Doc Summary
Deciding where to study law in Australia can shape your legal career for decades. This guide summarises Australia’s leading law schools, degree pathways (LLB vs JD), entry requirements, practical legal training, and how to choose the best-fit university for your goals—whether you are a domestic or international student.
Why study law in Australia? #
Australia offers globally respected law programs, strong graduate outcomes, and clear admission pathways to legal practice. Degrees are accredited by state and territory admission authorities, and graduates can proceed to Practical Legal Training (PLT) before applying for admission as a lawyer.
Top universities for law in Australia #
These universities consistently rank highly for Law & Legal Studies and offer extensive clinical, mooting, and industry engagement opportunities:
- Melbourne Law School (University of Melbourne) – JD-focused with a global reputation and strong research culture.
- Sydney Law School (University of Sydney) – Comprehensive offerings, international exchanges, and strong alumni network.
- UNSW Law & Justice – Social justice focus, clinics, and dual-degree flexibility.
- ANU College of Law – Policy and public law strengths, Canberra-based networks.
- Monash Law – Practical training integrations and international study options.
- UQ Law (University of Queensland) – Research-led teaching and strong graduate employability.
- Adelaide Law School – Oldest in SA with strong advocacy programs.
- UWA Law School – Corporate and resources law strengths in WA.
- UTS Law – Industry-connected and technology-forward curricula.
- QUT School of Law – Practice-focused, excellent mooting and clinics.
To compare subject rankings, see the latest QS rankings for Law: QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Degrees and pathways: LLB, JD, combined degrees, and PLT #
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – Typically 4 years full-time (or 5+ with a combined degree). Commonly studied straight from high school.
- Juris Doctor (JD) – 3-year graduate-entry law degree; ideal if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
- Combined degrees – Popular pairings include Law with Business, Arts, Politics, or Science; useful for specialised careers.
- Practical Legal Training (PLT) – Mandatory for admission after your LLB/JD. Leading providers include The College of Law and Leo Cussen Centre for Law.
- Admission authorities – Admission is managed by state bodies (for example, Legal Profession Admission Board (NSW) and Victorian Legal Admissions Board).
How to choose the right law school (quick checklist) #
- Accreditation – Ensure your degree meets your state’s admission authority requirements.
- Curriculum focus – Corporate, public, technology, human rights, or international law.
- Practical exposure – Clinics, internships, moot courts, pro bono programs.
- Graduate outcomes – Employment rates, clerkships, and alumni networks.
- Location and lifestyle – Campus culture, cost of living, and city vs regional opportunities.
Entry requirements and international students #
- Domestic entry – Undergraduate entry often uses ATAR or equivalent; graduate-entry JDs assess prior GPA (LSAT seldom required in Australia, check each school).
- English proficiency – IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores required for many international applicants.
- Student visa (subclass 500) – Requirements and conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs: Student visa (500).
- Post-study work rights – Explore the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa: Temporary Graduate Visa.
- Study in Australia – Government study guidance: Study Australia.
Costs, scholarships, and financial aid #
Tuition varies by university and program. Domestic students may be eligible for Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) and HECS‑HELP; see StudyAssist. Many universities offer merit and equity scholarships for law students—check faculty pages for deadlines and criteria.
Alternative and pathway options #
- Pathway and enabling programs – Foundation or bridging programs can transition you into an LLB/JD.
- VET and paralegal pathways – Consider recognised legal services or paralegal qualifications as a stepping stone; see nationally recognised training: training.gov.au.
- Credit/RPL – Some universities may grant credit for prior tertiary study; policies vary by institution and professional accreditation rules.
FAQ: Featured answers #
Where is the best place to study law in Australia? Leading options include Melbourne, Sydney, UNSW, ANU, Monash, UQ, Adelaide, UWA, UTS, and QUT. The “best” depends on your specialisation, location, and learning preferences.
How long does it take to become a lawyer? Typically 4 years (LLB) or 3 years (JD), plus several months for PLT, then admission by your state authority.
Can I study law online? Many Australian law schools offer blended or partially online delivery; core components often require on-campus attendance and approved assessments.
Get personalised advice #
Still deciding where to study law in Australia? The advisors at Skills Campus can help you compare LLB vs JD programs, shortlist universities, plan PLT, and understand visas, scholarships, and Recognition of Prior Learning pathways.
Ready to map your pathway? Speak with a Skills Campus consultant today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact
