Study Law in the UK and Europe: Top Universities, Application Process, and Career Paths in 2025

Study Abroad August 10, 2025

With globalization reshaping the legal landscape, students today are increasingly looking beyond borders for legal education. The UK and Europe offer world-renowned law degrees like the LLB and LLM, often with shorter durations, robust curricula, and strong career prospects. Whether you’re planning to study law after 12th or pursuing a postgraduate legal specialization, studying law abroad can open doors to international legal careers.

Why Study Law in the UK or Europe?

Global Recognition of LLB and LLM Degrees

Degrees from top UK and European law schools are internationally recognized and often provide a direct path to practicing law in multiple jurisdictions. Graduates are sought after by global law firms, multinational corporations, and international bodies.

Exposure to International Legal Systems

Studying law abroad gives students access to a diverse understanding of civil, common, and EU legal systems crucial for international legal practice or careers in diplomacy and human rights.

Advantage of Shorter Degree Duration in the UK

UK undergraduate law degree (LLB): typically 3 years
Postgraduate LLM: 1 year

This condensed structure offers faster career entry and lower costs compared to many other regions.

Best Countries in Europe for Law Degrees

United Kingdom: Renowned for its common law system and prestigious universities. Law graduates can qualify as barristers or solicitors in England and Wales.
Netherlands: Offers English-taught LLB and LLM programs with a focus on EU and international law.
Germany: Low or no tuition fees and strong public university system; some English-taught programs available for LLM.
France: Strong in international and civil law. Sciences Po and Sorbonne are globally respected.
Italy: Home to the world’s oldest university, Bologna. Offers both traditional and EU-focused law programs.

Top Law Universities in the UK & Europe

UK Law Schools: University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University College London (UCL), King’s College London
Top European Law Schools: Leiden University - Netherlands, Humboldt University of Berlin - Germany, University of Bologna - Italy, Sciences Po - France

Law Courses and Degree Types

Common Law Degrees:

LLB - Bachelor of Laws (Undergraduate)
LLM - Master of Laws (Postgraduate)
JD - Juris Doctor (more common in North America but available in hybrid European formats)

Integrated and Dual Degrees:

Some universities offer combined law and business or international relations degrees, allowing a more versatile academic background.

Eligibility Criteria and Entrance Exams

To apply for law programs in the UK and Europe, students typically need strong academic credentials such as A-Levels, the IB Diploma, or equivalent qualifications like CBSE/ISC for Indian students, with a solid performance in English and Social Sciences. Entrance exams may include the LNAT (required by top UK universities like Oxford, UCL, LSE, and King’s College London) and English language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with most universities expecting a minimum score of 6.5 to 7.0. While many LLB and LLM programs in Europe are offered in English, some countries such as France and Germany may require knowledge of the local language for specific courses or legal internships.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Choose the Country and Course: Research program structure, language, and career outcomes.
Prepare Your Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, recommendation letters, CV, and proof of language proficiency.
Apply Through UCAS (UK) or Direct Portals (Europe): Deadlines typically range from October to March for fall intake.
LNAT Registration (if required): Take the test before submitting your UCAS application to LNAT-participating universities.
Visa and Financial Documentation: Student visa processing can take 4–6 weeks depending on the country.

Scholarships and Funding Options

Government and Institutional Scholarships
Chevening (UK) – Fully funded master’s degrees
Commonwealth Scholarships – For postgraduate studies in the UK
Erasmus+ Mobility grants for European students
University-specific scholarships – UCL Laws Bursaries, LSE Graduate Support Scheme, Leiden Excellence Scholarship

Career Outcomes After Studying Law in the UK or Europe

Practicing in the UK: After completing a UK LLB, students can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) or Bar training for legal practice.

Working in Europe: EU legal systems and cross-border law firms offer internships and associate roles, especially in international arbitration, human rights law, and EU regulation.

Returning Home: Indian and international students can use their foreign degree to sit for equivalency exams or work in multinational legal teams in their home country.

The Role of Law Admissions Consultants

Applying to law schools abroad is competitive and detail-intensive. A professional law admissions consulting service like BrighterPrep’s Law School Consulting can help you:

Shortlist the right universities based on your profile
Guide LNAT and IELTS preparation
Craft powerful personal statements
Ensure error-free and timely submissions

With expert insight and personalized coaching, students drastically improve their chances of acceptance into top global law schools.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Book a free consultation with BrighterPrep today and unlock your path to global legal education. Whether you're aiming for Oxford Law or a career in EU regulation, our admissions experts are here to help you every step of the way.