Law School Myths Debunked: Going straight from undergrad to law school is easiest

In this blog we work to debunk the myth that students need to complete their university studies in Canada prior to seeking entry onto a UK law degree. Similarly, that this route will result in an ‘easy’ experience in law school. 

No mater when you begin your law studies, it’s important to note that as a professional degree, it is quite rigorous. Students should expect a heavy course load paired with high expectations from their professors. There is no one ‘easy’ route to completion, however it is completely possible to successfully complete your law studies in the UK and return to Canada should you be willing – even if you’re coming from high school!
 

Entry to UK Law Schools begins after high school

Unlike Canadian Law Schools, for UK students, entry to Law School begins after they have completed their A-Levels – this is the equivalent to completing your Canadian high school diploma (or DEC for Quebec students). 

Students are not required to have a completed university degree prior to seeking entry onto a law programme, though it can save a bit of money (specifically the cost of international tuition for one year of study) if you decide to apply to UK law school after your Canadian undergraduate degree is completed. This is simply because students who complete a Canadian university degree first will likely qualify to undertake a 2-year LLB degree rather than the standard 3-year degree. 
 

All internationally trained lawyers need to be assessed

After completing UK studies, all students who have completed their law training outside of Canada need to have their degree assessed by the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA). This process is completed regardless of whether your UK degree is 2-years in duration or 3-years.

The NCA reviews each applicant on an individual basis (taking their legal education and professional experiences into consideration) and will assign NCA challenge exams or additional courses to subsidize any missed learning from your overseas studies. 

This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at a disadvantage when attending law school directly from high school. It simply means you’re assessed in a different way from those who have already completed a university degree. The NCA will inform you of any required additional items needed to receive your Certificate of Qualification and qualify for law society bar admission. 
 

How to set yourself apart as a high school student

If you decide to apply to UK law school direct from high school, it’s important to set yourself apart from other applicants by considering all extracurricular activities or experiences that have developed your interest in law school (outside of the classroom). If you have a part-time job, consider the skills you’ve developed that may translate well to a future legal career. If you’ve visited a court room or legislature building in your free time, consider how that visit has added to your overall understanding of the law.

Because UK universities are reviewing the entirety of your application, your grades become a very small aspect of your application. What universities cannot see on a transcript is your own understanding of the legal profession and how your own experiences have developed your curiosity or interest in the field. Make sure you leverage whatever experiences you do have! Your Canada Law From Abroad advisor can help you draw attention to these items when working on your personal statement!
 

Professional Experience is Highly Valued 

UK universities value experiences outside of the classroom and providing these as part of your application can display independence, time management, maturity and leadership – all desired traits for a future legal career. 

Experiences beyond the classroom can be obtained if you’re a high school student or as someone with university studies under their belt, so there’s no harm in applying as a high school student! 
 

Decide what’s best for you

There is no ‘easiest’ route when considering a career in law. Whether you’re applying to Law School direct from high school, after a university degree or even after some life experience, it’s important to show a dedication to the career path, speak to your qualities and have the academic skillset required to be a successful student.  
 

Other Law School Myths Debunked

• I Should Attend the Most Prestigious University Possible
• Law School is So Expensive - I'll Never Afford It
• I Need a Perfect GPA