The Intensive English + LLM Pathway Program is a partnership between the IEI and the Illinois College of Law. Through the partnership, students will undertake an intensive English language study designed to prepare them for successful admission and skills to excel in the LLM program.
The Intensive English + LLM Pathway Program at Illinois provides international students with a structured pathway to enhance their English proficiency while preparing for the Master of Laws LLM degree. This program is designed to help students strengthen their academic English skills, allowing them to succeed in legal studies and professional environments. Students of any English level are welcome to apply.
Eligibility and Admissions
Applicants must meet all LLM program requirements except English Proficiency. To be eligible for this pathway to admission, students must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 70 or 3.5, IELTS 6.0, or Duolingo 105. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.
Students must (1) satisfactorily complete the study at Intensive English Institute and (2) provide a minimum of TOEFL 4.0, IELTS 6.5, or Duolingo 115 before formally joining the LLM program. This ensures that they have the necessary language skills to succeed in legal coursework and professional practice. Interested students should apply to the Intensive English + LLM program at the University of Illinois Graduate College or LSAC.
Application Deadline
Applications are considered on a rolling basis throughout the year. Priority deadlines are May 1 for Fall, November 1 for Spring, (and March 1 for Summer). Students who submit their application after the date listed above may still be considered if there are spots left in that admission cycle.
Program Structure
Students start their academic journey at the Intensive English Institute where they take courses that include Advanced Reading & Writing, Advanced Listening & Speaking, and electives.
Upon demonstrating sufficient proficiency and obtaining a satisfactory score from an accepted English Proficiency test, students will transit directly into the LLM program and begin their legal coursework at the College of Law at the start of the next semester (Fall or Spring). Once in the LLM program, students need to complete 32 College of Law credits to graduate. These credits can be completed in 2 or 3 semesters in the College of Law.
Tuition and Cost of Living
The Intensive English Institute and the College of Law charge their tuition and fees separately:
- For the Intensive English Institute’s tuition and cost of living, please refer to the Financial Support page.
- For the College of Law’s tuition and cost of living, please refer to their Tuition and Aid page.
Scholarships & Support
The Intensive English Institute offers a discounted tuition rate for students requiring additional terms to meet language proficiency requirements. Students admitted to the LLM program are also automatically considered for a partial College of Law tuition scholarship with awards based on merit, need, and available scholarship funds.
Students will receive dedicated academic advising and support throughout the program. The IEI and College of Law will work closely with each student to ensure a smooth transition from English training to legal studies. Advisors assist with course selection and professional development.
Questions
Please contact the IEI for more information.