- The world’s top law schools reflect their countries' legal traditions and academic strengths, with the US leading the rankings and the UK following closely.
- While North America dominates, Australia, Canada, and Europe offer highly regarded programmes that stand out for their focus on international law and comparative legal systems.
- Your journey to earning a law degree starts with finding the right programme. Explore the Studyportals Meta Ranking to compare top law schools worldwide.
Studying for a law degree at top schools around the globe comes with some unique perks since each school shines in different areas. This variety reflects each country's different cultural, social, and legal priorities, so it's important for you to pick a programme that fits your interests and career goals.
This guide looks at the rankings from the Studyportals University Meta Ranking and expands the focus beyond the usual location-based lists. By considering diverse geographical options, it gives a broader perspective on the global legal education scene, helping prospective students make informed choices from a wider range of options.
There are numerous study programmes for international students on our portals:
- 3,000+ English-taught Law Bachelor’s degrees
- 3,000+ English-taught Law Master’s degrees
- 400+ English-taught Law PhD’s degrees
Here is a list of the top 10 Law schools worldwide, according to our Meta Rankings:
- Harvard University, United States
- University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Stanford University, United States
- University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Columbia University, United States
- Yale University, United States
- UCL (University College London), United Kingdom
- University of California, Berkeley, United States
- University of Toronto, Canada
- University of Melbourne, Australia
You can check out the complete rankings on Mastersportal, but now let's explore the best Law schools around the world in more detail, by region.
Best Law Schools in North America
Top law schools in North America are known for their specialized programs and strong ties to the legal industry. The law education system in the United States really stands out because it focuses on a Juris Doctor (JD) programme instead of an undergraduate law degree, which is more common elsewhere. U.S. law schools prioritize developing critical thinking and analytical skills through a lot of lively debates and discussions in class.
On the other hand, Canadian law schools focus on important areas like Indigenous law, international human rights, and environmental legislation. Plus, Canada’s dual legal system, blending common law and civil law traditions, gives students a fantastic chance to get a well-rounded view of legal principles that apply globally.
#1 in North America: Harvard University, United States
Harvard Law School is well-known for its major influence on legal education and is a leader in the field. With its thorough programmes in constitutional law, international law, and legal theory, it has produced notable alumni like former U.S. President Barack Obama. Harvard's focus on critical thinking and leadership makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in law.
Top 6 Best Law Universities in North America
- Harvard University, United States
- Stanford University, United States
- Columbia University, United States
- Yale University, United States
- University of California, Berkeley, United States
- University of Toronto, Canada
For a complete list of top-ranking universities in North America, check out the Studyportals Meta Ranking.
Best Law Schools in the UK
Law schools in the United Kingdom have several features that set them apart from others in the world. Firstly, their long-standing prestige and heritage provide a strong tradition of legal education, with many institutions boasting centuries of history in shaping legal minds. Also, UK law education is structured around the undergraduate Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, allowing students to specialize early in their legal studies by integrating key subjects like commercial law, contract law, and tort law from the start.
#1 in the UK: University of Oxford
Oxford's Faculty of Law is synonymous with academic excellence. It excels in jurisprudence and international law, producing leaders like former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. The school’s global perspective and extensive alumni network provide significant advantages for students seeking international careers.
Top 5 Law Universities in the UK
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- University College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- King's College London
Explore the full list of top-ranking universities in the United Kingdom via the Studyportals Meta Ranking.
Best Law Schools in Europe (continental)
Leading European law schools are renowned for their emphasis on international law and human rights, with half of the top 10 located in the Netherlands. This is due to the presence of major legal institutions like the International Court of Justice and strong connections to various industries, which improve practical training and job opportunities for graduates. Here's a preview of two of the best universities in Europe where you can study Law:
#1 in Europe: University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
The University of Amsterdam's law school stands out not only for its beautiful location along the canals but also for its prestigious reputation. It has consistently ranked among the top law schools in Europe, offering a robust curriculum that combines academic rigour with hands-on learning. Students enjoy strong connections with the legal industry, which lead to internships and collaborations with esteemed law firms and institutions.
Top 10 Best Law Universities in Europe
- University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Utrecht University, Netherlands
- University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- KU Leuven, Belgium
- Leiden University, Netherlands
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Erasmus University College, Netherlands
- Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, Germany
- Humboldt University Berlin, Germany
- Lund University, Sweden
Discover the list of top Law schools in Europe according to the Studyportals Meta Ranking.
Best Law Schools in Asia
Asia's law education stands out because it combines local and international legal frameworks, giving students a well-rounded grasp of both regional and global legal landscapes. This dual approach readies them for the complexities of international law while staying rooted in the unique legal traditions and challenges of the Asian continent.
#1 in Asia: National University of Singapore, Singapore
The National University of Singapore Faculty of Law* is a leader in legal innovation and education. Its programmes in corporate law, international law, and legal policy are outstanding. Situated in a bustling business hub, NUS offers students plenty of networking opportunities and career growth across Asia.
Top 10 Law Universities in Asia
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
- The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Peking University, China
- Tsinghua University, China
- Wuhan University, China
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- The University of Tokyo, Japan
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Seoul National University, South Korea
Explore the list of top Law schools in Asia and embark on your journey to an impactful legal career.
Best Law Schools in Australia
Australia is home to some of the world's finest law schools, offering programmes that reflect the region's diverse legal landscape. These institutions are renowned for their research excellence, innovative teaching methods, and robust industry links that provide students with practical experience and global perspectives.
#1 in Australia: University of Melbourne, Australia
The University of Melbourne's Law School is well-known around the world for its outstanding legal education and research. It's especially recognized for its expertise in public and constitutional law, with a faculty that has a wealth of knowledge in these fields. The school also puts a strong focus on commercial law and human rights law, getting students ready for a variety of legal careers both in Australia and internationally.*
Top 3 Law Universities in Australia
Explore the list of top Law schools in Australia and take the next step in your legal education journey.
Best Law Schools in Africa
Africa's top law schools are renowned for their focus on legal systems, human rights, and constitutional law, offering students distinctive insights into the continent's diverse legal framework. These institutions are crucial in shaping legal minds that contribute significantly to both regional and international legal landscapes.
#1 in Africa: University of Cape Town, South Africa
The University of Cape Town Faculty of Law is a leader in African legal education. Its programmes emphasize human rights and constitutional law, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the region's legal challenges and opportunities. Notable alumni include judges and legal scholars who influence policy on a global scale.
Top 3 Law Universities in Africa
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
- Stellenbosch University, South Africa
Explore the list of top Law schools in Africa to find the right programme for you.
Best Law Schools in South America
South American law schools offer rich programmes that reflect the continent’s unique legal traditions and current socio-legal challenges. These institutions are distinguished by their focus on social justice, environmental law, and regional integration.
#1 in Latin America: University of São Paulo, Brazil
The University of São Paulo Faculty of Law is esteemed for its deep-rooted tradition in legal education, emphasizing civil and environmental law. It is known for producing leaders who shape Brazilian and international legal practices. The school’s commitment to research and policy development makes it a top destination for aspiring legal professionals.
Top 4 Law Universities in South America
- University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
- University of Chile
- Universidad de los Andes, Colombia
Explore the list of top Law schools in South America and take the next step toward a fulfilling legal career.
What makes a great law school?
A great law school is about more than just rankings; it’s really about having a curriculum that’s both thorough and relevant to today’s legal challenges. Having strong ties to the legal industry and providing practical experience opportunities are super important. Take Harvard’s extensive legal clinics or Oxford’s famous tutorial system, for example.
Here are some key elements that make a law school stand out:
- Hands-on learning opportunities like court simulations, internships, and legal clinics that mimic real-world legal scenarios.
- A diverse student body and faculty that enrich the learning experience with different perspectives, which are crucial for global legal practice.
- Facilities that are equipped with the latest technology to support innovative legal research and education.
- A community that encourages collaboration and networking, helping students learn from one another and build professional connections.
Why location matters when studying law
Location really matters in legal education. Studying law in Washington, D.C., puts you right in the heart of U.S. government and policy-making, giving you amazing chances for internships and networking. On the flip side, studying in London lets you dive into a city with a rich legal history and connects you with international law firms and courts. Here’s why location is key when studying law:
- Being close to major legal hubs means easy access to top-notch legal pros and institutions.
- Being near global legal centers keeps you in the loop on current trends and practices.
- Living in culturally diverse cities sharpens your ability to work in international and multicultural legal settings.
- Knowing local legal systems and client needs helps you develop unique legal strategies and insights.
How to choose the best law university for you
Choosing a law school is all about finding a programme that fits your career goals and interests. If you're aiming for a career in diplomacy or global organizations, a school known for its international law programme is a great choice. Here are some things to think about when picking a law school:
- Check out the courses to make sure they align with your goals. Schools with specialized programmes in areas like human rights or environmental law can offer focused learning.
- Look for schools that have connections with major law firms or organizations—they can help you land internships and build your network.
- Find faculty who have real-world legal experience and are involved in cutting-edge research; they'll make your educational experience even better.
- A strong alumni network and career services focused on law can be super helpful for securing internships, mentorships, and jobs.
- Getting involved in law societies, moot courts, or clinics can really boost your resume and professional skills.
In conclusion...
Top law schools worldwide offer diverse opportunities to develop your legal acumen. When choosing a school, thorough research will ensure that your aspirations align with the institution’s strengths. Ready to embark on your legal education journey? Explore these top schools today with Studyportals.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the average LSAT score needed for admission to top law schools?
The average LSAT score needed for admission to top law schools typically ranges from 160 to 170, depending on the institution. Prestigious schools like Harvard or Yale often require scores closer to the higher end of this range to remain competitive.
2. How important is GPA when applying to law school?
GPA plays a crucial role in law school applications as it reflects your academic abilities and dedication. Top law schools generally look for applicants with GPAs above 3.5, but a strong application can compensate for a lower GPA in some cases.
3. What are the best law schools for international law?
For students interested in international law, schools such as Georgetown University, NYU, and the University of Cambridge are renowned for their robust programmes and diverse course offerings that prepare students for global legal challenges.
4. How can I find scholarships for law school?
Many law schools offer scholarships based on merit or financial need. Researching individual institutions’ financial aid options and prestigious national scholarships, like the Fulbright or the Rhodes Scholarship, can be beneficial.
5. Do law schools offer online programmes?
Yes, several law schools now offer online programmes or hybrid formats to accommodate different learning needs and lifestyles. Institutions such as the University of Southern California and Syracuse University provide reputable online law degrees that maintain quality and rigor.
Methodology
Our Studyportals University Meta Ranking synthesizes data from the world’s most prestigious rankings to determine the best universities. We adapt our methodology to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness across disciplines.
