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What is the LL.M. Course Duration?

By upGrad

Updated on Jul 08, 2025 | 8 min read | 8.4K+ views

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Latest News on LLM Degree: 

In June 2025, the Bar Council of India (BCI) announced that LLM degrees offered through online, distance, hybrid, or blended learning modes require prior approval from BCI to be deemed valid. 

An LLM master’s degree is a focused or concentrated post-graduate program that enables law students or professionals to gain a greater understanding of a specific topic or field, such as international law, corporate law, or human rights law. But before enrolling, one important question arises: how long is an LLM course?

The length of the LLM program is an important consideration because it can vary significantly. The 1-year and 2-year format for LLM also exists in India, while in abroad,  the LLM programs are of 1-year full-time duration. In this guide will address all of your questions regarding the LLM degree duration.

Applying for an LLM program is an exciting move for your legal education and career options. If you want to transform your career by taking comprehensive law courses from top universities, look no further than upGrad law courses and start your journey today!

Keep reading the blog further to learn more about llm course duration.

What is the Duration of the LLM Course in India?

If you're planning to pursue a LLM degree in India, it's important to know how long the course takes. In India, the duration of an LLM course is usually 1 or 2 years, depending on the program you choose. Some colleges offer a 1-year LLM that's fast-tracked and intense, while others stick to the more traditional 2-year LLM course with more in-depth study and research.

But before giving you an idea on LLM duration, just have a quick look at our advanced LLM Courses from the top Jindal Global Law School:

Quick Comparison of LLM Duration in India: 

Below is a quick comparison of the LLM duration in India. Let's have a look at

Program Type

How Long is an LLM?

Ideal For

1-Year LLM 12 months Professionals wanting quick upskilling
2-Year LLM 24 months Students interested in deep legal research
Part-Time/Executive 2–3 years Working professionals

Also Read: Steps to Success - Your Roadmap to Becoming a Corporate Lawyer

Did You Know?

Earlier, most LLM degrees in India were just 1 year long. In 2021, the Bar Council of India (BCI) decided to make the LLM course duration 2 years to match international standards from the 2022-23 academic year. However, since many colleges raised concerns, both 1-year and 2-year LLM programs are still offered in India today.

However, if you want more information on LLM, check out this blog LLM Degree Course Structure, Admission, Duration & Careers.

LLM Course Durations in Different Countries

Wondering how long an LLM program is if you're planning to study abroad? Here's a quick look at the typical LLM degree duration across some of the top study destinations. These durations may vary slightly depending on whether you choose a full-time, part-time, or hybrid LLM course.

Country

Typical LLM Duration

United States Most LLM courses in the US are 1 year long (full-time). However, part-time or online LLM programs may stretch up to 2–3 years in some cases.
United Kingdom The standard LLM degree duration is 1 year full-time. Part-time LLM programs or research-based options can take up to 2.5 years.
Canada In Canada, the LLM course duration typically ranges between 1–2 years, depending on the university and course format.
Australia Most LLM programs in Australia last for 1 year full-time, though some extended or dual-specialization options may take longer.
Germany LLM degrees in Germany can be 1 or 2 years, based on the university and whether you pursue a research-oriented or coursework-based program.
France A regular LLM degree in France takes 1 year, while part-time options may go up to 2 years.

Also Read: Top 10 Career Opportunities in Law in India: Salary, Skills

Difference Between LLM 1-Year and 2-Year Programs

The table below helps clarify the difference between LLM 1-year and 2-year courses, aiding you in choosing the right format based on your goals. 

Aspect

1-Year LLM

2-Year LLM

Duration 1 academic year 2 academic years
Recognition Accepted in the UK, Australia, and some Indian private institutes Approved by the Bar Council of India (BCI) in 2021, it has come into force since the academic year 2022-23.
Course Load Intensive, compact learning More balanced pace with deeper exploration
Research/Thesis Time Limited time for an in-depth thesis More time for dissertation and academic research
Specializations Available International Law, Corporate Law, Human Rights, Intellectual Property Law Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Business Law, Taxation Law, Environmental Law
Eligibility Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB or equivalent) Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB or equivalent)
Internship/Practical Exposure Limited internship opportunities More room for internships, moot courts, and fieldwork
Global Acceptance Recognized globally (especially in the UK, EU, and Australia) Increasing international recognition, especially in academic/legal fields
Fee Structure Generally lower due to shorter duration Higher due to extended curriculum and time
Best Suited For Working professionals, students looking for quick upskilling Fresh graduates, judiciary aspirants, research-focused students
Common Countries Offering UK, Australia, Singapore, select Indian private universities India (as per BCI mandate), Germany, France, Canada
Note: If you are aiming to work in India’s legal system, a 2-year LLM is the safer bet post-BCI’s guidelines. However, if you plan to work abroad or in multinational legal teams, a 1-year LLM may still serve your goals well.

Further Read: LLM Subjects List and Syllabus 2025: A Complete Guide

Factors That Affect LLM Duration

There are a few different ways the LLM program duration can be affected based on where, what, and how you decide to study. Here's what determines the length of an LLM program:

  • Study pattern: Full-time LLMs typically last one year, although part-time or distance learning LLM courses may last 2-3 years.
  • Country of Study: The LLM degree is not always the same length in every country. For example, it is  1 year in the UK and Australia, and, in contrast, mostly 2 years in Germany and Canada.
  • Specialization: There are certain LLM specializations (such as International Law or Taxation Law) that might have longer modules that impact the overall course duration.
  • University Requirements: This is entirely dependent on the specific coursework, thesis, or internship requirements at any given institution and is very likely to delay the completion of the LLM.
  • Blended vs Offline Format: Blended LLM courses are more flexible but can be longer than a regular classroom course.
  • Student Background: Non-law graduates may have to take introductory courses at some law colleges, hence increasing the LLM duration.

Which LLM Duration is Right for You?

Since candidates cannot legally practice with a part-time course (more than two years) in India, it is better to rule out that option first. 

Most countries prefer to keep the LLM postgraduate degree within a year. They believe that since the LLM course aims to provide an opportunity to focus on a particular area of law, extending its time will defeat the purpose. 

However, BCI thinks otherwise and believes a year might be too little for candidates to completely grasp or master the concentration they are picking. Therefore, the two-year course is being prioritized in India. 

This discussion has been going on since 2013. In 2022, LLM candidates received the freedom to choose their course duration. However, the confusion did not end there. As mentioned above in the blog, BCI announced the abolition of the one-year LLM program from the academic year 2022-23, leaving an uncertain future for the program. 

Hence, if you plan to pursue an LLM to practice legally in India, opting for a two-year course will ensure your degree stays relevant. But ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preference. Additionally, if you want to pursue online, hybrid, or distance LLM programs, keep in mind that the program you opt for must have approval from BCI.

Also Read: Top 16 LLM Courses in India to Explore in 2025

background

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Ranked #1 Private Law School - QS 2024

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How upGrad Helps You in the LLM Journey?

With more than 10 million learners, upGrad is one of the preferred online learning platforms for individuals looking for specialized education to jumpstart their careers. Its blended LLM courses are practice-oriented and designed to teach you the skills you need to take on real-life legal challenges.

Practical learning is the shining feature of upGrad LLM courses. upGrad law courses include case studies, industry projects, and learning directly from the legal experts, adding value to both knowledge and practical application.

Here are a few of them, 

Program  Institution 
LL.M. in AI and Emerging Technologies (Blended Learning Program) Offered by Jindal Global Law School 

LL.M. in Dispute Resolution (Blended Learning Program)

 

Offered by Jindal Global Law School 

LL.M. in Intellectual Property & Technology Law (Blended Learning Program)

 

Offered by Jindal Global Law School 

LL.M. in Dispute Resolution (Blended Learning Program)

 

Offered by Jindal Global Law School 
Contract Law Certificate Course - Bootcamp Offered by upGrad 

Free Certificate Course in Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights

 

Offered by upGrad 

Free Certificate Course in Law and Justice in a Globalizing World

 

Offered by upGrad 

Free Certificate Course in Merger and Control Rights

 

Offered by upGrad 
Free Certificate Course in Soft Skills for Lawyers Offered by upGrad 

Are you looking to choose the right LLM degree duration for your career growth? You can take some time and book a free career counseling session with our counselors. For more information, you can visit your nearest upGrad center!

Transform your passion for law into expertise! Discover our popular Law courses and start your journey to legal success!

Dive into our must-read Law articles—packed with tips and trends that every legal enthusiast should know!

References:
https://www.thehindu.com/education/online-or-hybrid-llm-degrees-without-bci-approval-deemed-invalid/article69755396.ece
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/rules-abolishing-one-year-llm-to-come-into-effect-from-2022-23-bci-to-sc/articleshow/80858436.cms
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/bci-rules-against-one-year-llm-course-to-operate-from-2022-23-sc-told-950007.html
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/llm-salary-SRCH_KO0,3.htm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a one-year LLM still valid in India?

2. Can I do LLM through online or distance learning?

3. Which is the best college for an LLM in India?

4. What are the eligibility criteria for pursuing an LLM in India?

5. Why was the one-year LLM discontinued?

6. What are the available specializations in a two-year LLM program?

7. Are foreign LLM degrees valid in India?

8. Do I need an LLM to become a lawyer in India?

9. What is the average salary after completing an LLM in India?

10. What entrance exams are required for LLM admission?

11. What is the purpose of pursuing an LLM degree?

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