LLM in Law

In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. With an eye toward these professional standards, the Vanderbilt application for admission asks specific questions concerning disciplinary actions in an academic setting, charges or convictions of crimes, and charges or findings of offenses (whether or not defined as crimes). Bar examiners may review your answers to these questions on your law school application when you apply for admission to the bar and your background records are checked.

Official transcripts from all colleges, universities, or graduate schools attended must be submitted. Your transcripts should show that you have earned, or expect to earn, a university degree in law (the equivalent of a J.D. or LL.B. degree) from an accredited institution outside the United States. Transcripts must show all courses and subjects taken and all grades (marks) received along with a description of the school's grading system.

Two letters of recommendation must be submitted through the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service. Letters should be from people who have worked closely with you and who know you well. Letters from faculty members who have served as your advisors, research supervisors, or have taught you and are familiar with your work tend to provide information most relevant to you as a prospective law student and most helpful to readers of your application. Recommendations from those familiar with your professional performance are also acceptable.

Personal statements must be submitted with your Vanderbilt Electronic Application. Your personal statement should include personal, academic, and professional background and your reasons for seeking the LL.M. degree.

Resumes must be submitted with your Vanderbilt Electronic Application. Please list your educational institutions and professional experience, in addition to any scholarships, awards, or honors you have received.

You must provide a writing sample in English of no fewer than 300 words. Your writing sample may be a legal opinion, a scholarly article, or an essay on a legal topic of your choosing.