Best LLM Programs for Low TOEFL iBT® Scores

"Looking to pursue an LLM with a lower TOEFL score? Check out top universities like the University of Washington and University of Minnesota offering flexible LLM programs."
Key Highlights
If you're looking to pursue an LLM program but have a lower TOEFL score, there are several top universities offering flexible options for international students. For example, the University of Washington School of Law accepts a TOEFL score of 80, while the University of Minnesota Law School also requires a minimum score of 80. Similarly, the University of Miami School of Law accepts students with a TOEFL score of 92. In this blog, we’ll explore LLM programs with lower TOEFL requirements, along with general admission and visa details for international students.
Best LLM Programs for Low TOEFL Scores
If you’re aiming to pursue an LLM with a lower TOEFL score, there are several universities offering flexible programs to suit your needs. Here are some top institutions and their LL.M. programs with minimum TOEFL requirements:
University/Institution |
Programs |
Minimum TOEFL iBT Requirement |
University of Washington School of Law |
General LL.M., Intellectual Property Law, Taxation |
80 |
Georgetown University Law Center |
Two-year LL.M. with a Certificate in Legal English |
105 |
University of Minnesota Law School |
Business Law, Human Rights, International Law |
80 |
Florida State University College of Law |
Environmental Law, American Law, International Law |
80 |
University of Connecticut School of Law |
Insurance Law, Energy Law, U.S. Legal Studies |
90 |
University of Miami School of Law |
Maritime Law, International Arbitration, Taxation |
92 |
Queen Mary University of London |
Banking Law, Commercial Law, Dispute Resolution |
92 |
Drexel University Kline School of Law |
General LL.M., Cyber Law, Compliance & Risk Management |
100 |
Brooklyn Law School |
Business Law, Refugee Law, Immigration Law |
95 |
General Admission Requirements for LLM Programs
When applying for LL.M. programs, international students must meet specific academic and application requirements. Here are the typical requirements for admission:
Requirement |
Details |
Educational Qualification |
A first degree in law, such as an LL.B. or equivalent, from a recognised institution is generally mandatory for LL.M. program applications. |
Academic Records |
Submission of official transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions attended. |
English Proficiency |
Minimum TOEFL Score: 80 |
Letters of Recommendation |
Typically, 2-3 recommendation letters from professors or legal professionals are required, highlighting the applicant's academic and professional strengths. |
Statement of Purpose |
Applicants must write a personal essay explaining their reasons for pursuing an LLM, their career goals, and how the program fits their objectives. |
Resume or CV |
A detailed curriculum vitae showcasing educational qualifications, work experience, publications, and relevant accomplishments is needed. |
Application Fee |
Most universities charge a non-refundable application fee for processing the application. |
Additional Materials |
Some programs may require interviews, legal writing samples, or other supplementary documents to assess candidates' skills and suitability. |
Conditional Admissions |
Certain universities might provide conditional offers or preparatory programs for candidates who don't meet all requirements, such as language scores. |
Visa Requirements for LL.M. Students with Low TOEFL Scores
Here is a summary of visa requirements for LL.M. students with low TOEFL scores for each university:
University |
Visa Requirement |
Details |
University of Washington School of Law |
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S. |
Form I-20 |
Issued after admission into the LL.M. program. |
|
SEVIS Fee Payment |
Proof of SEVIS I-901 fee payment before scheduling the visa interview. |
|
Completed DS-160 Form |
Complete and print the online nonimmigrant visa application. |
|
Acceptance into Program |
Official admission letter from the university. |
|
Proof of Financial Support |
Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsor documentation to prove financial stability. |
|
Georgetown University Law Center |
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. |
Form I-20 |
Issued by Georgetown Law after admission to the LL.M. program. |
|
SEVIS Fee Payment |
Payment confirmation for the SEVIS I-901 fee. |
|
Completed DS-160 Form |
Online nonimmigrant visa application. |
|
Proof of English Proficiency |
TOEFL or IELTS score confirmation (may vary by program). |
|
Visa Interview Appointment |
Appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate. |
|
University of Minnesota Law School |
Valid Passport |
Passport must be valid for at least six months after the intended stay. |
Form I-20 |
Received after admission into the LL.M. program. |
|
SEVIS Fee Payment |
Proof of SEVIS I-901 fee payment. |
|
Completed DS-160 Form |
Online form required for visa processing. |
|
Acceptance into Program |
Admission letter from the university. |
|
Financial Proof |
Demonstration of financial resources for tuition and living expenses. |
|
Florida State University College of Law |
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for six months beyond the planned stay. |
Form I-20 |
Issued post-admission into the LL.M. program. |
|
SEVIS Fee Payment |
SEVIS I-901 fee proof before scheduling the visa interview. |
|
Completed DS-160 Form |
Online visa application to be printed and submitted. |
|
Proof of Financial Stability |
Bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship confirmation. |
|
University of Miami School of Law |
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay. |
Form I-20 |
Issued after program admission. |
|
SEVIS Fee Payment |
Required payment for the SEVIS I-901 fee. |
|
Completed DS-160 Form |
Online nonimmigrant visa application form to be completed. |
|
Acceptance Letter |
Confirmation of admission to the LL.M. program. |
|
Proof of Financial Support |
Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor documents. |
I hope this blog has provided valuable insights into pursuing an LL.M. program with a lower TOEFL score. Whether you're aiming for the University of Washington or the University of Minnesota, these flexible options can help you achieve your academic goals. With the right preparation and understanding of admission and visa requirements, your LL.M. journey is within reach.
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