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Personal statements

Read the phrasing carefully.

Different institutions will phrase what they want to see in their personal statement differently, some examples (as of September 2013) and how you could break the wording down to ensure you address everything are below:

Example of application guidance from LSE:

You must submit a personal statement with your application form. This should be between 1,000 and 1,500 words. It should describe your academic interests and your purpose and objectives in undertaking graduate study. 

Suggestions of what to include for this phrasing:

• Outline what are your academic interests specifically
• How they are related to the course.
• How do you see the course furthering these interests?
• Do you have previous experience of studying these areas?
• Was your undergraduate dissertation, major project or a group presentation relevant to the course or your academic interests?
•  Have you attended conferences, seminars or networking events outside your studies to increase your knowledge?
• What have you learnt recently,
• and how does this link to the course you are applying for?
• Perhaps you can link your academic interests to work experience you have gained?
• Purpose in undertaking graduate study  – Why are you applying for postgraduate study? This could be linked to discussing your academic interests, or perhaps you have a career orientated goal.
• Objectives in undertaking graduate study  – What do you hope to achieve by the end of your postgraduate study, whether educationally or professionally? If you have professional objectives, how will this course help you move towards your career goal?
• What else?  – you could also include some of the suggestions in the guidelines below, but make sure you address everything in their description.

Example of application guidance from SOAS:

Your personal statement should be no more than 1,000 words. It should include the reasons why you are interested in the programme, highlight your relevant experience and suitability for the programme as well as future plans. 

• Why you are interested in the programme  – Look at the course content carefully to decide what it is that most interests you in the programme content-wise. Discuss any relevant research or coursework you might have done in the past, and include technical language or language that shows you have a grasp of the topic.
• Relevant experience  – think back to your work experience, extracurricular activities and voluntary experiences and reflect upon relevant projects you might have worked on, tasks you were set or research you conducted that demonstrates relevance to the course. You might not feel you have this experience yet, but perhaps you have worked in a relevant sector and you could show your technical and commercial understanding.
• Suitability for the programme  – Think about the skills you might need to succeed in this programme. What is your experience that makes you suitable for the programme? Perhaps you will reflect on study or research skills that you have gained, or maybe you’ll need strong negotiation, communication or presentation skills which you gained through mooting or as a student representative? If you can show you were engaged with your undergraduate university’s community then this might be a good place to mention what you did.
• Future plans  – What are your career aspirations and how do you see the course furthering these?

Writing a personal statement

If they do not specify what to include in your personal statement, areas you might want to include are below. There is no set order of when to mention what but starting your personal statement with your most relevant point is advised.

Motivations

• Why are you applying for the programme?
• What do you hope to gain from the programme?
• What is it that interests you about the subject? Can this be related to your previous education or work experience (see below)?
• What are your career aspirations and how will this course help you achieve them?

Educational experience and commercial knowledge

• Do you have past education that gives you the knowledge base you need for the course?
• Is your undergraduate dissertation relevant? Tell the tutor about it and the research methods you used (especially if applying for a research masters).
• Perhaps you like to keep up with current news in the sector you hope to go into. You could mention a topical issue and discuss how you see the course furthering your understanding.

Work experience

• Have you gained work experience in a field relevant to the course or relevant to your career ambitions? Can you link this experience to your motivation to wanting to continue studying in this field?
• Tell the tutor about this experience and reflect on how this could help with the course or use it as an example of your motivation for continued study in a related area.
• If you are a mature student returning to study, why are you returning? Are you looking to make a career change? Why, and how, do you expect the course will support your new ambition?

Other experience

• Include your extracurricular and voluntary experience too. Tutors want rounded people on their course; show that you engaged in university life during your undergraduate course or that you gained some relevant skills or experiences through volunteering.

Anything else

• You can outline your main achievements, awards or successes in competitions. Think about the course you are applying for and if there is anything they might be particularly impressed by.
• Mention relevant summer schools, overseas study or conferences/ short courses you might have attended that are related to the course.

Other circumstances

• Deferred entry – if you would like to start the course the following year explain to the course tutor what you will be doing with the next year.

Final checks

• Spelling and grammar – this will give the course tutor an idea as to your writing skills, so ensure there are no mistakes.
• Abbreviations and acronyms – explain any you have used.
• Content structure – ensure the paragraphs make sense and that the document flows well. Don’t repeat yourself by revisiting an experience or educational point.
• Don’t write a narrative of your life, from leaving school to current day.
• Be positive; don’t use negative language i.e. Although I have little experience of…
• Adhere to the word count (where applicable) or if there isn’t one, keep your statement to two to three pages of A4.

If you are already a student at LSE and would like LSE Careers to check your personal statement before you submit it please  make an appointment for a careers discussion  on CareerHub. It is also advised that if your application is fairly technically subject specific that you get an academic to check the content for accuracy.

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ELLM: Frequently Asked Questions

The Executive LLM programme offers a powerful combination of information and inspiration. The teaching has been superb and the calibre of the student body is excellent.

LSE and studying law

Why should i choose lse.

Read more about why to apply to LSE here.

Why should I study law at LSE?

The Law School is the UK’s number one research institution. It is also a market leader in the provision of postgraduate education through our well established LLM and PhD Programmes. Studying at LSE allows students to be taught by the leading scholars in the field. The Law School is well known both for its interdisciplinary approaches to legal scholarship and its contextual approach to legal study and teaching. 

Why should I apply for the Executive LLM at LSE?

The Executive LLM is the most innovative LLM programme in the world. It offers the highest quality postgraduate education, taught by academics at the top of their field, to individuals in full-time employment who are not in a position to take a year-long break from work.

Who should apply?

Working professionals based anywhere in the world who seek an advanced law qualification from one of the world’s leading law schools.

What are the entry requirements?

Very good grades in your law degree (UK 2:1 or higher; 3.5 GPA out of 4.0 or equivalent) : the online application instructions will explain how candidates can send official transcripts.

Higher standard of English : a test of English is required for non-native English speakers who have not completed a degree in English. The online application includes instructions about how to send scores.

Two references : One academic and one professional (or two professional references if the candidate has been out of school for five years or more and are unable to obtain an academic reference). The online application includes instructions about the reference form and where to have referees send the completed reference.

Personal statement : explaining candidate's interest and suitability for the programme, including career achievements and ambitions.

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Work experience : at least three years of legal work experience at the time of commencement, with indication of support from employer to take time out of the office to attend the modules at LSE.

Can I apply if I do not have a law degree?

Students who do not have a law degree or a law conversion course (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law) may still apply, but they need to demonstrate a high level of professional or academic experience in areas closely related to the subjects they wish to study. Each application will be considered on its own merits. In evaluating an application, the selectors take into consideration an applicant’s grades and class rank, their professional experience/accomplishments, letters of reference and the coherence of an applicant's proposed programme of study.

How can I apply?

Applications for the programme are open via the Graduate Admissions website. Please see: https://www.lse.ac.uk/study-at-lse/Graduate/Prospective-students/How-to-Apply

How can I contact the Graduate Admissions Office?

If you have any queries about your application, the Graduate Admissions Team can be reached at: 020 7955 7160. (email:  [email protected] ; website:  http://www2.lse.ac.uk/study/graduate/gettingInTouch.aspx )

Am I eligible if I already have a Master's degree?

Do i need to be employed.

You do not need to be currently employed to be eligible, but a minimum of three years of legal work experience is required by the time of commencement. Any candidates who are not currently employed will need to explain in their personal statement both what they will contribute and what they seek to gain from the programme.

When is the application deadline?

Candidates are considered on a rolling admissions basis throughout the year. 

We recommend that you apply at least six months in advance of the first module you wish to attend.  You must apply a minimum of two months in advance of your first proposed module date to ensure enough time for processing.

Is there an application fee?

Yes. The online application fee is currently £95.

What references are needed?

We ask that you submit one professional reference and one academic reference. Two professional references may be submitted for candidates who have been out of school for five years or longer. More than two references may be submitted.

Is the GMAT or GRE necessary?

What is the language requirement.

Information about the language requirement can be found at:

https://www.lse.ac.uk/study-at-lse/Graduate/Prospective-students/Entry-requirements/English-language-requirements

You should include your test scores, if available, in the relevant section of the application form. If you receive an offer of admission, it will be subject to proof of your score.  English tests must be less than two years old at the time of Registration on the programme.  If you have not yet taken the test, your application can be considered in its absence, but any offer will be conditional on your achieving the required score.

Is there an admissions interview?

Will i need a visa to study on this programme.

Please ensure you obtain the correct visa to enable you to study at LSE. Information about visas can be found at the following links:

General information for prospective students

Visas for Executive Masters Programmes

UK Visas and Immigration

ELLM students will be required to bring their visa documents (and passport) with them to each teaching session so that these can be checked by our Registry team. Failure to produce the correct documents will prohibit you from attending any teaching.  

What is the expected class size and profile?

We have a diverse cohort of students from around the world, ranging in age from 25 to 60+, with work experience ranging from 3 to 10 years+. Class sizes are fairly small and all modules are capped at 30 students.

Programme queries

What is the classroom schedule.

The programme will be offered in a modular format at LSE's state-of-the art Cheng Kin Ku Building (CKK) and/or in the Centre Building (CBG). All modules will be taught at LSE and are one week in length. Teaching will start at 9.30am each day for approximately two and a half hours, then a break for lunch, then a further two and a half hours teaching.

Upcoming teaching session dates and available modules can be found  here.  

An example of a typical teaching timetable can be found here.

*NB. Teaching is planned to take place from Monday to Friday on the dates outlined above, but changes may occur based on demand.

When can I start the programme?

Students may start the programme immediately by taking the next available modules after admission. Modules are offered in April, September and December each year.

How much time will I need to take out of the office?

In total you will be required to be out the office no longer than 8 weeks throughout the course of the programme. Each module will be taught over a week. You will also need to take into consideration travel time to and from LSE.

How many modules can I take in one year?

Executive LLM students are expected to complete two modules per year. However, you may complete more if you have the time and capacity to do so.

Will the programme use Distance Learning?

No. All teaching will take place on campus.

What support is provided in between modules?

Throughout the course of the programme students will have access to an online learning platform (Moodle) so they can stay connected in between modules. Faculty will use this to plan intersession activities such as revision sessions and discussions. Students can submit assignments through the site. The administration will use it to communicate with students for important announcements and reminders. By using the online technology students will remain an active part of the LSE community from wherever they are based in the world.

How will modules be assessed?

Modules will be assessed either by take-home examination or by 8,000 word essay. Please note that students can elect to take the 8,000 word essay assessment for up to a maximum of three of their modules.

What is a take-home examination?

A take-home examination is an open-book exam sat by candidates off campus, over an extended period of, typically, 48 hours. Candidates are not expected to work on the assessment for the entirety of this period. Rather the extended time is offered so that candidates can complete the assessment alongside other work and personal commitments. Take-home exams will be available to download online two months after the module teaching is complete. Students will then upload their completed exam by a set deadline. 

When will modules be assessed?

Take-home exams will take place two months following the module teaching. Take-home exam dates are available  here . Assessed essays have the same submission deadline as take-home exams.

Can I transfer credit of modules completed elsewhere?

No. All modules counted towards your Executive LLM degree must be completed at LSE.

What qualification will I receive when I graduate?

You will receive a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science once you have completed 8 modules. If you are unable to complete all eight modules, then alternative exit options are available. An LSE ‘Diploma in Legal Studies’ is available on the completion of six modules and a ‘Certificate of Legal Studies’ on the completion of four modules.

Will my degree certificate state 'Executive LLM'?

No. The degree certificate will state ‘Master of Laws’.

Is there a Graduation Ceremony?

Yes. Degree certificates will be presented to students at a ceremony in December, along with other Masters Graduates.

Is the LSE Law School a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) provider?

Yes. The Law School is a CPD provider and can accredit LLM modules. Further information about CPD is available here.

Will students have full access to LSE's services and facilities?

Yes. As a student at LSE you will have full access to the School's services and facilities, including the famous LSE Library and the Careers Service. You will also have the opportunity to attend LSE's excellent programme of public lectures and events, given by some of the world's foremost academics, politicians and business leaders.

What are the benefits of becoming an LSE alumni?

The LSE has a cosmopolitan network of over 100,000 alumni in more than 190 countries and over 70 groups and contact networks registered with the Alumni Association. Alumni have access to social networking sites, events and activities in London and around the world.

Can I select a specialism for my degree certificate?

See the details on specialims  here .

What are the programme regulations?

Click here for our programme regulations.

What are the fees?

The current fees for the programme are £4,000 per module and must be paid in advance of the module date. This fee includes tuition, course materials and some refreshments. Please note that travel to/from LSE and accommodation are  not  included in the fees. Please also note that some modules may require students to purchase a textbook or books.

There will also be an application fee (currently £95) and a registration fee (currently £650). The registration fee is payable within 14 days of receiving the offer and is non-refundable.

Students will only be permitted to attend a module if payment is received in time. The deadlines for payment of  module fees are listed here.

How do I pay my fees?

Please  click here  for more information.

Are accommodation costs in London covered?

No. Students will be responsible for accommodation costs. However, LSE does negotiate corporate rates with hotels near the School that students can benefit from. Please see the LSE Accommodation Office website for further information: http://www2.lse.ac.uk/lifeAtLSE/accommodation/accommodationforStudents.aspx

Can I apply for scholarships?

As a programme for working professionals, this degree is not eligible for the Graduate Support Scheme. Candidates may seek additional funding from sources listed on the LSE Financial Support page for students from particular backgrounds and nationalities. For more information please visit:  https://info.lse.ac.uk/current-students/financial-support

Further information

What accommodation is available to students.

LSE has several accommodation options available with a variety of styles, facilities and costs around central London. All are within easy walking distance of LSE. They are primarily designed for full-time, undergraduate students to use during term time. However, during vacation time – when the Executive LLM modules are taking place – these residences are opened up to all. Please note that space is limited and not all residences may be open during all modules. Further information and the option to book online is available at:  http://www.lsevacations.co.uk/ . You can also contact the Vacations Office for more information and to discuss your options:  [email protected]    +44(0)20 7955 7575.

Can I visit LSE/ get further information?

For further information, you can contact the Programme Manager at   [email protected] . You are welcome to book an appointment if you would like to visit. 

(Finding the LSE:  https://www.lse.ac.uk/lse-information/campus-map ).

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Writing a personal statement

Your LLM personal statement is your chance to show the admission tutors who you really are – so you want to get it right. Although LLMs are significantly less competitive than LLBs and training contracts, if you've set your heart on a specific course you don't want to trip at the last hurdle. You have the experience of writing your undergraduate personal statement, topped up with three years of essay writing, so it should really be a walk in the park.

Beginning and researching your LLM personal statement

Unlike your undergraduate personal statement, you can tailor your application for an LLM for your specific course rather than speaking generally about your enthusiasm for law in the hope of impressing five different universities.

Whilst this means your statement is going to be more interesting and more impressive, you will need to do your research. Law schools will have a course description on their profiles which is a good place to start. If possible, check out which tutors teach the LLM and what their specialisms are. There's nothing wrong with a bit of stalking... Within reason.

Specialising in an area of law

The LLM is generally a more focussed law degree, allowing you to explore one or a few areas of law in great detail. If you're applying for a specialised LLM , you should obviously write about the area you've chosen. Explain why you have picked this particular field – if you've chosen to do something very specific, you should probably already have a strong reason in mind!

If you're applying for a more general LLM, you should still mention the areas you're intending to focus on. Think about modules you particularly enjoyed at undergraduate level and explain what in particular made them interesting for you.

Discussing your future career options

If you have specific plans for your life after university, it would be good to mention how the LLM will fit into them. You should also explain why you've decided to do an LLM instead of going straight for a training contract and jumping into your legal career.

You might not have an answer for this – you could just be really interested in a specific area of law, and that's fine too! Developing your knowledge in one legal field will probably lead you into the career of your dreams anyway.

Writing about your personal skills

Just like with a CV, you need to prove to the admission tutors that you're the perfect candidate. The best way of identifying and demonstrating your talents is by thinking of any activities or work experience you've done, and what you learnt during the process. This will also show the admissions tutors that you have some real world experience and are thinking seriously about your career. If you don't have any formal work experience like a vacation scheme , think about to anything you did during your undergraduate degree, such as law society events or holding moots.

What not to do in an LLM personal statement

Just like when writing your undergraduate personal statement or when applying for jobs, you should avoid any clichéd phrases or hackneyed quotes. Words like "passionate", "enthusiastic", "interested" and phrases like "since I was child" should be avoided. It's unlikely that your first words were "I love tort law" and admissions tutors will quickly be bored.

You should also steer clear of making jokes – you're applying for a postgraduate degree and while Elle Woods got through her career by being charismatic, most admissions tutors are looking for something a bit more serious. It's ok to try to be individual, but make sure you're not coming across as overly carefree.

The finishing touches

Make sure you proofread your personal statement, and your entire application, and get someone else to check it if possible. You should also make sure you haven't exceeded the word limit – each university requires something different, but it's unlikely they'll want any over 500. It's always better to be concise.

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October 1st, 2023

Top tips for writing a great personal statement.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Having good grades is one thing, but writing an excellent personal statement is one of the main factors contributing to a successful UCAS application, which can grant you a place in an institution such as LSE. That is why the lengthy process of drafting a convincing statement revealing your motivation and competency to study a given course at university might seem stressful and daunting. While there is no easy and quick way to create a compelling personal statement, there are some things that you can do to ensure the essay is well thought out and written, which will facilitate securing a place at your dream university.

My first tip is to thoroughly read and analyse the outline and entry requirements of your programme. For each programme, LSE provides detailed facts about the programme’s structure, different modules that you will take, and information about how your application will be assessed. Try to note down the key characteristics and skills that a candidate for your programme would be expected to have and make use of the website’s indications about the types of students they are looking for. Once you know the most important skills the university is looking for, try to think of any academic or extracurricular activities that you have done in the past that would show that you have characteristics expected of you. For example, if your course requires effective communication skills, mentioning activities like a group project, volunteering or debate would be great to include in your personal statement to reveal your capacity to work with other people. Making use of the information that is provided to you, will not only show that you have researched and thought out your course selection well, but it will also be most helpful when trying to decide what details are relevant to include in the personal statement.

The second tip for a successful personal statement is to read and research the things that interest you about your subject. Whether it is books, articles, podcasts, or documentaries, absorbing knowledge about some key issues of the course you want to study will broaden your knowledge and allow you to critically discuss an issue you found relevant in your personal statement. Since a major part of personal statements for universities like LSE is supposed to concern academics, showing your independent thoughts on ideas you found intriguing or fascinating will highlight your interest, broad knowledge beyond the school curriculum, and capacity to think critically. While many students like to mention work experience they have completed prior to their application, people who did not have an opportunity to do so can equally well express their wide interest in the subject, by demonstrating the knowledge grasped through additional reading.

My final tip is to ask as many people as possible around you to read and share their thoughts about your personal statement. Whether it is teachers, relatives, tutors or friends, feedback from other people will give you a unique perspective on your personal statement and allow you to reflect upon your text to make it even better. Apart from obvious comments about language or grammar, proofreaders can supply you with valuable information about things such as tone or the relevance of arguments raised in your essay, and whether the claims you bring to support your motivation are adequately convincing and persuasive. Sharing your personal statement with others may seem uncomfortable since as the name suggests the essay is indeed very individual and private, having someone not from your immediate surrounding read your work, can prove extremely advantageous and aim for your essay to truly stand out.

About the author

My name is Zosia, and I am a first-year undergraduate student at LSE, studying LLB in Laws. I am an international student from Poland, and my passions include reading, writing, travelling and participating in all kinds of sports.

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LSE University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to London School of Economics. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

History Personal Statement Example 3 Recently, I found out that my grandma was gambled into slavery for seven years. She escaped her prison and made her way back to Hong Kong, 300 miles south. I was amazed at how courageous she was. This personal discovery led me to read Jung Chang's 'Wild Swans' which made me both proud and ashamed of my heritage...

Mathematics and Economics Personal Statement Example 1 As Pythagoras may have said, (Ambitious)2 + (Bold)2 = (Critical thinker)2 makes a perfect student and is what I strive to be. From the simple Pythagorean to the complex Fermat's Last Theorem, mathematics is a never ending branch of study which I enthusiastically enjoy studying and why I wish to pursue it even further at university...

Economics and Politics Personal Statement Example 1 "I killed the bank": the last words of Andrew Jackson, former president of the US, after he had vetoed to renew the charter and withdraw all federal deposits from banks causing them to bust. Real money was backed with gold shortly after, causing the greatest economic boom in history for the US where no income tax was implemented...

Maths and Actuarial Science Personal Statement Example Maths is a subject like no other; its complexity makes it a challenging and often frustrating area of study, however the logic behind every problem leaves a feeling of certainty about it. My devotion to the subject has grown exponentially, especially in recent years...

Geography Personal Statement Example 1 At first glance, my A Level choices appear scientifically biased, but they underpin key topics studied in Geography. I enjoy investigating the theories of global economies, population and poverty. The mathematics I have studied enables me to manipulate raw data meaningfully...

Anthropology Personal Statement Example 1 Completing my sixth form education at a multicultural boarding school has allowed me to experience a wide social and cultural diversity that I never would have expected in a school environment, in great contrast to the subtle ethnocentrism of my previous schooling...

Anthropology Personal Statement Example 2 My fascination with human behaviour and the motivations behind human actions has existed for most of my adult life, to determine a cause however I would accredit this to the voluntary work I participated in with Crisis Single Persons Homeless charity...

Mathematics and Economics Personal Statement Example 2 Every day we make decisions and interact with others; the laws of economics help us make rational choices and consider the irrationality of others, as well as understand the world better. Maths and statistics are the necessary tools for me to understand the modern economics...

Politics Personal Statement Example 5 My background, living in three major metropolises, Lagos, London and Aberdeen bestowed me a very diverse, open, multicultural way of thinking. The cultural shock of Lagos widened my eyes to vastness of the world and prepped my involvement in the Community Development Committee, allowing me to get in touch with all sectors of Nigerian society; here my interest in sociology, politics and government took flight...

Maths & Actuarial Science Personal Statement Example 1 "It has become a very strange and perhaps frightening subject from the ordinary point of view,but anyone who penetrates into it will find a veritable fairyland"( Kasner E and Newman J).This saying is perhaps the most fitted to describe my enthusiasm for Maths...

Business & Management Personal Statement Example There is no limit to what you can learn and how much you can earn from it. Instilled with this belief by my father, I have since the beginning learnt to approach the world differently. I view that knowledge can be applied practically not only to earn a living, but also to earn wisdom...

Mathematics and Engineering Personal Statement Example Questions regarding the reason for my liking of mathematics have only one answer: mathematical logic and concepts contribute to a practical approach in every aspect of life. It is the diversity and universal applicability of this subject that encourages me to delve further and study it in depth...

Economics and Economic History Personal Statement Example Over the past few years I have developed a strong interest in the Economic history of the UK. I have become interested in how the UK's economic policy over centuries has built the UK into one of the world's most economically developed countries today...

Economics Personal Statement Example 23 It would not be foolish to contemplate the possibility of a far greater progress still. John Maynard Keynes From childhood I was bred to learn and the passion to understand has become a trait of my character...

Accountancy & Management Personal Statement Example I have chosen to study combined degrees in Accounting and Finance or Economics because I intend to further my studies towards developing a career in financial consultancy. Accountancy and Finance remain central elements of the dynamics of commerce, that define the way a firm, shareholders and society at large interact on multiple platforms...

European Social & Political Studies Personal Statement Example In my opinion, the problems societies face today deserve an in-depth analysis which draws on different disciplines of thought for its relevance; furthermore the implementations of strategies to combat problems must take into account more than one academic approach if they are going to be positively effective...

Economics Personal Statement Example 28 While working in the stock broker I became 100% sure that I wanted to study Economics at university. I gained employment at a Stock Broker office as a Monitor Operator in Bangladesh and my duty was to monitor the daily price list of trading of shares at the beginning of the day and then preparing trading reports at the end...

Sociology Personal Statement Example 12 A Gospel choir tour around South Africa was the catalyst for my fascination with human culture. As I travelled I was able to directly experience a multiplicity of cultures even within this one country...

Anthropology Personal Statement Example 7 Coming from a mixed religious background, the comparison between cultural practices has touched me deeply, personally and profoundly. I have been able to observe the influence of culture on people's perspectives and world views...

Politics & Social Policy Personal Statement Example The ever-changing nature and diversity of politics is fascinating. The rapid social and political development in Russia in the early 2000s, still surrounded by the left-overs, if not quite the toppled statues of the previous socialist regime, kindled my interest in politics...

PPE/Economics Personal Statement Example Humanity today stands at the intersection of the most significant questions facing the world today: if democracy leads to political infighting, should it be sacrificed in the interest of economic well-being? Does religious fundamentalism provide a way for countries in the developing world to assert their identity in the face of Western hegemony? Does the entry of Western consumer goods threaten a country’s economic self-sufficiency? The answers of these questions will determine what the nature of our world is in the twenty-first century...

Sociology Personal Statement Example 14 The need for the study of Sociology in society is, arguably, universally fundamental. The study of society is of paramount importance in solving social problems of great magnitude such as poverty and family disorganisation...

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East Coast vs. West Coast: Navigating LLM Programs in the USA

From classroom to courtroom practical training and internships in llm programs, balancing work and study: tips for professionals pursuing an llm degree, financing your llm: scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities, llm degrees and global career opportunities: navigating international legal markets.

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The Personal Statement – A Key part of any Law School Application

A good personal statement for an LLM application should be well-written, clear, and concise. It should explain your reasons for pursuing an LLM, your career goals, and how the program will help you achieve them. Here are some tips to help you write a strong personal statement:

Explain your motivation: Your personal statement should begin by explaining why you want to pursue an LLM and how it fits into your overall career goals. Provide specific examples and explain how the program will help you achieve your goals.

Highlight your qualifications : Use your personal statement to highlight your qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the program. Mention any relevant work experience, internships, research, or volunteer work that you have done.

Show your passion : An LLM is a postgraduate degree, so the admissions committee will be looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in the field and have a clear understanding of what they are applying for. Show your passion and enthusiasm for the subject matter and the field of law.

Be specific: Mention any specific areas of law that you are interested in, and explain how the LLM program will help you gain expertise in those areas.

Be honest: Be honest and authentic in your personal statement. Don’t exaggerate your achievements or qualifications, and don’t make false claims. The admissions committee will be able to tell if you’re not being truthful.

Show your personality: This is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality and stand out from other applicants. Use a unique writing style and express yourself in an engaging and compelling way.

Proofread: Make sure to proofread your personal statement multiple times before submitting it. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that your statement is well-organized and easy to read.

Follow guidelines: Make sure to follow the guidelines provided by the university, such as the word count, and format.

In conclusion, a good personal statement for an LLM application should explain your motivation, highlight your qualifications, show your passion, be specific, honest, show your personality, proofread and follow guidelines. Remember that the personal statement is an important part of your application, and it’s your chance to make a good impression. Take the time to craft a well-written, thoughtful, and compelling statement that will set you apart from other applicants.

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READ THIS BEFORE YOU START WRITING YOUR LSE PERSONAL STATEMENT

The few opportunities in LSE’s programmes get thousands of applications. They are logistically unable to properly review every application and read every person’s personal statement. As a result, an initial selection factor is utilised to decide whether to continue evaluating a candidate or to reject them outright.

The grades you received in your ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades together make up this initial selection factor (if 12th grade scores are available, then those are considered as well). An email is sent to the applicant rejecting admission if they don’t make the cut based on this preliminary assessment.

Now, LSE cannot claim that the applicant’s grades are insufficient because many applications do fulfil their fundamental entrance requirements. Consequently, the school informs the applicants that their “personal statement is not convincing enough.” Although it may not seem fair, LSE is forced to do this because of the overwhelming number of applications they get. You should be aware that your statement of purpose considerably influences your chances of decision. On that note, let’s take a look at how to write a proper personal LSE statement in this blog.

About LSE Before we get into the specifics of drafting your individual LSE application, it’s critical that you brush up on your knowledge regarding the institution to which you are applying so that you can adjust your SOP to meet its requirements.

An English public research university in London, the London School of Economics and Political Science is a constituent institution of the Federal Institute of London. It is ranked second in the world for social sciences and management and is acknowledged as a hub of academic excellence and innovation in the social sciences. Unlike any other university in the UK, 50% of all LSE research was placed in the top 4 in the most recent Research Excellence Framework.

We are all aware of the low admission rate for international students at LSE; therefore, your ability to craft a compelling SOP will set you apart from the competition. Students should take into account the \ UCAS’ guidelines as they get ready to complete this portion of their application.

Please be aware that completing the personal statement writing guidelines does not ensure approval. There is stiff competition for admission to the LSE, and personal statements are assessed in comparison. The institution does not accept additional personal statements. Only the personal statement provided via UCAS is taken into consideration.

Writing your LSE personal statement When assessing your application, the selection committee will take into account how well your academic interests align with the LSE program. Here’s where research can be useful. Since the LSE doesn’t offer any sections on ancient history, a personal LSE statement that emphasises a strong interest in contemporary international history (with an emphasis on the LSE International History course) is more likely to offer you a competitive advantage.

In order for your personal statement to reflect on each of your UCAS choices, if you are applying for several different courses, it is good to draw attention to the areas where they overlap. Note that the LSE does not accept substitute or supplemental personal statements. Make sure your personal statement is well-organised, concise, and that you utilise all of the UCAS-provided space. Make a rough draft of your personal statement, then go back and double-check the grammar, punctuation, and spelling to make sure it makes sense. You should always give new English terms a try, but be careful not to let them overshadow the important points of your LSE personal statement.

Elements to include in your personal statement

The focus of your personal statement should be on your intellectual enthusiasm for the field you plan to study. Looking at what the LSE expects from undergraduate students can be one method to approach the personal statement:

• LSE students are expected to read up on subjects relating to their class or engage in other experiences, and then write essays in which they explain the ideas they learned.
• The university looks for this skill in personal statements, so it is advised that you spend at least 80% of your statement on this kind of intellectual discussion.

How you demonstrate a broader interest in your subject is entirely up to you. The institution is not searching for students who have had the most opportunities, but rather those who can best reflect on the experiences and intellectual ideas they have encountered as a result of the opportunities made available to them. If you’re unsure of where to begin, you might check out the newsletter for suggested reading selections or listen to the recordings of LSE public events. Keep in mind that the institution wants to see proof that you have thought deeply about academic ideas, not merely a list of what you have read or done.

You can address these questions in your SOP When writing your LSE personal statement, think about the following questions:

• Why did you pick this particular course?
• What aspects of the subject have you found compelling enough to pursue a degree in it?
• What are your top priorities and areas of interest?
• Do you have a passion for a subject unrelated to your studies?
• What are the readings or lectures that piqued your interest, and what are your thoughts on the aspects covered?
• Did you have the chance to have any work experience that might be useful for your application? Have you taken part in any LSE projects or activities, such as Saturday Schools, Summer Schools, LSE Choice, etc.?

How can Rostrum help? We acknowledge and understand that writing a personal statement is a challenging task. Don’t worry. Rostrum Education has your back. Our counsellors can help you write the ideal personal statement because they are acquainted with the application process. We can connect you to current students studying at LSE so that you get an idea regarding what it takes to get into LSE. Contact us right away to schedule a free counselling session!

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LLM - Personal Statement

• Thread starter FutureCity
• Start date Mar 25, 2020
• Tags education llm personal statement postgraduate

Legendary Member

• Nov 9, 2021

My LSE personal statement took the most work out of all of my applications and was the longest too- about 1050 words. I stuck to a structure that was very similar to the one in this really useful post but elaborated on each point by including more about my background and motivations. So for example, in the 'why LSE paragraphs' I spoke about the specific courses I liked within the LLM and why I liked them, the topics I'd be interested in doing my dissertation in (and why) and the academics/supervisors I would like to work with for the same. Doing this ensured I wasn't simply repeating my CV but building on with reasoning and grounded motivation. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions 😇  

• Dec 3, 2021

Erica said: I'd be happy to share mine with you as well! I've written two statements, one for LSE and one for UCL - drop me a message. Click to expand...

Active Member

• Feb 18, 2023

• Oct 31, 2023

JackyinLondon

• Jan 2, 2024

Karin said: Hi! This may be quite late but I successfully applied for LLM at UCL so please drop me a message and I am happy to share my Personal Statement with you Click to expand...

SeleneFourcassier

• Feb 12, 2024

E.A said: I applied to UCL and LSE in 2016 and got in so happy to share mine as well if you are interested! Let me know Click to expand...

akhila_0310

• Feb 18, 2024

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Lse llm personal statement.

Posted Nov 18, 2008 18:40

If I would like to do LLM not because of wanting to become an academia, but for future career prospect, should I be frank about it when putting it on personal statement to LSE? Do they prefer candidates who determine to become scholar?

Posted Nov 20, 2008 02:02

I don't know if the admissions committee prefers candidates who plan to enter academia, but I have to think that it is quite common for students to study for the LL.M. and not want to become an academic. Most students in my courses last year had no interest in applying to doctorate programmes. You should decide for yourself what you think will be the best course, and I don't want you to take my opinion as if it is a valuable opinion (That would be giving it too much credit.), but I would simply write about what motivates you to follow LSE's LL.M. programme and how attending LSE fits into your future plans. I don't think you need to address why you don't want to be an academic because it is not an obstacle to gaining admission, generally. Others, of course, are free to disagree with me, and their comments would be valuable here.

Posted Nov 20, 2008 12:56

hi P_Martini...i fully agree with you...it doesnt matter whether you want to enter into academia or you want to go the commercial route after completing your LL.M. All that matters is that you state with conviction what your plans are and there should be clarity in your thought process. they must be able to ascertain exactly why you're applying for the LL.M and what you want to do..thats all that matters. Its not so much what you want to do after your LL.M but how you put your plans across..i think that's the real clincher. being vague and evasive wont help, neither will stating things that you dont plan to do merely in order to impress them.

Posted Nov 20, 2008 22:09

Hey guys, Ive applied to Cambridge for the LL.M for 2009, and I am planning to apply to LSE for the LL.M as well. My interest is Banking/ Securities/ Corporate...Any ideas on which school offers the better program? and which is more highly rated..???? I note that Cambridge is at the top of the Times list for 2009, and LSE is in third place but for a specialised LL.M, is Cambridge really the better choice? I'm not at all interested in Oxford. Please tell me your views/experiences..!

Posted Nov 21, 2008 05:12

I think LSE would be a better choice as compared to Cambridge. Cambridge has a better brand value, but from what ive seen, the courses are somewhat old school...LSE would offer a much better and more contemporary range of courses to pick from.

Posted Nov 21, 2008 18:05

Thanks san_24, I must say I agree with you!

Posted Nov 22, 2008 05:29

You're most welcome caribbeanstar..all the best with your applications..i hope you make it!! :-)

Posted Nov 24, 2008 21:09

carribeanstar: I studied at LSE, so I am biased. Strangely, however, I still don't know enough about the Cambridge programme to say which is really better. And it's subjective anyway. Note that one is in London and the other not in London. Cambridge is a great place, but it's just different. All I can say is "Good luck!" and I hope you do have the luxury of choosing between them.

Posted Nov 26, 2008 22:23

they are both likely to get you a job interview..., that said id still go to cambridge for the name.

Posted Dec 19, 2008 04:26

As to global reputation, LSE can match Oxbridge and Harvard/Yale, despite the fact that it is a specialist institution for economics and the social sciences. All the other schools in the same category are large federal universities offering diverse courses in the pure and applied sciences, social sciences and the liberal arts. LSE has a lower acceptance rate than most schools, with approximately 8% of the total number of applicants accepted to attend. LSE has a number of its alumni serving as heads of state and other key positions in the cabinet and the other levels of government. A number of LSE alumni are well-known economists, financiers and corporate executives. In terms of prestige within the United Kingdom, I would say Oxford, Cambridge and LSE in that order. In the United States, it is a perennial toss-up between Yale and Harvard. A number of LSE alumni are also graduates of Harvard and Yale, such as President John F. Kennedy, Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin and Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker. Three senior White House advisers recently appointed by President-elect Obama are likewise LSE alumni. Of course, it is all a matter of personal choice. Former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and the economist John Maynard Keynes are distinguished alumni of Cambridge.

Posted Dec 19, 2008 15:59

haha so much detail. like i said, both will get you an interview. And JFK went to LSE for about a week.

Posted Dec 20, 2008 18:32

One may play dice with the Cambridge v. LSE choice and still come out ahead. Both schools will open doors, so it becomes a personal choice on the part of a successful applicant, where his academic and career objectives would be met. The myth about JFK seems to have contributed to the popularity of LSE in America, especially among Ivy League alumni. LSE has this "junior year abroad" programme which attracts a number of Americans from U.S. universities for one year before finishing their bachelor's degree at their home institution.

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The LSE LLM offers the highest quality of teaching provided by leading international and UK academics. Our approach to the teaching of law combines views and experiences from different disciplinary traditions and jurisdictions. This ensures that what you learn at LSE Law is relevant to legal study and practice in any jurisdiction.

Courses are offered in a broad range of fields including arbitration, human rights, international law, corporate, commercial and financial law.

You can choose to pursue your LLM with a general focus or select a subject specialism. If you take the required minimum number of LLM courses (or more) that fall within one of the following specialist areas you can request that your chosen specialism is included on your final certificate upon graduation. Should your dissertation topic directly correlate with your nominated specialism, the compulsory Legal Research and Writing Skills course can make up part of your specialism if this is agreed by the LSE Law School. Furthermore, with the relevant approval and subject to space on your desired course, you may be able to take up to a full unit course or two half-unit courses from another LSE department. This non-law course may be relevant to your field of specialism (if any), for example international lawyers may, with approval, take a course in international relations, though it will not contribute to gaining an LLM specialism.

Specialisms for 2024/25

Competition and Innovation Corporate and Commercial Law Criminal Law and Justice European, Comparative and Transnational Law Financial Law and Regulation Human Rights Law Intellectual Property Law International Business Law IT and Data Law Law, Politics and Social Change Public International Law Public Law Taxation Law

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for llm.

A very good undergraduate degree in law, LLB or equivalent, (for example, a first or very high upper second in the UK LLB or equivalent). 

Applicants with a very good degree in another discipline together with very good grades in an appropriate graduate diploma in law (such as the UK's Graduate Diploma in Law) may also qualify for a place. 

Applicants without an educational background in law may apply, but would need to demonstrate a high level of professional or academic experience in areas closely related to the subjects they wish to study in order to be considered for a place.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet the minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission.

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Assessing your application

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students and want to recruit students with the very best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of their background.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including predicted and achieved grades) - statement of academic purpose - two academic references - CV

See further information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency, although you do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE.  See our English language requirements .

When to apply

Applications for this programme are considered on a rolling basis, meaning the programme will close once it becomes full. There is no fixed deadline by which you need to apply, however, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details. 

Fees and funding

Every graduate student is charged a fee for their programme.

The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for LLM

Home students: £22,176  Overseas students: £36,168

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Fee reduction

Students who completed undergraduate study at LSE and are beginning taught graduate study at the School are eligible for a  fee reduction  of around 10 per cent of the fee.

Scholarships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme (excluding the extended part-time route) is eligible for needs-based awards from LSE, including the  Graduate Support Scheme ,  Master's Awards , and  Anniversary Scholarships . 

It is also eligible for: the Marchant Foundation Scholarship  and the Margaret Bennett Scholarship . 

Selection for any funding opportunity is based on receipt of an offer for a place and submitting a Graduate Financial Support application, before the funding deadline. Funding deadline for needs-based awards from LSE:  25 April 2024 .

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

Government tuition fee loans and external funding

A postgraduate loan is available from the UK government for eligible students studying for a first master’s programme, to help with fees and living costs. Some other governments and organisations also offer tuition fee loan schemes.

Find out more about tuition fee loans

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page 

Part-time study Part time study is only available for students who do not require a student visa.

Programme structure and courses

This programme is available full-time or part-time. Part-time LLM students take four half-unit courses each year, attending the same sessions as full-time students. Students may also register on an extended part-time basis, taking two half-unit courses each year, and bringing the total duration of the programme to 48 months.

You will take the compulsory course Legal Research and Writing Skills, which is assessed by a 10,000-word dissertation. You will then select seven LLM courses from the large range on offer, usually around 70. 

As noted above, subject to taking the required minimum number of LLM courses (or more) in one of the available specialisms, you can request that your chosen specialism is listed on your final certificate upon graduation, or alternatively your LLM can have a more general focus. The compulsory Legal Research and Writing Skills course can make up a nominated specialism if the topic directly relates to the area of study and upon agreement by the Law School. Furthermore, with the relevant approval and subject to space on your desired course, you may be able to substitute the equivalent of up to two half-unit LLM courses for course/s from another LSE department. 

(* denotes a half unit)  

Legal Research and Writing Skills*

This course provides a specially tailored series of lectures and tutorials on legal research and writing skills which are designed to assist in the writing of a dissertation on a topic of your choice. Further sources of support for the dissertation writing process are set out below

Courses the value of three and a half units from a range of options .

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page. 

You must note however that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options.   Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place.   These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s   Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the   updated graduate course and programme information  page. 

Teaching and assessment

Contact hours and independent study.

In half unit courses, on average, you can expect 20-30 contact hours in total. The format of contact hours will vary from course to course but usually takes the form of sessions such as lectures, classes, seminars or workshops. Contact hours vary according to courses and you can view indicative details in the  Calendar  within the Teaching section of each  course guide .

Independent study outside of class time is an essential part of the LSE LLM. The nature of the required independent study varies for each course, but overall, the LLM requires you to manage the majority of your study time yourself, engaging in activities such as reading, note-taking, thinking, class preparation and research. 

Teaching methods

The majority of courses on the programme are offered in seminar format with a maximum class size of 30 students, allowing you to be actively involved in class discussions and to interact both with the teacher and fellow students. You can expect a challenging, but also thought-provoking and ultimately rewarding experience. 

A limited number of courses are offered through larger lectures which are accompanied by back-up seminars, where the teacher will review and elaborate on issues discussed in the lectures. 

Please note that places are limited on all optional courses. Admission onto any particular course is not guaranteed and may be subject to timetabling constraints and/or students meeting specific prerequisite requirements.

Formal study is supported by Convene, a rich programme of events and activities specifically designed for Law students to further enhance the learning experience. LLM students are also encouraged to engage in the many and varied LSE Law School events which run through the academic year, including public lectures and seminars.

LSE is internationally recognised for its teaching and research and therefore employs a rich variety of teaching staff with a range of experience and status. Courses may be taught by individual members of faculty including associate professors and professors. Many departments now also employ guest teachers and visiting members of staff, LSE teaching fellows and graduate teaching assistants who are usually doctoral research students and in the majority of cases, teach on undergraduate courses only. You can view indicative details for the teacher responsible for each course in the relevant  course guide .

All taught courses are required to include formative coursework which allows the teacher to give you feedback but which is unassessed, in the sense that it does not count towards your final grade. Formative coursework is designed to help prepare you for summative assessment which counts towards the course mark and to the degree award. LSE uses a range of types of formative assessment, such as essays, problem sets, case studies, reports, quizzes, mock exams, class presentations and many others. Summative assessment may be conducted during the course or by final examination at the end of the course. An indication of the formative coursework and summative assessment for each course can be found in the relevant  course guide .

The majority of taught LLM courses will be assessed by written two-hour examinations, which will be held during Spring Term in May/June. Summative essays are submitted in May and dissertations in August. To prepare for the exams, you will have access to past exam papers from our library website and you will undertake appropriate formative coursework. 

The compulsory course is assessed via a 10,000-word dissertation on a topic of your choice and will be supervised by one of our faculty members who is an expert in the relevant area. 

Academic support

You will also be assigned an academic mentor who will be available for guidance and advice on academic or personal concerns.

There are many opportunities to extend your learning outside the classroom and complement your academic studies at LSE.  LSE LIFE  is the School’s centre for academic, personal and professional development. Some of the services on offer include: guidance and hands-on practice of the key skills you will need to do well at LSE: effective reading, academic writing and critical thinking; workshops related to how to adapt to new or difficult situations, including development of skills for leadership, study/work/life balance and preparing for the world of work; and advice and practice on working in study groups and on cross-cultural communication and teamwork.

LSE is committed to enabling all students to achieve their full potential and the School’s  Disability and Wellbeing Service  provides a free, confidential service to all LSE students and is a first point of contact for all disabled students.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme and arranging  exam adjustments. They run groups and workshops.  

IT help – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Student stories

Bukola oluwa.

LLM Ibadan, Nigeria

LSE is filled with an array of lecturers with sound academic and research backgrounds; you are taught by experts of repute who are consultants to international and multinational bodies. They are names you read in textbooks and journals worldwide. Each day in the class is different; apart from the seminar approach, live practitioners from different areas give you first hand information and practical experience of the field. My classmates are from all over the world – it is a 'mixed grill' of intellectual minds! Active participation of each student gives insight into beliefs from different parts of the world and you do not need to travel there to get information about a country's situation.

Kavisha Sharma

My experience in the LLM has been nothing short of excellent. The academic rigour and intellectual challenge that the LLM necessitates has shown me what I am capable of and inspired me to continue living up to my potential.

Nandini Bajaj

The LSE LLM offered me exactly what I was looking for – a course that expanded my understanding of the challenges facing the world today, friendships with people from around the world, and being in the centre of the action in London. I really learned a lot not just from my professors and the classroom, but also from my peers and their experiences.

LLM Changchun, China

I chose LSE because the LLM programme offered a range of options that suited my needs, and also for its worldwide reputation and teaching staff. Situated on a compact site in the heart of London, LSE has a unique atmosphere. As an international student, eager to get to know London, this position, combined with the diverse students surrounding me, has been the best part of my experience here. I have also benefited from the support services on offer – especially the Language Centre. I took part in pre-sessional English language classes before the programme started, which increased my confidence in my language ability and enabled me to play a greater part in class discussions. I also took advantage of Dissertation Writing and Examination Writing classes during the LLM to improve my written English.

Sofia Bekkali 

LLM Watch Sofia's video

Matias Rodriguez

LLM Watch Matias' video

LLM Watch Lucy's video

The LLM programme provides excellent prospects for graduates seeking to start their career in major commercial centres around the world, with in-house legal departments or government legal services. Some graduates go on to pursue a career at the Bar.

Graduates with a legal qualification from their home jurisdictions and relevant experience may be eligible to join a variety of employers in legal and other sectors such as financial and management consulting, subject to re-qualification and visa requirements within the jurisdiction. Others may continue to progress their careers in national, regional and international law firms, courts or work in a legal capacity within an NGO or multilateral organisation.

The LSE LLM also provides an excellent starting point for those wishing to pursue a PhD and/or a career in academia. Recent employers who have hired graduates from this programme include Clifford Chance, Schoenherr, White & Case, Wolf Theiss, Diageo, Louis Vuitton, Australian Attorney General’s Office, 4 Kings Bench Walk Chambers, PWC and the Human Rights Commission.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

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