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LLM in Law & Government

Admissions Information

LL.M. Entrance Requirements

  1. Applicants must have completed a law degree at a U.S. law school accredited by the American Bar Association, or at a foreign law school with equivalent standards.
  2. Complete and return application form before deadline.
  3. Provide proof of competency in English.
  4. Meet visa requirements for international applicants.
  5. Once admitted, applicant must complete the Newly-Admitted Student Requirements.
(For more information, see our FAQ page.)

Admission to the Program is based on high achievement in law school (transcript & activities) and in any professional experiences since law school.


Proof of Competency in English:

Applicants whose first language is not English must take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language, www.toefl.org) English competency exam. Applicants must request from the testing agency official scores to be sent directly from the testing agency to the Program on Law and Government. The TOEFL requirement is waived only for applicants who have completed a higher degree program from an accredited U.S. institution.

A minimum TOEFL score of 600 (250 computer based test) is required.

If you are unsure whether you must take the TOEFL exam, please call 202-274-4268 or e-mail the program.


Visas for International Applicants

Non-U.S. citizens must submit the Personal Information and Immigration Request Form (PIIRF) and appropriate financial documentation with their application to receive an I-20 form upon admission. The I-20 allows the student to apply for the F-1 (student) visa. Admitted applicants will be sent the I-20 with their acceptance letter. Failure to return the PIIRF with the application will result in a delay in the issuance of the I-20. Students studying under other nonimmigrant visa categories will be contacted if there is a problem with their visa status.

Most international students attend WCL on an F-1 visa. A new visa can be acquired only at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Visa application procedures vary by location, so contact the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for your visa.

Required documents for your visa application:

Please contact the Office of International Student & Scholar Services for more information at http://american.edu/ocl/iss/.


Newly-Admitted Students

Tuition Deposit:
Each newly-admitted student must submit a tuition deposit of $350 to reserve a seat in the upcoming class. Deposits are credited against tuition charges for the entering semester. Complete deposit and refund instructions are included with the letter of admission.

New Student Orientation:
All incoming students must attend the Orientation held the week before classes each semester. Fall semester classes usually begin the third week of August. Spring semester classes usually begin the second week of January. Exact dates are posted on the Academic Calendar on the WCL website.

Health Insurance for International Students:
Students registering under F-1 or J-1 visas are automatically enrolled in the university's accident and sickness plan, and billed through student accounts. This plan may be waived only by showing proof of adequate alternate insurance. Complete information will be provided during Orientation. Click here for Student Health Insurance Information.

Vaccinations:
All students under 26 years of age must be immunized against seven common diseases. Upon admission, these students must submit proof of vaccination for the following: diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, polio, and tetanus. Click here for Immunization Form.

 
Washington College of Law  -  4801 Massachusetts Avenue, NW  -  Washington, DC 20016  -  202-274-4000