Law or legal studies is an educational field that touches almost every area of human life, touching upon many issues related to politics, business, the environment, international relations, human rights, and trade.

Students pursuing law learn how to tackle some of the major problems and conflicts between people, organizations and entities in our society. The educational framework touches upon a deep understanding of different societies and cultures, making the law degree one of the most sought-after courses offered to students at the university level worldwide. By studying for law in Canada, international students will develop vital skills such as legal research, negotiation and booting, giving them a strong base to begin their legal career.

Learn more about the best Law Schools in Canada below (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). If you want to begin applying to a Canadian Law School, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.

Top 10 Canada Universities for Law

Here is the list of top universities in Canada for international students to study law in 2024.

1. University of Toronto

The LLM program from the University of Toronto, Faculty of Law, is a one-year degree program that allows students to pursue advanced learning and research. The program can be undertaken with a strong emphasis on a thesis or coursework only. During the program, you can study business law, criminal law, health law, ethics and policy, or legal theory. After completing an LLM degree, you can opt for a doctoral program, get into university teaching options, or resume practice with private firms, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. 

• Suggested Course: LLM (Master of Laws)
• International Fees: CAD 51,470
• Entry Requirements: Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor degree or equivalent from a recognized university | IELTS overall score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component

2. McGill University

McGill’s University Faculty of Law offers an LLM program for thesis and non-thesis options. It offers a master’s (LLM) in the following specializations - general law, air and space law, environment, and bioethics. The course allows you to participate in cutting-edge legal research, engage with various research networks, and experience a strong sense of community and collegiality. After completing the program, you can pursue careers as a corporate lawyer, legal advisor, or law examiner. 

• Suggested course: LLM in General Law
• International fees: CAD 46,000
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 | TOEFL minimum score of 100 or IELTS score of 7.0

3. University of British Columbia

Peter A. Allard School of Law teaches law education at the University of British Columbia. The university offers graduate programs like Master of Laws (Common law, taxation, and LLM) and Doctor of Philosophy in Law. The courses allow you to explore law, policy, and legal regulation aspects, followed by a thesis submission evaluated by the supervisor and a second reader. During the program, you will work closely with the supervising faculty members to provide substantial original legal research. 

• Suggested course: Master of Laws in Taxation
• International fees: CAD 9690.18
• Entry requirements: Must hold a Juris Doctor degree (JD), Bachelor of Law (LLB), or equivalent with excellent academic record| Work experience in the field of tax | TOEFL minimum score of 100 or IELTS minimum overall band score of 7.0, with a reading and writing band minimum of 7.0

4. University of Ottawa

The Faculty of Law of the University of Ottawa is Canada’s largest law school. The curriculum of the law graduate programs combines the professor’s expertise in common, civil, and indigenous law, reflecting Canada’s legal regulation framework. During the course, you can share complex ideas in writing and person with professionals or the general public. You will also learn to interact with experts in various fields and work as a legal advisor in government organizations, bodies, private agencies, and NGOs. 

• Suggested course: LLM with course-based option (without concentration)
• International fees: CAD 45,000
• Entry requirements: Law degree from a recognized law school with a minimum percentage of 70% or above | Minimum TOEFL score of 100 or IELTS overall score of 7.0

5.  University of Montreal

Founded in 1892, the Faculty of Law of the University of Montreal is ranked as the best francophone law school in the world. The LLB and LLM programs use French and English as their learning modes. The graduate law courses allow you to explore a wide range of law, helping them develop writing a thesis and the ability to orient themselves and execute a research project based on their area of interest. Other LLM specialization courses offered by the University of Montreal include LLM in comparative private law, notarial law, comparative common law, and business law in a global context. 

• Suggested course: LLM in comparative private law
• International fees: CAD 26,860
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.3 to 4.3 or equivalent | IELTS overall score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5

6. Dalhousie University

The LLM program at Dalhousie University offers diverse and deep learning opportunities, allowing you to explore your interests in legal education. The course offers diverse learning opportunities, allowing students to explore their interests in various legal fields. LLM at Dalhousie University offers two options: thesis and coursework. The program is open to students who have completed their undergraduate degree in law or a related field. 

During the program, students will work closely with faculty members to develop research projects and participate in seminars and workshops. The course covers various topics, including legal theory, international law, human rights law, and environmental law. After completing the program, students can pursue careers as lawyers, legal advisors, or law examiners.

• Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
• International fees: CAD 16,985
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5 from a recognized university| Minimum TOEFL score of 92 or IELTS overall academic score of 7.0 or Pearson English Test PTE Academic overall academic score of 65 not less than 54

7. Queen’s University at Kingston

Queen’s University at Kingston offers LLM courses in various specialization areas, lasting 9 to 12 months.  The full-time law programs available at the university include LLM in Global Law Program and Political and Legal Thought.  The program aims to deepen legal knowledge and research skills with a view to further studies at the doctorate level or careers in research, legal practice, and policy work. International students who want to practice law in Canada can contact the National Committee on Accreditation, associated with the Queen’s University at Kingston. After completing LLM, you can opt for a PhD in any law specialization or work as a legal researcher, law assistant, or oath commissioner. 

• Suggested course: LLM with a specialisation in political and legal thought
• International fees: CAD 14,893
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from a recognized university | Minimum IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores

8. York University

York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious law schools, with an achievement record in academic excellence. The Research Graduate Program (PhD and LLM) is designed for students with a law degree or who have completed a legal education program. The LLM program at York University offers students the flexibility to choose from various areas of specialization, including Business Law, Constitutional Law, International Business Law, Labour and Employment Law, and Taxation Law. 

The program also includes a mandatory course in Legal Research and Writing, which helps students develop their research and writing skills. Throughout the program, students have access to various resources, including a dedicated faculty advisor who provides guidance and support and the Osgoode Professional Development program, which offers a range of continuing legal education courses. Careers in LLM include practising law, working in government agencies and non-profit organizations, and teaching law at universities. 

• Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
• International fees: $43,584
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with minimum “B” grade | Proficiency in any of the following English language skills test - TOEFL/IELTS/CAEL/PTE Academic

9. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta’s (Faculty of Law) offers graduate study degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Laws (LLM). The faculty also provides joint study programs with a Faculty of Business, leading to a combined MBA-JD program. The program is designed for students who have completed their undergraduate degree in law or a related field. It aims to provide in-depth knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for successful legal practice. LLM graduates can use their degrees to pursue doctorates, university teaching positions, or practice careers in private agencies, civil service, and non-profit organizations. 

• Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
• International fees: $30,000
• Entry requirements: LLB degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0| TOEFL score of 100 or IELTS academic overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each band or PTE overall score of 68

10. Western University

The LLM coursework at Western University covers various legal topics, including business law, intellectual property law, and alternative dispute resolution. The coursework is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their legal careers. The coursework option allows students to complete the program in a shorter period while providing an in-depth understanding of the law. The program includes seminars, research projects, and independent study options. The faculty members of Western University are renowned experts in their fields, providing students with excellent guidance and mentorship.

• Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
• International fees: $45,000
• Entry requirements: Juris Doctor or equivalent with a minimum of 74% | TOEFL overall score of 109 or IELTS academic score of 8.0 out of 9

Study Law in Canada

If you wish to study at a top law school in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.