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Posted Oct. 10, 2016

How to study an LLM if you have a low English language test score

International students who want to study on an LLM course are well aware that they need to achieve a certain score on an accredited English Language Test. Key examples of those tests include TOEFL and IELTS, plus there are other options. Law schools usually specify a language requirement on their application forms, and candidates who do not receive the required grade can be faced with rejection from the school of their choice. Nevertheless, if you have achieved a lower grade on your English test than you needed, do not despair, as there are options for you.

Here we take a look at the various steps that you can take in order to get the English language grades that you need in order to attend the law school of your choice.

Retaking the original test

If you don’t het the results you need in your first test it is possible to retake the IELTS or the TOEFL test. However, there is a time factor involved here as you will need to wait for the next test round, and then you will need to wait again to get your grades. This could take up to a year all in, meaning that your starting date at law school may be significantly delayed. If time is not of the essence, however, then this could be a good option for you. If you’ve secured a place at law school and all that you needed was the right grade on your English language test to make the application complete, it is important to get in touch with your law school admissions office and your academic advisor as soon as possible to ensure that they are happy with extending your study and can guarantee you a place as soon as you have met the language requirements. Make sure you take the time to explain your circumstances calmly and clearly and let them know that you would really appreciate their help in this matter. If you are planning to study in the US don’t forget to make sure you check on the US government visa website that you will still retain your visa for the extended time period.

Study English whilst at law school

Many law students find that they have not met the English language requirements stipulated by their course. The good news is that law schools are well aware of this, and many of them accordingly offer intensive English language courses that students can take alongside their legal studies. This may mean starting at the law school earlier than everyone else, so that you can begin some intensive language training.

Although this is a great option, you need to be aware that it will mean that your initial workload will be higher than that of many of your fellow law students. Take a look at this advice on Student Life to see if you feel you would be able to manage language studies alongside the student lifestyle. One key benefit of this option is that you will be able to carry on with your planned legal studies right away. And, then you can head off for an exciting career in the law as soon as you have finished your LLM.

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2 comments

Julius Edobor Oct. 4, 2019, 6:48 p.m.

please, which school in New Zealand offers Master of Laws in Insurance Law

Charlotte Oct. 8, 2019, 1:27 p.m.

Hi Julius – none of the law schools in New Zealand offer a specific LLM in Insurance Law, however some of them may include this area of study as a module. I suggest you contact the individual law schools directly and check with them >
https://www.llmstudy.com/search/llm-programs/new-zealand/
Good luck!

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