Top 10 Law Schools in Canada

Law—or legal studies—is an academic discipline that influences nearly every aspect of society, touching upon politics, business, the environment, human rights, trade, and international relations. Law students develop the knowledge and tools needed to resolve disputes between individuals, organisations, and governments, making it a vital field for building fair, functioning societies.

A law degree is one of the most respected and in-demand qualifications worldwide. In Canada, international students who pursue legal studies benefit from world-class teaching, diverse perspectives, and a curriculum grounded in both theory and practical skills. They gain key competencies such as legal research, critical analysis, negotiation, and advocacy—forming a strong foundation for global legal careers.

Learn more about the top law schools in Canada below (based on QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). To start your application journey, book a free consultation with StudyIn today.

Top 10 Canada Universities for Law

Here is the list of top universities in Canada for international students to study law in 2026.

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law offers a one-year LLM programme that can be completed by coursework or with a strong research thesis. Students may specialise in areas such as business law, criminal law, health law, legal theory, and ethics. Graduates often go on to pursue PhDs, academic careers, or legal practice with firms, NGOs, or public sector bodies.

Suggested Course: LLM (Master of Laws)
Entry Requirements: Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor degree or equivalent from a recognised university | IELTS overall score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component

2. University of British Columbia

UBC’s Peter A. Allard School of Law offers specialised postgraduate programmes including LLM, LLM in Taxation, and PhD in Law. The curriculum balances legal theory and practical application, with close faculty supervision and a strong focus on legal research and regulation.

Suggested course: Master of Laws in Taxation
Entry requirements: Must hold a Juris Doctor degree (JD), Bachelor of Law (LLB), or equivalent with an excellent academic record| Work experience in the field of tax | TOEFL minimum score of 100 or IELTS minimum overall band score of 7.0, with a reading and writing band minimum of 7.0

3. McGill University

McGill’s Faculty of Law provides both thesis and non-thesis options for its LLM programme. Students can specialise in general law, bioethics, environmental law, or air and space law. With access to leading legal research communities, McGill law graduates are well-prepared for careers as corporate lawyers, legal consultants, or academic researchers.

Suggested course: LLM in General Law
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 | TOEFL minimum score of 100 or IELTS score of 7.0

4. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University’s LLM programme allows students to tailor their education through coursework or thesis pathways. Areas of study include international law, human rights, and environmental law. Students work closely with academic mentors and participate in workshops and seminars to develop their research skills.

Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5 from a recognised university| Minimum TOEFL score of 92 or IELTS overall academic score of 7.0 or Pearson English Test PTE Academic overall academic score of 65 not less than 54

5. Queen’s University at Kingston

Queen’s University offers a range of postgraduate law programmes, including LLMs in Political and Legal Thought and Global Law. The university’s small cohort size ensures close mentorship and advanced legal training. Graduates may pursue PhD study or careers in research, government, or legal practice.

Suggested course: LLM with a specialisation in political and legal thought
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from a recognised university | Minimum IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores

6. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta offers LLM and PhD programmes, with an option to pursue a combined JD–MBA. The LLM provides a thorough grounding in Canadian and international legal principles and prepares students for doctoral research, teaching, or legal practice across various sectors.

Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
Entry requirements: LLB degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0| TOEFL score of 100 or IELTS academic overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each band or PTE overall score of 68

7. University of Ottawa

Canada’s largest law school, the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law, offers course-based and research-based LLMs. Its curriculum integrates common law, civil law, and Indigenous legal traditions, reflecting Canada’s diverse legal landscape. Graduates often enter public service, international agencies, or private practice.

Suggested course: LLM with course-based option (without concentration)
Entry requirements: Law degree from a recognised law school with a minimum percentage of 70% or above | Minimum TOEFL score of 100 or IELTS overall score of 7.0

8. University of Montreal

Recognised as the top francophone law school globally, the University of Montreal offers bilingual postgraduate degrees in areas such as comparative private law and international business law. Students gain advanced research and writing skills and explore legal systems through a global lens.

Suggested course: LLM in comparative private law
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.3 to 4.3 or equivalent | IELTS overall score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5

9. York University

York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School is one of Canada’s most respected legal institutions. Its LLM programme offers specialisations in Business Law, Tax Law, International Business Law, and more. Students benefit from structured research training and access to professional development programmes.

Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with minimum “B” grade | Proficiency in any of the following English language skills test – TOEFL/IELTS/CAEL/PTE Academic

10. Western University

Western University’s LLM programme offers both coursework and research pathways, with specialisations in business law, intellectual property, and dispute resolution. The programme includes seminars, independent research, and academic mentorship from experienced faculty members.

Suggested course: Master of Laws (LLM)
Entry requirements: Juris Doctor or equivalent with a minimum of 74% | TOEFL overall score of 109 or IELTS academic score of 8.0 out of 9

How to Apply to Study Law in Canada as an International Student

To apply to a Canadian law school, international students should:

Choose a suitable programme – Decide between JD (entry to law profession) or LLM (postgraduate specialisation).
Check entry requirements – These vary by university but generally include a recognised law degree, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and a strong academic record.
Prepare application documents – Common requirements include transcripts, CV, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
Submit your application online – Each university manages its own application portal or uses the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) for JD programmes.
Apply for a study permit – Once accepted, students must apply for a Canadian study visa.

Early preparation is key, as law programmes in Canada are highly competitive.

Scholarships for International Students Studying Law in Canada

Several scholarships are available for international students pursuing law degrees in Canada:

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – For PhD students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Programme – For students from Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – Open to international students in master’s or doctoral programmes in Ontario.
University-Specific Awards – Many universities (e.g., University of Toronto, UBC, McGill) offer entrance scholarships, merit-based awards, and fellowships for international law students.

It’s advisable to check each university’s law faculty or graduate school website for detailed scholarship information and deadlines.