What is the Eligibility Criteria to pursue LLM?

Reader's Digest: If you are an LLB graduate and looking to study further and pursue your LLM degree, you must know the eligibility requirements and the admission process. 

There are different eligibility requirements for every college and LLM entrance exam. 

However, the common eligibility requirement is to have an LLB degree. 

Let us further understand the eligibility requirements to pursue an LLM degree and the important LLM exams. 

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Introduction

The Master of Laws (LLM) is a postgraduate legal degree that allows law graduates to specialise in various areas of law. LLM programs in India are designed to enhance legal knowledge, research skills, and expertise in a specific domain of law. Aspiring candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria set by universities and regulatory bodies to enrol in an LLM course.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on LLM courses eligibility criteria in India, including qualifications, entrance exams, and other requirements.

Read More: Top Private colleges for LLM

What is the Eligibility Criteria to pursue LLM?

1.1 Educational Qualification

To pursue an LLM course in India, candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in law (LLB). The specific requirements may vary based on the university, but the general eligibility conditions are:

• 3-Year LLB or 5-Year Integrated LLB Degree: Candidates must hold an LLB degree from a recognised university in India or abroad.
• Minimum Marks Requirement: Some universities require candidates to have a minimum percentage in their LLB, usually around 50-55% for general category students and 45-50% for SC/ST/OBC candidates.
• Bar Council of India (BCI) Recognition: The LLB degree must be recognised by the Bar Council of India (BCI) or an equivalent foreign legal authority.

Read more: Career Options after LLM

1.2 Entrance Exams for LLM Admission

Admission to LLM programs in India is primarily based on national-level, university-level, and state-level entrance exams.

1.3 Age Limit

• There is no upper age limit to pursue LLM in India.
• Some universities may have specific age-related policies, but they are not common.

Important LLM Entrance Exam and its Eligibility Requirements 

Out of several LLM entrance exams, let's check the eligibility criteria for the top 5 LLM entrance exams: 

CLAT PG:

CLAT PG is a national-level entrance exam for admission to postgraduate courses in law and direct recruitment to PSUs.

Eligibility: 

• You must have an LLB degree or an equivalent examination with a minimum of 50% for General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OCI categories and 45% for SC/ST categories. 
• Candidates appearing for their qualifying examination in April/May 2023 are also eligible to apply.

AILET PG: 

The National Law University, Delhi, conducts AILET for admission to B.A.LL.B. (Hons.), LLM, and Ph.D. courses based on the rank obtained in the AILET exam. 

Eligibility: 

• The candidate should have passed the LLB from a recognized University with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate (45% in the case of SC/ST/Persons with Disability category).

AIAT : 

It is conducted by Symbiosis Law School, Pune, to offer admissions to 5-year BA BBA LLB, 3-year LLB, Diploma, and LLM programs.

Eligibility: 

Candidates must have a three or five-year LLB degree from any Indian or foreign university recognized by the UGC with at least 50% marks or equivalent grade [45% for SC/ST Candidates]. 

CUET LLM:

CUET LLM is conducted by NTA to offer admission to LLM programs at Central Universities in the country. 

Eligibility: 

Candidates having three years / five years LL.B. Degree from a recognized Indian or foreign university (As per AIU list) with at least 50% marks or equivalent grade in aggregate (Relaxation of 5% to the SC/ST/PWD/ OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates).

Other University-Specific Exams

Some universities conduct their own entrance exams for LLM admissions, such as:

• Symbiosis Law Admission Test (SNAP for LLM at Symbiosis Law School)
• Maharashtra State CET (MH CET Law for LLM)

Specialisations in LLM

Candidates can specialise in different areas of law during their LLM course. Some popular specialisations include:

1. Corporate Law
2. Constitutional Law
3. International Law
4. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Law
5. Human Rights Law
6. Environmental Law
7. Taxation Law
8. Criminal Law
9. Labour Law
10. Family Law

Read More: How to choose specialization in LLM?

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Duration and Mode of LLM Programs

Course Duration

• LLM courses eligibility criteria in India require that programs be typically 1-year or 2-year courses.
• The 1-year LLM is offered under the UGC’s 2013 guidelines, whereas the 2-year LLM is still available at many universities.

Full-Time vs. Part-Time LLM

• Full-Time LLM: Requires students to attend regular classes, participate in research work, and complete dissertation projects.

• Part-Time LLM: Suitable for working professionals who want to pursue advanced legal studies while continuing their job.

• Online & Distance LLM: Some universities offer distance learning options for flexibility.

Read more: Difference between 1 Year vs. 2 Year LLM course in India

Admission Process for LLM in India

Steps to Apply

1. Check eligibility criteria: Ensure that you meet the LLM courses eligibility criteria in India with an LLB qualification and minimum marks requirement.
2. Register for entrance exams: Apply for CLAT PG, AILET, or university-specific exams.
3. Appear for the entrance test: Score well in the exam to get admission into a top law school.
4. Merit List & Counselling: Universities release merit lists, and candidates may have to attend counselling for final selection.
5. Document Verification & Admission Confirmation: Submit necessary documents such as LLB degree, entrance exam scorecard, and identity proofs.

Read More: Best LLM Specializations in India

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Top Universities Offering LLM in India

Some of the leading law universities offering LLM programs in India include:

National Law Universities (NLUs)

1. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore
2. NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
3. West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
4. National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi)
5. Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar

Other Renowned Universities

6. Faculty of Law, Delhi University (DU)
7. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
8. Symbiosis Law School, Pune
9. Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat
10. ILS Law College, Pune

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Career Prospects After LLM

A key aspect of what is the eligibility criteria of pursuing LLM in India is understanding the career paths available. An LLM degree opens up several career opportunities in academia, judiciary, corporate law, litigation, legal consultancy, and international organisations. Graduates can explore roles such as:

• Legal Advisor in corporate firms

• Judicial Services (after additional qualification)

• Academician/Professor

• Litigator/Advocate

• Policy Analyst

• Legal Consultant in government agencies

• International Lawyer in global firms

Conclusion

Understanding what is the eligibility criteria of pursuing LLM in India helps law graduates make informed decisions about their future. Pursuing an LLM courses eligibility criteria in India requires careful consideration of entrance exams, university selection, and career goals. By meeting the necessary requirements, aspiring legal professionals can secure admission to prestigious law schools and advance in the legal domain.