The Intensive English +LLM Pathway provides identical training as the standard LLM Program but begins with an intensive language study. The Illinois English program is designed to prepare students with or without any prior legal training to excel in their professional careers.
The Intensive English + LLM Pathway Program at Illinois provides international students with a structured pathway to enhance their English proficiency while preparing for the LLM degree. This program is designed to help students strengthen their academic English skills, allowing them to succeed in legal studies and professional environments. Students of any English level are welcome to apply.
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Eligibility & Admissions
Applicants must meet all LLM program requirements except English Proficiency. To be eligible for this pathway to admission, students must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 70, IELTS 6.0, or Duolingo 105. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.
Students must (1) satisfactorily complete the study at Intensive English Institute and (2) provide a minimum of TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5, or Duolingo 115 before formally joining the LLM program. This ensures that they have the necessary language skills to succeed in legal coursework and professional practice. Interested students should apply to the Intensive English + LLM program at the University of Illinois Graduate College or LSAC.
Application Deadline
Applications are considered on a rolling basis throughout the year. However, students who wish to start in the Fall semester should submit their complete application on or before May 1; Summer application on or before March 1; and Spring application on or before November 1. Students who submit their application after the date listed above may still be considered if there are spots left in that admission cycle.
Program Structure
Students start their academic journey at the Intensive English Institute where they take courses that include Advanced Reading & Writing, Advanced Listening & Speaking, and elective(s).
Upon demonstrating sufficient proficiency and obtaining a satisfactory score from an accepted English Proficiency test, students will transit directly into the LLM program and begin their legal coursework at the College of Law at the start of the next semester (Fall or Spring). Once in the LLM program, students need to complete 32 College of Law credits to graduate. These credits can be completed in 2 or 3 semesters in the College of Law.
Pathway Options
Students who do not meet the minimum English proficiency for full admission to the LLM program may take an additional term at the Intensive English Institute to further improve their English skills.
Tuition and Cost of Living
The Intensive English Institute and the College of Law charge their tuition and fees separately.
For the Intensive English Institute’s tuition and cost of living, please refer to their Financial Support page.
For the College of Law’s tuition and cost of living, please refer to our Tuition and Aid page.
Scholarships & Support
All admitted students are automatically considered for a partial College of Law tuition scholarship with awards based on merit, need, and available scholarship funds.
Additionally, the Intensive English Institute offers a discounted tuition rate for students requiring additional terms to meet language proficiency requirements.
Students will receive dedicated academic advising and support throughout the program. The College of Law and Intensive English Institute work closely with each student to ensure a smooth transition from English training to legal studies. Advisors assist with course selection and professional development.