Best Law Schools in Australia: A Guide to Choose the Right One!

Want to Become a Top Lawyer? Here’s How to Pick the Best Law Schools in Australia! Choosing the right law school can make or break your legal career. With Australia home to some of the world’s most prestigious law schools, selecting the perfect one can feel overwhelming.

Should you prioritize rankings, career opportunities, or tuition fees? This guide will help you to know and explore some of the best law schools in Australia, highlighting key factors like reputation, faculty expertise, and industry connections.

The first step to success, regardless of your career goals, such as practicing government policy, corporate law, or human rights, is selecting the appropriate school. Read on to find out which law school is best for you!

Table of Contents

Why Study Law in Australia?

Questions like these have been asked by a lot of people. Why should I come to Australia to study law? We will, therefore, outline the various reasons for studying law in Australia in the section that follows, after which you can have a thorough assessment.

High-Quality Legal Education: Australia is known for having some of the world’s most prominent law schools. Additionally, the world-renowned colleges provide students with a top-notch education that covers both national and international laws.
Excellent Career Opportunities: It is expected that 74% of Australian law graduates find employment across the country. With an average beginning income of AUD 60,000, their pay will rise as they gain experience.
Global Recognition: Although there are occasionally extra restrictions, many nations accept Australian law degrees and certificates for practicing law.
Opportunities for Internships: Australia’s law schools provide a wide range of domestic and foreign internship opportunities. Additionally, they provide opportunities for alumni networks to advance their job prospects, industry events, and guest lecturers.
International Student Scholarships: Numerous financial possibilities are available to international students pursuing a Master of Laws, making it a viable choice for those who wish to study in Australia.
Opportunities for Post-Study Employment: Graduates can reside and work after graduation by applying for a work visa, which is valid for two to four years.

Best Law Schools in Australia

This section will provide you with a list of the top 10 law schools in Australia, together with their domestic and international rankings and locations, to assist students in choosing the finest one.

1. The University of Melbourne

Suggested Course: MLM (Melbourne Law Masters)
Admission: English language proficiency and professional experience are prerequisites for an LLB/JD or its equivalent.
International Fees: $51,328

One of the greatest law schools in Australia is in the University of Melbourne. The Melbourne Law School was one of the oldest universities in Australia when it was founded in 1857. Furthermore, the University of Melbourne claimed the top spot in Australia for legislation in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject.

The university, meantime, has a global community of outstanding scholars, mentors, alumni, and experts. Additionally, it collaborates with other international organizations to advance its development and provides a variety of legal programs, including graduate research degrees, Juris Doctor (JD) programs, and bachelor’s degrees, to help students explore the fascinating field of law and get ready for a variety of future challenges.

2. New South Wales University

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Admission: Outstanding academic record, TOEFL score of 90 overall, and IELTS score of 6.5 overall
International Fees: $885 per credit unit

The University of New South Wales (UNSW), which is a pioneer in the teaching and study of law and criminology, has a well-respected law schools in Australia. According to the QS World University Rankings, the 1971-founded university is ranked 13th. Additionally, according to the most recent research excellence rankings, UNSW’s law department had an ERA rating of 5.

Classes in the school’s law programs are participatory and research-based because of its student-centered approach. Additionally, it offers three practice programs for practical legal training: JD, LLB, and GDLPP. All things considered, students can gain experience by discussing and debating legal matters, which will improve their research and thinking abilities.

3. University of Sydney

Suggested Course: LLM (Master of Laws)
Admission: LLB/JD, TOEFL-
IBT (96 total, with a minimum score of 17 in speaking, hearing, and reading and 19 in writing), and IELTS (7.0)
International Fees: $56,500

The University of Sydney Law School, one of the top law schools in Australia, was established in 1855 and has significantly influenced the country’s politics, judiciary, and everyday life. It comes in at number fourteen in the QS World University Rankings. Administrative law and policy, environmental law, health law, taxes, criminology, and other fields are among the topics for which it creates lessons that are appropriate for both undergraduate and graduate students. Students also have the opportunity to learn from non-lawyers and enjoy an unmatched interactive learning experience.

4. National University of Australia

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
Admission: ATAR and International Baccalaureate scores of 70 or higher
International Fees: $48,033

One of the greatest law schools in Australia is the National University of Australia (ANU), which was founded in 1960. According to the QS World University Rankings, it comes in at number 17. Three degree programs offered by ANU, undergraduate, graduate, and research, help students better understand the most recent rules and regulations. Because of the supportive and student-focused learning atmosphere at ANU, you will learn a great deal. In addition, you will learn how to collaborate, do research analysis, and enhance your communication skills, all of which are critical in various professions.

5. University of Monash

Suggested Course: Master of Legal Studies
Admission: Outstanding academic record as measured by TOEFL (79 total scores), PTE (58 overall), and IELTS (6.5 overall).
International Fees: $51,500

The Faculty of Law at Monash University, which was established in 1964, is regarded as one of the top law schools in Australia and is ranked 40th in the world. With its extensive educational program, Monash University offers an experience that cannot be matched. Additionally, by cultivating students’ critical thinking, legal analysis, and persuasive argumentation skills through discussion and interaction, the legal courses seek to provide professional training. It also has the notable characteristic of allowing students to work on actual cases while they are studying. In summary, the school is a great choice for Australian law students pursuing double degrees.

6. Queensland University

Suggested courses: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
Admission: ATAR 98+ (or the same IB score), with further options
International Fees: $47,264

The University of Queensland, one of the best law schools in Australia, was established in 1936 and is currently ranked 43rd in the world by the QS World University Rankings. The university is renowned for its strong faculty and industry connections. With an emphasis on critical thinking and viewpoints on international law, the university provides undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. These specialized courses, which would cover a range of criteria and provide practical legal training, would be advantageous to both domestic and international students. For instance, students can participate in internships and moot courts to obtain real-world experience in legal scenarios.

7. University of Western Australia

Suggested Course: Juris Doctor (JD)
Admission: A bachelor’s degree in any field with a weighted average score of at least 65% and fluency in English (IELTS score of 7.0 overall)
International Fees: $46,500

One of the top law schools in Australia is at the University of Western Australia, which is renowned for its top-notch instruction. Founded in 1927, the university is ranked 92nd in the QS World University Rankings. The university is also commended for its individualized instruction. Its legal programs combine classroom instruction with real-world experiences like clinical rotations, internships, and foreign exchanges. All pupils could have the opportunity to improve their negotiating and reasoning abilities in this way. The University of Western Australia’s courses give them a significant competitive edge in the global labor market.

8. Macquarie University

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Admission: ATAR 90+ or higher, along with other alternatives for admission
International Fees: $42,000

Macquarie University’s innovative legal teaching has earned it recognition as one of the best law schools in Australia. Founded in 1972, it is ranked 101st in the QS Rankings. The educational programs cover a wide range of topics, such as international human rights and technological legislation. It offers students several chances to participate in internships and actual casework in the interim. With excellent analytical skills, the graduates can adjust to legal challenges.

9. Griffith University

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
Admission: ATAR 85+ (or above), along with possibilities for pathways
International Fees: $38,500

Griffith University is a socially concerned institution that was founded in 1971. It is one of the best law schools in Australia, with a QS Ranking of 101–150. The institution blends classroom instruction with moot competitions, with a focus on criminal justice and environmental law. As a result, students can prepare for future employment by honing their legal knowledge through actual cases.

10. The University of Adelaide

Suggested Course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
Admission: ATAR 88+ (or higher), with choices for pathways
International Fees: $42,000

Additionally, the University of Adelaide is home to one of the best law schools in Australia. In 1874, this esteemed institution was established. In the meantime, it is renowned for its creative research and high caliber of academia. Its legal curriculum, which is ranked 101–150 in the QS World University Rankings, integrates human rights, international law, and law. Additionally, outside of the classroom, students can obtain practical experience through collaborations with top law firms and internships, ensuring they are prepared for success in the future.

Requirements for Admission to the Top Law Schools in Australia

To assist you in discovering more about the top law schools in Australia, including undergraduate and graduate programs, we’ll provide you with information on the admission requirements for the top law schools in Australia

Undergraduate Program Admission Criteria

Undergraduate program applicants must meet the following requirements:

Possess a secondary degree that is comparable to the Victorian Certificate of Education.
Get the marks you need in the prerequisite courses for the degree you want.
Meet the ATAR minimum.
Meet the requirements for English language proficiency.

Postgraduate Program Admission Criteria

Applicants to postgraduate programs must meet the following requirements:

Possess a law degree or a comparable degree.
Possess a graduate degree in legal practice.
Possess two years of practical experience in addition to a recognized law degree.
Show that you are proficient in English with a score of at least 79/120 on the TOEFL or 6.5/9 on the IELTS.

Why do Law Schools Matter?

Law schools matter because they play a crucial role in preparing individuals to become competent legal professionals who uphold justice, shape public policy, and protect individual rights. They create well-trained, ethical, and knowledgeable legal professionals who play a critical role in shaping society and ensuring justice. Here are some key reasons why law schools are important:

1. Legal Knowledge and Training: Law schools provide students with a deep understanding of legal principles, statutes, case law, and legal procedures. They teach students how to analyze legal issues critically and apply laws to real-world situations.

2. Professional Development: Law schools help students develop essential skills such as legal writing, advocacy, negotiation, and problem-solving. They prepare students for various legal careers, including roles as attorneys, judges, policymakers, and legal scholars.

3. Ethics and Justice: Law schools emphasize ethical standards and the responsibility lawyers have to uphold justice. They instill a sense of duty to serve society, defend human rights, and promote fairness.

4. Pathway to Legal Careers: In most countries, obtaining a law degree is a necessary step to becoming a licensed attorney. Law schools provide the academic and practical foundation required to pass bar exams and meet licensing requirements.

5. Impact on Society and Policy: Law graduates often influence public policy, corporate governance, and international relations. They contribute to shaping laws that affect businesses, governments, and individuals.

7. Diverse Career Options: Law graduates can work in various fields beyond traditional legal practice, including business, politics, academia, human rights, and nonprofit organizations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Law Schools in Australia?

Focusing more on the opinions of academics and less on employment if you would like to work in academia. It is crucial to understand that work ethic is the most significant factor, regardless of the university you choose. The following are important considerations when choosing which law schools to apply to:

Credibility: if employers are aware of the school.
Curriculum: if the university provides well-rounded courses, such as combined degrees.
Location: Whether you have to move or it’s close by.
Duration: How long will it take to complete the degree?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is studying law in Australia worth it for international students?
Yes! the law schools in Australia are globally recognized, and many offer pathways to practice law internationally. Plus, Australia has strong legal job markets and post-study work opportunities.

2. Do Australian law schools require the LSAT for admission?
Most Australian universities do not require the LSAT. Instead, they assess applicants based on academic performance (ATAR for undergraduates, GPA for postgraduates) and, in some cases, interviews or personal statements.

3. Can I specialize in a specific area of law during my degree?
Yes! Many Australian law schools offer specializations in corporate law, human rights law, international law, environmental law, and more, allowing students to tailor their education.

4. What’s the difference between an LLB and a JD in Australia?
The LLB (Bachelor of Laws) is an undergraduate degree, while the JD (Juris Doctor) is a postgraduate law degree for those with a prior bachelor’s degree. Both lead to legal practice.

5. How long does it take to become a lawyer in Australia?
It typically takes 4-5 years (LLB) or 3 years (JD), followed by a Practical Legal Training (PLT) course and admission to the legal profession, which can take another 6-12 months.

In conclusion, choosing the right law schools in Australia is a critical decision that can shape your legal career. With prestigious institutions like the University of Melbourne, the Australian National University, and the University of Sydney, students have access to world-class legal education, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections. Factors such as curriculum, accreditation, location, tuition fees, and career support should guide your decision.

It’s essential to consider your career aspirations, whether in corporate law, human rights, or government service, when selecting a law school. Practical learning opportunities, such as moot courts and internships, can enhance your experience. Additionally, researching graduate employment rates and networking opportunities can help you make an informed choice.

Ultimately, the best law schools in Australia is one that aligns with your academic goals, financial situation, and career ambitions. By carefully evaluating your options, you can embark on a rewarding legal journey with the right foundation for success.