LLM in Canada: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility

LLM in Canada is a popular choice for law students and legal professionals who wish to deepen their understanding of Canadian or International law and gain specialized legal knowledge. Canada has a diverse legal system and a rich legal history, which makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to expand their legal education. In the 2023 Times Higher Education Ranking for Law, 8 Canadian universities are ranked in the top 250 worldwide. International students looking for a master in Law degree can also go for an LLM in Ireland, the USA, and the UK, among other popular study destinations.

Lawyers in Canada make an average pay of $110,525 per year or $56.68 per hour. While experienced workers can make up to $190,492 per year, entry-level jobs typically pay around $85,000 annually. According to official estimates, expansion demand and replacement demand will result in over 39,200 new job openings for judges, attorneys, and Quebec notaries between 2022 and 2031 (Government of Canada).

Canadian universities today have more than 620,000 international students enrolled because the nation is renowned for providing excellent education and degrees that are respected all around the world. Canada is one of the greatest countries for studying abroad because it has some of the most well-liked student cities and some affordable universities. Also, students who choose to study in Canada have the option of working part-time while they are there. This can lower living costs and provide students with valuable work experience.

Overview: LLM in Canada

Why Choose Canada for LLM

Specialized Programs

Several specialized LLM programs are offered by Canadian law schools, including subjects like international business law, intellectual property law, and human rights law. Students have the chance to acquire specific knowledge and skills in their chosen fields through these programs.

Research Opportunities

For LLM students, Canadian law schools provide a range of research options, such as research assistantships, independent research projects, and involvement in faculty-led research programs. Students can participate in the legal community and get useful research experience thanks to these options.

For instance, the law schools at York University, Osgoode Hall, the University of British Columbia, and Toronto.

Clinical Programs

Several Canadian law schools provide clinical programs that give students the chance to get real-world legal experience by working on actual cases while being supervised by practicing attorneys. This enables pupils to acquire useful abilities that they may use in their future legal jobs.

Strong Legal System and Rule of Law

The judicial system of Canada is strong and well-respected on a global level. Two advantages of studying in Canada include learning about the Canadian legal system and obtaining information that can be applied in other countries. The 2022 Global Justice Project Rule of Law Index places Canada 12th out of 139 countries in terms of overall respect for the rule of law.

Top Universities Offering LLM in Canada

 University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is a well-known university with a focus on research that is situated in the biggest city in Canada. It has been routinely listed among the top 50 colleges in the world since its founding in 1827. Bright individuals from all over the world are drawn to the University of Toronto by its strong academic programs, exceptional professors, and diverse student body. Among its graduates are well-known figures from academia, business, politics, and the arts. Moreover, one of the finest universities to study human resource management in Canada is U of T.

Students from all over the world enroll in the highly regarded LL.M. program offered by the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. The program offers a demanding and stimulating academic experience with a wide range of courses, research opportunities, and access to top legal scholars. Graduates are prepared for positions in companies, government, academia, and law firms both domestically and abroad.

Admission Requirements Master of Laws (LLM) (Thesis/coursework)

Students may also seek to study one of four areas of emphasis within the LLM program:

• LLM with a Concentration in Business Law
• LLM with a Concentration in Criminal Law
• LLM with a Concentration in Health Law, Ethics, and Policy
• LLM with  Concentration in Legal Theory.

A designation will appear on a student’s transcript if they are admitted into a concentration. There are only a certain number of spaces available for students in each concentration, therefore admission will be selective.

One focus area is the only one to which applicants may apply. Without a concentration, applicants may be accepted into the LLM program.

• Candidates must hold a Bachelor of Laws, Juris Doctor, or the equivalent international degree from an accredited university. A least B+ grade point average in the applicant’s final year of legal study is required. Candidates that keep this average throughout their legal education, or their whole law degree, will be given preference.
• English Language Proficiency: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic module, with an overall score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component OR Internet-based TOEFL: minimum overall score of 100/120, and 24/30 on each section.
• Academic Transcripts
• CV
• 2 academic references
• Personal Statement (Part of the application)
• For Thesis Option: Applicants applying to one of the four areas of concentration must substantiate their interest in and suitability for the concentration in their statement of interest, letters of reference, and research proposal. 

Admission Requirements: Master of Studies in Law (MSL)

The Master of Studies in Law (MSL) program is intended for academics who have not previously studied law but who aspire to do so to gain a legal education and legal knowledge to add a legal dimension to their own discipline’s work.

• The minimum educational requirement for applicants is a master’s degree, although a doctorate is preferred. They must also have a track record of excellence in a legal-related field. Candidates must earn at least a B+ in their final academic year. Those who have kept this average throughout their studies will receive preference.
• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic module, with a total score of 7.5 and at least 7.0 in each component, OR
• The Internet-based TOEFL, with a minimum overall score of 100/120 and 24/30 on each part.
•  Academic Transcripts
• CV
• Academic References

Scholarships

International Students at the University of Toronto are eligible for several scholarships. Some of them are listed here.

University of British Columbia

Vancouver, Canada is home to the public research institution known as the University of British Columbia (UBC). UBC, which was established in 1908, is frequently listed as one of the top 50 institutions in the world. It has two main campuses, more than 65,000 students, and provides more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a range of areas.UBC is one of the top universities to study microbiology in Canada.

At UBC, a variety of graduate law programs offer the chance for intensive study in a particular area of law. To generate a sizable piece of original legal scholarship, program participants collaborate closely with supervising faculty members. 

Admission Requirements Master of Laws (LLM)/Master of Laws (Common Law)

• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree with a First Class/Division 1 (65%) or Very Excellent standing is required of applicants (8 on a 10-point scale)
• Applicants are asked to identify their preferred 1st and 2nd choice supervisors in their application.
• English Language Requirements: TOEFL: minimum score of 100, with Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking minimum scores of 25. OR
• IELTS (Academic): a minimum overall band of 7.0 with a reading and writing band minimum of 7.0.
• Academic Transcripts
• CV
• Statement of intent
• 3 References

Admission Requirements Master of Laws in Taxation

• A Juris Doctor (JD), Bachelor of Laws (LLB), or a relevant undergraduate degree with an exceptional academic record and substantial work experience in the subject of tax is expected of applicants.
• English Language Requirements: TOEFL: minimum score of 100, with Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking minimum scores of 25. OR
• IELTS (Academic): a minimum overall band of 7.0 with a reading and writing band minimum of 7.0.
• Academic Transcripts
• CV
• Statement of intent
• 3 References

Scholarships

International Students at McGill University are eligible for several scholarships. Some of them are listed here.

McGill University 

McGill University is a public research university located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is one of Canada’s oldest institutions and was established in 1821. The institution provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in a range of subject areas, including engineering, medicine, law, and business. It consistently receives top rankings as one of the world’s and Canada’s greatest universities.

There are several legal programs available via the Faculty of Law at McGill University. The faculty is well-known across the world and prioritizes interdisciplinary research and experiential learning. A welcoming environment and several possibilities for professional growth are advantageous to students. 

*Candidates must specify if they want to register for the Non-Thesis choice or the Thesis option. Candidates who register for the thesis option may instead be given a spot in the non-thesis option due to the limited number of openings in the thesis program.

Admission Requirements

• A J.D. or LL.B. with a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0, or an equivalent bachelor’s degree in law (or equivalent)
• English Language Proficiency:  IELTS (International English Language Testing System): a band score of 7.0 or greater (no less than 6.5 in each component score, with no less than 7.0 in writing)
• Research Proposal (LL.M. applicants)
• Personal Statement (graduate certificate applicants only)
• Two Reference Letters from academic referees
• Curriculum Vitae 

Scholarships

International students studying at McGill University can apply for a variety of scholarships. Some are listed here

Western University

London, Ontario, Canada’s Western University is a public research institution. It offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various faculties, including business, engineering, law, and medicine. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, making it a great choice for students looking for a high-quality education in Canada.

The Master of Laws (LLM) programs at Western University Canada offer advanced legal education in various fields such as Business Law, Canadian Common Law, and Intellectual Property Law. The programs are designed for both domestic and international students seeking to deepen their knowledge of Canadian law and enhance their professional prospects. The faculty is renowned for its expertise and commitment to student success.

*The MSL is not a pathway into the legal profession and does not prepare one for the practice of law. Instead, it is meant to give those who have prior research interests or professional interests that are related to law a solid academic foundation.

Admission Requirements Master of Laws (LLM)

• A minimum grade of B (74%) in the last two years of full-time study for a Juris Doctor or an equivalent degree is required.
• A piece of academic writing, such as a thesis, research paper, or article from a journal that has been published. The academic writing sample’s topic matter ought to be legal.
• English Language Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 109 OR 
• IELTS Overall 9
• Academic Transcripts
• CV

Admission Requirements Master of Studies in Law (MSL)

• Four-year Bachelor’s or higher degree with a minimum average of B (74%) in the last two years of full-time study.
• A piece of academic writing, such as a thesis, research paper, or article from a journal that has been published. The candidate may choose the topic for the academic writing sample.
• Graduate Record Examination Scores (GRE)
• English Language Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 109 OR 
• IELTS Overall 9
• Academic Transcripts
• CV

Scholarships

International students studying at Western University can apply for a variety of scholarships. Some are listed here

University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is a public research university located in Calgary, Canada. It offers an array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is regarded as one of Canada’s top research institutes. The university, which has a student body of over 31,000 and a faculty of over 2,500, is dedicated to stimulating creativity and discovery while also offering a top-notch education. The University of Calgary is one of the cheapest universities in Canada.

 The LLM program at the University of Calgary was ranked among the top 10 energy law programs worldwide by the LLM Guide (2019). The faculty has endowed chairs in commercial regulation, natural resources law, and business law.

*Applicants must identify potential supervisors and provide a short thesis proposal. 

Admission Requirements Master of Laws Course Based/Thesis Based

• GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale for the previous two years of full-time study for the undergraduate degree (equal to at least 10 full courses or 60 units).
• Minimum Education: Normally, a JD, LLB, or equivalent law degree.
• CV
• Writing Samples
• Reference Letters: Two
• English language proficiency: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) score of 97 OR
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7.0 (minimum of 6.5 in each section).

Scholarships

International students studying at the University of Calgary can apply for a variety of scholarships. Some are listed here

Career Opportunities in Canada After LLM 

You can practice law in Canada if you have an LL.M. and meet additional requirements set by the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA). Your advanced legal knowledge and abilities from this degree will set you apart from other law graduates. You can work in a variety of legal fields, including corporate, international, intellectual property, and others. You might also consider several different occupations, including

• Government legal advisor
• Corporate Legal Counsel
• Human Rights Lawyer
• Immigration Lawyer
• Arbitrator
• Tax Lawyer
• Mediator
• Legal Writer 
• Law Professor
• Compliance Officer

Conclusion

Earning an LLM from Canada may lead to a variety of fascinating job prospects in the legal industry, both locally and internationally. However, international LLM graduates may need to meet additional requirements set by the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) to start practicing law in Canada.

While picking the right university to study LLM in Canada, you need to be thorough with your research and look at all the possible options. Gyanberry can help you apply to a law school that is most suitable for you considering various factors such as entry requirements, affordability, career opportunities, and application deadlines. Book an appointment with us to know more.