Indolawppower

On May 22, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Secretary Kristi Noem, revoked Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)—a designation required for U.S. institutions to legally host international students. The move immediately jeopardized the legal status of over 6,800 international students at Harvard.

The administration justified its decision by alleging that Harvard failed to comply with federal requests for detailed records on international students, including disciplinary histories and protest activity. DHS further accused the university of fostering antisemitism and claimed, without substantiation, that Harvard maintained ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

Harvard swiftly rejected the accusations, calling the action both “unlawful” and “retaliatory.” The university resolved to file a lawsuit in federal court to challenge the revocation.

At its core, the Trump administration’s decision raises serious legal and constitutional questions:

• First Amendment: Harvard argues that the federal government’s demands infringe on academic freedom and free speech by targeting how the university handles campus protests and implements diversity policies.

• Administrative Procedure Act (APA): The sudden decertification—without prior notice or opportunity to respond—appears to violate the APA’s requirement that federal agencies act transparently and reasonably.

• Fifth Amendment Due Process: With thousands of students at risk of losing their visa status, the university contends the action denies both the institution and its students fundamental procedural rights.

Legal Remedies and Where the Case Stands

Harvard’s principal remedy is through Federal courts. And the potential outcomes are as follows:

Possible Outcomes

1. Preliminary Injunction Becomes Permanent (Highly Likely)

Given the urgency and constitutional weight of the case, the injunction may become permanent—preserving Harvard’s certification as the case moves forward.

2. Full Reinstatement of SEVP Certification (Moderate to High Likelihood)

If the court finds DHS acted arbitrarily or retaliatorily, it is likely to order the full reinstatement of Harvard’s certification, reestablishing its authority to enroll international students.

3. Appeal or Supreme Court Review (Moderate Likelihood)

Should the administration lose at the district level, it may appeal to the circuit court—and potentially the U.S. Supreme Court—especially if broader questions of immigration and institutional autonomy are at play.

4. Administrative Reversal or Settlement (Low to Moderate Likelihood)

To avoid extended litigation or public backlash, the administration could quietly reverse the decision or agree to a conditional reinstatement (e.g., contingent on limited data-sharing), particularly if political pressure mounts.

What’s at Stake

This dispute isn’t just about one university’s certification—it’s a high-stakes confrontation over the limits of federal authority, academic freedom, and the treatment of international students. The outcome could shape how U.S. universities interact with federal oversight, especially when political motivations threaten institutional independence.

Regardless of how the case unfolds, one thing is clear: the legal and cultural implications will reverberate far beyond Harvard’s gates.

When it comes to choosing an LLM program in the United States, many candidates understandably turn to rankings. After all, it seems intuitive that a program ranked in the “Top 14” must be better than one ranked 20th, right?

Not necessarily.

While rankings like U.S. News & World Report can offer a rough snapshot of a school’s reputation, they often fail to capture the real differences in academic experience, faculty quality, professional opportunities, and long-term value that truly define a program. In fact, treating rankings as the final word can lead talented candidates to miss out on programs that would have offered them a better education—and a better future.

Here’s why you should take rankings with a grain of salt—and how to make a more informed decision.

1. LLMs Are a Different World From JDs

Most U.S. law school rankings are designed for JD (Juris Doctor) programs, not LLMs. Yet the needs of LLM students—many of whom are international lawyers—are often very different. Some schools are fantastic for JD students but have relatively limited support for LLMs. Others, while ranked lower overall, have world-class professors, courses, and career services specifically tailored to the needs of LLM candidates.

2. Academic and Practice Strengths Vary Wildly

A “top” law school may have global prestige but may not necessarily excel in the field you want to specialize in. For example, a lower-ranked school might have a much stronger program in international arbitration, human rights, tax, or IP law than a higher-ranked one. Always dig into specific faculty, centers, clinics, and course offerings—don’t just assume the big brand name is the best fit for you.

3. Size and Selectivity Matter

Some LLM programs are highly selective and keep their class size small, offering greater access to professors, tighter-knit communities, and more personalized career support. Others admit hundreds of students each year, which can dilute resources and attention. A “top-ranked” school with an enormous LLM cohort may not offer the level of individual support you expect.

4. Location, Location, Location

In the legal profession, proximity to a major market often matters. Schools located in cities like New York, Washington D.C., or San Francisco may offer easier access to internships, networking, and post-LLM job opportunities—even if they aren’t ranked at the very top. Law is a practical profession: relationships and access can sometimes matter as much as classroom learning.

5. The Intangibles Are Real

Some schools simply offer a better educational environment—more engaged professors, a more supportive culture, more proactive career services—than others. These qualities don’t show up in rankings, but they can make an enormous difference in your experience and future success.

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Final Thoughts: Choose Fit Over Fame

Of course, rankings can still be a useful starting point. But when it comes to choosing your LLM program, dig deeper. Research faculty profiles. Talk to alumni. Understand the school’s reputation in your field and in your target market.

Remember: not all top law schools offer a top LLM experience—and at the end of the day, your education is too important to leave to a number on a list.

So you’ve just graduated with your LL.B. or Sarjana Hukum, you’re wondering: Should I go straight into an LL.M. program?

It’s a tempting path—one more year of study, an international experience, maybe even a shot at the New York Bar. But is it the right move now?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of pursuing an LL.M. immediately after your undergraduate law degree, and what you should consider before applying.

What Is an LL.M., Really?

An LL.M. (Master of Laws) is a postgraduate legal degree designed to deepen your expertise in a particular area of law (like international arbitration, human rights, or corporate law), expose you to a new legal system (like U.S. common law), or help you qualify for certain bar exams (like New York).

It’s not a requirement for legal practice in most jurisdictions—but it can open doors.

The Pros of Doing an LL.M. Right After Graduation

1. Academic Momentum

You’re still in student mode. Your research, reading, and writing habits are fresh. You may be better prepared to handle the fast pace of a one-year LL.M. than someone who’s been out of school for years.

2. International Exposure

Studying abroad for your LL.M. offers cultural and academic immersion, global networking, and potentially the chance to pivot your career toward international law or multinational practice.

3. Bar Eligibility

If your end goal is practicing law in the United States, some U.S. LL.M. programs can make you eligible for the New York Bar Exam, even if you’re from a civil law jurisdiction.

4. Specialization

Not ready to commit to a full-time job? An LL.M. allows you to focus on an area of law you’re passionate about—before getting boxed into a practice area by your first job.

The Cons to Consider

1. Lack of Work Experience

LL.M. programs are often filled with lawyers who have at least 2–5 years of legal practice. Without experience, you may find it harder to engage with advanced legal content—or compete for jobs post-graduation.

2. Limited Return on Investment

An LL.M. is expensive. Without practical experience, it may not meaningfully increase your earning power—especially if you’re not staying in the U.S. or U.K. to work afterward.

3. Visa and Employment Challenges

If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, you’re eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT)—but many employers hesitate to hire graduates with no U.S. work authorization or practical legal experience.

4. Academic Burnout

After five years of law school (or more), you may need a break. Jumping straight into another intense academic year can lead to burnout, especially if you’re not doing it with a clear purpose.

When It Makes Sense to Go Straight In

• You’re aiming for a legal academic career or Ph.D. in law and need a stepping stone.

• You’ve been admitted to a top program with strong career support and networking opportunities.

• You have a clear goal (e.g., New York bar admission, a career in international institutions) and know the LL.M. is the next logical step.

• You’ve received funding or scholarships that significantly reduce the financial burden.

When It’s Better to Wait

• You’re unsure about your legal interests or career direction.

• You want to strengthen your résumé first with practical experience.

• You’re hoping to transition into a new legal market (e.g., the U.S.) but lack the credentials employers look for.

• You’re concerned about return on investment without relevant work history.

Final Thoughts: The LL.M. Is Not a Shortcut—It’s a Strategic Tool

An LL.M. can be powerful—but it’s not a silver bullet. Doing it right after law school can work well if you’re academically motivated, internationally minded, and clear about your goals. But for many, waiting a few years to gain legal experience can make the LL.M. more valuable, both professionally and personally.

If you’re considering this path, ask yourself:

What do I want this LL.M. to do for me—and can it do that right now?

If you’re an international lawyer considering a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree, one of the first decisions you’ll face is where to pursue it: the United States or the United Kingdom. Both destinations offer world-class legal education, but they differ significantly in structure, academic focus, cost, and—crucially—eligibility for the bar exam.

Here’s a breakdown of how U.S. and U.K. LL.M. programs compare, specifically in terms of the number of courses and bar exam eligibility.

1. Number of Courses

United States

U.S. LL.M. programs typically require students to complete 24–30 credit hours over one academic year. This translates to around 6 to 10 courses, depending on the credit weight of each class. Many programs offer flexibility in course selection, allowing LL.M. students to choose from a wide range of J.D.-level courses, including specialized seminars and practical skills classes.

United Kingdom

U.K. LL.M. programs tend to be more theoretical and research-oriented. Most involve taking three to four taught modules, followed by a dissertation of 10,000–15,000 words. The overall workload is significant, but the number of classroom contact hours is usually lower compared to U.S. programs.

2. Bar Exam Eligibility

United States

One of the major advantages of doing an LL.M. in the U.S.—particularly for foreign-trained lawyers—is the possibility of sitting for the New York Bar Exam. Most U.S. LL.M. programs are designed to meet the academic requirements for bar eligibility, provided students choose the right combination of courses (such as Professional Responsibility, Corporations, and U.S. Constitutional Law).

However, bar eligibility varies by state. While New York and California are the most accessible for foreign LL.M. graduates, other states have stricter or different rules. It’s essential to check the bar eligibility criteria of your target jurisdiction before enrolling.

United Kingdom

U.K. LL.M. programs do not make you eligible for any U.S. bar exam. If your end goal is to qualify as a lawyer in the U.S., an LL.M. from the U.K. won’t help much—unless you’re already qualified in a common law jurisdiction and meet the experience requirements for a U.S. bar (a narrow and complicated path).

On the flip side, U.K. programs may be better suited for lawyers interested in international law, human rights, academic careers, or working within global institutions like the United Nations or the International Court of Justice.

3. Cost and Duration

United States

U.S. LL.M. programs are expensive, with tuition alone often exceeding $60,000–$75,000, not including living expenses in cities like New York, Boston, or San Francisco. The program typically lasts 9 to 12 months full-time.

United Kingdom

U.K. programs are generally more affordable, with lower tuition fees and shorter program durations (some finish in as little as 9 months). Top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, and UCL also offer generous scholarships, including Rhodes, Chevening, Gates Cambridge, and Clarendon.

4. Career Opportunities

U.S. LL.M.

If you’re aiming to work in the U.S. legal market, especially in international arbitration, corporate law, or compliance, a U.S. LL.M. gives you better proximity to employers and eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) under an F-1 visa.

U.K. LL.M.

A U.K. LL.M. can be a great stepping stone for a career in international organizations, academia, or cross-border legal work, especially in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, or Commonwealth countries.

Writing a personal statement for an LL.M. application can feel like walking a tightrope. You’re told to be honest but strategic, personal but professional, confident but humble. So how do you strike the right balance?

Here are some practical tips—especially for Indonesian applicants—on writing a compelling, thoughtful, and memorable personal statement.

1. Be Vulnerable, But Don’t Make Your Reader Uncomfortable

Yes, you should be authentic. You don’t have to pretend everything in your journey has been perfect. Admissions committees appreciate maturity, reflection, and emotional intelligence. If you’ve faced obstacles—academic, financial, personal—feel free to acknowledge them.

But here’s the key:

Don’t turn your statement into a trauma dump. Your struggles should serve a narrative purpose: How did they shape your values? Your resilience? Your decision to pursue an LL.M.?

Good vulnerability:

“Coming from a single-income household, I often studied at public libraries because I couldn’t afford internet at home. That experience made me resourceful and taught me the value of persistence.”

Uncomfortable vulnerability:

“I cried every night and lost all motivation during my undergraduate years…”

Keep it honest, but focus on growth and insight, not just hardship.

2. Talk Less About Indonesia. Talk More About You.

Many Indonesian applicants fall into the trap of turning their personal statement into an op-ed about Indonesian politics or a critique of the legal system.

While context is important, remember: U.S. law schools are not admitting Indonesia. They’re admitting you.

It’s fine to mention legal challenges in Indonesia if they’ve shaped your interest in the law or your LL.M. goals. But don’t let that dominate your narrative.

Instead of writing:

“Indonesia’s environmental laws are weak, and corporations often escape liability.”

Try this:

“My internship at a legal aid NGO in Jakarta exposed me to the gap between environmental regulations and enforcement. That experience sparked my interest in regulatory frameworks and led me to pursue courses in environmental law.”

Make it personal. Make it about your journey, not just your country’s problems.

3. Focus on Clarity, Not Poetry

A personal statement isn’t a literary essay. You don’t need fancy metaphors or overly emotional openings. Your goal is to be clear, sincere, and organized.

Use simple language. Prioritize structure:

• Paragraph 1: Who are you and why law?

• Paragraph 2–3: Academic and professional experiences that shaped your interests

• Paragraph 4: Why an LL.M.? Why now?

• Paragraph 5: Why this school and how it aligns with your goals

4. Show, Don’t Tell

Instead of saying, “I am passionate about international law,” show that passion through a concrete example:

“While working on a cross-border arbitration case involving an Indonesian energy company, I realized how international legal frameworks could shift outcomes across jurisdictions.”

Details bring your story to life. Generic statements fade into the pile.

5. Tailor It to Each School

Avoid using the same personal statement for every application. Show that you’ve done your research. Mention specific courses, faculty members, clinics, or journals that align with your interests.

“Columbia’s Center for International Commercial and Investment Arbitration aligns closely with my goal of building a career in investor-state dispute settlement.”

This shows you’re serious—and not just copy-pasting your way through the process.

6. End With a Vision, Not a Vague Wish

Don’t wrap up your personal statement with something like:

“I hope the LL.M. will help me grow.”

Be specific. Tie your past to your future.

7. DO NOT TALK ABOUT POLITICS

Self-explanatory.

Final Thoughts

The personal statement is your chance to speak directly to the admissions committee—not your grades, not your resume, you. Use that opportunity wisely. Be real. Be thoughtful. And above all, be focused on yourself—your story, your growth, and your goals.

When applying for an LL.M. program in the U.S., securing strong letters of recommendation is more than just a box to check. It’s a critical part of your application that can either reinforce your strengths—or quietly weaken your candidacy.

Unfortunately, many applicants make the same mistake: chasing a “famous name” instead of a meaningful endorsement.

Let’s talk about how to secure the best possible letters of recommendation—and why getting a letter from someone well-known who barely knows you can actually hurt your chances.

What Makes a Recommendation Letter “Good”?

U.S. law schools are looking for authentic, detailed, and personal insights into your academic or professional potential. A strong letter doesn’t just say “She is an excellent candidate.” It explains why.

Strong letters typically:

• Come from people who have worked closely with you

• Give specific examples of your skills, growth, and character

• Reflect an understanding of the LL.M. and why you’re pursuing it

• Compare you favorably to peers

• Convey genuine enthusiasm

The Temptation of Big Names

It’s understandable. When you’re choosing recommenders, it’s tempting to think that a letter from a senior partner, former ambassador, current or former president, or professor with a Harvard PhD will make your application shine.

But here’s the hard truth: prestige without substance can damage your application.

Admissions officers can spot a vague, generic letter in seconds. They read thousands every year. And when a letter starts with “Although I have not worked closely with the applicant…” or “Based on our brief interactions…”, it raises a red flag.

The Risk of “Empty Prestige”

A high-profile name can’t compensate for a weak letter. In fact, it can backfire by:

• Making you appear strategic rather than sincere

• Undermining your credibility (Why didn’t you choose someone who actually knows you?)

• Offering little useful information about your abilities or potential

• Disrupting the consistency of your overall application

In contrast, a thoughtful letter from a lecturer, supervisor, or even a mid-level associate who mentored you—but knows you well—will always carry more weight.

Who Should You Ask?

1. Professors Who Taught You (and Remember You)

Ideal if you’re applying soon after graduation or have stayed in touch. Especially valuable if they supervised your thesis, coached your moot court team, or taught you core subjects.

2. Supervisors at Work

Perfect for applicants with work experience. A letter from someone who saw your legal research, writing, or case strategy firsthand will have real impact.

3. Mentors or Team Leaders

If someone has coached you, led your internship, or supervised a pro bono project you joined, their insights can be powerful—even if they don’t hold a flashy title.

Tip: Choose someone who will take the time to write a strong, specific letter—not someone who agrees reluctantly or delegates it to their secretary.

How to Help Your Recommenders Help You

Once you’ve chosen the right people, set them up for success:

• Ask early (at least 4–6 weeks in advance)

• Explain why you’re applying for an LL.M.

• Share your resume and personal statement

• Gently remind them of the work you did together

• Provide a deadline and submission instructions

This isn’t just polite—it ensures that their letter supports and strengthens the narrative you’re building in your overall application.

Final Thoughts

In LL.M. applications, letters of recommendation are not about name-dropping. They’re about credibility, insight, and authenticity.

So choose people who know you, believe in you, and can clearly explain why you belong in a U.S. law school classroom.

Remember: An honest letter from someone who’s seen you in action is worth far more than a generic one from someone who’s seen your name on a guest list.

When applying for an LL.M. program in the U.S., most candidates focus on grades, English proficiency, and the personal statement. But there’s another powerful way to make your application stand out—extracurricular activities, especially mooting.

In particular, if you’ve participated in the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, you’re holding one of the most respected global credentials a law student can bring to the table. Empirically speaking, over the past ten years, with only two exceptions, Jessup alumni from Indonesia have been admitted to Harvard LLM program each year. This year alone, two Jessup alumni were admitted to Harvard LLM Class of 2026.

Why Extracurriculars Matter in LL.M. Applications

U.S. law schools don’t just want students who can get good grades. They want intellectually curious, engaged individuals who will bring diverse experiences and perspectives into the classroom. That’s where extracurriculars come in.

Activities like moot court, debate, student journals, and legal clinics show that you:

• Have applied legal reasoning in practice

• Can work well under pressure

• Thrive in a collaborative, team-based environment

• Take initiative outside the classroom

• Possess oral advocacy and legal writing skills—critical for success in U.S. classrooms

Why Jessup Moot Court Stands Out

The Philip C. Jessup Moot is the world’s largest and most prestigious public international law competition founded by Harvard Law School. Every year, thousands of law students from over 100 countries argue a fictional case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Here’s why Jessup experience is so valuable:

1. Substantive Legal Knowledge

Jessup deals with complex issues of international law—jurisdiction, treaty interpretation, human rights, state responsibility. This aligns perfectly with LL.M. specializations like international law, human rights, arbitration, and foreign relations law.

2. Legal Research & Writing

Preparing memorials for Jessup demands a deep dive into treaties, UN documents, ICJ jurisprudence, and academic commentary. These are exactly the skills you’ll use in an LL.M. program.

3. Oral Advocacy

If you’ve stood up and argued a Jessup case—especially at the national or international rounds—you’ve already done what many LL.M. students find intimidating: speaking persuasively in English on complex legal issues.

4. Prestige & Recognition

Admissions officers know Jessup. If you mention that you competed—or coached—on your resume or personal statement, they’ll take notice. Top U.S. law schools have long histories with Jessup and respect the level of skill it requires.

5. Demonstrated Commitment

Training for Jessup often takes months of hard work—balancing classes, writing submissions, and preparing for rounds. This kind of dedication reflects the maturity and work ethic LL.M. programs value.

What If You Didn’t Win?

You don’t have to have reached the international rounds or won an award for your Jessup experience to matter. Just participating—especially if you made it to the national quarterfinals, semifinals, or final—is already a strong indicator of potential.

If you were a coach, researcher, or team captain, mention that too. Leadership, mentoring, and strategic thinking all count.

How to Highlight Jessup in Your Application

Here’s where you can work it in:

• Resume: Include Jessup under leadership or moot court experience. Specify your role, the year, and how far your team progressed.

• Personal Statement: Reflect on how Jessup shaped your interest in international law or your desire to study in the U.S.

• Letters of Recommendation: A coach or faculty advisor can speak to your legal acumen, teamwork, and growth.

• Writing Sample (if required): Use your Jessup memorial—if allowed—as a legal writing sample.

Final Thoughts

For Indonesian applicants—especially from faculties like UI, UGM, UPH, Unpad, and Atma Jaya—Jessup participation is a serious asset in your LL.M. journey. It shows you’re not just academically capable, but globally engaged and professionally ready.

So if you’ve spent late nights editing memorials, lost your voice during national rounds, or coached a team to the finals—you’ve already proven yourself in ways that U.S. law schools deeply value.

If you’re an Indonesian law graduate planning to apply for a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in the United States, you’re probably wondering: Seberapa penting nilai kuliah saya? The short answer: Grades are important—but they are not the only thing that matters.

In this blog post, we’ll unpack how U.S. law schools evaluate academic records from Indonesia, what strong grades look like in context, and how to strengthen your application even if your IPK (GPA) isn’t perfect.

Why U.S. Law Schools Care About Your Academic Record

American law schools want to know whether you’re prepared for the intense reading, writing, and analytical demands of graduate-level legal study. Since they don’t know your professors or curriculum, your transcript becomes one of the most objective indicators of academic ability.

For Indonesian students, this usually means submitting:

• Your IPK (Grade Point Average), usually on a 4.0 scale

• A class rank, if available (e.g., Top 10%)

• A list of subjects taken and the grades received

• Certified English translations of your transcripts (if not already bilingual)

How U.S. Schools Interpret Indonesian Grades

Many Indonesian students worry that their IPK doesn’t “look competitive” by American standards. But here’s the good news: U.S. admissions committees don’t expect everyone to have a 3.9 or 4.0.

What they really want to know is:

• Were you among the best in your cohort?

• Was your university known for academic rigor (e.g., UI, UGM, Unpad, UPH, Atma Jaya)?

• Are your grades trending upward?

• Did you excel in legal subjects relevant to your LL.M. goals?

For example, an IPK of 3.3 from a top-tier faculty like UI or UGM can still be seen as strong—especially if accompanied by a high class rank or strong recommendations.

What If Your IPK Is Not Outstanding?

You’re not alone. Many Indonesian applicants don’t have perfect transcripts—and still get into excellent LL.M. programs.

Here’s how to boost your application if your grades aren’t ideal:

1. Work Experience

Two or more years of experience at a reputable law firm, company, court, NGO, or government agency can speak volumes—especially in fields like international arbitration, human rights, energy law, or commercial litigation.

2. Powerful Personal Statement

Use your statement to explain any gaps or challenges in your academic journey, show your motivation for pursuing an LL.M., and describe how it fits into your long-term career goals.

3. Strong Recommendation Letters

Choose people who can speak directly about your intellectual capacity, discipline, and legal potential—ideally law professors or supervisors familiar with international standards.

4. High TOEFL/IELTS Score

A strong English proficiency score (e.g., TOEFL iBT 100+ or IELTS 7.5+) shows you can handle U.S. academic life, even if your GPA is average.

5. Academic and Professional Achievements

Don’t forget moot court awards, legal publications, academic scholarships (e.g., LPDP or Fulbright), or bar admission (PERADI). These show commitment and capability.

Final Thoughts: It’s About the Whole Package

Yes, grades are important—but U.S. LL.M. programs take a holistic view. They want well-rounded, ambitious candidates who will thrive in the classroom and contribute to the learning community.

So if your IPK isn’t perfect, don’t panic. Focus on the parts of the application you can control: your statement, your recommendations, your test scores, and your professional story.

Pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in the United States can be a transformative step for international lawyers seeking to deepen their legal knowledge, gain exposure to the U.S. legal system, and open doors to global career opportunities. But before you can step into a classroom, there’s one hurdle to cross: the application process.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the typical application requirements for U.S. LL.M. programs and tips for navigating them successfully.

1. A First Degree in Law

Most U.S. law schools require applicants to hold a first degree in law (e.g., LL.B., S.H., or its international equivalent) from a recognized institution. This proves that you already have a foundational understanding of legal principles.

Pro tip: Some programs may consider applicants from other disciplines if they demonstrate significant legal experience or are pursuing legal-adjacent careers.

2. Academic Transcripts

You’ll need to submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended. These should detail your coursework, grades, and degree conferral.

Important: If your transcripts are not in English, you must provide certified translations. Some schools like NYU Law require your transcripts to be evaluated by a third-party agency.

3. English Proficiency Test Scores

If English is not your native language, most schools require one of the following:

• TOEFL iBT (typically a minimum of 90–100). Note, however, that some schools like Columbia Law require 105.

• IELTS Academic (minimum scores usually range from 6.5 to 7.5)

• Duolingo English Test (some programs accept this as well)

Note: Some programs may waive the language requirement if your law degree was taught in English. Check each school’s policy.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Most LL.M. programs require two or three letters of recommendation. At least one should ideally come from a professor or academic mentor; others may be from legal employers or supervisors.

Pro tip: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak specifically to your academic ability, work ethic, and potential.

5. Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

This is your opportunity to explain why you’re pursuing an LL.M., what you hope to achieve, and why a specific school is the right fit for you.

What to include:

• Your academic and professional background

• Career goals

• Why the LL.M. fits into your long-term plans

• Why you chose that particular school or program

6. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your resume should highlight your academic background, legal experience, publications (if any), language skills, and extracurricular involvement. Be concise but thorough.

7. Application Fee

Most law schools charge a non-refundable application fee, typically ranging from $75 to $100. Some schools offer waivers based on financial need.

8. LSAC or Direct Application?

Many schools use the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) LL.M. Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which consolidates your documents and sends them to multiple schools. Others accept direct applications through their websites.

Tip: If you’re applying to multiple programs, using LSAC’s CAS can save time and effort—but be aware of the additional fees.

9. Optional Materials

Some programs allow (or encourage) you to submit:

• A writing sample

• Additional essays (diversity statement, addenda)

• Proof of financial support (for visa purposes, after admission)

Final Thoughts

Each U.S. LL.M. program has its own nuances, deadlines, and specific requirements, so it’s essential to check the website of each school you’re applying to. Start early—ideally 8–12 months before your intended start date—to give yourself ample time to gather documents, request recommendations, and craft a strong personal statement.

If you’re serious about an international legal career, the U.S. LL.M. can be a game-changer. Prepare thoroughly, stay organized, and you’ll be well on your way.

When to Start, What to Prepare, and Key Deadlines

Dreaming of doing an LLM in the United States? Amazing.

Now comes the hard part: planning your application timeline.

Unlike undergraduate or JD programs, LLM applications are less standardized—each law school has its own deadlines and requirements. But with the right roadmap, you can approach the process with clarity, confidence, and calm.

This blog breaks down what you should be doing month by month, starting a full year before your desired start date.

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Overview: When Should You Start?

If you’re aiming to start your LLM in August/September 2026, you should begin preparing in early 2025.

Most top schools (Harvard, NYU, Columbia, Berkeley, etc.) have deadlines between December and February for enrollment in the following August/September. So, if you want to start your LLM in Fall 2026, your application season will happen throughout 2025.

Here’s a month-by-month timeline to help you stay organized:

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January – April 2025: Research & Strategize

Goal: Build your target school list and understand what they require.

   •            Research U.S. law schools and identify 5–10 that fit your goals (consider location, bar eligibility, specialization, alumni network, etc.)

   •            Create a spreadsheet to track each school’s requirements and deadlines.

   •            Check scholarship opportunities—some have early deadlines.

   •            Sign up for notifications from LSAC.org and school-specific LLM admissions pages.

   •            Reach out to LLM alumni or current students via LinkedIn or @indolawppower for insights.

April – June 2025: Prep Your Application Materials

Goal: Begin working on your personal and academic documents.

   •            Draft your Statement of Purpose (SOP). This is one of the most important parts—tailor it for each school.

   •            Request Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from professors or supervisors who know your work well.

   •            Update your CV/resume in a clean, professional format.

   •            Gather your academic transcripts and degree certificates in English (with official translations if needed).

   •            Register for the TOEFL or IELTS if you haven’t already. Most U.S. schools require it unless your law degree was taught in English.

• Open your LSAC account and begin setting up your LLM Credential Assembly Service (CAS) profile.

       •            This is a centralized service that many U.S. law schools use to receive your transcripts, TOEFL scores, letters of recommendation, and other documents.

       •            Some schools require CAS; others allow direct applications. Double-check each school’s preference.

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July – September 2025: Finalize & Polish

Goal: Make your application materials shine.

   •            Finalize your Statement of Purpose, tailoring each one to reflect the values and offerings of the school.

   •            Make sure your recommendation letters are submitted or on track.

   •            Take the TOEFL/IELTS if needed (leave time for a retake if necessary).

   •            Send official documents (transcripts, LORs, etc.) to LSAC for processing.

   •            Prepare for application fees (usually around $75–$100 per school).

   •            Double-check application requirements like:

       •            Optional essays (e.g., diversity statements)

       •            Writing samples (occasionally requested)

       •            Financial aid documents (especially if applying for need-based aid)

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October – December 2025: Submit Applications

Goal: Start submitting before the rush—and before deadlines.

   •            Some deadlines start as early as November 1 (e.g., Berkeley).

   •            Most top schools have priority deadlines between December 1–15.

   •            Even if the final deadline is in January or February, applying early can give you a better shot at scholarships and faster decisions.

   •            Confirm that LSAC has sent your documents to all target schools.

   •            Save a copy of all submitted materials.

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January – March 2026: Wait & Follow Up

Goal: Stay proactive while waiting.

   •            You’ll start hearing back from schools—some give decisions in January, others as late as April.

   •            Respond to any interview invitations promptly (some schools conduct virtual interviews).

   •            Follow up with any missing materials or questions from admissions teams.

   •            Submit scholarship essays or financial documents if requested.

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April – May 2026: Make Your Decision

Goal: Choose the best offer for your goals and budget.

   •            Compare offers, including tuition, scholarship awards, location, and visa support.

   •            Accept your place by submitting a deposit (usually non-refundable).

   •            Notify other schools of your decision as a courtesy.

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June – August 2026: Prep for Departure

Goal: Get everything ready for your U.S. journey.

   •            Apply for your U.S. student visa (F-1).

   •            Book housing (some schools offer on-campus housing; others don’t).

   •            Plan your arrival and attend pre-departure orientations (often offered by the school or U.S. embassy).

   •            Connect with classmates through WhatsApp/Discord/Facebook groups.

   •            Follow @indolawppower for tips, checklists, and emotional support!