Studying Law In The Usa: Options For Indians

Indian students can study law in the US, but there are several steps they need to follow as an international student. First, a bachelor's degree in any field is required, as well as proof of English language proficiency if English is not your first language. Second, the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is required by almost all law schools in the US. Third, a credential evaluation is necessary to verify transcripts and convert grades to the US system. Fourth, the application process will include personal and academic information, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and possibly additional essays. Finally, if admitted, Indian students will need to apply for a student visa. It is important to note that studying law in the US can be financially challenging, and the legal system in the US may be very different from that in India. However, the US offers a diverse range of legal specializations and practice areas, as well as substantial financial rewards for lawyers.

Application requirements for US law schools

Aspiring lawyers from India can pursue a legal education in the United States by enrolling in a JD programme, which is the most common degree for lawyers in the US. The application process for US law schools can be challenging and requires significant effort and financial investment. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind when applying to US law schools:

Bachelor's Degree:

A bachelor's degree is a prerequisite for applying to law school in the US. This degree typically takes four years to complete, and there are no specific major requirements. However, certain majors can help demonstrate your potential for future law studies. It is important to note that your undergraduate degree should be equivalent to a US bachelor's degree to be eligible to apply to US law schools.

Law School Admission Test (LSAT):

The LSAT is a crucial component of the law school application process in the US. It is a standardised test that measures reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking—all essential skills for future legal work. The test is offered four times a year, and you can take it multiple times to improve your score. It is recommended to take the test early, ideally between June and October, to ensure you have your score before law school application deadlines.

Grade Point Average (GPA):

Most law schools in the US look for a minimum GPA of 3.0. However, more competitive schools may have higher GPA requirements, often expecting 3.7 or above. It is important to research the median GPA of recent matriculants at your target schools to set a competitive goal.

Letters of Recommendation:

Law schools typically require two to three letters of recommendation from professors or individuals who can attest to your academic abilities and potential. Strong recommendations can provide valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and academic prowess, enhancing your overall application.

Personal Statement:

Your personal statement is a critical aspect of your law school application. This essay allows admissions committees to get to know you, understand your motivation for studying law, and gain insight into your career aspirations. Most law schools limit personal statements to two to four pages.

Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV):

While work experience is not a mandatory requirement, many law schools value applicants with relevant professional or extracurricular experiences. A well-crafted resume or CV can highlight your skills, abilities, and experiences that align with the legal profession.

Additional Requirements:

Each law school in the US may have specific additional requirements and timelines. It is essential to carefully review the application guidelines for each school you are applying to and plan accordingly. Some schools may require you to register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) to streamline the application process and submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.

It is worth noting that there are seven US universities that award JD degrees recognised by the Bar Council of India, including Cornell Law School, Georgetown University, and the University of Michigan. Additionally, Indian students with an LLM (Master of Law) can directly take the Bar Exam in California and New York without completing a JD programme.

Career prospects and salaries

There are several career opportunities available for international law students in the United States. Students can explore various fields, including criminal law, family law, divorce law, environmental law, international law, patent law, copyright law, and tech law.

Criminal law, for instance, involves prosecutors and defenders. Prosecutors work for the state and aim to convict potential criminals, while defenders work to get people acquitted of the charges against them. These professions can be stressful but are extremely important to the legal field. While the pay is not extremely lucrative, many lawyers find the work rewarding.

Family law practitioners handle cases involving divorce, child support, custody, and abuse. This area can be stressful and often involves dealing with disagreements and a lack of cooperation between parties. However, it can also be very lucrative.

International law, as an academic subject, covers war, peace, diplomacy, and rights. A degree in international law can lead to a regular law career or employment with government or international organizations. International law positions often have titles that are not obviously associated with the legal profession, and fluency in a foreign language can improve one's candidacy for such positions.

The median annual wage for lawyers in the United States was $135,740 in May 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The specific salary can vary based on the lawyer's specialization, such as family, criminal, or corporate law. The salary range for international lawyers in the United States is between $131,947 and $163,417 per year, with an average of $148,145. The average annual pay for international law roles in January 2025 was $55,419, with the top 10% of earners making over $80,000. The salary can vary significantly, indicating potential for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location, and experience. The top-paying states for international lawyers include the District of Columbia, California, New Jersey, Alaska, and Massachusetts.

It is important to note that Indian students with an LLM (Master of Law) can directly take the Bar Exam in California and New York, which is a prerequisite for those aspiring to practice law professionally in the United States.

Eligibility for the Bar Exam

In general, foreign-trained attorneys with a three-year on-site undergraduate law degree from most common law countries may be eligible to take the bar examination in New York and California without completing additional coursework at a U.S. law school. However, each state has its own specific requirements, and it is important to familiarize yourself with the general guidelines and jurisdiction-specific requirements.

For example, in New York, foreign-trained lawyers can sit for the bar exam after a credential evaluation. This involves submitting your law degree and transcripts for review to confirm they meet the educational standards of your chosen jurisdiction. New York does not impose restrictions on admission based on nationality or residence. Similarly, California permits foreign-trained lawyers to take the bar exam without an LL.M. or J.D. if their credentials meet equivalency standards. Washington, D.C., on the other hand, typically requires an LL.M. from an ABA-accredited law school.

To determine your eligibility for the Bar Exam in a specific state, it is recommended to consult the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements and the applicable board of law examiners. Additionally, you can take a short quiz on the Barbri website to determine your eligibility for the New York and California Bar Exams.

Visa process and restrictions

The US Government provides an opportunity for Indian students to study in the country, but as a prerequisite, they must obtain a student visa. The type of visa depends on the applicant's age and the type of study they wish to pursue. The visa application process is managed strictly but fairly by the Department of State to protect the United States.

To apply for a student visa, applicants must complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, which requires personal information such as name, visa class, date of birth, and passport number. Additionally, applicants must pay a US$160 application fee and, depending on the visa type, a SEVIS fee ranging from US$220 to US$350. International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency by passing a secure English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

For Indian students pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in the US, it is essential to determine if their chosen law school is recognised by the Bar Council of India. As of 2024, seven US universities award JDs recognised by the Bar Council of India: Cornell Law School, Georgetown University, South Western University, the University of Michigan, the University of Texas, the Marshall School of Law at William and Mary, and Syracuse University.

Students should plan their travel and visa application well in advance, ensuring they complete the application accurately and provide honest and clear information about their purpose and plans. They may also be required to attend an interview, during which they should be prepared to describe their intentions and travel plans concisely. Obtaining a student visa allows Indian students to stay in the US for the duration of their academic program, provided they maintain full-time enrollment and comply with visa terms. Students with an F-1 visa can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks, while off-campus employment requires additional authorisation.

Benefits of studying law in the US

Studying law in the US offers a range of benefits for Indian students. Firstly, the US legal system is globally influential and renowned for its complexity and openness, providing a dynamic and stimulating learning environment. This system is based on common law principles similar to Indian law, offering a familiar foundation with unique characteristics to explore.

Secondly, US law schools are among the most prestigious and highly regarded worldwide, offering a comprehensive and world-class legal education. They provide access to leading legal experts and the opportunity to build a strong global network, opening doors to diverse and rewarding career paths. The median annual wage for lawyers in the US was $135,740 in May 2022, with the potential for higher earnings based on specialisation. The employment of lawyers is projected to grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032, indicating strong job prospects.

Additionally, studying law in the US offers a broad range of legal specialisations and practice areas due to its vast geographical expanse. Students can explore up-and-coming fields such as international law, patent and copyright law, and tech law. The curriculum covers a variety of subjects, including legal writing, contracts, torts, criminal law, and constitutional law, providing a solid foundation for a legal career.

Furthermore, Indian students pursuing a JD in the US can apply for an OPT to gain valuable work experience and continue their career in the US. Alternatively, they can return to India and practice law after passing the necessary examinations. It is important to note that Indian students must ensure their law school is recognised by the Bar Council of India, with several US universities offering recognised JDs.

Frequently asked questions