Program Related Questions
How is the GPLLM structured?
The program beings each September. The program may be completed in one year (three sessions with a F/W/S registration sequence) or through an extended full-time option that allows students to complete the program requirements over two years (six sessions with a F/W/S/F/W/S registration sequence). Regular classes take place on Friday evenings (from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) and all day on Saturdays (8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.), on alternating weeks. Students also attend a three-day non-credit course called Legal Methods, and at least one intensive course (that is two weekends in length).Please review the 2022-2023 Program Calendar.
Is the GPLLM considered a full-time or part-time program?
Although the program is delivered in a part-time format - Friday evenings and all day Saturday every other week - the program is considered a full-time program by the University due to the number of class hours.
Is the GPLLM a Masters Degree?
Yes. The GPLLM is a Master of Laws degree, a virtually universal credential.
Does the GPLLM enable me to practice law?
No. The GPLLM will provide you with a substantive, academically rigorous legal education in a variety of different areas of law. If you are licensed to practice law in another jurisdiction, the GPLLM concentration in Canadian Law in a Global Context will enable you to fulfill the NCA Core and Mandatory courses. If you are new to the law, the GPLLM will not provide you with the qualifications to practice law.
What is the difference between the GPLLM and the LLM?
The GPLLM is a full-time executive LLM geared towards practicing lawyers and professionals from a number of different industries. The GPLLM is not a research-based program. The LLM required a JD or LLB in order to be admitted. Students in the LLM attend the Faculty’s JD classes, the majority of which are offered during the daytime. In addition, the profile of students in the GPLLM is quite different from that of our LLM program. Learn more about the currentGPLLM cohort. Fees, admissions deadlines and admissions requirements also differ between the two programs. Please visit theLLM Admissions pagefor more information.
Is there a pathway from the GPLLM to the SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science)?
GPLLM students who have an undergraduate law degree might be eligible for admissions to the SJD program. For more information please review the SJD requirementshere.
Is the program delivered by distance learning?
Typically, class sessions are delivered face-to-face in a classroom. One of the aspects of the program on which we most pride ourselves (and about which we regularly receive positive feedback) is the dynamic classroom experience. Face-to-face engagement allows you to extract the greatest value from the program while also developing close relationships with your faculty and peers.
I'm applying as an international student. Where can I find information about student visas, work permits, etc.?
Please visit theCentre for International Experiencefor more information.
Do you offer career support?
The Graduate Career Advisor supports current GPLLM students through tailored career supports. Through workshops, events, mentorship, information sessions, alumni chats, and direct advising, our students develop their career skills and understanding on a vast range of topics:NCA candidacy,LSO licensing, theLaw Practice Program, career decision-making, alternative law career paths, application documents, interview preparation, building a Canadian law network, and more.
As a part of your resources, all GPLLM students access theU of T Law Careers portal(UTLC). By developing their professional profile on UTLC, students receive targeted job notifications, event updates, and are able to access a wide range of asynchronous online career resources. The UTLC job board is of most interest to students from our Canadian Law concentration, and all GPLLM students have access.
Finally,is available to all U of T students as a central service. While they offer generalized career services, many of their 40+ programs, resources and services both live online, and asynchronous, are tailored also to graduate students.
Can you share information on the licensing process?
For prospective students and incoming students, we strongly encourage you to review:
- TheNational Committee on Accreditation: The NCA determines what is required for internationally trained people to become qualified for licensing in Canada. The assessments they issue determine a GPLLM student’s course requirements.
- TheLaw Society of Ontario: The LSO grants licensing to prospective lawyers wishing to practice in Ontario. They administer thebar examinationsthat typically take place late Summer, Fall and Winter.
The program is structured such that it runs from September until early August (seeProgram Calendaron ourAdmissions page) as closely in alignment as possible to match the LSO’s licensing processes
For current GPLLM students, the Graduate Career Advisor is supports them in their licensing questions through workshops, events, asynchronous materials, and direct advising.
Admissions Questions
How many candidates do you accept each year?
We accept up to 120 students in total from all four concentrations each year.
Is an admission interview required?
If you think you would benefit from meeting with a member of the GPLLM team to discuss the program and the value it can offer you, please contact us at any time. We’d be happy to help you determine whether the GPLLM is the right fit for you given your career and personal goals. This meeting can take place in person, over the phone or via Zoom. If you are in the GTA, we are happy to meet in a location that is convenient for you (we do love coffee). Upon review of your Application, an interview may be requested if the Admissions Committee requires additional information
If I fulfill the minimum criteria of admission to the program, what are my chances of entry?
Fulfilling the minimum criteria only guarantees you consideration for admission to the program. Whether you receive an offer of admission is a function of the strength of your application on its own and relative to that of the other applicant. Due to the competitive nature of the program, the majority of applicants exceed the minimum admission requirements. If you are concerned that you aren’t competitive for the program, please contact us. We’d love to chat.
What are the most heavily weighted factors in my application?
We take a holistic approach when reviewing applications for admission to the GPLLM. Although your academic background is one of the variables considered by the Admissions Committee, we also consider your professional experience, extra-curricular involvements, reference letters, personal statement in assessing your contributions to the classroom experience.
If I’m admitted this year, can I defer my admission to next year?
Please contact us for details atadmissions.gpllm@utoronto.ca.
How long before I know if I’ve been accepted once my application is submitted?
GPLLM applications will be considered in four rounds as set out on ourAdmissionspage. Applying early in the process is particularly important for students who will need to obtain appropriate immigration documentation as the process can be a lengthy one. The GPLLM Program reserves the right to make off-cycle decisions at their sole discretion.
Do I need to write the LSAT?
No. Cause for celebration, we know.
Do I need to write a TOEFL or IELTS?
It is essential that you have a command of the English language. If your primary language is not English and you graduated from a non-Canadian university where the language of instruction and examination was not English, you must demonstrate your facility in English by completing an English-language facility test. Candidates who have completed their undergraduate degrees in a language other than in English must write their TOEFL (iBT or TWE) or IELTS (academic). The minimum overall score required is 100 (writing, 24; speaking, 24) on the TOEFL, and for the IELTS the minimum overall score is 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component. This language requirement should be met at the time you submit your application.
My academic records are in a language other than English or French. Shall I also submit English translations of my documents?
If your transcripts/documents are in a language other than English, you must also submit notarized English translations. Translations do not replace original documentation. Both the original documents and translations must be submitted. Exception: French is an official language of Canada and we therefore do not require English translations of transcripts in French.
How much is the application fee?
A $125 CDN application fee is required. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Tuition Related Questions
What is included in the program fees?
The annual tuition fee includes the program fee, and most course material.
How can I pay tuition?
Please visit theStudent Account websitefor all tuition fee payment options available to GPLLM students.
Are there scholarships or discounts available?
Unfortunately, students in the GPLLM are not currently eligible for financial aid.
What are my financing options?
The University of Toronto, Faculty of Law does not offer direct financing or student financial aid for the GPLLM. However, the GPLLM qualifies for the Scotiabank ScotiaLine of Credit, Life Long Learning Plan (LLP), and Ontario Student Assistant Program (OSAP). For more information please visit our Fees page.
Is the GPLLM program tuition fee tax deductible?
The GPLLM is considered a full-time program and therefore the tuition fee is partly tax deductible. It also qualifies for the Canada Revenue Agency’s Life Long Learning Plan.
FAQs
What is the GPLLM program at the University of Toronto? ›
The Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law is an innovative and transformative program designed to help you realize your professional potential through exposure to a robust legal education focused on the areas of law most salient to professionals.
What is the Global Professional Master of Laws Program University of Toronto? ›Program Description
The Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) program is an executive graduate degree in law designed for (1) executives who wish to become more conversant in the substance and methodology of law; and (2) internationally trained lawyers who wish to become licensed to practise law in Canada.
The Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) is a graduate program at Canada's top law school that enables a diverse body of both lawyers and non-lawyers to learn with the country's leading legal minds.
How much does University of Toronto charge for LLM? ›Program fee
Tuition for the one-year Global Professional Master of Laws is approximately $35,414.28 CAD for domestic (Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident) students and $74,110.28 CAD for international students.
Students must enroll in a minimum of two semesters of coursework to fulfill the residency requirement. Students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 in all coursework (law school is graded on a different grading scale in keeping with the ABA requirements).
What is the law school acceptance rate in Toronto? ›Law school in Canada is tough to get into, due to the limited number of schools and open seats, and the rigorous admission requirements. The average acceptance rate for Canadian law schools is around 11.4%.
Which is better LLM or MBA in Canada? ›Career: One must choose LLM if they want to pursue a career in law or MBA if they want to seek a career in administration or management. Students who are interested in management should pursue an MBA, but in other situations, an LLM should be prioritized.
Is it worth doing LLM in Canada? ›Studying law in Canada will help you gain enough professional and legal knowledge and skills that will help boost your CV. You can easily find a part-time job that pays well or land a paid internship during your course to fund your studies.
Is LLM the same as juris master? ›An LLM takes a lawyer deeper, to gain "advanced knowledge in a specific area of law for career advancement, upward mobility, and/or expanded practice opportunities." The primary difference in the curriculum is that a JD program covers general law concepts; the LLM is focused on a specific area of expertise.
Does an LLM make you a lawyer in Canada? ›Note: Completing the Professional LLM in Canadian Common Law does not automatically entitle you to practice law in Canada or to be admitted to the Bar of a Canadian province or territory. Consult the NCA or your provincial/territorial law society for more information.
Can I practice law in Canada with LLM? ›
The NCA assesses the legal education and professional experience of lawyers from outside of Canada, and provides accreditation to practice law in the jurisdiction. So an LL. M. is not necessary to become a lawyer in Canada, but it is helpful.
Can I practice in Canada after LLM? ›You will have to pursue Juris Doctor or JD program after completing your LLM in Canada to gain the certification of practising Law in Canada.
How much is LLM from Harvard? ›Tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $73,600; in addition, health insurance and health services fees, the LL. M. activities fee, dental insurance, the costs of housing, food, books and supplies, and personal and travel expenses for a single student come to at least $37,900, for a total of at least $111,500.
How much does a LLM at USA cost? ›Master of Law in the USA is a postgraduate law degree for LLB or JD graduates who want to specialize in a specific part of the law. Students can pick from different concentration areas listed below during LLM in the USA. This degree is generally one year long and costs between USD 30,000 to USD 70,000 annually.
What is the average fees for LLM in USA? ›On average, the LLM fees in the USA range between 66,924 USD and 75,572 USD yearly. The cost of living can go up to 30,000 USD per month. You must also consider the pre-arrival expenses, which include the application fee, visa fee, SEVIS fee, etc.
What GPA does a LLM have at Harvard? ›Harvard Law School Requirements
The GPA percentiles of incoming Harvard Law students are: 25th percentile GPA: 3.82. 50th percentile GPA: 3.92. 75th percentile GPA: 3.98.
Would you want bad grades if you had the option? Grades may not be the ultimate decider, but is definitely a determinative factor for most employers when it comes to hiring decisions. So don't stress yourself out too much over it, but do not take it lightly either.
What does Harvard look for in an LLM? ›In evaluating LLM applications, we will take into consideration applicants' academic performance in their university and law studies, their ability to write a cogent legal essay, their English language proficiency, the quality of their letters of recommendation, their professional and personal accomplishments, and ...
What is the easiest law school to get into with a low GPA? ›What are the easiest law schools to get into with a low GPA or LSAT score? Some of the law schools which accept the lowest average GPA and LSAT scores are Whittier Law School, University of North Dakota Law School and Touro University Law School.
What LSAT score do you need for Toronto? ›We do not have a minimum LSAT score or GPA. The strongest applicants to the 2020-2021 program had LSAT scores starting at 160 and undergraduate GPAs starting at A-.
What is the cheapest law school in Canada? ›
- Brandon University.
- Université de Saint-Boniface.
- Dominican University College.
- Canadian Mennonite University.
- The Memorial University of Newfoundland.
- University of Northern British Columbia.
- The University of Calgary.
- The University of Saskatchewan.
- Master of laws in Legal Studies.
- Master of laws in Administrative Law Studies.
- Master of laws in National Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Economic Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Human Rights Law Studies.
- Master of laws in Jurisprudence.
- Master of laws in Dispute Resolution Studies.
- A judge: This is a widely esteemed position in every country's legal or judiciary systems. ...
- Legal advisor: Contract summarisation, contract administration, legal study, writing, court cases and analysis relevant projects are assisted by court partner or law associate.
US vs Canada for MS: Quality Education
The first factor to consider in deciding Canada vs USA for masters is comparing the quality of education. The US is world renowned for its quality of education. This makes it one of the most preferred destinations for MS abroad, especially for the STEM fields.
The salary for an LLM graduate in Canada ranges from 60,000 CAD to 100,000 CAD (37 lakhs-61 lakhs INR) per year, depending on the job role, location, and level of experience.
Is it worth doing LLM in USA? ›LLM students in the United States have many career opportunities. Even one can continue law practice in the US without any discrimination in the law firms or the home country. Entry-level salary is around 58,000 to 70,000 USD annually in law firms. They can earn up to 96,200 USD or Rs 57 lakh per annum.
Is an LLM prestigious? ›While an LL. M. can be a prestigious credential for some attorneys, it is not a panacea, even in a poor economy, for recent law school graduates with little to no work experience in that practice area. The most notable exception to this is in the tax arena.
How long is the LLM program at UOFT? ›The Master of Laws (LLM) is a one-year degree program that provides students with an opportunity for more profound study beyond their first law degree.
What is the global ranking of University of Toronto law? ›The University of Toronto, in 16th place, is the highest-ranked Canadian university. Fifteen other Canadian universities feature in the ranking. Times Higher Education's subject rankings are based on the same 13 performance indicators used in the overall World University Rankings 2023.
How to apply for LLM at University of Toronto? ›Applicants to the LLM program must have a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognized University, and must have achieved the equivalent of a University of Toronto B+ standing in the final year of their LLB/JD.
Is University of Toronto a good law school? ›
This detailed U of T Law School guide is for aspiring law students to learn more about the University of Toronto JD program. U of T Law is notably one of the top legal institutions in Canada. It is renowned nationally and internationally as a leading legal education provider.
Can you practice law in Canada with an LLM? ›Note: Completing the Professional LLM in Canadian Common Law does not automatically entitle you to practice law in Canada or to be admitted to the Bar of a Canadian province or territory. Consult the NCA or your provincial/territorial law society for more information.
What is the acceptance rate for LLM? ›The median acceptance rate for all law schools in the US sits at 40.8%, which is already a fairly competitive rate. The top 15 law schools in the US, with acceptance rates below 15%, are even more selective. Their median acceptance rate sits at 11.1%.
How long is an LLM at Harvard? ›The LL. M. (Master of Laws) program is a one-year degree program that typically includes 180 students from some 70 countries. The Graduate Program is interested in attracting intellectually curious and thoughtful candidates from a variety of legal systems and backgrounds and with various career plans.
Is University of Toronto an elite University? ›The University of Toronto is one of the most sought-after universities in the world, thanks to its remarkable community of students, faculty and alumni. Canada's top-ranked university is also one of the world's best research-intensive universities, which has produced some of the top minds across different fields.
How hard is it to get into University of Toronto law school? ›Application of Admission Policy. Admission to the Faculty of Law is selective. In each cycle, generally 2,000 applications are received for about 200 first-year places in the JD program, with fewer than 300 offers of admission. There are three categories of admission: general, mature and Indigenous.
Why is University of Toronto ranked so high? ›According to the Times Higher Education rankings, which looks at metrics like teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook, U of T ranks highly in some pretty impressive categories, like how often its research was cited globally and its overall international reputation.
Can you get an LLM without the LSAT in Canada? ›Do I need to take the LSAT in order to apply to Canadian law schools? Not all Canadian law schools require the LSAT. Your law school application must include an LSAT score if you are applying to an LSAC-member Canadian law school. The Quebec law schools do not require the LSAT.
Is it good to do LLM from Canada? ›Is LLM worth in Canada? For law and legal studies, it is regarded as an elite institution. According to the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education rankings, it is one of the top 150 universities for law and legal studies.
Is University of Toronto as good as Harvard? ›Harvard University is a private university in the USA while University of Toronto is a public university in Canada. Both are ranked among the top 50 universities of the world by QS and THE in 2022.
How much does a lawyer make at University of Toronto? ›
What is the salary range for new lawyers? The Career Development Office compiles current information on articling and associate salaries and makes this available to our students. Articling salaries in Toronto range from approximately $35,000 to $70,000 per year.