Thankfully, most of Europe has consistently welcomed change, and the slow evolution of legal education is no exception. One of the top countries for legal education in Germany and several of its universities offer degree programs in English, especially for continuing study in European and international law.
In Germany, becoming a lawyer is a very popular but intriguing career choice. To create a flawless German legal system, the legal education system in Germany is extremely interconnected. In Germany, becoming a lawyer is a difficult and drawn-out procedure that takes roughly 7 years to finish.
For most students, looking for the greatest law school in all of Europe might be a hassle. Many requirements must be taken into account. The requirements for law schools in Germany in 2024 are extensively covered in this article. Read carefully!
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Are There Law Schools In Germany?
There are several law schools in Germany, including ones that only offer English-language instruction.
Germany is a fantastic location to start or advance a legal profession for people seeking an LL. M. It is the largest economy in Europe and has a substantial amount of political and economic sway over other EU members as well as outside of it.
After earning a law degree from law schools in Germany, you can advise German clients on the legal system of your own country. This is because businesses that want to create subsidiaries overseas, for example, need legal advice on a variety of issues, such as selecting the appropriate legal form, tax legislation, etc. After earning a legal degree from Germany, there are several opportunities.
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How Long Is A Law School In Germany?
Students in Germany must complete a 6-year curriculum and pass two state exams to obtain a law degree.
First, after completing four years of undergraduate study, students must pass the First State Examination. After that, they must do a two-year internship known as the Referendarzeit to gain knowledge of all elements of the legal system.
Students who have completed their two years of legal internships in criminal and civil court are then offered a second State Examination. Students are required to take classes taught by judges or attorneys throughout the internship. In Germany, candidates for the bar have two chances to pass the state examination. The student is deemed qualified to apply for work as a judge or attorney after completing both exams.
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How Much Does Law Schools In Germany Cost?
At the undergraduate level, public law schools in Germany offer tuition-free education. These universities just charge administrative fees of about €250 every semester.
The annual cost of tuition for law students at Baden-public Württemberg’s institutions is roughly €3,000. (as the only exception to the tuition-free regulation across Germany). Private universities, on the other hand, have a maximum annual tuition fee of €20,000.
Unless a student chooses to pursue a law degree at a private university, tuition prices for higher law schools in Germany are far lower than those in the United States.
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What Are Law Schools In Germany Ranked For?
Law schools in Germany provide top-notch instruction and research. At least eight German universities are ranked among the best in the world for studying law.
Prospective law students in Germany have a wide selection of demanding and effective programs taught by highly qualified teachers in a perfect setting. The leading location for LLM programs, some of which are even offered in English, is Germany. In Germany, however, the majority of university courses are taught in German.
Germany is renowned for its outstanding quality of life, healthcare system, and work-life balance. Germany offers good earnings, a low cost of living, and a secure atmosphere for starting a new life in addition to having one of the largest economies and the lowest unemployment rate in the EU.
After graduating from any of the law schools in Germany, Germany has a healthy job market if you want to work there. One of the key benefits of studying at law schools in Germany is that you’ll be a part of a top-notch educational system that offers practical job skills.
What Are The Requirements For Getting Into Law Schools In Germany 2024?
Each of the law schools in Germany establishes its requirements for applicants. Higher expectations and lower acceptance rates are natural characteristics of more famous universities. However, to give you a general sense, the following are some of the most typical application requirements at German law schools:
- High school or bachelor’s degree previously obtained
- Grade/records transcript
- Depending on the teaching method, proficiency in German (TestDaF or the DSH).
- Depending on the teaching method, English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
- Prior professional experience (only at some universities)
- Application Essay
What Are The Best Law Schools In Germany?
In Germany, getting a legal degree is a laborious but worthwhile procedure. Germany is renowned for having reasonable living expenses and for having some of the best law schools in the world. A lot of people choose to enrol in LLM (Master of Laws) programs in Germany.
Some of these courses are also offered in English at many law schools in Germany, which is a great choice for international students who don’t speak German. Students must demonstrate their German language ability as part of the admission requirements because the majority of law programs are taught in German.
The law schools in this section are ranked as the best law schools in Germany 2024.
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (University of Munich)
- Berlin’s Humboldt University (HU Berlin)
- Hochschule für Rechtswissenschaft Bucerius Law School
- Ruprecht-Karls-Universität (Heidelberg University Faculty of Law)
- Universität Bonn – Bonn University
- Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg – University of Freiburg
- Institute for German and European Business, Competition, and Regulatory Law at Freie Universität (FU) Berlin
- Universität zu Köln (University of Cologne)
- Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster (University of Münster)
- Goethe Universität (Frankfurt
- Universität Hamburg (the University of Hamburg, UHH Faculty of Law)
- University of Bayreuth Law School
- University of Augsburg School of Law
- Mainz’s Johannes Gutenberg University
- University of Mannheim Law School
#1. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (University of Munich)
In the heart of Munich, Bavaria, the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München was established in 1472 and is regarded as one of the top academic and scientific institutions on the continent.
The school offers a wide selection of reputable LL.M. courses, including the LL.M. in German Law and a program with an emphasis on European and International Economic Law, and Top Universities grades it highly for law. It is well pronounced and ranked as the best among the law schools in Germany.
LMU divides the academic year into two semesters. For bachelor’s programs, the annual tuition is less than USD 1000, which is very reasonable. You won’t pay more than USD 1,000 to earn your master’s degree at LMU.
#2. Berlin’s Humboldt University (HU Berlin)
One of Berlin’s oldest universities suggests enduring quality. The law school offers several additional highly respected degrees in addition to the LL.M. in European Governance and Administration.
The LL.M. in Intangible Property Rights and Media Law, the LL.M. in International Dispute Resolution, and the program in German and European Law and Legal Practice are a few among them.
The university is listed by Top Universities as one of the top 50 legal education providers worldwide. Berlin itself is a benefit due to the abundance of businesses, proximity to significant legal institutions, and social scene.
At Humboldt University Berlin, the standard tuition and fees run about EUR 315.
#3. Hochschule für Rechtswissenschaft Bucerius Law School
The prestigious Bucerius Law School is regarded as an “Ivy League” law school in Germany. The university provides a business-focused LL.M.
The program’s high degree of adaptability enables students to increase their knowledge of a variety of legal and business topics, such as entrepreneurship, legal technology, and operations. Graduates with these skills are in high demand among a variety of employers, including banks and non-profit organizations.
A bachelor’s degree will cost you approximately USD 12,500 per year. For those who want to pursue their master’s degree here, budget at least 12,500 USD annually.
#4. Ruprecht-Karls-Universität (Heidelberg University Faculty of Law)
Heidelberg Institution, the oldest university in the nation and one of the best law schools in Germany 2024, was established in 1386. Theology, Law, and Philosophy were the first faculties to be founded.
As one of the founding faculties of the school, the Faculty of Law has a strong foundation. Some of the most well-known major figures and legal experts who hold positions of authority in the national and international community are among its graduates.
Since its introduction by the faculty in 1995, lawyer-oriented legal training has become a favorite of all law students. Its main objective is to immerse the students in a series of simulations and mock trials so they can rehearse their arguments as if they were in a real courtroom.
#5. Universität Bonn – Bonn University
The University of Bonn has a long history of conducting research and imparting knowledge. It was founded in 1818.
The school conducts a wide range of research in the legal field, including work on themes including canon law, public law, and German, European, and International Family Law. An LL.M. in German Law is available at the university. Ludwig van Beethoven was born in Bonn, a city in western Germany that is located on the Rhine River.
At the University of Bonn, there are no tuition costs for undergraduate or graduate students. For both domestic and foreign students, entry costs were eliminated in 16 German states in 2014. Therefore, there isn’t one right now. At the University of Bonn, tuition is not required.
#6. Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg – University of Freiburg
One of Germany’s oldest universities is the University of Freiburg, founded in 1457 by the Hapsburg monarchy. In recent years, numerous Germany-specific rankings, like the CHE Ranking from news source Die Zeit, have given the Freiburg School of Law high marks.
The university provides a German-language LL.M. program for international lawyers who wish to learn more about German legal principles. In the Black Forest of Germany, the city of Freiburg boasts a medieval old town and other historic structures.
Most of the University of Freiburg’s courses are free. Semesters are used to divide the academic year. The cost every semester is 1,500 Euros (INR 127227). The semester fees cover expenses for services, transportation, student body unions, and administration.
#7. Institute for German and European Business, Competition, and Regulatory Law at Freie Universität (FU) Berlin
Due to its renowned international reputation and dedication to social responsibility, Freie Universität Berlin’s Institute for German and European Business, Competition, and Regulatory Law is regarded as one of Germany’s Universities of Excellence. It is also regarded as one of the outstanding law schools in Germany.
The law school is renowned for cross-disciplinary study, and its esteemed LL.M. curriculum combines elements of regulatory, trade, international, and competition law. It’s a comprehensive education that can increase your employability.
Currently, a semester’s worth of tuition costs 4,750 euros. Total expenses for the program come to 9,500 Euros.
#8. Universität zu Köln (University of Cologne)
Top Universities gives the University of Cologne high marks. A few LL.M. choices are available through the school, including an LL.M. for lawyers with a foreign law degree, a general LL.M. (taught in English and German), and an LL.M. particularly for Corporate Tax Law.
One of Germany’s cultural centres, Cologne is home to renowned art museums, outstanding river views, and medieval buildings.
There are no tuition costs to attend the University of Cologne. But every student is required to pay a social contribution fee, which amounts to about €250 per semester or €500 annually.
#9. Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster (University of Münster)
One of Germany’s largest universities, Münster’s law school attracts a sizable pool of top talent from around the globe for its generalist LL.M. degree.
There are many options for exchange, thanks to partnerships with different colleges. It’s a lovely site to study as well, adjacent to the historic city centre and a part of the “Euregio” university complex, which is renowned for its extensive network of cycle lanes. Overall, the quality of living is very excellent.
Typical degree programs at the WWU are tuition-free; the sole exception is for in-service continuing education courses.
#10. Goethe Universität (Frankfurt)
Among the top legal schools in the world, according to Times Higher Education, a reputable ranking company is Goethe University Frankfurt. There are numerous prestigious LL.M. degrees available from Goethe.
The LL.M. in Finance, the LL.M. in International Finance, and the LL.M. in European and International Economic Law are among examples. Frankfurt, a global financial hub, gives students excellent job opportunities as well as access to a wealth of cultural experiences.
The entire cost of the tuition is €948.
#11. Universität Hamburg (the University of Hamburg, UHH Faculty of Law)
Foreign law degree holders have many excellent options, including this internationally renowned legal school. By enrolling in one of the school’s master’s degree programs, they can improve their education.
The university, which has its headquarters in Hamburg, is regarded as one of Germany’s top legal schools. The beautiful scenery that northern Germany has to offer will be enjoyed by the pupils.
The faculty runs a library where students, faculty, and people from other universities can access a variety of sources of data, references, legal, academic material, and scientific research in the area of law. The central library offers useful information and a great chance to advance one’s personal development.
You might pay as little as USD 1,000 or perhaps less for a year of bachelor’s-level study. Master’s degree programs at the university start at just $1000 per year.
#12. University of Bayreuth Law School
In Bayreuth, Germany, there is a public research institution called the University of Bayreuth. It was established in 1975 as a campus university with an emphasis on international and multidisciplinary cooperation. The Legal School is regarded as one of Germany’s best law schools.
The University of Bayreuth’s Bachelor of Law (LL.B) program prioritizes civil law and public law over criminal law to a lesser extent. The degree program’s required legal and economics classes and exams are generally equivalent to those found in the first four semesters of the state law degree program “Jurisprudence.”
Bachelor’s degree programs at UBT are reasonably priced, coming in at under $1,000 each year. Additionally, the university provides master’s programs for USD 1,000 per year.
#13. University of Augsburg School of Law
In the area of Augsburg designated for universities, there is a university called the University of Augsburg. It was established in 1970 and has eight faculties. Law School LL.M. Programs are available. It is one of the best law schools in Germany for people looking to complete their legal studies quickly. and force the kids to earn their degrees as quickly as feasible.
Their facilities are completely up to date and provide everything you may want from a faculty at the leading edge. In 1971, the law school was founded. The brand-new departmental building, which opened in 1999, has lecture halls, meeting spaces, and a law library.
The expenditures of attending school and living in the area together make up the cost of education. Each semester, all students are required to contribute the current amount of 127.50 €. This sum is broken down into the Studentenwerk donation ($62) and the cost of the semester bus pass ($65,50).
#14. Mainz’s Johannes Gutenberg University
Students in Mainz complete a regular law degree during their first two years of study in addition to participating in a preparatory program that includes language instruction, French law introduction courses, field trips to partner universities, and a seminar comparing legal systems.
The summer semester before the international stay is when the actual selection procedure for the integrated course takes place (i.e. usually in the fourth or sixth semester).
For exchange students, Johannes-Gutenberg-University does not charge tuition. You will, nonetheless, be required to pay a social fee, just like every other student at a German institution. The cost per semester is €326.11. Additionally, you will need money for living expenses.
#15. University of Mannheim Law School
The University of Law in Mannheim is the first in Germany to offer a contemporary Bachelor of Law degree program while upholding the rigorous requirements of the State Examination system for lawyers.
At the University of Mannheim, studying law entails more than just preparing for the bar test. With the Integrated LL.B. and State Examination Program in Law, you have the rare chance to earn your first professional qualification and a Bachelor of Laws after just six semesters.
By studying a Master of Laws (LL.M), a Master of Comparative Business Law, or a Master of Competition Law and Regulation, you will then be able to specialize in many areas of business and economic law (M.C.B.L.).
The cost of law school is 8,500 euros (for the entire program)
How To Apply For Law Schools In Germany
If you match the criteria outlined by the individual universities, the admission process for law schools in Germany is fairly thorough.
Those who wish to study at law schools in Germany may do so by:
- The institution they choose.
- International Students’ University Application Service (Uni-Assist)
- Foundation for Higher Education Admission (SfH; German: Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung)
Before sending their application straight to the university of their choosing, international students who hold an international university admission qualification typically have Uni-Assist check their supporting documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
One of the law schools in Germany is listed by Top Universities as one of the top 50 legal education providers worldwide. Berlin itself is a benefit due to the abundance of businesses, proximity to significant legal institutions, and social scene.
Excellent Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.) degrees taught in English are available from top institutions and colleges in Germany. English-taught study programs are offered by numerous law schools in Germany. You must have a foundational understanding of the English language before beginning a program.
Compared to law degrees in the US, Germany offers higher earnings and a better job market. After graduation, 96% of German lawyers find employment, earning an average annual salary of 120,000 euros. The complexity of the German legal system and the calibre of its law school graduates are well known across the world.
A German lawyer’s official title is Rechtsanwalt (male) or Rechtsanwältin (female). Only fully qualified German attorneys who have completed both bar examinations are permitted to use the term “Rechtsanwalt,” or simply “Anwalt.”
In Germany, becoming a lawyer is a very popular but intriguing career choice. To create a flawless German legal system, the legal education system in Germany is extremely interconnected. In Germany, becoming a lawyer is a difficult and drawn-out procedure that takes roughly 7 years to finish.
Conclusion
Germany is a fantastic location for LL.M. candidates who want to start or advance their legal careers. It is the biggest economy in Europe and exerts a sizable amount of political and economic power inside the EU and abroad. This indicates that job prospects could be high given the nation’s present strong economy and the job market.
Carefully maximize the information provided by this article if you want to successfully find yourself in one of the best law schools in Germany.