Studying law in Australia gives international students access to globally recognised universities, hands-on practical training through moot courts and legal clinics, and a clear pathway into legal, corporate and government careers. Once you graduate with either a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or an LLM (Master of Laws), you’ll be equipped to pursue a wide range of opportunities across the legal sector.
The appeal of studying law in Australia lies in the high-quality education offered by its leading universities, supported by the country’s robust legal system. Legal education here often includes practical components such as moot courts, legal clinics, and internships, helping students develop real-world skills before they graduate.
What Are the Best Universities to Study Law in Australia?
The StudyIn partner universities below are ranked according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.
1. Australian National University (ANU)
ANU College of Law is one of Australia’s most prestigious law schools, consistently recognised among the top law faculties worldwide. Known for its research excellence and strong links to government and policy institutions, ANU offers a rigorous legal education that blends theory with real-world application.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
2. Macquarie University
Macquarie Law School is highly regarded for its interdisciplinary approach and strong global reputation, with particular strength in environmental law and social justice. Students benefit from practical learning opportunities and access to Sydney’s major legal and corporate networks.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
3. University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong School of Law offers a supportive, student-focused environment with a strong emphasis on practical legal skills, including clinical legal education and mooting competitions.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
4. Queensland University of Technology
QUT Law School is known for its strong industry connections and practical approach to legal education, with a focus on employability that prepares graduates for legal practice, corporate law, and government roles.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
5. Griffith University
Griffith Law School is recognised globally for its innovative teaching and strong commitment to social justice, with hands-on experience through legal clinics, mooting, and industry placements.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
6. La Trobe University
La Trobe Law School offers a contemporary legal education with a strong focus on practical skills, ethics, and social responsibility, supported by small class sizes and personalised support.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
7. RMIT University
RMIT’s School of Law offers a modern, industry-aligned legal education with a strong focus on practical skills, gained through legal clinics, internships, and applied learning projects.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws
8. Western Sydney University
Western Sydney University’s School of Law offers a modern, industry-connected legal education with a strong focus on practical skills and community engagement, including legal clinics and mooting.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
9. The University of Newcastle
The University of Newcastle Law School is known for its practical, career-focused approach to legal education, giving students real-world experience through legal clinics, community engagement, and industry placements.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
10. University of Canberra
The University of Canberra School of Law is known for its practical, career-oriented approach and strong ties to government and industry, with work-integrated learning and legal internships.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
What Are the Entry Requirements to Study Law in Australia?
International students typically need to have completed secondary school with strong results in English and humanities subjects to gain entry into undergraduate law programmes. Most universities require the following.
- Minimum academic score: Equivalent to an Australian ATAR of 70 to 90, depending on the university and course competitiveness (for example, an IB score of 28 to 36, or a comparable percentage under your own country’s grading system)
- English language proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0; or TOEFL iBT score of 85 to 95; or PTE Academic score of 58 to 65
- Additional requirements: Some universities may request a personal statement or academic references, particularly for the more competitive LLB (Hons) programmes
Postgraduate applicants pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) typically need a completed bachelor’s degree in any discipline, with a minimum GPA set by the individual university, alongside the same English language requirements as undergraduate applicants.
Expert View
“Students often assume the LLB is the only route in, but the Juris Doctor is a genuinely strong option if you’ve already completed a bachelor’s degree in another subject, it’s often faster and just as respected by employers.” – Priya Kaur, Counsellor, StudyIn.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Law in Australia?
Tuition fees for international students studying law in Australia vary by university, location, and programme level.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB / LLB Hons): AUD 32,000 to 55,000 per year
- Juris Doctor (JD): AUD 40,000 to 65,000 per year
- Postgraduate law programmes: AUD 30,000 to 50,000 per year
Living expenses in Australia typically run to AUD 25,000 to 30,000 a year, with accommodation costing AUD 180 to 450 a week depending on the city. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane tend to have higher living costs, while Adelaide, Perth, and regional cities offer more affordable options. Most universities also offer scholarships for international law students, including merit-based and faculty-specific awards.
What Careers Can You Pursue With a Law Degree in Australia?
A law degree from an Australian university opens doors to a wide range of professional pathways, both in traditional legal practice and beyond it.
- Solicitor or barrister: Advising clients and representing them in negotiations, transactions, or court proceedings
- Corporate or commercial lawyer: Working on contracts, mergers, and regulatory matters for businesses and financial institutions
- Policy advisor or government legal officer: Shaping legislation and providing legal advice within government departments and agencies
- Compliance officer or in-house counsel: Managing legal risk and regulatory obligations within a company
- Human rights advocate or legal researcher: Working with NGOs, tribunals, or research institutions on public interest law
Expected salaries vary by experience and specialisation. Graduate and entry-level lawyers typically earn AUD 60,000 to 85,000, rising to AUD 100,000 to 160,000 for corporate or commercial lawyers, and AUD 250,000 or more for partners at large firms. Legal professionals working in corporate law, commercial litigation, and financial regulation tend to earn the highest salaries.
What Are the Visa Requirements for Studying Law in Australia?
International students must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study full-time in Australia. Key requirements include the following.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Issued by your Australian university once you’ve accepted your offer
- Proof of financial capacity: Funds to cover tuition, living expenses and travel, currently at least AUD 29,710 for one year of living costs
- English proficiency: As set out by your university’s admission standards
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for the duration of your stay
- Genuine Student (GS) requirement: Demonstrating your intent to study and, where relevant, your plans after graduation
Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during official breaks, which helps offset living costs while you study.
Study Law in Australia
Are you considering studying law in Australia? StudyIn’s counsellors support students through the full cycle, from comparing universities and meeting entry requirements through to your visa application, so nothing gets missed along the way.
FAQs
Is Australia a good place to study law?
Yes. Australia is home to globally recognised law schools, a respected legal system, and strong graduate employment outcomes, with high academic standards and a multicultural study environment.
Are Australian law degrees recognised internationally?
Most Australian law degrees are widely recognised around the world. Graduates may need to complete additional accreditation steps depending on the country in which they plan to practise.
What are the entry requirements for studying law in Australia?
Undergraduate LLB programmes typically require an ATAR equivalent of 70 to 90, or an IB score of 28 to 36, alongside IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 or equivalent. Postgraduate JD programmes require a completed bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
How long does it take to complete a law degree in Australia?
An LLB usually takes four years of full-time study, while a JD or LLM typically takes one to three years depending on the programme and study load.
Can international students work while studying law in Australia?
Yes. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during official breaks.
What careers can I pursue with an Australian law degree?
Graduates can work as solicitors, barristers, corporate lawyers, policy advisors, legal consultants, compliance officers, or in government and community legal roles.
Is there a post-study work visa for law graduates?
Yes. Eligible graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows them to live and work in Australia for 2 to 4 years depending on their qualification.
