Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that UChicago is known for law & economics?
As early as the school's founding, UChicago recognized the importance of the interdependence between law and the social sciences. One of those interdisciplinary traditions is Law and Economics. Law and Economics applies economic methods and concepts to the analysis of law. Specifically, economics provides a tool for studying how legal rules affect the way people behave. Read more about the history of Law and Economics and about all of our interdisciplinary traditions that thrive at the Law School.
How long does the LLM take to complete?
The LLM is designed to be completed in one academic year (9 months). The University of Chicago runs on the "Quarter System" as opposed to the more traditional "Semester System". Therefore, the academic year is split between the Autumn (October - December), Winter (January - March), and Spring (April - June) Quarters. This means that students have the opportunity to spread out their course choices over three academic periods instead of just two.
Do you require professional experience?
While we do not require professional experience as a prerequisite to admission, an overwhelming majority of our LLM students come to the program with at least some experience. Our students typically average around 5 years of experience with the majority falling between 3 and 10 years of experience.
Does UChicago offer conditional admission?
No. The Graduate Studies Committee will not make any kind of conditional offer of admission. Once your application is complete the committee will conduct a full review and make a final decision on your candidacy.
Is there a grade cutoff for admission?
The Graduate Studies Committee does not apply grade cutoffs when reviewing applications for admission. We take a holistic approach in reviewing all aspects of a candidate's application and aim to enroll a globally diverse class. However, with that said, prior academic achievement does play a significant role in the review process. The LLM at UChicago Law is extremely demanding and therefore we are looking for students that are able to perform at the highest level academically.
May I get advanced standing towards the LLM for credit earned at another institution?
No. UChicago Law does not accept credit transfers from other institutions toward the completion of the LLM.
May law students take courses at other UChicago schools?
Yes. However, non-law coursework will not be counted toward the 27 credit hour requirement for graduation.
How many students are in the LLM?
We typically enroll a class of 70 - 80 students coming from between 25 and 30 different countries.
May I work while enrolled in the LLM?
While it is technically possible we do not recommend it. The LLM is demanding and designed to command all of the student's time during the academic year. International students in the U.S. on student visas are very restricted with respect to on-and off-campus employment and must get prior written permission from the Visa Coordinator
May I participate in clinics?
Yes, but not all of them. LLM students are typically permitted to participate in the Kirkland & Ellis Corporate Lab, the Abrams Environmental Law Clinic, Institute for Justice Entrepreneurship Clinic and the Global Human Rights Clinic. However, the clinical program is primarily aimed at JD students and those students that do not have professional experience. Since the majority of the LLM students at UChicago have significant work experience it is not something many students pursue.
Can I transfer to the JD from the LLM?
Yes. Current and former LLM students at UChicago may apply to the JD as a transfer student with advanced standing and will not be required to submit the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT. Please note that admission to the JD is not guaranteed and LLM students are still subject to the full review process of their application.