
If you come to the U.S. for a law degree, you can choose a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or Master of Laws (LL.M.) program.
What is the different between a J.D. and an LL.M.?
· Bar Exam. If your J.D. is from an U.S. law school accredited by the American Bar Association, you may sit for the bar exam of any U.S. state or territory. LL.M. graduates may sit for the bar in only a handful of U.S. states.
· Length. The J.D. program is 3 years (6 semesters). An LL.M. program is 1 year (2 semesters).
· LSAT. You must take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) for J.D. admission. You do not need the LSAT for LL.M. admission.
· First degree. A first or undergraduate degree in any subject is acceptable for J.D. program admission. A first degree in law is required for LL.M. program admission. If you hold a non-U.S. law degree (e.g., LL.B. or B.A.) you may enter either a J.D. or LL.M. program in the U.S.
· S.J.D. eligibility. You must have an LL.M. to enter an S.J.D. program in the U.S. The S.J.D. also requires a first law degree, but it can be a J.D., LL.B., or B.A., in addition to the LL.M.