If you are an international student who has completed a non-law undergraduate degree but wishes to become a solicitor, barrister or lawyer, you will need to complete a law conversion course, more commonly known as a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
Learn more about studying a law conversion course in the UK below. If you are ready to begin your application, or have more questions about pivoting to a Law degree, get in touch with SI-UK London today for a free consultation.
GDL Course FAQ
What is a law conversion course?
A law conversion course, otherwise known as a GDL (graduate diploma in law), is for non-law graduates who want to pursue a legal career as a solicitor or barrister.
How long does a GDL last?
A GDL law conversion course is a one-year, full-time course designed to provide non-law graduates with a diploma equivalent to a law degree. A GDL course can also be studied over two-years part-time or in distance learning format.
Am I eligible to apply for a GDL?
To study a gdl conversion course a student must have successfully passed an undergraduate degree on a non-law subject from a UK university, or a global institution which the Solicitors Regulation Authority considers to be the equivalent. Generally, a 2:2 or higher is only required to be considered when applying.
What do you study on a GDL?
Law conversion degree modules focus on filling in legal knowledge gaps, whilst extensive reading lists are also supplied. Students will be assessed throughout the year via oral examinations, employer assessments, essays and exams.
Because the course lasts just one-year and is intended to catch students up on what they may have missed on a three-year undergraduate law course, study is extremely intensive and applicants should be prepared for lots of study.
The seven core modules of a GDL conversion course are:
- Contract law
- Criminal law
- Equity and trusts
- European Union (EU) law
- Land law
- Public law
- Tort law
How much does a GDL cost?
Tuition fees for international students vary, but students can generally expect to pay between £9,000-£12,000.
Where can I study a Graduate Diploma in Law?
There are currently 24 universities in the UK who offer GDL programmes.
- London
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- Rest of the UK
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Study Law in the UK
Are you interested in studying a Law degree in the UK? Begin your journey by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK London.
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