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Penn Law LLM Class of 2020

July 29, 2019

Penn Law welcomed 126 students from over 30 countries into the LLM Class of 2020.

On July 26, Penn Law welcomed 126 students from over 30 countries into the LLM Class of 2020, the largest LLM class the Law School has ever enrolled. The students were chosen from almost 1,300 applicants from over 70 countries. All are foreign-trained lawyers, among them judges, government officials, academics, and lawyers who have practiced in top private law firms and NGOs. In addition to the new LLM class, Penn Law will welcome two incoming SJD students to the Law School.

“We are delighted to welcome an exceptionally diverse and talented group this year. Although applications from international students to US programs have declined in recent years, our admissions remained robust,” said Elise Luce Kraemer L’93, Executive Director of Graduate Programs. “Penn Law’s world-class faculty, interdisciplinary opportunities and collegial environment continue to attract top talent from around the world. Our LLM alumni, who serve as Penn Law ambassadors in their home countries, provided  critical support and individual outreach to help us secure this year’s incredible class. We also had strong faculty support throughout the admissions cycle.”

The LLM program at Penn Law is a one-year, full-time course of graduate study for lawyers whose first degree in law is from outside the United States. The 10-month program offers international students an enhanced understanding of American law. Through a five-week summer program, students are introduced to foundational concepts in American legal study through two courses: Foundations of the U.S. Legal System and U.S. Legal Writing/Research. Afterward, students design their own curriculum, which allows them to explore their particular areas of interest and take classes alongside upper-level JD students.

As part of the LLM program, students also have the option of pursuing the Wharton Business and Law Certificate, which is designed specifically for LLM students interested in international business. The certificate program is taught by Wharton faculty and industry experts who prepare students to compete in today’s global legal environment.

LLM students also have the opportunity to participate in the LLM Public Service Program and Penn Law’s clinical programs, through which they can further develop their professional skills and explore different communities throughout Philadelphia.