Application Procedures
Application Deadlines
Due to visa requirements, the LL.M. Programs have an earlier application deadline for all international applicants who need to a request a visa.
Fall Admission
International Students - May 1
U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident Students - July 1*
Spring Admission
International Students - October 1
U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident Students - November 1*
*Under certain circumstances, the program can extend the application deadline for U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents. Please contact the Program directly to see if you qualify for this exception. Due to visa processing times, any applicant requiring a visa must adhere to the posted deadlines.
How to Apply
There are several ways to apply to the LL.M. Programs. Applicants should choose one method for applying. While the online application options are strongly preferred due to ease of processing, students who have difficulty accessing the online options may submit a paper application.
1. Online Application through American University
2. Online using the LSAC application system and services
LSAC Applications
Please note that LSAC charges a $75 registration fee to use the online application system plus additional fees for processing international transcripts. These fees apply only to LSAC services – applicants will still need to submit the LL.M. Program application fee of $55.
3. Paper Application
Application Instructions
All applicants must submit the following information in order to have a completed application. Please note that applications will not be reviewed until all materials are received. Admission decisions are made on the basis of all information provided in a completed application.
- Application Form (Online or Paper)
- Official Copies of Academic Records
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- $55.00 application fee
- Official Proof of Competency in English (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE) for non-native English speakers
FINANCIAL AID
Tuition Remission Scholarships All five LL.M. programs offer Tuition Remission Scholarships. These partial tuition grants, usually 2 to 8 academic credits, are available for a limited number of LL.M. students. Tuition remission applications should be submitted with your LL.M. application. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and financial need and are open to both international and U.S. applicants.
ILSP Alumni Fund The LL.M. in International Legal Studies offers five full-tuition scholarships. The Alumni Fund Scholarships are awarded to newly admitted students who display rigorous academic dedication to the advancement of issues in international law. Scholarship applications must be submitted with a completed LL.M. application.
LL.M. Fellowship in Law & Government The LL.M. Fellowship in Law & Government is designed for exceptional students passionately committed to their field of specialization. Successful applicants will have an exemplary academic background and a demonstrated potential to excel in the LL.M. program. The fellow will enroll in the 24-credit LL.M. program and will receive a number of benefits, including a partial scholarship.
Complete details on all Financial Aid Options can be found at http://www.wcl.american.edu/llm/finaid.cfm