Harvard LLM: Fees, Deadlines & Eligibility for Indian Students

The Harvard Law School LL.M. is a one-year degree program admitting approximately 180 students annually from around 60 countries. Ranked #1 by QS Law Rankings 2025 and #2 by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, it attracts lawyers, judges, government officials, and academics. The program begins in August and emphasizes U.S. legal approaches alongside substantive law.

When to apply for Harvard LLM?

For August 2026 intake (application cycle now closed):

The application deadline for August 2026 intake was December 1, 2025, 11:59 p.m. EST. This deadline has passed. Admissions decisions were released end of March 2026.

For August 2027 intake (next cycle):

Deadline	Decision Date	Intake
December 1, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EST	End of March 2027	August 2027
Preferred: November 15, 2026	—	August 2027

All supporting documents (transcripts, TOEFL scores, recommendations) must arrive by December 1, 2026. The deadline is strictly enforced. After admission, allow 4-6 weeks for F-1 visa processing before August 2027.

English language requirements for Harvard LLM

All applicants from non-English speaking countries who didn't receive full-time legal education in English must take the TOEFL.

TOEFL requirements:

• Minimum score: 100 on internet-based test (iBT)
• Minimum per section: 25 in each subsection
• Test validity: Within 2 years of application
• Reporting code: Institution code 3457
• Note: IELTS, TOEFL MyBest, and TOEFL Essentials NOT accepted

No GRE, GMAT, or LSAT required. TOEFL waivers are very rarely granted—only for applicants with 2+ consecutive years of full-time university education entirely in English.

Eligibility criteria for Harvard LLM for Indian students

To apply, you must meet these requirements:

• First law degree (LL.B., J.D., or equivalent) from a recognized law school
• Degree completed by June of enrollment year
• Work experience valued but not required (2+ years strengthens applications)
• English proficiency via TOEFL (or waiver)
• Approximately 1,600 applicants compete for ~180 places (11% acceptance rate)

What documents do you need for Harvard LLM application

You'll need to submit:

• Online application form (via Harvard's graduate program portal)
• CV/Résumé (current professional background)
• Personal statement (two parts: A) legal issue analysis (50%+ of essay), B) motivation for LL.M. and career goals; max 1,500 words)
• Transcripts and diplomas from all universities (official copies)
• At least 2 letters of recommendation (from law professors or professional supervisors; max 5)
• Official TOEFL score report (if applicable)
• Application fee: US$90 (waivers for extreme financial hardship only)

How much does Harvard LLM cost in INR?

For 2025-2026 academic year (August 2026 - May 2027 intake):

Total cost is $121,800. Here's the breakdown:

Currency Exchange Note: 1 USD = ~83 INR (as of February 2026)

For 2026-2027 academic year (August 2027 - May 2028 intake): Fees typically increase 3-5% annually. Expect approximately 125,000−127,000 total cost. Tuition is paid in installments. Financial aid applications must be submitted by December 1 of the application year.

Living expenses in Cambridge for Indian students

Estimated annual costs in Cambridge, Massachusetts (for August 2026 and 2027 intakes):

• Accommodation: ₹1,20,000 - ₹1,80,000 (shared apartment or university housing)
• Food & groceries: ₹40,000 - ₹50,000 (cooking at home; dining out costs more)
• Transportation (MBTA pass): ₹8,000 - ₹10,000 annually
• Visa & health surcharge: ₹80,000 - ₹1,00,000 (one-time for F-1 visa and health insurance)

Cambridge is one of the most expensive U.S. cities. Many students work on-campus (max 20 hours/week during term) earning approximately ₹2,00,000 - ₹2,50,000 annually.

Placement outcomes for Harvard LLM graduates

Harvard Law School graduates have strong employment outcomes. The Class of 2024 (J.D. graduates) achieved 88.1% full-time employment rates.

• LL.M. graduates typically secure positions in law firms (71%), accounting firms (15%), government agencies, international organizations, and academia.
• Top recruiters include major law firms, multinational corporations, and NGOs globally.
• Many LL.M. graduates return to their home countries to practice law or teach.

After graduation, international students can work in the U.S. for 12 months under Optional Practical Training (OPT), available to all F-1 visa holders. OPT must be used within 14 months of graduation and allows work in any field related to your studies. After OPT expires, you must return home, pursue further studies, or transition to another visa (H-1B if employer-sponsored). Many LL.M. graduates return to their home countries after OPT to practice law or teach.

Scholarships and financial aid for Indian students at Harvard LLM

Harvard offers need-based financial aid to international students, including Indians:

• Need-based grants: Average ~$37,000 (approximately half of tuition); 56% of 2025-26 LL.M. students received aid
• Financial aid eligibility: Same as domestic students; determined by demonstrated financial need
• External scholarships: Fulbright scholarships, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation grants, and India-specific funding available
• On-campus employment: Up to $3,500 annually for 6-8 hours/week work in library, research, or administrative roles

All admitted students demonstrating financial need received some form of aid (grant, loan, or combination). Apply for financial aid by December 1 of your application year.

For the August 2027 intake, apply by December 1, 2026. Early submission (by November 15, 2026) ensures all documents reach admissions by deadline. The Harvard LLM offers strong value for Indian lawyers seeking advanced U.S. legal education and global career opportunities.

FAQs

Ques: Can I work while studying at Harvard LLM?

Ques: What's the acceptance rate for Indian students at Harvard LLM?