Which country is the best to study law overseas as an undergraduate or graduate? Do not worry yourself because we have made a list of top 10 best countries to study law abroad as an international student. We have also outlined what makes each of the countries more competitive than the rest.
Studying law abroad offers students the opportunity to gain a globally recognized education. Whether you’re looking for prestigious universities, innovative teaching methods, or unique cultural experiences, certain countries stand out as top destinations for law students. Below are the top 10 countries to study law abroad, each with its advantages and an overview of how long it takes to earn a law degree.
List of Top 10 Countries to Study Law Abroad
This list is not made in any order.
1. United States
Why is USA a great option to study law?
Due to the world class universities in the United States (U.S) such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, it is recognized as the home of the world’s most prestigious law schools. The legal education in the U.S focuses majorly on three branches which are: case law, critical thinking and practical skills. U.S is known for its global influence in every aspect of life. In the same manner, the U.S legal system is consider influential and makes it highly valuable.
The Average cost of law school in the US is $230,000 (for the entire study duration).
- Duration: 7 years (4 years undergraduate + 3 years Juris Doctor)
- Unique Factor: Access to diverse specializations, including international law, environmental law, and corporate law.
2. United Kingdom
What makes the UK a great option?
The UK has one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools, such as Oxford university and Cambridge university. Students can study either common law or Scottish law, depending on the jurisdiction. This country is most fit for international students from former British colonies such as Nigeria. Nigerian legal system takes the shape of that of the United Kingdom. The UK’s shorter course duration compared to other countries makes it an attractive option.
The cost of studying law the UK is ranges between £11,000–£18,000 per year for tuition fee.
- Duration: 3 years (LLB) or 4 years if pursuing a sandwich course with work placements.
- Unique Factor: Opportunity to specialize in various branches of law.
3. Canada
Why Study Law in Canada?
Canada runs a bilingual legal system (common law and civil law) which provides students with a unique perspective of law. Law schools like the University of Toronto and McGill are recognized globally as a top notch university for students hoping to study law overseas.
Toronto University is ranked 21st in the world in the 2025 according to Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
The Average cost of law school in the US is $21,000 per year for tuition fee.
- Duration: 7 years (4 years undergraduate + 3 years Juris Doctor)
- Unique Factor: Access to a dual legal system.
4. Australia
Why Study Law in Australia?
Australia is great choice for international students when it comes to countries to take your law degree programmes. Australian law schools, such as the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney, are highly ranked globally.
According to QS World University Rankings, university of Melbourne is ranked 14th while the University of Sydney is ranked 18th in the world in 2025, making both schools top institutions in Australia. Their legal education focuses majorly on international law which makes it a great destination for students seeking a take their legal education to the next level.
The cost of studying law in Australia ranges from AUD $15,000 up to $30,000 for a year of full-time study as an undergraduate.
- Duration: 5–6 years (combined undergraduate and law degree or postgraduate JD program)
- Unique Factor: Emphasis on global legal frameworks and offers high employment opportunities after graduation
5. Germany
Why Study Law in Germany?
Germany, in all courses including law offers high-quality education with low or no tuition fees in many public universities. When it comes to affordability, Germany always has it. The country’s legal system is rooted in civil law, making it an excellent choice for students interested in this legal tradition.
The cost of studying law in Germany is really low as undergraduate students can gain free education or required to pay as little as €250/semester. However, Baden-Württemberg requires law students to pay €3,000 per year in tuition. In private universities, Tuition fees for law students can be up to €20,000 per year.
- Duration: 7–8 years (undergraduate law degree + state examinations and internship)
- Unique Factor: high-quality education with low or no tuition fees in many public universities.
6. Netherlands
Is it a good choice to study law in the Netherlands? Let us see. Netherlands has four major universities for studying law in English such as University of Groningen. Having the International Court of Justice also makes the country an ideal destination for international law students. Student of law in Netherlands, get exposed to both the Europeans and international laws which is a step ahead of some other universities of the world which offer their local legal systems.
The cost of studying law in Netherlands ranges between €15,000 and €21,600 per year depending on the university.
- Duration: 3 years (bachelor’s) + 1 year (master’s)
- Unique Factor: Opportunity to study European and international law in a country hosting the International Court of Justice.
7. France
Why Study Law in France?
France is a great option for students wishing to study the European law. With its richness in civil law, the best teaching methodology is applied to ensure that the best opinion is delivered to the students. France, right from time is known for its interest in law and in the same manner, the legal system is taught in universities.
Schools like Sorbonne University are globally recognized and according to QS World University Rankings, it is ranked 63rd in 2025.
The cost of studying law in France varies depending on your level of study. But for all levels of study, it ranges from €2,900 to €4,000 for each year. For private universities, the tuition fee costs between €4,000 and €20,000 per year.
- Duration: 5 years (3 years undergraduate + 2 years master’s)
- Unique Factor: A deep dive into European Union law and French civil law.
8. Singapore
Why Study Law in Singapore?
Singapore is an Asian country which offers a blend of common law and Asian legal system. With globally recognized law institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS), the country is able to deliver quality law education to her citizens and international students.
- Duration: 4 years (LLB) or 3 years (JD for postgraduates)
- Unique Factor: Exposure to one of the fast developing legal systems in Asia.
9. South Africa
Why Study Law in South Africa?
South Africa is a top country in Africa which offers a blend of Roman-Dutch law and common law. The country’s top law schools, like the University of Cape Town, offer a strong foundation in constitutional and human rights law. South Africa is best suit for for students wishing to take human right law course.
The cost of studying law in South Africa for international students can vary depending on the university. The tuition fee ranges from 40,000 to R150,000 per year.
- Duration: 4–5 years (LLB)
- Unique Factor: A focus on human rights and legal reform.
10. New Zealand
Why Study Law in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers high-quality legal education focusing on environmental law and indigenous legal studies. Universities like the University of Auckland are internationally recognized and adds some prestige to the names of the school’s law graduates .
The cost of studying law in New Zealand ranges from NZ$38,646 to NZ$44,502.
- Duration: 4–5 years (LLB)
- Unique Factor: Integration of Māori law and environmental sustainability in legal education.
How to Choose the best Country to Study Law
When selecting a destination to study law abroad, consider the following factors:
- Legal System: Choose a country whose legal system aligns with your career goals. If you are going for a law graduate program abroad, it is best advised to choose a destination which aligns with the previous legal system you took in your undergraduate program. However, if you want to take an entirely new legal system, then you can choose a country and institution which best offers that.
- Language: Ensure you are comfortable studying in the country’s primary language of instruction. In a case where you wish to study in a different language speaking country (outside your country’s language), you may be required to undergo certain training to learn the new language of the country you are to study in.
- Costs: Also consider the tuition fee, living expenses, potential scholarships and employment opportunities for each country. In terms of affordability, Germany has it, in terms of scholarship opportunities, USA and Germany have them, and when it comes to better employment opportunity after graduation, I prefer Australia. You may also review and make your choice.
- Recognition: Ensure to verify that the degree you are about to take is recognized in your home country if you plan to practice there after graduation.
In a situation where you are confused about which country or institution to go for, the best option is to reach out to an educational consultant who would guide you in making a better choice for yourself.
Our agency offers fully free consultations to our readers.
Next Step After Making your Choice
Once your choice is made and you are ready to begin your study abroad journey, start by speaking to a study abroad agency in your country. Educational consultants are the best and first route to take.
Ensure all documents required by your potential institution are available. Also prepare your mind to give the course your best shot as studying abroad does not guarantee any form of success, instead it creates various opportunities which you must grab by your hands or you let it slide.
Wrapping Up
Studying law abroad is a rewarding journey, offering exposure to new cultures, legal systems, and career opportunities. Whether you aim to become a corporate lawyer, human rights advocate, or international legal consultant, these countries provide exceptional platforms to achieve your goals.
There could be more on the list depending on several factors, but this page provides the top 10 options for you.
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