Study Law Abroad: Cheapest Countries To Study Law In English If You Missed CLAT Or NLU Seat

Last Updated:June 06, 2025, 13:53 IST

Can’t clear CLAT? Study law abroad in Germany, France, Norway or Poland where low fees, global degrees, and scholarships can make your legal education affordable and attenable

Each year, thousands of students in India set their sights on a career in law after completing Class 12. Securing admission to a National Law University (NLU) or other prestigious law institutions typically requires passing the CLAT (Common Law Admission Test). For those who are unsuccessful, studying law overseas becomes a viable alternative; one that is not only accessible but also affordable.

Study Law Abroad

Legal education is not only accessible in India but also affordable in several other countries. Aspirants can realise their dream of becoming a lawyer by enrolling in universities abroad. Nations such as Germany, Norway, France, and Poland offer law degrees, both LLB and LLM, taught in English. These programmes are internationally recognised, with many institutions offering low tuition fees, scholarships, and in some cases, free education.

To practise law in India after studying abroad, students must obtain recognition from the Bar Council of India (BCI) and successfully pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE).

Most Affordable Countries To Study Law

When planning to study law overseas, prospective students must also consider language proficiency, visa regulations, and living costs, in addition to academic eligibility. Below are some budget-friendly countries offering quality legal education:

Germany

Universities:

• Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin: Programmes in International and European Law
• Universität Hamburg: Known for accessible, high-quality legal education

Tuition Fees: €150 – €400 (~Rs13,000 – Rs 35,000) per semester (admin fee only at public universities)

Living Costs: €850 – €1,200/month (~Rs 75,000 – Rs 1.05 lakh)

Degrees Offered: LLB, LLM, and specialisations in International Law, Human Rights

Note: Additional requirements may apply to practise in India (as per BCI)

France

Universities:

• Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne: Noted for law and human rights
• Sciences Po: Strong international law and policy curriculum

Tuition Fees: €189 – €261/year (~Rs 16,500 – Rs 23,000)

Living Costs: €850 – €1,200/month (~Rs 75,000 – Rs 1.05 lakh)

Degrees Offered: LLB, LLM, European Law, Business Law

Note: Basic French may be helpful, though English programmes are available

Norway

Universities:

• University of Oslo: Offers Public International Law, Maritime Law, Human Rights
• University of Bergen: Known for affordable legal studies

Tuition Fees: None (only €50 – €100 nominal semester fee)

Living Costs: €1,000 – €1,500/month (~ Rs 88,000 – Rs 1.32 lakh)

Degrees Offered: Primarily LLM; limited LLB availability in English

Note: High living costs offset by free education

Poland

Universities:

• University of Warsaw: Offers Business and International Law
• Jagiellonian University: Affordable and widely-recognised institute

Tuition Fees: €2,000 – €5,000/year (~Rs 1.75 to Rs 4.4 lakh)

Living Costs: €600 – €1,200/month (~Rs 53,000 – Rs 1.05 lakh)

Degrees Offered: LLB, LLM, and subject-specific law courses

Note: Offers good value with recognised European qualifications

India: The Most Practical Option For Many

For those who prefer to remain in India, pursuing law domestically remains the most cost-effective and convenient path. Degrees awarded by NLUs and Government Law Colleges are recognised by the BCI, making them directly applicable for legal practice.

Top Institutions:

• NLUs: NLU Delhi, NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad
• Government Colleges: GLC Mumbai, ILS Pune

Tuition Fees: Rs 50,000 – Rs 2.5 lakh per year

Living Costs: Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000 per month

Degrees Offered: 5-year BA LLB, 3-year LLB, and LLM programmes

Key Considerations Before Applying Abroad

• Eligibility: Typically, Class 12 pass for LLB; a bachelor’s degree in law for LLM
• Language Proficiency: English-language programmes usually require IELTS or TOEFL
• Scholarships: Explore options like DAAD (Germany), Fulbright, and country-specific funding
• Practice in India: Foreign degree holders must pass the AIBE and get BCI approval
• Language: While many courses are taught in English, learning the local language may be beneficial
• Global Validity: Ensure the degree aligns with your long-term goals and is internationally recognised

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