Studying an LLM (Master of Laws) Program in Canada
There are many universities in Canada that offer LLM programs including the Osgoode Hall Law School of York University in Toronto, University of British Columbia, the University of Calgary, Toronto University, Queens University, the University of Ontario and the University of Victoria, and these institutions offer the LLM courses on full-time, part-time and sometimes even on a distance-learning basis.
Find LLM programs in CanadaWhy should you study an LLM in Canada?
As the world’s second largest country by total surface area (after Russia), Canada is a diverse and interesting country, featuring breathtaking scenery, a wealth of cultural activities, fabulous outdoors’ activities and amazing working opportunities. It is a federation consisting of ten provinces and three territories – each offering something different to prospective postgraduate students, however students should bear in mind that each province will have different rules and requirements so its worth checking these out before choosing your LLM program. These regulations will also effect the possibilities of overseas students staying on in Canada to work after they have completed their program – so make sure you research this thoroughly to avoid disappointment. In many cases international students must obtain a study permit before they can study in Canada – so make sure you research what documentation you need.
Studying an LLM program in Canada does not necessarily qualify the student to then sit the Canadian Bar exam or to practice law in Canada, but there are still many reasons why you should opt to do your postgraduate program in Canada – not least of all because it is a great opportunity to study and live in a fabulous country!
Admissions to a Canadian LLM program
To gain entry to an LLM program in a Canadian institution applicants should generally hold a degree of LLB or its equivalent. Applicants with degrees or qualifications in a language other than English will probably need to demonstrate their English language skills by obtaining exam scores in one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum paper-based score of 600 or a total score of 100 with at least 25 on each of the individual skill areas (internet-based)
IELTS: Minimum band score of 7.0
PTE: Minimum score of 68
Tuition fees and living costs
If you are planning to study at a Canadian university, you should budget for approximately $20,000 Canadian dollars per year to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
However bear in mind that many institutions offer graduate students some form of financial assistance, be it in the form of scholarships, studentships, research assistantships or other awards – so check the website of your preferred institution to see what sort of financial assistance is on offer.
Am I eligible to study an LLM program in Canada?
As an international student, to be eligible to study a Master of Laws in Canada you must demonstrate the following:
You must have been accepted by an educational institution in Canada.
You must prove you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, return transportation home.
You must have no criminal record and may have to provide a police certificate to prove this.
You must be in good health and may need to complete a medical examination to prove this.
You have to prove to an immigration officer that you are going to leave Canada once your study/work permit comes to an end.
Application costs
Some Canadian universities have an application fee, these can be around $100 Canadian Dollars for Canadian nationals and around $150 Canadian Dollars for international students – so factor this into your overall costs.
Featured Institutions
Osgoode Hall Law School of York University
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