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Studying an LLM (Master of Laws) in Virginia

LLM in VirginiaThe state of Virginia is situated on the eastern coast of USA, and is bordered by West Virginia to the northwest side, by District of Columbia and Maryland to the east and north, by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and by Tennessee and North Carolina to the south.

It has been nicknamed “Mother of Presidents” as eight Presidents of the USA were born here or “the Old Dominion” as Virginia is famous for its historical sites. The past of the state is often associated with the history and heritage of the USA itself as it is here that the country began in 1607.

The state contains various historical sites, monuments and exhibits waiting to be explored for all those who have a flair for discovering the past of the nation!

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Where & what to study in Virginia

Virginia has several institutions with highly developed academic and research facilities. Various universities offer an LLM program including George Mason University, University of Virginia, Washington and Lee University, College of William and Mary, Regent University School of Law, Liberty University School of Law and University of Richmond School of Law.

These universities offer various specialisations including law and economics, intellectual property and US law for non-US lawyers.

Applications & admissions

Entry requirements for an LLM program at a Virginian university are generally a first degree in law from a recognised university with good academic record and proof of English language proficiency in the form of IELTS or TOEFL scores. For guidance on completing a course in English you may wish to refer to our page LLMs in English.

In terms of the application procedure your admission application should include an application form, application fee, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts and IELTS/TOEFL score report.

Tuition fees & living costs

The tuition fees depending on the institution and the course you have applied for, however as an estimate the LLM programs at a Virginian university cost from $35,000-$40,000. Further, the students must take into account the costs for accommodation, utilities, food, clothing, transport, books and stationery, health and personal expenses.

The living costs on average can range from $15,000-$20,000 depending on the lifestyle. A student should take into account their lifestyle while budgeting – considering aspects such as whether you are fond of going out regularly and drinking, clubbing, whether you prefer to cook your own meals or eat out. Students should also consider whether they would be required to pay utility bills or not for example in university accommodation halls they may be required to pay a lump sum which includes all utilities. Part-time work is a possibility which could help a student support themselves, but this must be in accordance with visa requirements and students must not exceed permitted hours, so it is essential to be aware of any restrictions. It’s a good idea to look for work on university campus, and do bear in mind the demands of your course when considering part-time work.

What to do when you aren’t studying

There are many places to visit in your free time as a student in Virginia. This will depend on one’s interests but possibilities range from relaxing on the Virginia Beach or engaging in adventure water sports to visiting Arlington National Cemetery or the new Air and Space Museum near Dulles. You could also explore historic sites such as Montpelier (home of James Madison), Monticello (home of Thomas Jefferson), Battlefield of Manassas, Colonial Williamsburg, and Jamestown. Other places to visit include George Washington Birthplace National Monument, Wolf Trap National Park, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley, tour of Jefferson’s Octagonal House.

Because of the terrain of the state outdoor activities are also popular including canoeing on the Shenandoah River and biking in the Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest. International students can take a trip and enjoy the majestic scenerie or the ocean waves without having to travel far!

The slogan “Virginia is for lovers” is often chanted in favour of the state, gaining popularity when American Idol winner Jordan Sparks recorded a single called Virginia Is For Lovers. With beautiful rivers including the Potomac River, James River, Shenandoah River and Rappahannock River and stunning mountains such as Blue Ridge Mountains and Mount Rogers, Virginia is a place of pure peace and bliss, offering a real treat to the eye!

If you are not a fan of the quiet and prefer urban places, the state’s capital city of Richmond and nearby Charlottesville are much larger and cosmopolitan as compared to smaller towns like Danville located in the South. Also, the Northern part of Virginia (the suburbs of Washington DC) contains an urban sprawl that is heavily populated.

What other US states can you study in?

There are plenty of LLM opportunities for those interested in the living and studying in the United States and we have essential LLM study guides to over 20 US states, including:

 

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