied how multinational companies react when faced with immigration restrictions in hiring.

“If you don't know what your chances are of getting a job after you graduate, you might not want to risk it.”

How businesses and potential employers are reacting

Small businesses find the new fees prohibitive and often decide against hiring foreign workers, says Link.

Link said in previous years, companies and international students would reach out to her around the end of the year for assistance with the lottery registration in March. 

This year, she said, she has no clients who are planning for the lottery.

Large firms respond to H-1B visa restrictions by acquiring teams or hiring abroad, according to Glennon. Startups are disproportionately affected by immigration restrictions, reducing their chances of success.

“One of the biggest problems is … the uncertainty,” said Glennon. “Firms don't like making decisions when there's uncertainty.”

But, Alcorn notes that businesses still need global talent and are becoming more strategic in their hiring.

“Immigration isn’t going away; it’s just requiring more forethought,” said Alcorn. 

“For employers: hiring international talent is still possible and incredibly valuable. It just takes planning and the right guidance. When it’s done well, it’s absolutely worth it.”

​Tips for LL.M. students from abroad who want to work in the U.S.

Link and Aldana said students are considering their other visa options, such as the O visa.

But Link said the bar for that particular visa is extremely high, because it’s usually reserved for people at the top of their field. 

Aldana said that visa, along with the Employment-Based visa, could be a good option for some international LL.M.s who have been practicing law in their home country for years, and have decided to practice in the U.S.

Alcorn advises early planning, staying informed, and seeking guidance as changes may continue. 

Alcorn said international LL.M. students could consider enrolling in a dual-degree program in STEM fields to qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT work permit beyond their regular OPT work authorization after graduation.

“For LL.M. students: be proactive, ask questions early, and get support,” said Alcorn.  

Aldana encourages students to reflect on their goals after graduation.

“I try to explore with them the reasons why they would want to stay and what it is about the U.S. that, given this climate… that still makes it desirable or necessary,” she said. 

Marnette Federis is a multimedia journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She previously covered higher education and has a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley.

But admissions experts say that pressure shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. One of the pitfalls of rushed applications is they can contain errors, omissions or sound generic and incomplete. Experts advise students to stay calm, focus on quality and make smart use of the remaining time to present a strong, thoughtful application.

“Perhaps counterintuitively, do not rush,” says Oleg Kobelev, associate dean of International Studies at Duke University School of Law, addressing students scrambling to pull things together at the last minute. 

“Quality is paramount, and many U.S. LL.M. programs will consider late submissions. Confirm each school’s policy directly and prioritize programs that explicitly allow later applications,” he adds. 

First step for LL.M. applicants: secure transcripts and degree verification 

For applicants trying to do everything at once, Ashley Sim, director of admissions at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law, says the first step should be securing transcripts and degree verification. 

“What takes longest to complete is obtaining your transcripts and degree verification, so contact your university immediately to get the process started right away,” she says. 

Anya Grossman, senior director of admissions and recruiting at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law reiterates the same point. 

“We’d also advise not to wait until you have submitted your application to send in your academic records,” she says. “Submitting transcripts often takes time, and you can begin that process immediately.”

Ask for time instead of rushing through an LL.M. application

For any uncertainties, experts urge students to directly contact the law school. Applicants facing extenuating circumstances should speak up early. 

“Contact the law schools, let them know your situation and confirm what their minimum submissions are to meet the application deadlines,” Sim says. 

“We understand that life happens, and we’re often able to provide guidance or assistance,” Grossman says.

Kobelev at Duke suggests that applicants be transparent if they are applying near a deadline. 

“If you are applying close to a deadline, address the timing in a clear, candid way, addressing substantive reasons for the delay – beyond simple procrastination – and emphasizing your readiness to enroll.”

Sim also advises applicants to widen their search strategically. 

“There are many law schools with application deadlines after January 1, so identify law schools you are interested in with these later deadlines,” she says.

The pitfalls of a last-minute LL.M. application

Experts say even the best applications can lose impact if rushed. 

“One common pitfall for last-minute applicants is overlooking the basics, especially typos and formatting,” Grossman warns. 

“When you’re rushing to meet a deadline, it’s easy to miss errors or submit materials that look inconsistent or unpolished. Take a final pass through your documents,” she adds. 

Kobelev sees a similar issue at Duke Law. 

“Last-minute applications can often feel generic or, worse, incomplete,” he says. “Common issues include vague personal statements that do not foreground relevant experience and recommendation letters that read as boilerplate.”

Kobelev adds that if a few more days could make the difference between an average application and a strong one, applicants should not hesitate to ask.

“If you need additional time to assemble a strong application, it is better to request an extension than submitting a subpar one by the deadline,” he says.

A strong personal story makes a strong LL.M. application

Once logistical hurdles are under control, the focus should shift to content. 

Grossman notes that what sets successful last-minute applications apart is the ability to convey a clear, personal story. “The best way for late applicants to stand out at this stage is to highlight what makes their story uniquely theirs,” she says. 

Many candidates will have strong grades, similar professional experiences, or comparable achievements, but the context behind those accomplishments is what differentiates a unique candidate from a regular one.

“Use your written materials to bring out the experiences, motivations and perspectives that shape your relationship with the law,” Grossman says. “A reviewer may only have a short time with each file – so clear, personal storytelling helps your application resonate.”

Even in a short window, specificity matters, says Kobelev. 

“Invest time in program-specific research and make that work visible in your application,” he says. “Draw clear, concrete connections between your academic and professional background [and] the program’s distinctive aspects.” 

That attention to detail can make a big difference. 

“Highlight how the program’s strengths align with your post-graduate plans and demonstrate familiarity with the program’s curriculum and faculty,” Kobelev says. 

“This level of specificity will help your application stand out.”

According to university officials, the most common sources of funding for LL.M. students are personal or family resources, employer sponsorship, and government-backed scholarships. The proportions, however, vary by region and institution.

“Mainly, our students’ funds to pay for the LL.M. program come from personal and family funds,” says David Velázquez, director of the Master in Legal Practice at ESADE Law School in Barcelona, Spain. “In a few cases, it is the law firm where they work that partially finances them.”

At the University of California Berkeley School of Law, senior director of admissions and recruiting Anya Grossmann reports a similar mix, but with a growing role played by state funding programs. 

“Many of our LL.M. students are funded through sponsorships from their employers and government scholarships,” she says. “Notably, this past year, we experienced an increase in applicants from Azerbaijan, thanks to a new government-funded scholarship program supporting students pursuing LL.M.s abroad,” she adds. 

According to Grossmann, student backgrounds play an important role. “Some students come to us with years of professional experience and have secured enough financial support throughout this time. Others may rely more on scholarships or other means of personal funding.”

Law schools step up offerings to offset rising LL.M. costs

For many LL.M. candidates, merit-based scholarships at top-tier law schools are a key attraction, but they are difficult to obtain. 

Berkeley Law offers awards ranging “from partial tuition to full coverage scholarships,” Grossmann says. “We encourage students who did not initially receive funding to request reconsideration.”

ESADE has also expanded its financial aid offerings in response to rising costs. Students can apply for the ESADE Talent Scholarship, covering up to 50% of tuition, or the Excellence Honours, which offer discounts of 20% to 50% based on academic performance. For those still needing additional support, Velázquez says the school has “agreements with banks for better student loan conditions.”

ESADE also offers students the opportunity to study law in the U.S. at a reduced tuition rate through its two-year Master in Legal Practice program.  Students can spend their second year at one of its partner institutions such as Cornell or Georgetown, paying one inclusive tuition fee to ESADE.

Tuition, however, is only part of the puzzle. Even with scholarships, students can find themselves in a difficult financial situation when factoring in living expenses, visa fees and travel costs.

LL.M. students feel the cost of living squeeze in major hubs 

While tuition may be predictable, day-to-day expenses can be harder to manage, especially for international students adjusting to life in expensive cities such as San Francisco, New York or London. Grossmann points to the San Francisco Bay Area’s housing market as an ongoing source of strain. “While tuition support may be secured through scholarships or employer funding, day-to-day living expenses remain a concern for many,” she says.

Berkeley Law has responded with a multi-pronged approach. “We’ve strengthened our financial advising services; including earlier housing communications, suggesting multiple housing types… and guidance on navigating U.S. loan options for international students,” Grossmann explains. The school also connects new students with alumni and peers for first-hand advice on budgeting and finding affordable housing.

Visa complications have added another layer of complexity. Delays can make it difficult to arrive early and secure competitive rentals. “It can be difficult to get an early start on housing,” says Grossmann, adding “especially now, as visa complications make arriving in the U.S. on time an uncertainty.”

Visa delays, particularly for international students, have worsened in 2025 following renewed immigration restrictions introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.

For LL.M. candidates, preparation and proactive planning are key

Whether financed through savings, scholarships or loans, the LL.M. remains a serious financial commitment. So preparation and proactive planning are key.

Students should start early: research scholarship deadlines, speak to alumni, review visa timelines and explore loan options – both domestic and international. Many institutions now offer dedicated financial advising teams and online tools to help students build realistic budgets ahead of arrival. In short, the money is out there — but students must be willing to search, ask and plan.

Top tips for financing your LL.M. 

1.    Apply early for merit-based scholarships

2.    Research employer sponsorship 

3.    Explore government-backed programs in your home country

4.    Contact schools for alumni connections and housing advice

5.    Compare international and local student loan options

6.    Look for joint or dual-degree programs that reduce tuition

7.    Build a detailed budget, including cost-of-living estimates

8.    Don’t wait to ask for help — funding is competitive and time-sensitive

These are just a few of the newest technologies revolutionizing healthcare, and perhaps the strongest evidence yet that technology drives healthcare more than anything else. 

So it’s perhaps no surprise that LL.M. programs have started to focus on educating a new generation of experts to make sure the law is not forgotten where health and technology intersect. 

“Technology is shaping healthcare rapidly and oftentimes the law lags behind technological advancements. Most learning institutions have not embraced the critical intersection between law, health and technology and this leaves a glaring gap among legal practitioners in the field,” says Judith Murungi, a student earning an LL.M. in National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University.

Understanding Real-World Implications

She says Georgetown Law is ahead of the pack in recognizing the need to focus on technology. 

The LL.M. program “places significant emphasis on technology and the ethical issues that arise alongside it” and is “designed to equip lawyers to lead at the intersection of law, technology, health policy, and public health, both in the United States and globally,” she says.  

Students get “a nuanced understanding of how technology-driven challenges and innovations play out in real-world legal and regulatory environments” from practical experience in the form of being a research assistant or doing externships, and working “directly with global experts who are shaping policy in health and technology,” Murungi says. 

By exploring that intersection for themselves, she says, they gain deep expertise on how public health systems are affected by technologies like AI and the “legal and ethical frameworks governing areas such as privacy, consent, data protection, digital health tools, and biotechnology.” 

Georgetown Law is one of several to lean heavily into the health and technology convergence. 

The DePaul University College of Law also incorporates technology law into its Health Law LL.M. for international and domestic students, and most LL.M. programs now include courses on telemedicine, biotechnology, and other technologies changing the healthcare landscape. 

In the Netherlands, the University of Groningen’s Faculty of Law broke new ground last year with the launch of an LL.M. program devoted specifically to health law and technology law. 

Professor Brigit Toebes, the program’s academic director, said it was only natural for the “unique” program to be created, since the university’s Security, Technology and e-Privacy Research Group and the Groningen Centre for Health Law both combine to offer invaluable expertise on how technology and health impact one another. 

“This track builds on expertise in both technology law and in health law that we have built over the last 15 years or so,” she says.

Opportunity for Hands-On Experience 

The curriculum goes much further than simply addressing the overlap between health law and technology law.  

“Students get a profound basis in both health law and in technology law. There is a strong emphasis on the role of human rights in addressing health and technology concerns. We work with a number of partners, including the medical school, to offer students the possibility to do an internship or research stay,” Toebes says. 

Students have recognized the need for such a program as well, with enrollment surging just a year after it got off the ground. 

“Student numbers have gone up from a handful of students in the first year, to more than twenty this year,” the academic director says. 

The LL.M. program at Groningen, and others with a heavy focus on health and technology, are especially forward-thinking in that they prepare students to help shape the future of one of the most important issues across the globe. 

Students with expertise in technology and health law can go on to shape global health policy at international organizations or regulatory agencies, or work as consultants and advisers to various health agencies, both international and regional. 

Murungi, from Georgetown Law, says she hopes to use her training to help improve global health policies in areas that need it the most. 

“During the course of my studies, I have identified many gaps and unregulated areas especially in the global South to which I would like to lend my expertise,” she says. “I am also open to teaching global health law in a learning institution.”

But does brick-and-mortar still matter when students can learn from anywhere, at any time?

Many law schools believe it does. Educators argue that these new buildings are not simply legacy projects or aesthetic statements, but a commitment to the idea that physical space still plays a critical role in how law is taught — and more importantly, how it’s experienced.

Classrooms are not the only place to learn the law

Even as virtual classrooms and asynchronous learning proliferate, some law schools maintain that digital convenience doesn’t replace the value of physical presence. 

“Having the right physical space matters,” says Nora Burke Wagner, assistant dean for international and graduate programs, University of Cincinnati College of Law. “Online offers tremendous opportunities, but some people learn better in person. Some activities are more successful with face-to-face interaction.”

Cincinnati Law moved into a new $45.6 million facility in 2022 — the latest step in a campus redesign nearly three decades in the making. The 116,735-square-foot building is more than an architectural upgrade; it was intentionally designed around student and community experience.

“We prioritized spaces for students to build community, faculty and students to collaborate, and clinics to do their very important work for clients,” Wagner says. 

One shared area has been informally dubbed the “LL.M. lounge.” Students bring food to share, study together and swap stories. “People… commiserate and celebrate,” notes Wagner. “The lounge is where they bond.”

For international LL.M. students, Wagner believes the value of a campus is more pronounced.

“Foreign-trained lawyers pursue our LL.M. program to learn the nuts and bolts of the U.S. legal system,” she says. “But they also want to perfect their legal English, to observe U.S. courts in action, to immerse themselves in an American law school classroom…and to spend weekends on a movie-set worthy college campus with football Saturdays and all.”

When physical campuses complement – not compete with – online learning

Law school administrators are cautious about framing campus and online learning as opposing models. They argue that physical spaces are being redesigned not to compete with digital alternatives, but to complement them.

Like Cincinnati Law, the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC) opened its $90 million John M. O’Quinn Law Building in August 2022. The five-story, state-of-the-art facility offers advanced technology, modern learning environments, and sweeping views of downtown Houston.

Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at UHLC says the school fully supports remote learning, but believes the building provides an important sense of belonging.

“It serves as a tangible anchor — a place students can return to, connect with and feel grounded in,” she says. “Even those who have never stepped foot inside feel a strong sense of connection, because they are part of it.”

At Georgetown University Law Center, the case for physical learning extends beyond functionality. Jessica Brum, associate director of graduate admissions, argues that being on campus can deepen both academic and personal engagement.

“While not everyone can study in person for a variety of reasons, and thankfully, technology now makes remote learning possible; there is something uniquely special about being fully immersed in a campus community,” Brum says.

She notes that students who relocate for their LL.M. tend to approach the experience with greater intent. 

“Most students who study on campus are fully committed to the experience. They’ve often left jobs, countries and comfort zones behind to focus exclusively on this transformative year,” she says. “With that comes a renewed sense of curiosity, openness and joy.”

For many law schools, this is where physical campuses still matter most: not just as buildings, but as places where learning happens between lectures – over coffee, or during spontaneous conversations with visiting professors. 

“The campus is more than a place to attend lectures,” Brum says.

Ultimately, school officials from law schools at Columbia University, Georgetown University, and Duke University offer the same message — the most successful applicants are clear about why they are pursuing an advanced law degree, can explain what they'd want to achieve in their legal careers and can clearly demonstrate why a particular program is the right place for pursuing their goals. 

"We're looking for excellent lawyers, or people who have potential to be excellent lawyers, who have demonstrated either through academics or through experience … that they have the skills to be successful," said Oleg Kobelev, associate dean for international studies at Duke Law.  

For law schools in the United States, the list of application materials typically includes a personal statement, letters of recommendation, school transcripts, and a resume. 

Some schools may require additional or different documents, such as test scores, especially for applicants from other countries. School officials say applicants must start early in the process so there's time to answer any questions.  

An applicant's past academic performance and potential for academic success are among the top factors most schools consider in the admissions process. 

But the personal statement can also help contextualize one's academic record, highlight an applicant's strengths or explain any weaknesses. 

What schools are looking for 

There are multiple reasons to pursue an LL.M. degree. Admissions officials say they want applicants to be able to articulate that particular reasoning. 

Kobelev from Duke University said the program is not looking for one type of applicant and instead seeks a diverse cohort across every metric — from subject-matter interests, age, educational background, and professional arc. 

"We're looking for capable people who are community-oriented, who understand that the culture here is not one of cutthroat competition, but of collaboration," he said.

Caryn Voland, assistant dean for graduate admissions at Georgetown Law, said the program is looking for applicants who are ready to further their study of law and have a plan for how an LL.M. degree fits into their overall career goals. 

"We are also looking for people whose goals can be accomplished through our program, so people who will be a good fit for what we have to offer at Georgetown," said Voland.

The admissions office at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law said successful applicants can typically demonstrate a track record of academic and professional excellence and strong English skills. 

"They also have a clear vision of why they want to enroll at UCLA and what they bring to the table as future members of our law school community – as well as the impact they'll make in the legal profession," said Tiffany Parnell, assistant director of international programs. 

"Generally speaking, they are well-rounded candidates with their own unique interests and passions."

Julie Sculli, assistant dean, Office of Graduate Degree Programs at Columbia Law, said, "The strongest applicants are those that demonstrate academic excellence, professional success, and other characteristics that we value at Columbia, such as leadership, curiosity, perseverance and motivation to achieve goals."

What to avoid

At Duke, Kobelev said applicants should avoid formulaic personal statements and instead connect the dots between past experiences, professional ambitions and a program's resources. 

"What makes a good candidate is somebody who has attention to detail, [has] thought through why they want to do this, [and] put effort and time into their application," he said. 

UCLA discourages the use of AI-generated content. Meanwhile, Kobelev said applicants must certify, among other things, that their personal statement and other writings are their own work, drafted by them and without assistance from AI technology. 

Voland said having a friend proofread or a tool to catch typos and small grammatical errors is fine. 

"[But] it's not the same as having somebody else or something else write your materials from scratch,” she said. 

Columbia said all materials should be consistent across the board and free of errors. Even the most minor mistakes can undermine strong applications.  

"One tip, though, is: do not wait until the last day to apply," said Sculli. "You could have a computer issue."

Georgetown said there are consequences to late submissions for scholarship consideration and visa processing timelines. 

Duke added that many applicants overlook school-specific instructions, including failing to submit a separate scholarship request, which removes them from funding consideration entirely. 

Applicants should start early, choose recommenders who can provide specific insight, and double-check every document before submission.

What else to keep in mind 

UCLA encouraged applicants to research the school's curriculum, clinics, faculty, events, and student life so they can speak about what aligns with their interests with specificity. 

Georgetown said prospective students should join online info sessions hosted by admissions teams or current LL.M.s.

“They're usually either hosted by current students or admissions professionals or both, so that's a good way to get information," said Voland, adding that most admissions offices are good places to ask questions.

Duke also recommended attending webinars, following school news, and even speaking with alumni to understand program culture.

Admissions officers said that applicants who take these steps, and then weave that knowledge of the program into their personal statements, demonstrate their seriousness, commitment and self-awareness. 

"We value authenticity and encourage every applicant to be honest about who they are and why they wish to pursue an LL.M. at Columbia," said Sculli.

Ultimately, the schools want applicants who seek an LL.M. not just for the sake of earning another degree, but as a way to take an essential and deliberate next step toward the career they want. 

Marnette Federis is a multimedia journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She previously covered higher education and has a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley.

Career pivots during or after an LL.M. program are becoming increasingly common, say U.S. educators. Universities are responding by tailoring their curricula to integrate real-world knowledge of technology, business, global challenges, and the law. 

“Using the LL.M. degree is a great way to pivot into a new legal field,” says Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center in the U.S. 

“It can also help you pivot faster than doing it on your own.”

At Duke Law in North Carolina, a sizable number of LL.M. students take advantage of the curriculum to pivot from one legal specialty to another, notes associate dean Oleg Kobelev.

A growing trend in Europe as well

Shifting into a new field is always challenging, especially in the law, where specialization and proven experience are highly valued. An LL.M. offers a structured way to reskill, build credibility, and enter new areas of practice.  

“Legal education is in a period of transition and is slowly opening itself to a broader spectrum of skills, competencies and contents,” says Christopher Bisping, dean of the Master of Law and Business Program at Bucerius Law School in Germany. “More LL.M. degrees focus not solely on the legal side but look at an area more holistically.” 

At IE University in Madrid, Spain, students view the LL.M. program as both an academic credential and a career-pivoting tool, says Pablo Castro Rodríguez, senior associate director of talent and careers. 

“For our international LL.M. candidates, this is an opportunity to globalize their legal profile, take the next step in their careers or transition into adjacent sectors like compliance, tech or business.”

Emerging fields for LL.M. graduates

Today’s LL.M. graduates are pursuing roles that demand more than just legal expertise. As technology, sustainability, and global commerce reshape industries, employers want lawyers who can navigate the intersection between law, business and society.

These fast-growing fields are redefining what it means to have a legal career:

• Tech law and AI regulation
• Cybersecurity and data privacy
• ESG compliance and sustainability
• International arbitration
• Employment and labor policy
• Healthcare and life sciences law

These shifts are especially visible in technology-related areas, where legal expertise must evolve alongside innovation.

“Legal professionals looking to enter [tech law] must understand the intersections between AI and legal practice,” says Rodríguez at IE. They “need to be tech-savvy and able to translate complex digital issues into clear legal advice”.

Picking the right LL.M. courses 

For those looking to use an LL.M. as a springboard into a new field, choosing the right mix of courses and practical experiences can make all the difference. The subjects you study, the clinics you join, and the networks you build all shape how successfully you can reposition yourself in a new area of law or industry.   

Kobelev, at Duke University, recommends a mix of classroom and real-world learning. “The best approach is to mix upper-level seminars, experiential courses such as clinics/externships, and fundamental courses in the relevant subjects.”

Sellers at Miami Law adds that students should go beyond academics. “Take advantage of everything the LL.M. program has to offer, not just in the classroom but outside of it as well.” 

Olivia Piluso, a current LL.M. student in international arbitration at Miami Law, says courses like the LL.M. Practicum Program have helped her pivot from real estate law. “You can gain academic credit by working for a law firm in the Miami area specifically on international arbitration work,” she says.

However, an LL.M. is only the start. What you do during the program matters just as much as what you study.

Piluso advises fellow students to be proactive. “Speak with everyone, join student and professional organizations, network as much as possible.”

Experts suggest lawyers think ahead to get the most out of their LL.M.

 “Try to narrow down your area of interest. Identify schools with a strong reputation in that area...Consider where you want to work and practice after achieving the LL.M. degree,” says Jones at Houston Law.

Ultimately, the success of an LL.M. as a career pivot depends on how students make the best use of opportunities on offer. 

“The most effective way to use an LL.M. to change tracks is to treat it as a launchpad, not a finish line,” says Rodríguez at IE. “…Leverage the program to build your network, deepen your expertise and open doors.”

As LL.M. students know all too well, not everyone gets to spend the holiday season soaking up the time off. Most future legal professionals will spend their holidays all but chained to their textbooks, deep in the clutches of civil procedure and torts. 

So while everyone’s familiar with Santa’s naughty and nice lists, may we present a whole new kind of list: the law-school-students-trying-to-stay-sane wish list. Based on recommendations from former and current law students, these goodies will help you weather the storm if you’re in law school yourself, or pick the perfect gift for a loved one in law school to let them know their hard work isn’t going unnoticed. 

Practical Ideas 

Some of the most commonly requested gifts for law students are also the least glamorous, like noise-cancelling headphones and blue-light reading glasses. Perfect for people who spend most of their time studying and trying to ward off distractions, these might not be the most personal gifts, but they’re essential. 

A legal dictionary, wall calendar, and portable all-in-one charger are staples, along with extra phone and laptop chargers – just to have on hand in case of any ill-timed technological malfunction that could threaten to upend an already stressful exam or wreak havoc on a crucial deadline.

And, at the risk of perhaps being a little too studious, many law students say they’d be thrilled to be gifted the textbooks required for their next semester. Several students said this was an ideal way to relieve some of the overwhelming pressure they felt while juggling class work and fretting over whether or not they’ll pass upcoming exams.

“It’s a wonderful gift,”  says Margaret Molloy, an alum of the Southern Illinois University School of Law. It also requires a more personal touch, however, as the gift-giver might have to do a little digging to find out the specific textbooks required, she says. 

Fancy Attire

No wish list would be complete without some fancy attire – the kind future legal professionals need at least one pair of if they want to make an impression at networking events and upcoming interviews. 

“A nice pair of shoes will make you feel like a million bucks,” Molloy says. A suit or a suit jacket is another precious addition to the list, she says, both to prepare for interviews and help keep your eye on the prize of a promising law career. 

Gifts to De-Stress 

An informal survey of law school students yielded one unanimous request: coffee, lots and lots of coffee, either in the form of gift cards to places like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts, or a customized coffee subscription that could go as far as providing a steady flow of the stuff for an entire semester. 

“One year I got coffee gift cards and was so happy,” says Pilar Cardoza, a University of Houston Law Center alum. 

Saving time and prioritizing self-care are two other themes that tend to dominate law students’ wish lists. 

Having a healthy stockpile of gift cards for meal delivery services like GrubHub and Uber Eats means they can devote more time to their studies and not have to worry about where, or how, they’re going to get their next meal. 

Meal subscription services like Hello Fresh or Blue Apron provide the same kind of security on a more consistent basis, especially for any family members who want to make sure the law student in their family has a fridge that’s well-stocked and a healthy selection of dinners for the foreseeable future. 

Likewise, Instacart or Amazon gift cards can save law school students from any time-consuming trips to the local grocery store for household necessities, turning an hour-long errand into a few quick clicks of their mouse. 

Gift cards for local laundry services or household cleaning services are also in-demand, providing an easy way to cut down on stress while also prioritizing self-care. 

Out-of-the-Box Ideas 

One of the most thoughtful gifts on this list is also one of the most unexpected. The grueling, all-consuming nature of law school ultimately produces a lot of brilliant legal professionals – but it’s no secret it can take a heavy toll on mental health. That’s why many students have found it surprisingly uplifting to engage in simple activities that let them take a mental break from time to time.

“About halfway through the semester I bought a $10 set [of Legos] on a whim and it was honestly one of the best things I did. I don’t stare at a screen, it gives me a 20-30 minute break from law to build something small, and I get to have a hobby and put together something cool. My mental health hasn’t been amazing but Legos have weirdly helped a lot,” says Ethan Milner, a first-year law student at the University of Miami School of Law. 

Another student says she’s been secretly hoping for some paint by numbers sets, an activity that can be almost meditative in its ability to calm the mind. Others mentioned adult coloring books as an unexpectedly restorative activity that they’ve come to rely on to protect their mental health.

And while there is as yet no way to gift a law school student sleep, gift certificates for local spas are an excellent stand-in and provide the kind of pampering that’s not only needed, but well-deserved. 

Allison Quinn is a writer from the Chicago area. She has written about politics, international news, and culture for The Daily Beast, The Kyiv Post, and The Moscow Times.

“The legal profession is already carving out a space for AI; LL.M. programs can help support their students by focusing less on how AI will change the profession and more on how it has already changed the profession,” says Brian Benison, assistant dean for graduate studies at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School. 

AI is already widely used by legal professionals to boost productivity by automating routine tasks like document review, legal research, and document summaries. And its value for legal professionals has increased exponentially - not just to expedite work, but to create a new generation of experts who can make sure it’s used responsibly. 

A survey conducted for the 2025 Thomson Reuters’ Future of Professionals Report showed the number of legal professionals who felt hesitant about AI declining since last year, while those who expressed excitement and hope went up. 

Only 2% of respondents said they felt fearful, and 15% were concerned, compared to a total of 55% who felt positively about AI in the profession. 

It’s quickly gone from being a supplemental skill to a necessity, and more and more law schools are adapting to that by adding new courses. 

“To me, AI training is about professional skills development. The AI course we're most proud of is our Legal Tech and AI course. It deals with how AI is changing the day-to-day work of the legal profession. It also gives our students a skill that can make it easier to find a job,” says Benison, adding that “most professors in all areas are also integrating AI into their syllabuses because of how drastically AI is transforming the legal profession.”

Using AI responsibly 

This new reality also means more responsibility for future legal professionals. Since AI is clearly here to stay, law students now need to be on top of the latest regulations and policies to better navigate them down the road or even to help craft some of those policies in the future. 

Berkeley School of Law recognized this need and recently wrapped up its first year of offering the LL.M. Degree with Certificate of Specialization in AI Law and Regulation, and they’re already expanding the curriculum. 

Focused on areas such as data privacy, intellectual property (IP), licensing, and risk, the curriculum will now also include courses on biotechnology law and corporate strategy when it comes to AI and geopolitics. 

Ethics and public interest also take center stage in the program, as the curriculum was designed with input not just from industry leaders in AI and innovation, but also Nicole Ozer, the founding director of the Technology and Civil Liberties Program at the ACLU of Northern California.

Breaking new ground 

Since the European Union was the first to pass a comprehensive legal framework for regulating AI, the program also focuses on what went into those regulations, and why.

It’s not hard to see why there would be demand for such a new crop of legal professionals. 

Two major legal battles are currently underway in the EU over how generative AI systems use copyrighted material, an issue that has already played out in U.S. courts as well, and can be expected to come up again and again in the future. 

Legal challenges in both the U.S. and the U.K. have also highlighted concerns in recent years about the use of AI-driven facial recognition technology. 

Andrew Kent, an LL.M. candidate in Brunel University Law School’s Artificial Intelligence, Law and Technology program in London, says it was precisely this topic that drew him to enroll. 

He enrolled with a background in computer science rather than law, and says the program has so far “been a game changer.” 

Like the new program at Berkeley Law, Brunel Law School’s new curriculum also looks to the EU Artificial Intelligence Act to teach students about regulation. 

Kent, who is due to complete the program next fall, says he’s also been studying data protection and compliance, and as part of the first group of students in the program, he’s already noticed an uptick in the number of people enrolling. 

“I'm very happy with how it has turned out for me and I'm quite keen to encourage others to come and study,” he says. 

Those who do dive into AI in the law are likely to find it just as challenging as it is rewarding. 

Jessica Nall, a partner at the global law firm Withers and one of the first to earn Berkeley’s new AI-focused LL.M., says it was “a very intensive program with a heavy workload.”

“It was not a light lift at all,” says Nall, a longtime tech litigator who brought more than two decades of experience to the program. 

“I would recommend taking a leave if people plan to do it,” she says, adding that it was “very hard to do this program and also continue to practice full time.” 

She made clear that it was well worth it, however. 

In an interview shared by the university, Nall described the payoff from the program as a “360 view of AI regulation and ethics from pretty much every perspective.” 

She says the program focused heavily on “the potential harms that we lawyers need to look out for and help mitigate.” 

But she would also like to see more focus given to “the positive side of what AI transformation will look like into the future and all the ways it can benefit society.” 

Benison, of Antonin Scalia Law School, says the massive changes AI has ushered in are reshaping the professional responsibilities of lawyers and calling for a sharper focus on legal technology. 

But the way he sees it, there are some parts of the legal profession that are better off resisting too much change. 

“While we've added additional courses that focus on AI, we have not made massive changes to the curriculum. Legal education pedagogy performs best when courses require massive memorization, categorization, retention of information. Students who use AI to replace that process cheat themselves later,” he says. 

“In order for AI to work well, you have to know the area well enough to know when AI is wrong.”

Allison Quinn is a writer from the Chicago area. She has written about politics, international news, and culture for The Daily Beast, The Kyiv Post, and The Moscow Times.

Unlike traditional AI, which mainly analyzes or classifies data, generative AI can produce first drafts and process large volumes of information, enabling lawyers to work faster and more effectively.

Generative AI is becoming part of everyday practice across large, mid-sized, and small law firms, as well as in-house legal departments worldwide. However, as with any emerging technology, adoption requires caution. Legal professionals must carefully review AI-generated content to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance, while remaining vigilant for potential errors or “hallucinations.” 

Blunders in Using AI

Recent high-profile cases highlight the risks of relying too heavily on AI-generated materials. 

One involved a California attorney fined for filing a state court appeal filled with fake quotations generated by ChatGPT. 

Another concerned a consulting firm that granted a partial refund to the Australian government after a report it produced was found to contain alleged AI-generated errors, including fabricated or inaccurately attributed footnotes, citations, and references. 

These incidents underscore a crucial point: generative AI is a tool, not a substitute for lawyers. It can accelerate workflows, but professional judgment remains irreplaceable. While experts can spot discrepancies quickly, users who are less familiar with a topic face a greater risk of overlooking inaccuracies.

Among 50 legal professionals contacted, including law firm partners, senior and junior counsels, and law students based in the United States, Latin America, and Europe most respondents (76.9%) expressed significant concern about protecting client or sensitive data when using such tools. The majority reported using generative AI occasionally (61.5%), while a smaller group (30.8%) uses it frequently under strict internal guidelines. A remaining 7.7% reported not using generative AI at all.

Among those who use generative AI, about 75% rely on approved and reliable tools provided by firms, universities, or trusted technology vendors. 

These platforms are integrated with internal data protection measures and usage policies, ensuring compliance with professional and ethical standards.

Users in this group reported higher confidence in the quality and security of outputs, as institutional oversight offers accountability and reduces the risk of mishandling sensitive information.

“AI is becoming an integral part of our lives and a tool that all professionals will eventually need to embrace, as it will become part of everyday business. As lawyers, we must adapt to understanding the risks, implications, and boundaries to use AI effectively. It can help us streamline administrative processes and allow us to focus on more complex, analytical work,” stated Lourdes Marquez, a senior counsel at Revolut.

The remaining 25% of respondents, mostly those not currently using generative AI, expressed strong interest in gaining access to authorized tools. Many cited the lack of officially approved resources or institutional guidance as the main barrier to adoption. 

This highlights a growing gap between organizations that are proactively implementing generative AI responsibly and those that remain hesitant. Bridging this gap through education, policy development, and vendor partnerships could accelerate safe and effective adoption across the legal sector.

Verification practices remain critical. About 70% of respondents regularly check generative AI outputs against trusted legal sources, 23% do so occasionally, and 7% were unaware of generative AI’s limitations, including hallucinations or inaccurate results. Ethical practices vary as well: roughly half of participants follow formal internal guidelines, while the rest operate with limited or no structured policies.

Uneven access to certified tools creates challenges in maintaining confidentiality, complying with regulations, and upholding professional responsibility standards.

Confidence in AI's Future

Despite these challenges, perceptions of generative AI are cautiously optimistic. 

Many respondents describe themselves as careful users who monitor outputs and apply boundaries, while others express growing confidence in using generative AI for legal research, drafting, and document review. 

Overall, the findings suggest that generative AI is becoming an integral part of modern legal practice and education. The key challenge lies in leveraging its benefits while maintaining accuracy, ethics, and trust.

“Artificial Intelligence is like a shattered mirror. While it can provide answers to your questions much like reflections in broken glass it doesn’t reveal the full picture,” stated Robert Masocha, LL.M. graduate from Loyola. 

“Some parts remain distorted or blurred, and it’s up to legal professionals to verify the information for accuracy. Still, it serves as a valuable starting point, offering guidance and direction, but it should never be relied upon entirely.” stated Lourdes Marquez, Fintech Attorney in LATAM.

The survey and observations reveal a clear trend: legal professionals are eager to integrate generative AI into their work provided it comes from reliable, authorized, and accredited sources. The main concern remains the preservation of client confidentiality and the ethical management of sensitive information. Adoption is strongest when supported by secure tools, institutional oversight, and clear policies.

The results also highlight a generational and organizational shift. Younger professionals and students are driving innovation, while senior practitioners recognize the operational and strategic advantages of GenAI when used responsibly. Institutions that invest in training, guidance, and ethical frameworks will empower attorneys to adopt these tools confidently.

In essence, the legal profession is moving toward a balanced future one that values both innovation and integrity. Generative AI is not a threat but an opportunity. When guided by human judgment, accountability, and regulation, it can enhance efficiency, expand access, and strengthen the delivery of legal services. By embracing GenAI thoughtfully, law firms and institutions can redefine how legal professionals research, advise, and advocate shaping a more effective and ethical legal system.

Julio Zerecero is a business and technology attorney licensed in Mexico and an LL.M. graduate from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles where he had the honor of delivering the commencement speech. After graduation, he collaborated with Wood, Smith, Henning & Berman LLP and is currently contributing to legal matters at Joseph Kauffman and Associates, Inc.  He actively engages with the U.S. legal profession as a member of the Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee at the Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA) and as an editorial board member of Landslide Magazine (American Bar Association). Previously, he was vice president and secretary of the Foreign-Trained Attorneys and International Students Executive Boards at Loyola.  Zerecero has advised global leaders in technology and finance, including Amazon Web Services, Citi, Citibanamex, BBVA, and Aeromexico, providing strategic guidance on complex legal matters and digital innovation across Mexico, LATAM, and the Caribbean.

But they have a tremendous amount to gain – and to contribute. And an LL.M. degree can set them apart from peers in their field. 

Long-track record of experience 

“We have had professors, judges, diplomats, politicians, and other very distinguished individuals in our program, all of whom fit the category of mature LL.M. students. The knowledge, experience and breadth of information that they bring to the program is immeasurable,” says Karen Jones, executive director of global and graduate programs at the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC).

“They are able to share from a perspective that less mature students have not yet acquired.”

More often than not, that additional life experience means these students are taking on their LL.M. studies on top of “additional responsibilities such as work, family, or business,” Jones notes. 

The key is being able to leverage their time-management skills to meet all these different demands, while also making sure not to “underestimate the intense focus and time required to succeed in a rigorous LL.M. program.” 

Jones says more experienced students are typically quite skilled at “recalibrating as needed to complete the program successfully,” so having additional responsibilities outside of the classroom should never be seen as a reason not to pursue one’s LL.M. degree. 

Rather than facing stigma or mockery from younger classmates, LL.M. students with more professional experience (and an older age) are typically seen as an asset to the program, as they have valuable tips and insights to share. 

That kind of diversity is exactly what makes an LL.M. program worth it, says Sarah Gruzas, director of graduate programs at University of Southern California’s Gould School of Law in Los Angeles.

Adding diversity to the classroom

“The benefit of enrolling a diverse class of students with varying levels of professional experience is that they each bring a unique perspective to the classroom. Our more experienced students can share the knowledge they have acquired over their time practicing law, while our younger students may offer a fresh perspective or an infectious excitement about learning,” she says. 

The subsequent variety of viewpoints among the students ultimately makes them and the faculty “stronger,” Gruzas says, because it provides “opportunities to debate, challenge, weigh, and analyze various options.” 

Jones makes the same point, noting that “just having more life experience alone adds a richness to the LL.M. educational experience for the individual and classmates.” 

The payoff is mutual. Even more senior students who bring vast professional experience to the program might be “surprised about what they can learn from their younger classmates,” Gruzas adds. 

As long as those more experienced students are prepared to “refresh their study skills and habits” after being out of school for an extended time, she says, they will flourish.

And even those who already have a well-established, solid career can benefit from an LL.M. degree, as one Albany Law School graduate notes. 

Mark Webber says he was around 50 years old and working in the field of information security when he decided to pursue an LL.M. He already had a JD but wanted to be able to “dig in more,” he says. 

“Getting my JD was interesting, but the school I went to had very little opportunity to explore the areas of law that I wanted to explore,” he says. He went back for an LL.M. in data privacy and cybersecurity and says it was well worth it. 

At both USC Gould and University of Houston Law Center, the majority of LL.M. students do have some professional experience before enrolling in the program, though a smaller percentage have spent many years building their careers before returning to school. 

The more varied the students’ backgrounds, the better, since it is ultimately the combined experience of the students that builds a professional network shared by everyone in the program. 

Nowadays, even students juggling family responsibilities and work along with their studies can find plenty of opportunities to grow their own network, Gruzas says. 

While they “may have less time—understandably so—to engage in student activities or other events happening on and around campus,” she says, they “can still access the benefit of the networking opportunities by prioritizing certain activities, organizations, or events during their program.”

Allison Quinn is a writer from the Chicago area. She has written about politics, international news, and culture for The Daily Beast, The Kyiv Post, and The Moscow Times.

Adriana: Definitely storytelling and its importance, but also how to become a better writer, and how to evaluate the proposal for a legal essay. Discussing my own writing with professors and advisors and getting their feedback during the LL.M. made me write better, which in turn helps me help others with their writing.

Arthur: Two things: clarity in communication, both written and oral; and negotiation skills that apply equally in boardrooms and courtrooms.

Did the program help you build a network of mentors, partners, or clients that later supported your venture?

Arthur: Absolutely. My classmates came from all over the world, and many of those connections remain active today. They have been a source of both mentorship and collaboration.

Looking back, is there something you wish you had done differently during your LL.M. to prepare better for entrepreneurship?

Adriana: There is so much to choose from during the LL.M. that it’s impossible to do everything we want. I wish I’d had more time, but I’m happy with the choices I made.

Arthur: I wish I had taken more time to work on building a network. It makes a difference when you know the right person. It could help you with indication, referrals, mentorship, and so on.

How should LL.M. students balance academic focus with exploring business ideas while still in school?

Adriana: I’d suggest focusing on school while at the LL.M., and on building a network of friends and mentors. The LL.M. goes by fast, and I wouldn’t recommend dividing your attention with building a business at the same time. There will be plenty of time to take this next step after graduation.

Arthur: Use your assignments strategically. Whenever possible, direct your research papers or projects toward areas related to your business interests. That way you are doing both at once.

Do you think an LL.M. is best used for knowledge, networking, or as a credibility boost when entering the business world?

Adriana: All of the above, but both knowledge and networking are priceless opportunities you get at any program, so I’d definitely recommend investing in both.

Arthur: All three, but networking is the hidden gem. The degree boosts credibility, but the people you meet and the perspectives you gain are what stick with you.

If you had to sum it up, what is the single biggest way your LL.M. degree helped you as an entrepreneur?

Adriana: It showed me a professional path that I absolutely love, and that I didn’t even know existed beforehand. It gave me a way to combine my previous experiences with mentoring students with working with law and, at the same time, working with people and their stories, helping them with something that is truly meaningful in their lives, which is exactly what I’d always wanted to do.

Arthur: It reshaped how I think about growth and adaptability. The LL.M. gave me the tools to rebuild a legal career in a completely new country, and the mindset to turn challenges into opportunities. It taught me how to navigate complex systems, connect across cultures, and use law as both a business tool and a way to create impact. That ability to adapt and build from scratch has been essential in everything I’ve done since.

Closing Takeaway

Both Adriana and Arthur show that an LL.M. can be more than a credential. It can be a catalyst for creativity, confidence, and career reinvention. From helping others tell their stories to building a cross-border practice, their journeys show that the LL.M. is not only about academic growth but also about finding the courage to build something new.

For lawyers with an entrepreneurial mindset, the message is clear: your LL.M. can open more than one door, and sometimes it opens the one you create yourself.

Claudio Klaus is a licensed lawyer in Brazil and a GP LL.M. student at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, currently undergoing the licensing process in Ontario, Canada. He hosts the podcast Studying Law Around the World, and is the Outreach Officer of the Canadian Bar Association’s Law Students Section.

I spoke with two LL.M. graduates who transformed their studies into entrepreneurial ventures. They shared how their programs shaped their ideas, the skills that proved most valuable, and what advice they would offer to future students.

Adriana Lacombe Coiro is a Harvard Law School LL.M. graduate (Class of 2022) and founder of ALC Consultoria, a firm that helps students craft compelling applications for LL.M. programs worldwide.

Arthur Alvim completed his LL.M. at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law before launching Alvim Law, his own practice in Ontario focused on family law, negotiation, and advising small businesses.

What motivated you to pursue an LL.M. and did you already have the idea of starting a business at that time?

Adriana: I’d studied at Harvard for a semester as an exchange student in law school, and since then I knew I wanted to return for a longer experience abroad, but I also wanted to gain some professional experience before going. I finally decided to apply at a point where I was contemplating a career shift, and wanted to immerse myself into the subjects I loved studying and discussing in order to guide these next steps. Starting a business, however, was not on my mind at that time.

Arthur: My main motivation was to requalify and transition into the Canadian legal market after practicing law in Brazil. At that time, my focus was on licensing and building a career in Ontario, not entrepreneurship. But I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and the LL.M. opened my eyes to the possibilities of blending legal expertise with business.

How did your career goals shift during or after your LL.M. program?

Adriana: I often say that one of the reasons for the LL.M., for me, was choosing my next career move, and that I would never have guessed that part of the answer wasn’t in the LL.M. itself, but in the application process. By discussing the application essays with friends who had applied before me and who were applying that same year, I realized that I had the potential to help others to find the best way to tell their stories, to see their own strengths.

During the LL.M., I took courses that had classes on storytelling that were also instrumental in helping me see this possibility: to see how storytelling is critical both in legal cases and in application essays. After all, a petition is a lawyer highlighting her client’s strengths, much like in an application.

Arthur: Initially, I thought the LL.M. would be purely a stepping stone toward licensing. Instead, it gave me perspective on how lawyers can operate across borders and industries. That expanded my goals beyond just practicing family law in Ontario. It also inspired me to open my own practice.

Did your LL.M. experience directly spark your business idea, or was it more about equipping you with the right skills and network?

Adriana: A little bit of both. The application process sparked my business idea, and the LL.M. itself equipped me with tools on storytelling and even on how to write a good resume that are fundamental to my work.

Arthur: It was more about equipping me. The courses, professors, and peers helped me sharpen my analytical and business mindset, while the networking aspect gave me confidence that I could combine law and entrepreneurship successfully.

Were there specific courses, professors, or projects that gave you the confidence or tools to build your business?

Adriana: I took several courses where professors covered the importance of building a strong narrative to succeed in a case, especially if the aim is to change the country, which discussed how important it is to build favorable public opinion to have and maintain a Supreme Court win or foster legal change. This discussion appeared in different forms in my immigration clinic, my course on Race and the Law and my course on LGBTQ litigation.

Arthur: Classes on business law and contracts are extremely valuable. But honestly, exposure to peers from different legal systems is just as important as the formal courses, it broadens how you see opportunities.

What advice would you give to LL.M. students who are considering launching a business after graduation?

Adriana: To not use this as the only guide when choosing your courses. The LL.M. is also a time for exploring: pick a course out of your comfort zone, try something new. We never know where life might take us, and where important knowledge will come from.

Arthur: Treat your LL.M. as a sandbox, not a finish line. It is one of the few times in your life when you are surrounded by global talent, open minds, and almost no downside risk. Use it to test ideas, pitch small projects, and build relationships with classmates who may later become co-founders, clients, or investors. Do not wait to feel ready, start learning how to turn ideas into action while you still have that diverse, supportive network around you. The perfect business plan will never replace momentum.

Claudio Klaus is a licensed lawyer in Brazil and a GP LL.M. student at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, currently undergoing the licensing process in Ontario, Canada. He hosts the podcast Studying Law Around the World, and is the Outreach Officer of the Canadian Bar Association’s Law Students Section.

Jeffrey Brauch, a professor at Regent University who teaches International Human Rights Law to LL.M. students, helped launch the university’s Center for Global Justice, which equips students to do Human Rights Law work through internships and student projects.

Heavy emotional and mental burden

Before starting, students should think about the emotional toll in dealing closely with human rights issues.

“It can be really discouraging where you're trying to promote rights, where you're trying to protect individuals and you're running into power structures, or you can't accomplish everything you want to or… you're fighting human trafficking, as some of our graduates do, and it's just overwhelming at times,” says Brauch. 

“I think training on being prepared for things like vicarious trauma, where you're dealing with the trauma of your clients or the people that you're serving, you've got to be prepared for. What does that do to you? Do you take that home every night? How do you process the really hard things that you come across in this field?”

At Regent, all LL.M. students specializing in Human Rights need to take a basic international human rights course, and will write a thesis that allows them to focus on a particular human rights topic. There are also courses on international religious freedom, international trafficking in persons, international criminal law, and bioethics. 

LL.M. students considering this specialization should be aware of the complexity of the topic and choose a program that works for them. When considering a program, students should look into what kind of classes are offered, how big the program is, and how much exposure they will get to the faculty.

At schools like the University of Connecticut, human rights is a focus even beyond the law school. 

“We have a very robust human rights program in general at the university, it's a university and law school priority,” says Molly Land, associate dean for academic affairs and the Catherine Roraback Professor of Law at UConn. 

“The human rights and social justice LL.M. is part of that broad program, and it brings a really unique perspective, because it combines the international and domestic dimensions of human rights work.” 

Variety of jobs

For students earning their LL.M. with a specialization in Human Rights, there are a wide variety of jobs that could be available to them upon graduation. 

Many students work for NGOs that do human rights work globally, while others choose to work with human trafficking organizations in the U.S. 

Other options include working for the State Department, at the UN, at other human rights enforcement bodies, and the Council of Europe.

“Also, not all the students who are going to take this program are going to go into full time human rights work, and so they may be in traditional practices where they do some pro bono work that relates to human rights,” points out Brauch.

In the historical moment we’re in, the need for human rights lawyers is as important as ever. 

“I think human rights is always important because the modern human rights framework is designed to promote and protect individuals and individual rights,” says Land. 

“In times when around the world rule of law is being questioned and under pressure, human rights defenders are really a part of civil society that is a bulwark protecting rule of law, and I think it's particularly important for that reason, and for students who decide to specialize in human rights law through their LL.M.”

Ultimately, specializing in human rights for an LL.M. is a constant reminder of why the law matters to people directly, all over the world. 

“I think there are unique challenges at different times, but I think at any point, history would suggest to me that there are always governments or leaders or movements where power becomes more important than the protection of people's rights and dignity, where maybe the people who are marginalized or oppressed are ignored or pushed to the side,” says Brauch. 

“There are challenges in our world today, but I really do believe there always are, and we're always going to need people who are focused on this and prepared to do something.” 

As a foreign-trained attorney, it is a fulfilling experience to just be there after all the time and effort that has been invested.

The scope of the topics tested is widely known, as are the techniques and programs designed to reinforce the knowledge acquired during law school. 

What I want to focus on here, however, is not the content itself but the experience, the simple details and actions that make a real difference in how you approach the test.

Prepare your mind and body

In my case, the examination site is about 45 minutes from where I live, so I planned ahead and booked a hotel nearby, mindful of the time I would spend around the testing center. 

I paid attention to the food I ate, found good places for dinner and breakfast, and made sure I had a comfortable place to get proper rest. Just as important, I avoided leaving behind any pending tasks or distractions that could interfere with my focus.

I was also mindful of the strict restrictions on what you can bring into the testing room (you receive emails from the bar prior to the exam with all the details). As usual, no cellphones or smartwatches are allowed. 

For the MBE section, you need pencils and a sharpener, since the test is on paper, and it is wise to bring an analog clock to manage your time. For the essay section, you must bring your computer and read the instructions very carefully so you don’t waste valuable minutes. 

Above all, I always double-checked that my essays were successfully uploaded at the end of the session, since this is not something you want to overlook.

Managing your time is key

For me, time management is the most crucial factor. When you are deeply focused, time goes by faster than you realize, so it is essential to practice pacing before the exam. The goal is to finish on time, maintain a steady rhythm, and give proper attention to every section. This is where the analog clock becomes a true ally.

Equally important is mapping out which parts of the exam carry the most weight toward your final score. In the essay section, for example, I start with the questions worth the most points and then move on to those with less weight. Reading carefully, staying calm, and following your plan are key, because if you prepare thoroughly, you are able to handle the test.

Finally, I would suggest taking a moment after each exam day at your hotel to note the parts of the test that catch your attention, using this time to reflect on the experience and identify how you performed, or even anticipate which questions you may have answered correctly. This kind of reflection also helps you keep the bigger picture in mind, reminding you that simply reaching the point of sitting for the bar is already a privilege and an accomplishment. It is important to enjoy the experience, and I truly hope these simple tips are helpful for anyone preparing to take on this challenge.

Julio Zerecero is a bilingual business and technology attorney licensed in Mexico and an LL.M. graduate from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles (Class of 2025). He is currently serving as a Post-Bar Law Clerk at Wood, Smith, Henning & Berman LLP (WSHB). He actively contributes to the U.S. legal profession as a member of the Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee at the Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA), as an editorial board member of Landslide Magazine (American Bar Association), and as a former Vice President and Secretary of the Foreign-Trained Attorneys and International Students Executive Boards at Loyola. He has advised global leaders in technology and finance, including Amazon Web Services, Citi, Citibanamex, BBVA, and Aeromexico, on complex legal strategies and digital innovation.

“For me, it was really just about putting myself out there, and coming into the LL.M., that was really one of the things that I was certain I wanted to do,” says Antonio. 

“A big part of it was also being able to network, really being able to understand other cultures, other legal systems, and the way people do things in other parts of the globe.”

Making friends and building a network during your LL.M. program is important, and preparing yourself to succeed at building a network is something that you should think about ahead of time. 

Take the initiative and start early

To begin, start early: the programs can be short, and with the busy schedule and course load, there’s no time to be wasted to start connecting with people. 

Esha Maken was nervous at first about actively connecting with people, but she found the welcoming atmosphere at Franklin Pierce School of Law at the University of New Hampshire helped her get over her anxiety.

“Initially I was really hesitant towards approaching people and even connecting with anyone, but slowly and gradually, I realized that everyone here is kind of going through the same kind of feelings because everyone is new to the place, and law school connects you when it comes to the curriculum or the stress that you are going through. So I realized that asking questions and approaching people is not that difficult, and everyone here wants to talk to people,” Maken says.

Meeting new people to make friends and build a network can and should be done in many places. 

Connect with people in class and search for extracurricular opportunities 

In class is an easy and expected place to start. 

“A number of the people that I got really close to were my classmates in specific classes, and I had met them there,” says Antonio. 

Maken also found that classes were the easiest jumping off point to connecting with people. 

“It started from making friends through some kind of group assignments that we were assigned during the class… that classroom was the first place where I started connecting with people from diverse backgrounds,” Maken says.

It’s also important to meet people outside of class, whether it's in the cafeteria or at a designated networking event. Sometimes, more casual events are the best way to meet new people.

 “Outside of the class, I found that student events like apple picking or snow tubing gave us a chance to bond beyond academics. I also made it a point to ask classmates about their backgrounds and experiences, because studying in such a diverse environment is itself a networking opportunity,” says Maken. 

“And I would say that when networking sounds formal, I believe that at its heart it is really just making friends with purpose.”

Antonio was able to meet new people in a variety of places, including in his housing and by joining organizations within the school. 

“Those different organizations also help to make new friends. There are organizations that bring together southeast Asians, east Asians, and then also the different types of practice you want,” says Antonio.

Taking advantage of his location in D.C., Antonio also went to events at embassies, which ultimately led to the position he took after he completed his LL.M.

“The people that opened up this position for me, I met them at the Philippine Embassy in D.C. It was just about putting myself out there. We had [a] fellow people from the Philippines that were going to an event in the embassy, I was just invited to tag along,” he says.

Don't just make connections but maintain them too

Maintaining the connections you make in your LL.M. is important and easier than ever, thanks to WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and Instagram. 

The network created during your LL.M. can help with support, job hunts, and advice, as well as being a strong friend group that has shared your education experience. 

“Many of the people that I connected through the networking events here at UNH are still helping me out while I'm endeavoring towards securing a job here, so I would definitely say that all the networks that I've built are helping me,” says Maken. 

“I have people across the globe now to whom I can reach out for advice whenever I'm in a dilemma, or whenever I'm skeptical about things or I do not know how to move forward with things.”

Ultimately, the best way to build a network and make friends is to be brave and put yourself out there, knowing that most people around you are also looking to connect with people.

 “Just be open to everything. The program goes by so fast; by the time you hit the second semester, it will be a blink of an eye until graduation. So really, just be open to every opportunity,” says Antonio. 

“It's not the time to be shy or to think twice about those kinds of things, it's an opportunity to learn a new thing, to meet new people, to have a new experience, understand other cultures.”

Katie Nadworny is a writer based in Istanbul, Turkey. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, National Geographic, BBC, Politico, and many other publications.

The decision gets simpler once you focus on a few factors. 

Clarity comes first. Margaret Ioannides, assistant dean of Online LL.M. programs at the University of Dayton School of Law, advises students to “start with the end in mind,” weighing both current interests and long-term goals.

Balancing career goals and personal interests

Career ambitions often guide students when selecting an LL.M. specialization. “When a student considers a specialization, I advise them to explore career paths, identify opportunities that interest them, and evaluate employer needs,” Ioannides says.

Sarah Dorner, assistant dean for graduate admissions at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) Franklin Pierce School of Law, emphasizes that personal interests, passions, and skills are equally important. She encourages students to reflect on both short-term and long-term goals before beginning their LL.M. journey.

Dorner also stresses that students should feel motivated to make a meaningful impact in the field. The strongest personal statements she has read often trace a student’s interest back to a formative experience, such as a class, a story from childhood, or a personal encounter with intellectual property rights.

“While it’s important to be mindful of the job market, a student’s own passions should be a primary guide,” she says. 

“If this will be your area of practice for years to come, you should feel excited about it, eager to learn more, and make a difference in the field.”

Balancing bar eligibility and specialized expertise

When choosing the right specialization for an LL.M., students should consider whether their priority is meeting bar requirements or gaining deep expertise in a niche field. Ioannides highlights that students planning to practice in the U.S. should choose an LL.M. that meets bar requirements, while still having the option to customize their studies with electives.

At Dayton, for instance, many online LL.M. students take a one-credit immigration law elective, a popular career path after obtaining bar licensure.

But what if a student is less concerned with bar eligibility and more focused on building deep expertise? That is where specialized programs can be valuable. Dorner explains that while general LL.M. programs are designed for bar exam eligibility, specialized LL.M. programs provide niche expertise.

“A specialized LL.M. is a great option for students with a clear career focus and area of interest,” she says. “And it’s important for students to ask these questions early on in their search process.”

Intellectual property, commerce and technology, and international criminal law and justice specializations at UNH Franklin Pierce are attractive to international students because of their global relevance.

Researching market demand

Specializations should not be chosen in isolation from the job market. A thoughtful review of employer needs and trends can help students identify which fields are growing. 

Ioannides suggests starting with job platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, then turning to professional organizations such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association or the Association of Corporate Counsel. These resources highlight emerging fields and provide real-world context for how specializations translate into careers.

Dorner recommends going a step further by networking. “Students should connect with the career offices at their institutions to ask questions,” she says. 

“Make connections with alumni and employers, and hold informational interviews with professionals already working in the field. This is a great method to gain firsthand knowledge.”

Faculty and alumni connections not only shed light on market demand but also help students understand what skills employers value. This information also helps students understand how a specialization might play out in their own career trajectory.

Finding the right fit

Ultimately, choosing a specialization is as much about finding the right fit as much as the right program. Ioannides advises that the best way to find the best fit is to connect with the program’s staff, faculty, students, and graduates. “It’s the most effective way to understand if a program’s culture and resources align with a student’s needs,” she says.

Speaking to graduates from one’s own country can be particularly valuable, Dorner explains, as they can offer candid insights into the student experience, and challenges and opportunities after graduation.

“This is a great way to grow your professional network, continue your research, and gain additional firsthand insights so you can be sure you’re choosing the right LL.M. for you,” she adds.

Lastly, Dorner notes that students should be clear about their motivations. “It’s a big investment of time and money, so it’s important for students to be clear about why they’re doing it.”

That clarity, paired with reflection on personal goals, research, and networking, will guide aspiring LL.M. students toward a specialization that not only deepens their learning, but also sets them up for success long after graduation.

Shaistha Khan is a journalist, writer, and communications specialist with 14 years of experience across business and professional development, personal finance, oil and gas, and travel and tourism industries. She has worked in seven countries, with Canada being the most recent. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) and a diploma in Public Relations and Reputation Management.

As an international student, the lessons learned also extend beyond the classroom, such as budgeting. It took me some time, but I realized that if I wanted to get through the year without draining my savings or calling home for help every other week, I had to be clever with my spending.

Over time, I picked up some genuinely helpful habits that let me live well without overspending.

Learn to cook at home

Let’s start with food. Cooking at home is your best option. Eating out every day is not feasible unless you can afford it. Therefore, meal prepping makes a huge difference. I usually cook two or three dishes at once and portion them out over the week. On busy days, I make my own sandwich from ingredients I bought in bulk. It is far cheaper than spending money at a cafe every day. A loaf of bread, some cheese, eggs, tuna or salad, and you are set for days. 

Secondly, it’s about groceries and you need to be smart about where you shop. There are several well-known Dutch supermarkets. Albert Heijn is the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands, followed by Jumbo, PLUS, Lidl, and Aldi, among others. 

Albert Heijn and Jumbo are convenient and, honestly, offer good quality, but they are not the cheapest. Lidl and Aldi are much more affordable. However, there are items you can find in Albert Heijn and Jumbo that are not available in Lidl and Aldi, and vice versa. 

Lidl is popular for having fresh vegetables and fruit. I mostly get my groceries from local markets or, better yet, from international shops such as Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese, Indian, or Pakistani stores. These are usually located in neighborhoods, especially around Javastraat, Dappermarkt, and Bos en Lommer. You can find a variety of spices and other goods in these shops at very low prices. Just take some time to explore the markets and compare their prices. 

Search for deals around town

Getting haircuts every few weeks can be expensive. If you're looking for an affordable haircut, you can visit this barbershop called Kapsalon Ramazan in Molukkenstraat for just eight euros. 

Unfortunately, you cannot book an appointment; it operates on a walk-in basis only, so you'll need to wait your turn in the queue. Sadly, it is a men's salon. It can be busy at times, but during certain hours, you might be served quickly. Before discovering this place, I used to spend at least 25 euros on a haircut, and although that's not much, I now get a good haircut at a lower price. 

Look for used books 

Books can also be costly, especially when you only need them for a year or two. Always check the university library, your course schedule, or a Whatsapp group before purchasing textbooks.

Many students resell barely used books for half the price or share PDFs. Professors often upload key readings on Canvas, so buying books is rarely essential. Unless you want to build your own collection of books, which I personally really enjoy. 

Use libraries as study spots

Choose your study spots and coffee wisely. Yes, cafes are cosy, but they can also be a trap. That one latte or cappuccino can cost 15 euros by the time you're done studying. Instead, I prefer going to libraries with long hours, especially the Amsterdam public library in Centraal or campus locations, which are open until 10 pm. 

I take my own coffee in a thermos to the libraries, or I visit cafes that don't mind students working for long hours. The Volkshotel lobby is particularly good for this, as it allows long hours of work without the need to buy something every few hours. 

Cheaper modes of transport

Public transport is also quite costly in the Netherlands, and cycling is a prevalent part of the culture here. Consider getting a used bike, which is often what former students want to sell at a lower price. 

At my university, you can find these former students in the WhatsApp group related to your residency. If not, you can always visit the shops for more affordable used bikes. Remember, you need a raincoat to ensure that rain doesn't stop you from cycling. If cycling isn't your thing, you can opt for monthly subscriptions for public transport, which sometimes cost less than what you would pay on a regular basis. 

Living in Amsterdam as an international student does not have to feel like you're bleeding money. It just takes a bit of planning, plenty of comparison shopping, and a willingness to explore options beyond the usual. 

Saving money doesn't mean you'll miss out on the fun. In fact, it can be enjoyable in its own right. Trust me when I say this: two people sharing expenses can easily cover their monthly food costs with 150 euros. 

Also, the less you stress about finances, the more energy you'll have to enjoy your studies, the city, and the friends you make along the way.

If you have more and better tips for saving money, do not hesitate to share them. One small tip can probably be helpful for someone struggling with arranging their budget. 

Jawad Saleh is an LL.M. student in Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam, originally from Afghanistan. He aims to build a career in international dispute settlement and arbitration, and enjoys sharing his experiences to help fellow students adapt to life in the Netherlands. You can read his previous blog posts on adapting to local food, what tools you need to start the school year, overcoming academic challenges and on hurdles when relocating to Europe.

In this Q&A, we spoke with two recent LL.M. graduates who sat for the exam in July. They shared how they prepared, what surprised them, and what advice they would pass on to the next group of candidates.

Roberto Potter Martins Ferreira is a Brazilian-qualified antitrust lawyer and senior associate at Caminati Bueno Advogados. He recently completed his LL.M. in International Business & Economic Law at Georgetown University Law Center, earning a certificate in Securities & Financial Law.

Alice Muzzi recently completed her LL.M. at Duke University and sat for the New York bar exam in July.

Question: How did you prepare for the bar exam?

Roberto: I started with Barbri as my main foundation since it gave me a clear plan and full coverage of subjects. Along the way, I added Adaptibar for multiple-choice practice and built my own outlines and rule statements, using hackthe.bar as a guide. In the end, my prep was a mix of a commercial program and a system I customized for myself.

Alice: I purchased the Barbri course and followed the suggested program as much as possible.

Question: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

Roberto: I would have spent more time on MBE practice in Adaptibar and worked on time management there, especially not overthinking or wrestling with questions for too long. Barbri questions were helpful, but they did not really reflect the style of the real exam.

Looking back, I probably dedicated too much energy to essays when for LL.M.s, the MBE is really where you can level the playing field.

It is half the grade and, unlike essays, it does not give native English speakers the same built-in advantage. The MBE is equal ground for everyone. On a practical note, I would definitely avoid big life events during exam week. Moving out of my apartment at that time just added stress I did not need.

Alice: I would have focused a bit more on taking extra mock exams than on learning every bit of information from the lectures.

Question: What part of the exam surprised you the most?

Roberto: The essays. Most people walked out shocked by how much they tested unusual issues. In a way, that leveled the playing field, but it was definitely unexpected. And then there is the test center itself. The vibe is intense, with long lines, airport-style security, and sitting in a giant room with thousands of stressed-out people bringing countless spare pencils. It adds another layer of pressure.

Alice: The essay themes were unexpected, as they looked at the tiniest bit of each field rather than on the parts considered more important. The multiple choice part had a lot of constitutional law, much more than I expected.

Question: How did you manage stress, time, and energy?

Roberto: Being honest? I did not, at least not perfectly. Bar prep felt a bit like Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground: stuck inside, overthinking everything, and wondering if this isolation was a form of torture or some strange path to enlightenment.

I tracked my progress obsessively and pushed to finish nearly 100 percent of Barbri, but outside that I forced balance with workouts, cooking, small breaks, and one guilt-free rest day a week.

What really kept me sane was mindset… Once I reframed the long summer indoors as a chance to actually learn U.S. law, it felt less like punishment and more like an unusual investment.

Alice: I tried to stick to the program and have a fixed routine so that my schedule was predictable and I could exercise, spend some leisure time, and decompress.

Question: What advice would you give to someone sitting for the New York bar exam next year?

Roberto: Disclaimer first: I do not even know if I passed yet, so take this more as survival tips than real advice. The best thing I can say is get your mindset right. As a foreign LL.M., you will never cover every detail in two months, and you are not supposed to.

The exam is about memorization and collecting points, not perfection. Just follow your prep plan, do the assignments, and stop reinventing the wheel. On test day, you will not feel 100 percent ready, nobody does, and that is fine.

Focus on what you can control, let go of what you cannot, and remember that even sitting for this exam is something most people back home could only dream of. Be proud of what you have achieved so far, regardless of this test. Do the work, show up, enjoy the process, and let the rest go.

Alice: Do not let the length of the program and the emotional terror that people create affect you so much. It is doable, and you are not expected to know every bit of information.

Question: Did you find any specific strategies or resources especially useful?

Roberto: Use a commercial prep course as your foundation.

Track your MBE performance and focus on weak areas instead of just redoing random sets. Do a deep dive into why you are missing questions, not just which ones.

Hackthe.bar was helpful for identifying the most tested rule statements and building or memorizing them.

GOAT Bar Prep’s free resources added a lighter and funny vibe, perfect when you want to feel like you are still studying but also relaxing a bit.

Reddit can go both ways. It can give you support from people on the same journey, or it can spike your anxiety if you start comparing yourself to others.

Alice: Not talking too much to other exam takers close to the exam helped so I was not overly stressed. Also, taking one step at a time.

Closing Takeaway

Both Roberto and Alice show that the bar exam is not only about studying material but also about mindset and balance. While resources like Barbri and Adaptibar provide structure, success comes from finding the right routine, managing stress, and remembering that the exam is one step in a long career. For future candidates, the message is clear: focus on progress, not perfection and trust the preparation you put in.

In this blog, I share my experience adjusting to the food culture in the Netherlands as a student from Afghanistan. I will briefly reflect how food shaped my daily life, the challenges I faced early on, and the small discoveries that helped me adapt both practically and emotionally.

In Afghanistan, meals are deeply rooted in culture, community and routine. Everything is fresh. Vegetables are bought and cooked on the same day, and meat came directly from the local butcher.

Even spices were often blended at home. Every meal is cooked from scratch, and no table feels complete without the Afghan bread: warm, soft and freshly baked in the neighborhood tandoor (a clay oven or local bakery).

There is even a saying in Afghanistan: “A meal without bread is no meal”. It is an essential part of every meal and is deeply ingrained in the social and cultural fabric of Afghan life.

A new cooking routine 

In the Netherlands, everything about food culture felt unfamiliar at first. The meals were different, the ingredients were different and even the way people ate was different.

I was used to hot, freshly cooked meals three times a day, a routine deeply rooted in Afghan life.

In the Netherlands, especially at lunch time I noticed that people consume cold meals like sandwiches and salads. The most popular one is broodje kaas (bread with cheese). Only dinner is usually a hot meal.

Even though the Netherlands is known for its love of bread and the wide variety, I could not find the Afghan bread I grew up with. The bread available at the supermarkets was nice but to me it felt dry, unfamiliar, and I had nowhere to look for alternatives.

I did not yet know about the Turkish or Middle Eastern grocery stores, and I was still figuring out how Dutch supermarkets worked. Something simple as food had suddenly become a daily question mark.

In the beginning, every visit to the supermarket or the university’s cafeteria felt like a research project. I would just walk slowly through the aisles, scanning the shelves full of unfamiliar products, trying to understand what each item was and whether I could eat it.

It was not just about the taste. I had to be careful of the ingredients especially to avoid pork or pork gelatine and find halal options.

Even though some labels included helpful icons or allergy information, it still made me second-guess what I could choose.

It was not that the right options were not available or there were not enough places to eat.

There are several cafes around the campus with different food options, but as someone new to the system, the unfamiliarity itself made it difficult.

Exploring different stores and markets

Over time I started to try different things, and experiment with what worked for me and slowly I began to find food that I could eat comfortably and trustingly.

As I became more familiar with my surroundings, I started exploring beyond the supermarket shelves.

Sometimes, while biking through the city, I would come across a local market.

I would stop, ask a few questions about the days and timings, and return later to explore more.

These visits helped me understand not only the variety of products available, but also how prices and quality could vary from one place to another, even if two shops were just a few minutes apart. 

At first, it was all trial and error, I cooked the same dish using ingredients from different stores, paying attention to taste, freshness and price. Slowly, I built a mental map of where to buy what.

Now, I know exactly which shop to visit for which item, whether it is tomatoes, rice, lentils or herbs that remind me of home.

One of my happiest discoveries was finding bread that came close to the Afghan bread I grew up with.

While many Turkish and Middle Eastern bakeries exist in Amsterdam, every baker has their own style. It took time but I found the ones that suited my taste.

To any new student worried about missing the taste of home, worry not. The options are out there.

Whether it is the weekly markets, hidden international stores, or local bakeries, you will find what you need.

Be patient, be curious and do not hesitate to explore different neighborhoods.

I even found a small Afghan food shop tucked inside a food hall run by a couple. The flavors reminded me exactly of home.

If you are an international student currently navigating the food culture, it is okay to feel out of place at first.

But if you explore beyond the aisles of supermarkets, you might just find a taste of home in the most unexpected places. When you do, share your discoveries - they might help the next student.

Jawad Saleh is an LL.M. student in Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam, originally from Afghanistan. He aims to build a career in international dispute settlement and arbitration, and enjoys sharing his experiences to help fellow students adapt to life in the Netherlands. You can read his previous blog posts on what tools you need to start the school year, overcoming academic challenges and on hurdles when relocating to Europe.

So, here’s my personal guide, not a magic solution, but a few tips and tools that really helped me survive (and even enjoy) the year.

1) A calendar is crucial for organization

First, try using a planner or a digital calendar. It's such a helpful tool! I used to think I could remember all my deadlines in my head, but with classes, readings, assignments, and daily life pulling me in different directions, I started to forget things.

Having a calendar became like a trusted companion, ensuring I didn't miss any readings or deadlines. It even helps prevent double booking, so you can enjoy your social life without stress.

2) A dependable laptop is a useful investment

Having a dependable laptop makes a difference. I found this out the hard way when my old one would die halfway through a lecture or while I was working in a park on a sunny day.

Investing in a laptop with a long-lasting battery is such a great idea, especially if you enjoy studying outside or at a cosy café without the stress of searching for an outlet every hour.

3) Noise-canceling headphones help with focus

Speaking of studying in cafés, having a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can be a real game-changer. During exam season, when libraries are packed, they became my best friends. I loved that I could comfortably study in lively cafés, block out the background noise, or even listen to recorded lectures while on the move. It made my study routine so much more enjoyable and flexible.

4)  A legal dictionary can be a time saver

One thing I found surprisingly helpful was having a legal dictionary or online legal database on hand. While most readings are included, navigating case law can be tricky, especially if English isn’t your first language.

Having Black’s Law Dictionary or a similar resource nearby often saved me a lot of time.

One thing I've learned the hard way is to find study spots early. During exams, the law library fills up by 9 a.m., and searching for a seat can consume valuable time.

Over time, I discovered some great places, including a university library, a public library, and cosy cafés where students can comfortably work with their laptops for hours.

5) Easy-to-make ingredients for food on-the-go

Let's talk about food! Cooking every day while managing studies can be tiring, but I found a few easy tricks that helped.

I started preparing two or three meals at once, such as pasta, lentil dishes, or rice, so that I could save time during the week.

On especially busy days, when I didn't have anything ready, I’d swing by a supermarket, pick up some simple sandwich ingredients, and quickly make one during my break.

It’s much cheaper than eating out, keeps me full, and I can reuse the leftovers for another meal. Over time, this little trick made a big difference, saving me both money and stress during hectic weeks.

6) Electives early on help with workload

When it comes to courses, I realized a bit later that it’s better to take most of your electives in the first semester.

This way, the second semester feels a lot lighter, giving you more time to focus on your thesis and apply for jobs or internships. I wish I had known this from the beginning!

When it comes to exams, the block system can make them seem to go quickly, but there are friendly ways to handle them. Breaking your readings and notes into manageable weekly goals can make a big difference, helping you avoid last-minute cramming.

7) Find study groups

Studying with friends in study groups is also highly beneficial. It's a great way to review case law, recall important points, and gain new perspectives that you might not have considered on your own.

Plus, all the courses offer sample exams, so practicing with them early on can give you a real confidence boost and make you feel more prepared.

8) Find a way to organize your notes

Finally, let’s talk about notes. I used to write down everything the professor said, but it often felt overwhelming and didn’t help.

What truly made a difference for me was summarizing the main arguments, legal principles, and cases in my own words, then organizing my notes by topic.

Using different colors for rules, cases, and examples made reviewing so much easier and quicker.

Some friends loved using apps, but for me, printing and color-coding my notes by hand kept me focused and engaged.

Please remember to bring a water bottle with you. You might receive one, as I did from Amsterdam Law School during the introduction days, but if it's not your style, feel free to get one you love.

Staying hydrated makes a significant difference in maintaining your focus, especially during lengthy study sessions.

Jawad Saleh is an LL.M. student in Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam, originally from Afghanistan. He aims to build a career in international dispute settlement and arbitration, and enjoys sharing his experiences to help fellow students adapt to life in the Netherlands. You can read his previous blog posts on overcoming academic challenges and on hurdles when relocating to Europe.

However, it's crucial to be intentional about the type of position you take on, to be realistic, and once you have a position, to learn as much as possible. Those coming from outside the U.S. may need to consider the restrictions included in their visas before applying for certain positions. 

But a summer job or internship is a great way to get real-world experience in the legal field. 

Start early and focus positions that align with your future goals 

"Start as early as you can," advises Jessie Yao, an LL.M. graduate from UC Davis from China. "And connect with as many people as you can."

Yao took a systematic approach to job hunting. She moved to a larger city after graduation, San Jose, and then mapped nearby law firms using Google, researching individual partners on LinkedIn. 

Cold outreach, customized emails and persistent follow-ups eventually helped her land a summer law clerk position at a family law firm in San Jose.  

Yao says that for students coming from abroad, knowing a language other than English is one way to stand out from other applicants. 

Yao says within the legal industry, there's a market "need for people who can speak other languages," and that her ability to speak Mandarin was viewed as a strength during her interviews. 

Yao ultimately received three offers in her search but decided to accept a summer law clerk position at a family law firm in San Jose because she felt it represented a more straightforward path to becoming an attorney, regardless of which country she ultimately ends up in. 

Yao previously received a degree in law in her home country but has not practiced as a lawyer. 

"Other firms were only offering paralegal roles," she says, noting that firms are more likely to convert clerks into attorneys, especially those with U.S. bar admission.

An opportunity to learn the U.S. legal system and find mentors

After a decade of legal experience in her home country of Thailand, Yodsiri Taesiri, completed UCLA's LL.M. program in entertainment law in 2023 and is now an associate at a family law firm. 

Taesiri says her current position wouldn't have been possible if it weren't for the paralegal work she did for the same firm during the year immediately after completing the LL.M. program. It's through that work that she learned more about the U.S. legal system.

One of the most significant adjustments, she notes, was learning how to research and argue based on case precedent. 

"The first thing we do here is look for past cases. Back home, I would start with the statute," she says. 

That foundational difference in legal reasoning reshaped her approach to every matter she worked on.

After working as a paralegal for a year, Taesiri passed the California bar and eventually transitioned into an associate attorney position at the firm. 

That progression helped her build a comprehensive picture of the U.S. legal workplace, including administrative duties, client interaction, and litigation strategy.

Yody also discovered that workplace culture plays a significant role. The firm she joined was mid-sized and collegial, and while she didn't network externally, she found mentorship organically within the office. 

"Everyone here is super friendly," she says. 

"I can just go to basically anyone [if] I have a question or issue. I can just pop up next door to someone, and then they would help me.”

Maximize the summer experience

A passion for international law led UC Davis LL.M. student Lia Gurchiani to secure a dream internship at the U.N., working for her home country of Georgia.

Getting the position didn't come through a job portal, but rather through direct outreach and strategic networking.

"I sent around 70 applications for this summer," she recalls. "Nobody reached out to me." 

Then, a conversation with a U.N. staffer changed her approach. 

"What he advised was like, do not send applications. Try to find people who are working on programs that you're interested in and shoot them an email,” she says.

Now stationed with Georgia's U.N. mission in New York City, Gurchiani spends her days attending diplomatic sessions and conferences. These experiences align with her long-term goal of continuing to work in international law. 

Gurchiani, a green card holder, is using the summer internship experience to learn as much as she can about the U.N. before finishing up her LL.M. program in the fall. 

"You can attend any conference that any diplomat can," she says.  

As part of her role, Gurchiani attends U.N. sessions and high-level meetings, takes detailed notes, and presents her analysis to mission staff. 

Through this process, she's learning how countries position themselves and negotiate with one another in real time.

Her work also includes tracking country positions and preparing presentations. She's also developing a deeper understanding of the issues she cares about, like international criminal law and human rights, such as the war in Gaza.

“I'm like, ‘I can't believe I'm listening to this right now’," she says. 

She also sat in on UNICEF's annual session, as well as sessions on the war in Ukraine.

Gurchiani says she is keeping her focus on building relationships. She speaks with professionals in her field, follows up with conference speakers, and stays active on LinkedIn. 

"I have like … a little agenda for myself, you know—like try to talk to people, try to meet people, ask questions, you know, speak up, show yourself," she says.

What I didn't see coming was just how challenging adapting to the academic system would be, and it ended up being my toughest challenge yet. 

In this post, I’m excited to share my journey as an LL.M. student, covering everything from getting the hang of the block system to adjusting to a new teaching style and developing a study routine that felt just like a full-time job. 

Adapting to a New Schedule 

One of the first things that caught me off guard about studying at the University of Amsterdam was the block system. Before the semester began, I needed to enrol in courses, but I wasn't sure what the block system was all about. 

I knew I had to complete specific courses within a semester, yet I was confused about how these short course blocks fit into the overall schedule. 

When I received my schedule, I realized that each course only lasted two months. It was surprising because exams came much sooner than I'm used to. 

Back home, my university followed a traditional semester system where we took five or six courses at once and sat for exams at the end of the term. 

In contrast, the block system was quite different, allowing me to focus on just one to three courses at a time, complete them, and then move on to the next set, each with its exams. 

It felt like a fresh and manageable way to learn, and I appreciated the opportunity to concentrate more deeply on each subject. 

Although the pace was quite intense at first, with exams every two months, I began to see how beneficial the system truly is. It offers some wonderful advantages. 

For example, it helps you develop your knowledge gradually. You start with the basics in international law, and as you progress to more advanced classes, you're already comfortable with the key ideas and case law. This steady progress makes it easier to connect with the material on a deeper level.

Additionally, the block system significantly reduces the stress of managing multiple courses simultaneously. It allows you to focus on just one to three subjects, making it simpler to give your full attention. 

Compared to the semester system I was used to, where overlapping content could sometimes be confusing, this setup felt more organised and streamlined, helping me stay on top of everything. 

A More Participatory Method of Learning

During my bachelor’s studies, I mostly attended lectures where I enjoyed taking notes, listening to the instructor, and preparing for exams. 

While discussions were available, they weren’t the main focus of learning. However, during my Master’s program in the Netherlands, I had a great opportunity to transition towards more independent studying and actively engaging in the learning process.

We usually do most of the reading before class, and the sessions often blend lectures with lively seminars where we analyze case law, discuss different interpretations, and ask questions. The professor acts more like a guide than just a presenter of information. 

I still remember receiving an email from a professor before a course started, kindly reminding us that doing the readings beforehand and actively participating in class are important. 

The email also mentioned that the course isn't meant for students to sit back during lectures and passively listen to the law and international law practices. 

The required readings already cover those basics. If we complete the readings before class, we can engage more fully with the topics, better grasp the complexities of international legal issues, and develop essential skills such as identifying problems, applying rules, interpreting laws, and making compelling arguments. 

I still vividly remember the professor’s words in that email: “Just as you expect me to be prepared, so do I in return.” 

While it’s true that many students weren’t fond of this approach and some still disagree, I found it inspiring. It felt like we were moving away from just passively listening, encouraging us to become more engaged and active in class. Initially, this change was challenging, but ultimately, it proved to be truly rewarding. 

Adjusting to this new academic rhythm was also not easy for me. I come from a country, Afghanistan, that ranks among the top five with the lowest literacy rates, at around 37.3%. The reason? In two words: “Non-stop conflict.” 

Despite the challenges, I achieved this stage in my education through my efforts and the unwavering support of my family and friends. 

Back home, I was used to preparing mainly before exams or major assignments. However, consistent preparation was essential here. 

Falling behind on readings meant falling behind in understanding, which makes participating in class more difficult and stressful. 

At first, I felt overwhelmed, not because the material was too difficult, but because I had not yet established the routine needed to keep up. 

Changing Mindset to Find Balance

Balancing the workload across lectures, seminars, assignments, and self-study often made it seem like I had no time left for anything else.

My perspective on studying completely changed in a single moment. One day, after lunch at the university, a classmate mentioned she had to head back to work. 

Curious, I asked her where she worked. She smiled and said, “I mean study, that is work too, no?” That sentence stuck with me. 

It made me realize I had been treating my studies as something to squeeze in between other tasks, rather than as my main priority. From then on, I started treating my studies like a full-time job, staying focused and dedicating structured hours to it. 

That small change in mindset helped me reduce stress, stay on top of my work, and find a healthier balance between study and life. I wouldn't say I've perfected it, but I've certainly made some great progress.

Reflecting on my experience, adapting to a new academic system was both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

It helped me develop discipline, manage my time more effectively, and take responsibility for my studies. Every student is different; some might already have a solid study routine. 

However, if you're coming to the Netherlands and haven't yet, it's important to expect some changes in how learning is structured.

Be gentle with yourself, start establishing a steady study habit early on, and treat your classes as if they were a full-time job. Changing your mindset won't happen overnight, but trust me, it will. Soon, what once felt unfamiliar will start to feel normal. Additionally, you'll have your evenings and weekends free for part-time jobs or activities you enjoy. 

Academic challenges can also impact personal life, from feeling isolated or overwhelmed to struggling with finding the right places to study, or socialize. In the next blog, I will reflect on these individual challenges and explore ways to find a balance.

Jawad Saleh is an LL.M. student in Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam, originally from Afghanistan. He aims to build a career in international dispute settlement and arbitration, and enjoys sharing his experiences to help fellow students adapt to life in the Netherlands. You can read his previous blog post on hurdles when relocating to Europe here.

Every day, he would wake up early, make a big pot of coffee, and start his studying for a couple of hours before he had to leave for work. Arriving home around 6 pm, he’d take a short break before resuming his studying in earnest. 

“I used to study until late night, sometimes past 1 am. And then you wake up the next day and you go again,” says Marengo.

While studying for the bar can be all-consuming and perhaps overwhelming, there are some helpful tips and useful advice that can get you through the process of successfully studying for it that Mauricio and others who have been through the process learned through experience. 

1. Take a Broad Perspective on Studying  

To begin with, study the topics broadly, rather than deeply. To pass the bar, you don’t need to be an expert on any of the subjects tested, rather, you need to know enough about enough areas of the law to end up on the passing side of the grading curve. 

“Think of it as a game of probabilities. The more you practice, the more you go deeper into it, the higher the chances that you will find such practice questions in the test or questions alike, thus you'll be able to answer them quickly,” Marengo advises. 

2. Find the Right Study Tools

It is also helpful to find the study assistants that work for you. Angela Rutledge is a dual UK-US citizen, and originally intended to become a solicitor in the UK before landing at Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University for her LL.M. 

When she was studying for the bar, she found she had to choose the tools that worked best for her learning style, especially because she has ADHD. 

“It was really great to have BARBRI, but also it was sort of like a little bit of a curse, I'm someone who has ADHD… the way that BarBri is set up is just not ideal for me,” said Rutledge. 

“I also like Quimby a lot. Quimby has unlimited essay grading tools, and I think that you should be able to use that to your advantage.” 

Rutledge found that utilizing a bar coach was useful for her, who could keep her on track with her studying and make sure she was prepared mentally and physically for the bar. 

Using tools like flashcards can also be helpful. Marengo utilized flashcards that let him add his notes to the cards, and he did more than 2200 practice questions of practice with the assistance of the flashcards. 

Rutledge also made her own podcast, assisted by AI, to help her and others study while they’re driving, called Study For The Bar In Your Car. 

“Previous to law, I worked in technology, and now I'm using AI and I'm taking all my notes for studying for the bar exam, and I'm putting it into AI, and I'm generating podcasts,” says Rutledge. 

“I'm releasing an episode every day, and it just goes through every single bar topic… even in producing the audio, I have to sit, listen, and take stuff out if it doesn't work, because AI isn't always right.”

3. Practice with Mock Tests

When studying for the bar, it also helps to take time to do mock tests that simulate the conditions of taking the bar. And when taking mock tests or practicing essays, make sure to time yourself to assure that you’re staying within the time that will be allotted during the bar. 

“Practice timing yourself and try to get everything under the 30 minute rule; otherwise you run out of time,” says Marengo. 

“You [might] want to try to put more information than needed or than requested from the examiners, just in order for you to prove that you know it, and that's a mistake.” 

And as you practice, make sure to check the answer and the explanations, so if you are wrong you can learn why and gain a deeper understanding of the rationale behind each answer. 

Marengo also advises doing essays with notes open, so you can learn as you write and use the essays as an opportunity for practicing and retaining the information.

And through all the studying, be sure to take care of your mental state and physical health. Make sure to eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, practice mindfulness exercises like meditation, make time for activities you enjoy, and take breaks. 

Studying for the bar can be a mentally taxing journey, and in order to be successful, it's necessary to take care of yourself and not just your flashcards. 

“You have to truly dig deep in yourself, because you will feel so unmotivated. There will be lots of lack of motivation during your bar prep that you will feel maybe this isn't for me,” says Marengo. 

“And after feeling that, you still have to dig deeper and say, ‘Okay, this is what I really want. It is one of my dreams. So I have to go after it, and this is what it takes to achieve it.’"

Katie Nadworny is a writer based in Istanbul, Turkey. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, National Geographic, BBC, Politico, and many other publications.

For most international students, this transition is both thrilling and overwhelming. But hey, it is often the challenges that makes the journey exciting and memorable. 

One of the first most important steps for international students arriving in the Netherlands is getting their Burgerservicenummer (BSN). 

This is a citizen service number, your official identity in the Dutch system. You receive it after registering your address with the municipality, called the municipality in Dutch. 

Once registered, the municipality issues your BSN, and from that point on, it is essential for almost everything: health care, insurance, salary slips, taxes, pensions, vaccination records, and even social benefits and allowances.

Gateway To Settling In The Country

In the Netherlands, every person is required to have a BSN, whether born there or newly arrived. While the concept isn’t unique to the Netherlands, many countries in Europe have a similar system. 

I, on the other hand, came from Afghanistan, where I knew nothing about this kind of system and bureaucracy. I had no idea how much this one number could control daily life.  

I arrived in the Netherlands about six weeks before my master’s program started. Since I did not yet have my own place, I stayed with a friend while waiting to move into student housing for which I had a housing contract. 

I was eager to settle in and get things organized, but I quickly ran into my first real obstacle: I had no idea what a BSN was or how crucial it would be to my daily life in the Netherlands.

Back home in Afghanistan, the government only issues a Tax Income Number (TIN), mostly to businesses, organizations and officials. TIN is purely for tax purposes. The BSN, however, plays a much broader role, something I had not imagined before coming here.

My first task after arriving in the Netherlands was to receive my residence permit, which was a piece of cake. 

But my second task, opening a Dutch bank account, now that was a different story. I needed that account before my studies started so I could transfer money from my Afghan account and pay my university tuition fee, the only requirement left for the enrolment. 

At that time, I did not have any idea what a BSN even was. Completely unfamiliar with bureaucracy, I just walked into a bank branch expecting to open an account right away. Instead, I was told that I need to make an appointment first via a call. I remember thinking “this only takes like what, 30 minutes! and I have to wait several days for a time slot?” So I waited.

During my appointment with the bank branch, I found out to be able to open an account, I first needed a BSN. I asked the bank staff, “what is a BSN and where can I get it from?” Their answer: municipality.

So naturally I also just walked straight into the municipality building, with no idea how the system worked. 

Unsurprisingly, I was told I needed to make an appointment first. When I finally called, I was shocked - the next available slot was four months away. I remember thinking, “I cannot survive four months without a bank account”. At that point I felt completely stuck, stressed, confused, and unsure of what to do next.

I even tried calling the municipality of other cities, hoping to find an earlier appointment somewhere else, but no luck. 

Administrative Relief For Students

Eventually, I learned that the municipality would open a special five-day window just for international students to register and get their BSN. That news gave me a sense of relief. Finally, something was going in my favor. 

Looking back, the funny part is, I was trying to get a BSN before I even moved into my own address. I had no idea that having a personal, registered address was a requirement. I was basically chasing a ghost, lost in a system I did not yet understand, and without any proper guidance. 

In the end, I managed to get my BSN and opened a bank account before my program started. 

It is important to know that the BSN is only issued when you are officially registered at an address, not just staying with a friend, subletting or living in a hostel. You need a signed rental contract in your own name. 

Thankfully, an update last year has made things a bit easier. Now, students can open a bank account without a BSN, as long as they update it within 90 days. It is a welcome change that can take some pressure off new arrivals. 

In the next article, I will talk about one of the most personal aspects of moving abroad: adapting to the food culture and how much I missed the tastes of home.  

Jawad Saleh is an LLM student in Public International Law at the University of Amsterdam, originally from Afghanistan. He aims to build a career in international dispute settlement and arbitration, and enjoys sharing his experiences to help fellow students adapt to life in the Netherlands.

But for many students, the cost and complexity of relocating, or the risk of visa delays or denials, makes it difficult.

Several U.S. law schools now offer Online LL.M. programs that match the academic quality and professional benefits of their on-campus counterparts. 

For working lawyers or students with family and financial responsibilities, these programs offer a path to a U.S. legal education without needing to relocate.

Here’s a look at five universities offering a fully Online LL.M. degree, and how they’re designing their programs to meet the needs of global students.

Temple University Beasley School of Law

Temple’s Online LL.M. in International Business Law evolved out of decades of experience delivering legal education in China. 

After pivoting to online classes during the pandemic, the school realized there was a significant demand for students who wanted to pursue a LL.M. from a U.S. school.

“There’s a definite market of international students who want a U.S. LL.M. and bar eligibility but can’t relocate for a year due to visa issues or work and family commitments,” says program director Tarrant Mahony. 

“We built on the pandemic model and created a standalone online option.”

The program is designed for practicing lawyers who want to understand U.S. law in an international business context. 

Courses include contracts, the American legal system, corporate compliance, and international commercial arbitration. A professional responsibility course is also offered for students pursuing the California bar exam.

California allows Online LL.M. graduates to sit for the bar, unlike New York, which requires in-person attendance. 

Students can also choose to complete their final term at Temple’s Rome campus, avoiding U.S. visa issues while still benefiting from an immersive experience.

The University of Southern California Gould School of Law 

USC began offering its Online LL.M. in a fully-remote format as early as 2014, but interest has grown since the pandemic as more students seek convenient and flexible study options.

“The program attracts lawyers abroad and U.S.-based paralegals or legal assistants looking to advance their legal careers,” says Nicholas Kajimoto, director of online and graduate programs at USC Gould.

The curriculum blends asynchronous and synchronous learning. 

“Students complete readings, assignments, and discussion posts on their own schedule, then join weekly live Zoom sessions,” he explains.

Some courses also include group work, and participation may factor into grading.

USC Gould offers 12 specializations, including a California bar track. While the school cannot guarantee bar eligibility (since each state sets its own rules), the program is approved by the state bar of California. 

Advisors also check in each semester to help students stay on track with academic and professional goals.

University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law

UNH’s LL.M. degree in international criminal law and justice is designed for legal working across borders, with a focus on urgent global issues like cybercrime, human trafficking, white-collar crime, and global human rights violations. What sets it apart is that it is one of the only law schools offering a program in international criminal law and justice. It’s also offered entirely online, with the option to study full-time or part-time.

Students can start in January or August and move through the coursework at their own pace, with guidance from faculty who bring real-world, international expertise to the classroom.

University of Dayton School of Law

The University of Dayton’s Online LL.M. program in American and transnational law is designed for U.S. and foreign-trained attorneys who are interested in advancing their career in U.S. law and legal practice.

One of the strengths of Dayton’s program is that its curriculum and academic advising is tailored to the state bar exams for the jurisdictions of California and Washington state. 

Students are paired with academic success coaches and receive access to bar preparation resources, legal writing tutoring, and career services throughout the course.

Albany Law School

One of the standout features of Albany Law’s Online LL.M. is its flexibility and breadth. The program offers five specialized tracks, including cybersecurity and data privacy, health law, and government affairs, allowing internationally trained lawyers to focus on areas most relevant to their careers.

Albany Law’s Online LL.M. combines the flexibility of asynchronous learning with a robust, academically rigorous curriculum that is led by experienced faculty. Online students can apply for scholarships and federal financial aid, making Albany Law’s LL.M. a more affordable and attainable option for advancing a legal career.

Online LL.M.’s are increasingly being seen as a practical way to earn a U.S. law degree, especially for international students who may face geopolitical barriers or not have the ability to relocate.

Shaistha Khan is a journalist, writer, and communications specialist with 14 years of experience across business and professional development, personal finance, oil and gas, and travel and tourism industries. She has worked in seven countries, with Canada being the most recent. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) and a diploma in Public Relations and Reputation Management.