Study law in Canada
When it comes to pursuing law school in Canada, Canada offers some of the best institutions in the world.
The nation's best law schools provide students with rigorous academic training, comprehensive practical learning opportunities, and access to a diverse and supportive community.
In this article, we'll dive into the five best law schools in Canada: University of Toronto, Queen's University, McGill University, University of Montreal, and University of British Columbia.
Lawyer income in Canada
With the average annual income for lawyers being approximately 122 Canadian dollars per year, it is not surprising that many students choose to pursue law studies in Canada.
Read on for an overview of the best law schools in Canada.
1. University of Toronto Faculty of Law
The University of Toronto Faculty of Law is widely considered one of the most prestigious law schools in Canada. Located in downtown Toronto, the school provides students with access to a broad and diverse legal market. Its location offers many opportunities for internships, apprenticeships and jobs within government, NGOs and leading law firms.
The School of Law is known for its intensive, comprehensive, and intellectually stimulating curriculum. The university offers a Juris Doctor program and bachelor's and master's programs as well.
Admission to the University of Toronto Faculty of Law is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of their academic record (a minimum GPA of 3.7 is usually competitive), Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) score (a score in the high 160s or 170s is usually competitive), personal statements, reference letters, and life experience. .
2. Queen's University School of Law
Queen's University, located in Kingston, Ontario, has a prestigious law school. Known for its collegiate atmosphere and close-knit community, Queen's offers a balanced curriculum with a strong focus on core legal skills.
The Queen's Law Admissions Committee looks for academic excellence (minimum GPA of 3.7 recommended), strong LSAT scores (generally, a score above 157 is considered competitive), and individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. They place great value on personal statements and letters of reference.
3. McGill University School of Law
McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, offers a unique approach to law education in Canada. Known for its integrated Civil and Public Law programme, students graduate with a dual degree: Bachelor and Master of Laws. The Faculty of Law is known for its global perspective, commitment to social justice and bilingual nature (French and English).
To apply to McGill Law School, a bachelor's degree or 60 credits toward a bachelor's degree are required, as well as proficiency in English and French. McGill's comprehensive admissions approach takes into account not only academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0) and LSAT scores but also personal experiences, community involvement, and other extracurricular activities.
4. University of Montreal Faculty of Law
The University of Montreal's Faculty of Law is one of the leading French-language law schools in the world. The Faculty of Law, known for its innovative programs and research in various legal fields, offers a degree in Civil Law, providing an in-depth understanding of Quebec's legal system.
Admission requirements to the University of Montreal Faculty of Law include a bachelor's degree with a competitive GPA and the ability to study in French. While the LSAT is not required, strong evidence of academic achievement, leadership, and participation in extracurricular activities is highly valued.
5. Faculty of Law at the University of British Columbia
Peter A. College offers Allard Law at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver brings a global perspective to law and boasts a diverse student body. It provides a comprehensive legal education with strengths in areas such as environmental law, human rights law, indigenous law and Asian legal studies.
The UBC Faculty of Law requires a minimum of 60 credits of university-level study for admission to the law program. The admissions committee considers LSAT scores (a score above 160 is typically competitive), academic record, personal statement, and other supporting documents.
Cost of studying law in Canada
Here's a breakdown of each law school mentioned previously, including their average tuition cost and their official website:
| ranking | College Name | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Toronto Faculty of Law | 50 Canadian dollars |
| 2 | Queen's University School of Law | 38000 Canadian dollars |
| 3 | McGill University Faculty of Law | 36000 Canadian dollars |
| 4 | University of Montreal Faculty of Law | 32000 Canadian dollars |
| 5 | University of British Columbia | 36000 Canadian dollars |
In conclusion, Canada is home to an array of distinguished law schools. What is best for a particular student depends on his or her individual goals, interests, and circumstances. Regardless of choice, each of these top law schools in Canada provides excellent opportunities for a bright and fulfilling legal career.