An LLM from Germany, for Indian students, means a lot more than just a postgraduate degree; it is the chance to be a part of the heritage of legal luminaries.

The number of Indian students in Germany has grown exceptionally fast. Over the course of the last five years, the growth rate has climbed by a factor of two. With affordable tuition, world-class education, and a booming legal market, higher education in Germany is hard to resist. For the Winter Semester 2022-2024, it has additionally increased by 26% compared to the previous year, making a total of 42,997.

This article will help you at every step of your LLM in Germany pursuit, discussing the best law universities and colleges, the costs for Indian students, eligibility requirements and admission process, and post-study work opportunities — all in one place.

It wouldn't be hard to understand why studying abroad in Germany is right. Here are just a few reasons:

Range of Specialisations

You can find your niche in Germany's universities by getting an LLM in any area of law that interests you, whether it's International Business Law, Environmental Law, or Human Rights.

Language Flexibility

Not a German speaker? Not a problem! Many of these LLM courses are offered in English, which means they are open to an international student body. Studying German can prove even more valuable if you are willing to put in the effort.

Global Legal Perspective

With a strong international orientation, German LLM programs aim to provide students with the qualifications and experience necessary to meet the challenges of global law and make them sought-after employees in any country.

Europe at Your Fingertips

Major legal centres such as Brussels, Strasbourg, and The Hague are just a train ride away. Germany, at the heart of Europe, is ideal for studying European and international law.

Top-Tier Academic Excellence

German universities are known for their academic rigour and high standards. As a result, law degrees granted by German universities enjoy respect and recognition throughout the world. Having a German LLM on your CV signals quality and commitment.

Global Recognition, Affordable Education

German LLM degrees are accepted worldwide. They are on par with degrees from the UK or US, yet come at a lesser cost. You get a good education for less money, which is the best of both worlds.

Post-Study Opportunities

Germany is a great place to learn and start a job. You can put your skills to use in one of the best economies in Europe after finishing school, where there are many job opportunities.

Competitive Edge

Compared to famous places like the US, UK, or Australia, Germany has something that no other country does: a high-quality education that is also affordable, as well as a deeply ingrained sense of culture. This opportunity is difficult to resist.

Germany provides a diverse selection of LLM programs for legal specialties. Here are some of the most popular LLM Germany programs:

LLM in International Business Law

This course covers international trade, corporate governance, and commercial law.

It's great for those who want to work for a global corporation or an international law business.

LM in European Law

Focuses on the legal framework of the European Union, including its institutions and policies. Ideal for students interested in working within or with EU institutions.

LLM in Intellectual Property Law

Covers the protection of intellectual property rights such as patents, trademarks, copyrights, etc. It prepares students for roles in law firms or companies specialising in intellectual property law.

LLM in Human Rights Law

This course looks at the safeguarding and advancement of human rights on both domestic and global scales. Candidates who want to work for NGOs or foreign groups should take this course.

LLM in International Arbitration

This course provides students with the essential skills for a successful career in arbitration or international litigation, making them highly competitive in the global dispute resolution arena.

LLM in Corporate Law

With a focus on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions and corporate finance, this course is ideal for those who want to work in a corporate legal department or law firm, where understanding the intricacies of corporate structures is essential.

LLM in Taxation

Provides specialised knowledge on domestic and international tax systems. This course is ideal for those who want to become a tax advisor or appraiser.

LLM in International Law

This course delves into the legal principles governing relations between states, including international treaties and human rights, making it ideal for students aiming for careers in diplomacy or international organisations.

LLM in Comparative Law

Through a comparative study of diverse legal systems, this program equips students for international legal practice or academic research by improving their skill in confronting multi-jurisdictional contexts.

LLM in Banking and Financial Law

Focusing on the regulatory frameworks of the financial sector, this course is tailored for those who wish to pursue careers in banks, financial institutions, or regulatory bodies, where financial law expertise is essential.

LLM in Competition Law

Examines the laws governing competition in a market, including antitrust regulations. This course is ideal for a career in a regulator or law firm specialising in competition law.

LLM in Maritime Law

Covered the laws governing maritime activities such as shipping and navigation. Ideal for students interested in the shipping industry or international trade law.

Each course provides students with specialised knowledge and skills to prepare them for competitive roles in the global legal marketplace.

Related Article: Benefits of Studying in Germany

Many of the best LLM universities are situated in key German cities.

Below is a list of leading universities in Germany offering LLM programs, along with their courses, QS ranking for 2025, and international student ratios:

These law schools offer a blend of contemporary specialism and traditional legal education.

Studying in these cities also means extended exposure to culture, high living standards, and relatively low cost of living as compared to other global cities.

Related Article: Top Universities in Germany

Understanding the cost of living and tuition would help Indian students plan and budget for an LLM from Germany properly . Depending on the university and program, Germany LLM fees typically range from 12,000 EUR to 30,000 EUR (10,00,000 INR to 25,00,000 INR) per year.

The cost of living, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, ranges from 1,000 EUR to 1,500 EUR (90,000 INR to 1,50,000 INR) per month. The annual living expenses range from 12,000 EUR to 18,000 EUR (10,80,000 INR to 18,00,000 INR).

The estimated annual cost of pursuing an LLM in Germany for Indian students, including both living expenses and tuition fees, might vary between 20,000 EUR to 48,000 EUR (20,00,000 INR to 43,00,000 INR).

There are various scholarships and financial assistance programs meant to help down these expenses. Scholarships for overseas students occur at many German institutions.

Related Article: Cost of Studying in Germany

The following are the typical criteria that students need to have fulfilled for pursuing an LLM from Germany:

• A first law degree (LLB or equivalent) from a recognized university, with undergraduate studies in law at the Bachelor's level.
• Most universities require their students to have an excellent academic background. That is above 60-70% or its equivalent GPA score.
• Fluency in English (IELTS 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL 90-100) or German (TestDaF or DSH) is required, depending on the language of instruction.
• Some universities might prefer candidates with relevant work experience.

Admission Process for LLM in Germany

Here’s the step-by-step process to apply for an LLM in Germany:

Research and Select Programs: Find universities and LLM programs that are in line with your career objectives. Please review the requirements from the official university website to verify your eligibility.

Submit Official Documents: Get ready to submit your application documents.

Briefly discuss your academic and career goals in a Statement of Purpose (SOP).

Certified copies of your law degree and any other relevant qualifications’ transcripts.

You need to provide valid Language Proficiency Test scores for English and/or German.

It is advised to have two to three letters from academic or professional referees.

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a comprehensive document that presents all educational and experiential facets structurally.

Apply Online: Log into the University's admission portal and fill the application form carefully before the due date.

Participate in interviews (if necessary). Some programs will require going for an interview as part of the selection.

You will be notified if you are offered a place in the program after the admissions decisions have been made. This can take between three weeks to several months.

Apply for a Visa: After getting admitted, you must immediately apply for a German student visa and make arrangements for accommodation.

Complete Enrollment: When you get there, ensure that you complete the necessary enrollment steps at the university.