LLM

Are the LLM programs offered only for International students?
The mission of the ALLM, LLM and LLM/Kellogg programs is to provide international attorneys with exposure to the American model.

Apart from these programs, the School of offers an LLM in Taxation and an LLM in International Human Rights, which affords domestic and international attorneys the opportunity to specialize within those disciplines.

Tell me about the Two-Year JD Program for International Lawyers. Is there a minimum LSAT score needed?
Further information can be found on the Two-Year JD Program page. We do not have a minimum LSAT score for acceptance. Applicants for the Two-Year program will be compared against each other.

Where can I find a copy of Northwestern's Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics?
As provided by the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, now known as the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, you are entitled to request and receive a copy of Northwestern University's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. This Report includes statistics for the previous 3 years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Northwestern University; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from campus. The Report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies on drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this Report by contacting the Northwestern University Police Department Deputy Chief at (847) 491-3256. The Report can also be accessed and printed from the University Police website.

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TOEFL

Is the TOEFL required for admission? If so, what are the TOEFL codes for ETS?
Yes, the TOEFL is required for admission into the LLM, LLM/Kellogg, and LLM IHR programs. Foreign applicants who are not native speakers of English should take the TOEFL examination and have an official copy of the score report sent from ETS directly to LSAC LL.M. Credential Assembly Service (institution code 1565), and it will be reported in your credential evaluation.

What is the minimum recommended score for the TOEFL examination?
The minimum for the computer-based exam is 250 and for the internet-based exam the score is 100. We do not accept the paper-based TOEFL.

When may the TOEFL exam requirement be waived?
If you have completed a first degree/undergraduate degree in law at an institution where the language of instruction is in English, you can notify the Admissions Committee by requesting a waiver of the TOEFL requirement. Please submit a brief letter, electronic attachment, or e-mail to the committee indicating the institution’s name, location, and length of the degree program completed. Waivers are granted on a case by case basis. If you are granted a TOEFL waiver you will be required to participate in an evaluative interview which can be done on campus or via phone.

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Applying

How can I apply for admission?
Application instructions and a link to the online application can be found on the apply page for the ALLM, LLM, LLM/Kellogg, LLM IHR and the Two Year JD for International Lawyers programs.

When may the application fee be waived?
Candidates experiencing significant financial hardship may request a fee waiver. The prospective student should submit a letter outlining his/her financial situation along with their application materials. The Committee will then consider the request.

Is the LSAT required for the LLM application process?
No. The only standardized test that is required for the LLM application is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

What materials must be submitted for re-application?
All materials must be re-submitted for re-application. We do not keep any materials from previous application cycles.

Are deferrals granted?
No. Deferrals generally are not available for the ALLM, LLM, LLM IHR, and LLM/Kellogg programs unless the deferral request is due to circumstances beyond the applicant's control, such as inability to secure a visa. Such deferrals are granted on a case by case basis.

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Financial Aid

Is Financial Aid available to LLM students?
A limited number of fellowships are awarded to LLM and LLM IHR students each spring. This fellowship funding can be applied for after you have been admitted to either the LLM or LLM IHR programs. Each year, approximately 10-12 students are awarded a fellowship. International students may opt to finance a portion of their education at Northwestern Law with the Graduate Professional Alternative Loan (GPAL). Students may borrow up to the total cost of attendance, minus personal contributions. The primary requirement for the loan is the security of a credit worthy co-signer who is either a permanent resident or citizen of the United States.

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Academics

Are there academic support programs for LLM students?
The School of Law has a Director of International Programs who serves as the primary academic advisor for every member of the LLM population. Moreover, through the School's Center for Career Strategy and Advancement, there is an associate director dedicated to career counseling for LLM students.

Does the completion of the LLM program enable the graduate to sit for the bar exam?
The ALLM, LLM, LLM IHR, and LLM/Kellogg programs are not intended to qualify foreign lawyers to take the bar examination or to practice law in the United States; in many states, including Illinois, these degrees are not sufficient to take the exam. Eligibility, however, has been extended in the states of New York and California dependent on meeting some specific criteria. Please refer to the Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements at www.abanet.org.

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