A law degree is an academic program that educates and develops knowledge in students about law. These courses help students understand complex legal concepts, practice them and solve issues present in society.
Legal studies involve law related to human rights, politics, business, economics, the environment, government and trading regulations. These laws form the framework of several industries in the global market.
Pursuing an LLB course in Canada poses the perfect opportunity for international students to start a career in the legal field. Here, we cover everything you should know and learn about pursuing an LLB degree in Canada.
Table of Contents
- Why study law in Canada?
- International student eligibility criteria to pursue an LLB degree in Canada
- Documents required by international students to apply for an LLB course in Canada
- LLB course in Canada for Indian students
- Admission process for LLB in Canada for international students
- Career opportunities after pursuing an LLB in Canada
- 10 best universities to study LLB in Canada
- Frequently asked questions
Find the best law courses in Canada and begin your legal journey abroad!
Why study law in Canada?
- An LLB course in Canada provides a wide range of opportunities for international students, with several specialisations to explore. These courses are globally recognised by top-ranked educational institutions and industries.
- Several businesses and industries require legal advisors to create their legal framework and help in other circumstances. Pursuing a law course can bring in more scope and aid in entering any discipline and working on the legal requirements of the particular professional field.
- Pursuing law in Canada helps you better understand the government and society's foundation, boosting your career options.
- Studying law increases your thought process and analytical skills, improves communication, and allows you to express your views effectively.
- Law is a high-paying and one of the most demanded professions in Canada, with a wide range of opportunities after graduation.
Also read: 4 things students wish they knew before starting a law degree
International student eligibility criteria to pursue an LLB degree in Canada
Before applying for an LLB course in any institution in Canada, make sure you satisfy the eligibility criteria before submitting your application. Here are some standard requirements to study law in Canada.
Eligibility criteria to study law in Canada
| Eligibility factor | Standard requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational qualification | Undergraduate degree: An international student from any subject stream with a score of at least 60%. Postgraduate degree: An undergraduate student with any specialisation in legal studies. |
| LSAT score | Above 160 |
| English exam requirement | IELTS: 6.5-7.5 TOEFL: Above 100 |
| Student visa | Canada Student Visa |
Data updated as of December 2023
Documents required by international students to apply for an LLB course in Canada
As international students satisfy the eligibility requirements, they should also get the necessary documents ready for universities to proceed with their applications. While the assets vary with every institution, here are the standard documents an international student should submit to apply for a law course in Canada.
- Academic score sheets
- Application form
- Copy of LSAT scores
- Current passport
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- English language proficiency test scores
- Financial aid documents
- Admissions test results
Also read: What can you do with a law degree?
LLB course in Canada for Indian students
Law is a demanded course among Indian students planning to pursue higher education in Canada. Students from India prefer Canadian universities for their excellent curriculum in various specialisations, facilities, extensive training, and high-paying job opportunities.
Canada acts as a platform for Indian students to start their legal careers. The country is also considered safe for students to study and work abroad. So, pursuing law in Canada is one of the best options for Indian students to start a high-paying legal career.
Eligibility criteria and admission requirements for LLB in Canada for Indian students
| Eligibility factor | Standard requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational qualification | Undergraduate degree: Should have completed 12th in any subject stream with a score of at least 60%. Postgraduate degree: An undergraduate degree with any specialisation in legal studies. |
| LSAT score | Above 160 |
| English exam requirement | IELTS: 6.5-7.5 TOEFL: Above 100 |
| Work experience | 2 years |
| Student visa | Canada Student Visa |
Data updated as of December 2023
Documents required to apply for a Canada LLB degree for Indian students
- 10th, 12th, and undergraduate official transcripts
- Passport
- CV
- Proof of work experience
- LSAT scores
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL)
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Proof of financial stability
- Medical test results
Admission process for LLB in Canada for international students
International students often struggle with applying to the university they desire as they find the admission process different and complicated. But with research and the right information, one can easily apply for the course and university and start their journey to study abroad.
Here’s how you can apply to LLB in Canada as an international student.
- Prepare for the LSAT, and ensure your scores are ready and satisfy the requirements.
- Attend English proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL and make sure the scores satisfy the criteria.
- Choose the LLB course and university that suits your interests and requirements.
- Go to the university website and check the course’s eligibility criteria. Ensure your profile fulfils them before proceeding with the application.
- Submit your application on the institution’s website. Upload all the necessary documents like academic transcripts, LSAT scores, English test scores, LOR, SOP, CV, and others.
- Prepare and attend the interview.
- Apply for a student visa once you receive your college acceptance letter.
What is the cost of studying LLB in Canada for Indian students?
A law course in Canada is very affordable for Indian students planning to pursue a career in the legal sector.
An LLB degree in Canada costs around CAD $14,000-$28,000 for international students.
Career opportunities after pursuing an LLB in Canada
Legal studies pave the way for various career options for international students. These opportunities come with rewarding growth and high-paying professions. Here are the top career opportunities for legal graduates in Canada.
| Job role | Average annual salary (in CAD) |
|---|---|
| Corporate Counsel | $174,175 |
| Legal Counsel | $164,204 |
| Litigation Attorney | $162,000 |
| Attorney | $143,069 |
| Solicitor | $131,237 |
| Intellectual Property Specialist | $60,000 |
| Paralegal Instructor | $56,550 |
| Legal Assistant | $51,546 |
| Litigation Assistant | $51,546 |
| Legal Writer/Editor | $40,000 |
Data updated as of December 2023 | Source: https://ca.talent.com
Also read: Upcoming intakes in Canada 2023-2024
10 best universities to study LLB in Canada
| University name | QS World University Rankings 2024 | University acceptance rate | Top law courses offered | Average annual fees (in CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 21 | 43% | Juris Doctor LLM in Business Law | $62,880 |
| McGill University | 30 | 17% | LLB Civil Law LLM General Law | $58,649 |
| University of British Columbia | 34 | 54% | Canadian Constitutional Law Criminal law and procedure | $41,258 |
| University of Alberta | 111 | 58% | LLB Business Law LLB Constitutional Law LLM | $30,000 |
| Western University | 114 | 58% | LLB Administrative Law LLB Canadian Human Rights LLM | $23,900 |
| University of Montreal | 141 | 57% | Bachelor of Law LLM in Business Law | $55,000 |
| University of Ottawa | 203 | 78% | LLB Common Law LLB Civil Law LLM Law and Social Justice | $64,336 |
| Dalhousie University | 298 | 75% | LLB Law, Justice and Society LLM Business Law | $40,640 |
| York University | 353 | 62% | Juris Doctor LLM Legal and Political Theory | $37,643 |
| University of Windsor | 641-650 | 60% | LLB Legal Research and Writing LLM | $23,000 |
Data updated as of December 2023
University of Toronto
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 60%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in any law-related courses.
The University of Toronto is considered one of Canada's best universities for studying law. It is home to the Faculty of Law, the largest law school in Canada. The faculty is renowned for its research-based approach to legal education and the high quality of its graduates.
The University of Toronto’s LLB program is known for its comprehensive curriculum, world-class faculty, and innovative research. The program offers a variety of courses in topics such as constitutional law, criminal law, international law, and commercial law, among others.
The institution also provides a variety of extracurricular activities for its law students. These include moot court competitions, moot court societies, and a variety of legal clinics.
The university also hosts several events throughout the year designed to help law students gain valuable experience and connections in the legal field.
McGill University
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 60%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in any law-related courses with a GPA above 3.0.
McGill University is one of the best universities in Canada to study LLB. Located in Montreal, Quebec, the university's Faculty of Law is one of North America's oldest and most respected law schools. It has a long and distinguished history of producing some of Canada's most prominent legal thinkers.
McGill's Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program is a four-year degree program that offers students the opportunity to pursue a broad range of legal studies. The curriculum covers the core areas of Canadian law, including constitutional, criminal, civil, commercial, and international law.
The law programs also offer a range of elective courses, allowing students to specialise in intellectual property, environmental law, family law, and more. In addition to academics, McGill University also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as mooting competitions, student clubs and societies, and volunteer opportunities.
The university also has research centres, including the Centre for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism and the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy.
University of British Columbia
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 70%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of Canada's best options to study LLB. UBC has some of the most highly respected faculty members in the field and consistently ranks among Canada's top universities for law.
The LLB program at UBC has a curriculum designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the Canadian legal system and the principles and skills needed to practice law in Canada and abroad.
The UBC Faculty of Law also has a range of extracurricular activities for law students to get involved in, such as Law Review, mooting, and Pro Bono. These activities allow students to build their skills and gain real-world experience in the field.
Also read: What’s student life like in Canada?
University of Alberta
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 70%, and an LSAT score in the 90th percentile.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses with a GPA of 3.7-4.0
Ranked among the top universities in Canada, the University of Alberta is home to a highly respected faculty in law and legal studies. The school is committed to offering students an excellent academic foundation in the legal profession and a well-rounded legal education.
The LLB program at the University of Alberta is a four-year degree that the Federation of Law Societies of Canada accredits. It offers a comprehensive curriculum covering all major law areas, including constitutional, criminal, and commercial law.
The university’s law school also provides a range of specialised courses, such as Aboriginal Law, Environmental Law, and Family Law.
The school provides students plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience and network with legal professionals. This includes externships, clinics, and the opportunity to participate in the Alberta Legal Education Society’s Mock Trial Competition.
Western University
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 60%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses with a GPA between 3.0 and 4.3.
Western University is widely regarded as one of Canada's best universities to study LLB. The LLB Program at the university is a full-time program.
The curriculum covers various legal topics, including contract, criminal, constitutional, torts, public international law, and more.
The program also focuses on the practical aspects of the law, such as legal research and writing, legal advocacy, and trial advocacy. The school strives to encourage students to participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as clerkships, internships, and other legal experiences.
Also read: Student Accommodation in Canada
University of Montreal
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 60%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses.
The University of Montreal is praised for its world-class graduate programs, well-structured curriculum, and resources for law graduates.
The university’s legal courses include subjects like the Canadian Constitution, legal systems and methods across the world, and sources of law.
The programs help students to develop their legal skills through internships, moot courts, and other legal opportunities.
University of Ottawa
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 80%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses with a GPA above 3.7.
The University of Ottawa is a widely popular institution in Canada for international students to pursue legal studies. The university’s curriculum is tailored to suit every student’s needs and requirements.
The courses include legal foundation, constitutional, international, human, criminal, and other laws.
Dalhousie University
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream in high school.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses.
The Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University offers various law programs that equip students with legal knowledge and skills to start a remarkable career.
The courses educate students in civil, criminal, constitutional, and other law-related subjects. The programs also offer internships, moot court, and pro bono sessions to enhance students’ educational experience and pave the way for a scopeful career.
Also read: Working while studying in Canada
York University
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream with a total score of at least 60%.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses.
York University is known for its curriculum that explores different subjects and perspectives across the legal world. The courses are globally recognised, allowing graduates to pursue a career across the world.
Students get to learn about civil, property, criminal, private, public, intellectual property, and various other laws. The courses also provide extracurricular activities for students to excel in their field of interest.
University of Windsor
International student eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree: A student from any subject stream in high school.
Postgraduate degree: A student with an undergraduate degree in law-related courses with a score between 70% and 96%.
The University of Windsor is a prestigious institution offering remarkable law programs for international students in Canada. The university strives to help students understand the significance of the legal sector in different industries.
Students enrolled in the course get to study the Constitution of Canada, taxation, federal and provincial legislation, civil, property and other taxes.
The legal career you aspire to pursue awaits you in Canada! Discover possibilities and apply today!
Frequently asked questions
Is an Indian law degree valid in Canada?
Yes, the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) of Canada accepts Indian law degrees and approves graduates from India to practice law in their country. An Indian law degree satisfies the needs and requirements set by the Canadian government.
How many years is an LLB in Canada?
A Bachelor's in Law or an LLB course in Canada lasts over three to four years.
What is the percentage required for LLB in Canada after the 12th?
International students should score at least 60% in their 12th grade to pursue LLB in Canada.
How can I become a lawyer in Canada?
Here’s how you can become a lawyer in Canada.
- Score at least 60% in the 12th.
- Complete a Bachelor of Law (LLB) or a Juris Doctor degree.
- Attend the bar exam for law, and make sure your score meets the requirements.
- Apply for law membership in the province where you prefer to practice law.
What are the best law courses in Canada for Indian students after the 12th?
Here are some of the best law courses in Canada for Indian students.
- GradCert Paralegal
- LLM Law and Society
- Diploma in Law Clerk
- Diploma Resource and Environmental Law
- BBA Law & Arts/Law & Business: Trent/Swansea Dual Degree (LLB & BA/BBA)
- BSc (Honours) Forensics and Arts, Forensics and Science With Law & Policing
Make your study abroad dream come true!
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