Why Post-Graduate Legal Education in the U.S. Remains a Top Choice for International Students

In early January, I found myself in San Francisco for the annual meeting of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS). It was a significant gathering for law school faculty and administrators from across the U.S., focusing on the latest trends and research in legal education.

This was my first time attending, and I was there not only as an officer for the Section on Post-Graduate Legal Education but also as a panelist. It was a fantastic learning opportunity, and I finally got to meet colleagues from The National Jurist face-to-face.

The panel discussion I participated in was titled, “Is post-graduate legal education in the U.S. still globally attractive?” We had insightful discussions about international student interest in U.S. law schools and what specific institutions are doing to support these students. I shared insights from international students I had interviewed, particularly those from my time with LEALS, as they weighed their options around the world. The consensus? Yes, U.S. law schools still hold significant appeal, but there are important considerations for those in charge, especially regarding financial implications.

In my monthly writings for International Jurist, I’ve highlighted the advantages U.S. law schools offer. These include solid pathways to key bar exams, opportunities to gain work experience during LL.M. studies, and potential for post-LL.M. employment in the U.S. Many schools also have strong alumni networks that span the globe, making the LL.M. credential valuable in various markets. All these factors contribute to the U.S. remaining a top choice for foreign-educated students.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. U.S. law schools face challenges in maintaining their status as leaders in attracting international students. The landscape is competitive, with various schools around the world enhancing their appeal. U.S. law schools need to adapt to these challenges while remaining welcoming to international students.

International students bring diversity and unique perspectives to U.S. law schools, enriching the educational experience for everyone. These students often have different career paths—some will return home, while others may choose to stay in the U.S. for new opportunities. This adds tremendous value to the law school community.

In future posts, I plan to explore specific challenges facing U.S. law schools. These include focusing on key aspects like OPT (Optional Practical Training), ABA (American Bar Association) standards, and USD (U.S. dollars)—all crucial for attracting international students. Other challenges come from increasing global competition and geopolitical dynamics.

Some challenges are easier to address than others. However, there are proactive steps U.S. law schools can take to invite and support international students. A simple yet effective way is to be visible and openly supportive. For instance, after sharing an article on the potential impact of political changes on OPT, I appreciated seeing my colleague Diana Ramirez Ortiz share her thoughts in response. Visibility and support resonate with LL.M. students, who are looking for guidance as they navigate the complexities of studying and working in the U.S.

These students often want schools to discuss career options before they enroll, rather than waiting until they arrive. They seek assurance that their tuition is being invested in robust career support services. Fortunately, many schools are improving in this area, which benefits everyone involved.

There’s still much work to be done, but the ongoing commitment to supporting international students will continue to enhance the reputation of U.S. law schools.