Updated on May 5, 2025 06:25 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtSenior Executive

Career options for LLMs can include legal advisors and corporate counsels playing important roles in managing contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, safeguarding intellectual property and mitigating legal risks for different companies. It can also include litigators, arbitrators, and mediators, particularly in the growing fields of commercial and international dispute resolution. LLM degree serves as an important catalyst for career advancement in Law allowing the law students to gain expertise in specialised legal domains.LLM salaries after completing the course can vary on the basis of experience levels, position and skills. For example legal advisors can earn from INR 5 to INR 8 LPA while corporate counsels may see salary that is ranging from INR 6 to INR 12 LPA. Academic and research positions generally offers salaries in the range of INR 4 to INR 9 LPA. Associates in top tier law firms may demand higher salaries between INR 10 to INR 18 LPA. The income of independent litigators and arbitrators is more variable increasing substantially with experience and a growing client base.

Top recruiters for LLM students such as Amarchand & Mangaldas, AZB & Partners, Trilegal and Khaitan & Co. Major corporations like Infosys, Reliance and Tata Group along with leading banks such as ICICI and HDFC to hire legal experts within their in house legal teams. In the public sector opportunities exist with bodies like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the Ministry of Law and Justice and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as ONGC and SAIL.

LLM Career: Quick Facts

Below are some interesting facts related to LLM careers in India: 

  •  As per UGC guidelines, an LLM is the minimum qualification required to become an Assistant Professor in law colleges and universities across India.
  • Leading law firms like AZB & Partners, Trilegal, and Khaitan & Co frequently prefer LLM graduates for specialized roles in areas such as M&A, arbitration, and IPR.
  • The most favored LLM specialisations include Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Corporate & Business Law, Intellectual Property Rights, and International Law.

LLM Salary in India

LLM is a two-year postgraduate course in law, also known as Master of Laws. It is designed to master over a particular specialisation of law. It helps in enhancing knowledge on a particular area of law so that candidates are able to conduct research on their particular area of specialisation. This course is pursued after completing three-year or five-year LLB.

Professionals and recent graduates who are interested in pursuing a particular area under law seek admission to this course. It is an undeniable fact that a candidate studies more than 30 different law papers across a span of three years or five years of law school. LLM offers expertise in one particular field of law, which provides the platform to make a mark in a niche area of law. Some of the top fields popular amongst candidates are Civil Law, Criminal Law, Intellectual Property Law, Corporate Law, Company Law, Cyber Law, Environment Law, etc.

Average Annual LLM Salary in India 

Entry-level positions in both sectors may start at the lower end of these ranges. Moreover, salary increases with experience in both government and private sectors. Senior roles can command significantly higher packages.

Below is the salary idea in both sectors for LLM graduates:

Sector

Average Annual Salary

Government

INR 4 LPA - INR 15 LPA

Private

INR 6 LPA - INR 18 LPA

Specialisation-Wise LLM Salary in India

Some fields like Corporate Law, Banking & Finance Law and Intellectual Property Law tend to offer higher salary package due to their commercial relevance and growing global demand. Below Mentioned is a detailed breakdown of the average annual salary ranges for popular LLM specialisations:

Specialisation

Average Annual Salary

Corporate Law

INR 6 LPA - INR 20 LPA+

Intellectual Property (IP) Law

INR 5 LPA - INR 15 LPA+

International Law

INR 5 LPA - INR 15 LPA+

Tax Law

INR 4.5 LPA - INR 12 LPA+

Litigation (Civil/Criminal)

INR 3 LPA - INR 10 LPA+

Constitutional Law

INR 4 LPA - INR 9 LPA+

Criminal Law

INR 3.5 LPA - INR 10 LPA+

Cyber Law

INR 4 LPA - INR 10 LPA+

Banking and Finance Law

INR 6 LPA - INR 15 LPA+

Environmental Law

INR 3.5 LPA - INR 8 LPA+

Human Rights Law

INR 4 LPA - INR 9 LPA+

Labour and Employment Law

INR 3.5 LPA - INR 8 LPA+

Real Estate and Infrastructure Law

INR 4 LPA - INR 10 LPA+

Experience Wise LLM Salary in India

While entry level roles offer decent salaries, professionals with specialised legal expertise and a strong track record can achieve a good financial growth over the time. Whether working in law firms, corporate legal departments, academics or as independent practitioners, LLM graduates often see their value rise with exposure to complex legal matters, leadership roles and client management.

The table below shows the average salaries based on years of experience:

Experience Level

Average Annual Salary

Entry-Level (0-3 years)

INR 4 Lakhs - INR 8 Lakhs

Mid-Level (3-7 years)

INR 8 Lakhs - INR 15 Lakhs

Senior-Level (7-15 years)

INR 15 Lakhs - INR 30 Lakhs+

15+ Years

INR 30 Lakhs - INR 1 Crore+

LLM Careers

After pursuing an LLM course, students can opt for further studies wherein they pursue either MPhil or PhD in Law. But, if candidates want to pursue a career in the field of law then he/ she can go through the below-mentioned job profiles. Aspirants are informed that in order to practice law in India, they need to clear the All India Bar Exam (AIBE)

LLM Jobs and Salary

LLM Job Profile

Job Description

LLM Salary Range

Legal Profession

Specialized Lawyer

Practices law in a specific area of expertise, such as corporate, tax, intellectual property, or international law

INR 15 - 60+ LPA

Senior Associate

Provides advanced legal services and mentorship to junior lawyers in a law firm

INR 20 - 50+ LPA

Partner/Equity Partner

Owns and manages a law firm, leads high-profile cases, and shares in the firm's profits

INR 30 - 100+ LPA

Legal Consultant

Provides specialized legal expertise and advisory services to clients in complex matters

INR 20 - 70+ LPA

 

Government

 

Judicial Officer (Higher Judiciary)

Serves as a judge or magistrate in higher courts, such as High Courts or the Supreme Court

INR 20 - 40+ LPA

Senior Legal Advisor

Provides high-level legal counsel and support to government agencies and policymakers

INR 15 - 40+ LPA

Legislative Drafter

Drafts and reviews legislation, policies, and regulations for the government

INR 15 - 30+ LPA

 

Corporate Sector

 

General Counsel

Leads the legal department and provides strategic legal guidance to an organization

INR 25 - 80+ LPA

Chief Compliance Officer

Oversees an organization's compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards

INR 20 - 50+ LPA

Mergers and Acquisitions Lawyer

Specialises in complex corporate transactions, such as mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures

INR 20 - 60+ LPA

 

Academics

 

Law Professor (Senior)

Teaches advanced law courses, conducts research, and supervises doctoral students in academic institutions

INR 20 - 50+ LPA

Legal Researcher (Senior)

Leads in-depth legal research and analysis for academic, policy, or advisory purposes

INR 15 - 40+ LPA

Dean/Director of Law School

Manages and provides strategic leadership for a law school or department

INR 25 - 60+ LPA

 

International Organisations

 

International Law Specialist

Advises and represents international organizations, such as the UN, World Bank, or IMF, on legal matters

INR 25 - 80+ LPA

Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs Lawyer

Provides legal support and counsel in the field of international diplomacy and foreign relations

INR 20 - 50+ LPA

Multinational Legal Advisor

Advises and assists multinational corporations on cross-border legal issues

INR 20 - 60 LPA

Note- The above salary has been taken from external sources, and hence may vary.

Top Recruiters for LLM Professionals

The ever-increasing scope of law across global platform has increased the need of trained legal professionals dealing with a wide range of legal areas such as civil laws, corporate laws and intellectual property laws.

Some of the top recruiters for LLM course are as follows:

  • Trilegal
  • Manupatra
  • LexisNexis
  • Quislex
  • Mindcrest
  • Juris Corp
  • Linklaters LLP
  • Majumdar and Co
  • AZB & Partners
  • L&L Partners
  • Khaitan and Co
  • Law Commission of India

Top LLM Colleges For Placement

The below-mentioned table provides information on the average annual package offered in placements in the respective colleges.

College

Average Annual Package in INR

National Law School of India University, Bangalore

INR 15 LPA

National Academy of Legal Study & Research (NALSAR) University of Law, Hyderabad

INR 16.50 LPA

National Law Institute University, Bhopal

INR 14 LPA

National Law University, Jodhpur

INR 14.50 LPA

National Law University, Delhi

INR 15 LPA

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow

INR 10 lakh

Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala

INR 6.5 LPA

The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata

INR 15 LPA

Symbiosis Law School, Pune

INR 8 LPA

KIIT School of Law, Bhubaneswar

INR 7 LPA

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on LLM Career

Q. What is LLM?

A. LLM or Master of Laws is a two-year post-graduation course in Law which can be pursued after completing three-year or five-year LLB program. It is a specialisation course which allows candidates to specialise in the various branches of law as per their requirement.

Q. How does pursuing LLM benefit in career growth?

A. LLM surely gives an edge over those who have only pursued three-year LLB or five-year LLB course. One who has pursued LLM possess knowledge over his subject specialisation due to in-depth study on one particular field. For research and academic career, it is a mandatory course which has to be pursued by candidates.

Q. What is the scope of LLM?

A. After completing LLM, one has many career options such as Judiciary, Academics, Litigation, Consultancy etc. LLM candidates are given preference over graduates for research projects and teaching assistantship. Therefore, LLM has a promising career scope.

Q. What are the duties and responsibilities of a Judge/Magistrate?

A. Becoming a judge is the most sought after career option due to the power and prestige that it holds. A judge or magistrate is responsible for adjudicating disputes and deciding validity and constitutionality of various laws. They are responsible for delivering judgments for disputes or social issues.

Q. What are the job profiles after completing LLM?

A. Those who complete LLM have multiple options to explore and can establish a promising career in legal field. Some of the top job profiles include:

Job Profile Salary (INR)
Advocate INR 4 LPA
Solicitor INR 4 LPA
Judge INR 10 LPA
Legal Advisor INR 6 LPA
Notary

INR 4 LPA

Oath Commissioner

INR 4.5 LPA

Q. What are the various specialisations offered in LLM?

A. Many top colleges offer various specialisations in LLM ranging from Civil to Criminal Law. Some of the most popular specialisations which are pursued by candidates are:

  • Constitutional Law
  • Intellectual Property Law
  • Criminal Law
  • International Law
  • Environmental Law
  • Human Rights Law

Q. What are the salaries offered after completing LLM?

A. The salary offered after completing LLM varies across various professions. The average salary offered across all domains to a fresher range between INR 3.5 LPA- 5.5 LPA whereas for experienced professionals it ranges from INR 6 LPA- 8 LPA.

Q. Which are the top industries hiring professionals who have completed LLM?

A. The top industries hiring professionals who have completed LLM includes:

  • Consultancy House
  • Legal Process Outsourcing Companies
  • Real Estate Firms
  • NGOs
  • Public Policy Institutes
  • Academic or Research Institutions

Q. What are the top government colleges offering LLM?

A. The government colleges which are popular for pursuing LLM include the following:

  • National Law School of India University, Bangalore
  • NALSAR, Hyderabad
  • National University for Juridical Sciences, Kolkata
  • Banaras Hindu University, Banaras
  • Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
  • Faculty of Law, Delhi University

Q. What are the top private colleges offering LLM?

A. The top private colleges offering LLM course are as follows:

  • Christ University, Bangalore
  • Symbiosis Law School, Pune
  • Amity University, Noida
  • ICFAI Law School, Dehradun
  • UPES Dehradun

Q. Which are the top recruiters for LLM?

A. The top recruiters for LLM include law firms and consulting houses. Some of these recruiters include:

  • Luthra and Luthra
  • Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas
  • S&R Associates
  • AZB & Partners
  • Quislex
  • Mindcrest
  • Pangae Ltd.
  • Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Q. How stable is LLM career compared to other fields?

A. Law is required in almost every section of the society including government, corporates, and private practices. So in comparison to other sectors LLM and other Law professions will always be in demand, as the complexities are increasing. 

Q. Is LLM a compulsory degree to pursue law as a profession?

A. No, one who has completed an LLB degree either three-year duration after graduation or five-year duration,  after class 12th makes them eligible enough to pursue law as a profession. An LLM degree is pursued by those who want to learn more in a specialisation. However, in both cases, they have to appear for AIBE conducted by BCI to be able to get a 'Certificate of Practice'

Table of content
  • Popular LL.M. Colleges in India
  • Popular Private LL.M. Colleges in India
  • Popular LL.M. Specializations
  • Most Popular Courses

Popular LL.M. Colleges in India

Following are the most popular LL.M. Colleges in India. Learn more about these LL.M. colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
1.83 L
3.4
2 Courses
90 K - 2.69 L
8.4 LPA
1.98 L
4.3

LL.M. Applications open. Apply Now

2 Courses
1.7 L
5 - 9 LPA
1 Course
64 K
3.0
4 Courses
1.2 L
6 LPA

Popular Private LL.M. Colleges in India

90 K
6 LPA
1.5 L

LL.M. Applications open. Apply Now

1.2 L
1.69 L
1 Course
1.5 L

Popular LL.M. Specializations

Following are the most popular LL.M. Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.
qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

To be eligible for NALSAR's Advanced Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution, you must have completed an LL.B. or its equivalent. The admission process typically involves online application and may require a qualifying exam, though specifics vary by year, so checking the NALSAR Proximate Education webs

...Read more

44128575
Dinesh upadhyay

Scholar-Level 16

Answered a month ago

Choosing an LL.M. is not only about degree, it is about learning environment. Chandigarh University gives a platform where legal study is mixed with research, debate and practice. The programme includes study of advanced law subjects with case studies and discussions. Students also join moot court a

...Read more

96376916
Richa Sharma

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a month ago

Every law student looks for more than books. They want practice, exposure, and guidance. Chandigarhn University offers LL.M. with a mix of all these. The faculty includes experts who support students in both classroom and research work. The campus has modern facilities, with smart classrooms and leg

...Read more

D

Diksha

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a month ago

Academic details, proficiency in English language and job experience are requirements for pursuing LLM in the UK. In addition to proving their English language ability with their IELTS and TOEFL scores, students must have a bachelor's degree in law or its equivalent. Additionally, students with rele

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

There are many top universities in the UK, such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, LSE, and many more, that offer diverse specializations which can further lead to good job opportunities for the graduates in top companies. Some of the popular specializations include Internatio

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

After the completion of an LLM degree from the UK, international students can explore various job sectors such as law firms, government and public service, financial institutions, human rights organizations, international agencies, and many more. Students can grab job roles like Legal Advisor, Corpo

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

LLM in the UK is a postgraduate degree which is ideal for students who are interested in fields such as: 

  • International Law 

  • Commercial or Corporate Law 

  • Intellectual Property Law 

  • Criminal Law 

  • Environmental Law 

Students can upgrade their skills in a particular specialization. Legal professionals, legal

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Actually yes, faculty of Law BHU accept applicants CUET-PG scores for selection. Candidates seeking admission must a valid score in the national-level examination. 

R

Rakshit Prabhakar

Contributor-Level 8

Answered a month ago

Please add these entrance exams also in your list for LLM.

  1. MHCET Law LLM
  2. LSAT LLM
  3. AP PGLCET
  4. CUET LLM for DU
  5. SLS AIAT LLM
  6. TISS LLM Exam
  7. PU LLM Law
  8. BHU PET Law

46016959
pradeep kumar

Scholar-Level 18

Answered a month ago

LLM courses are ranked #14 by Shiksha Ranking, #10 by US News, #23 by ARWU, #52 by THE (Times Higher Education) and #65 by QS Rankings. LLM courses are being ranked by other reputed ranking bodies as well which are mentioned in the table below.

Ranking Bodies

2023

2024

2025

THE (Times Higher Education) - Law

#101

#62

#52

QS - Law and Legal Studies

#51

#68

#65

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Law Schools

#13

#10

-

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

#21

#23

-

P

PRIYANKA

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

There are 700+ best LLM colleges in India. About 350+ of 1 year LLM colleges in India are privately owned,  190+ of them are owned by the government and 20+ colleges are owned by semi-government institutions. Some of the top Law colleges in India are National Law School of India University, Symbiosi

...Read more

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

LLM is ranked #6 by Shiksha Popularity Ranking, #61 by QS Ranking, #95 by THE and #101 by ARWU. Ranking for LLM specialised courses is mentioned in the table below:

Ranking Bodies

2023

2024

2025

QS - Law and Legal Studies

#51

#52

#61

THE (Times Higher Education) - Law

#72

#74

#95

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

#101

-

P

PRIYANKA

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Depending on the university and programme requirements, the structure for an SOP for Law in UK may differ. However, generally speaking, the format ought to have the following:

  • Introduction: Start off with a compelling first paragraph that grabs the reader's attention, and describes who you are and wh

...Read more

J

Jagriti Shukla

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

Top universities such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, LSE, and more offer diverse specializations that can lead to good job opportunities in big firms. Some popular specializations include International Law, Commercial/Corporate Law, Human Rights Law, and more. Students can

...Read more

T

Taru Bhandari

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

After completing an LLM degree from the UK, students can explore job sectors such as law firms, government and public service, financial institutions, human rights organizations, international agencies, and more. Students can grab job roles like Legal Advisor, Corporate Lawyer, Compliance Officer, P

...Read more

P

Piyush Pandey

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

Students pursuing LLB in UK can grab roles like compliance, legal analyst, policy advisor and arbitration in India. People who want to practice in Indian courts must have Indian LLB degree and the State Bar Council, and qualify for the All India Bar Exam (AIBE). However, the LLM degree from the UK c

...Read more

J

Jasleen Shukla

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

LLM in the UK is a postgraduate-level degree ideal for students interested in fields like International Law, Commercial/Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law, Criminal Law, Environmental Law, to upgrade their skills in a particular specialization. Legal professionals, legal consultants, solicitor

...Read more

M

Mukul Thapa

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

Here are some important documents you must carry during the LLM in Tax Law application process:

  • An LLB degree (either 3 or 5 years)
  • AIBE Scores
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
  • Passport-sized photographs (at least 4)
  • Photo ID Proof (Adhaar, PAN Card, Passport, DL, etc.)
  • Provisiona

...Read more

L

Lalit Rastogi

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Aspirants who have completed bachelor's degree in Law or such academic qualification equivalent thereto with a minimum of 45% aggregate in the Bachelor's of Law examination can apply for LLM programme at Patna University. Candidates should have relevant documents proving their eligibility for verifi

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 2 months ago

You can explore about -

  • MNLU Mumbai, Nagpur
  • ILS Pune
  • MHCET top law colleges 
  • GLC Mumbai
  • Symbosis PGDM  in corporate law

 

17604675
Dinesh upadhyay

Scholar-Level 16

Answered 2 months ago

The eligibility criteria for LLM course at NLU Kochi (NUALS) - The National University of Advanced Legal Studies requires the candidates to have a LLB degree or equivalent degree in law with a minimum of 50% aggregate (45% aggregate for SC/ ST). Candidates must appear for the CLAT exam to take admis

...Read more

S

Sejal Baveja

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

LLM in Leiden is of one-year duration. There are around 13 specialisations of the LLM course such as Civil Law, Financial Law, Public International Law, Company Law, Law & Business Administration, and more. Leiden Law School has excellent reputation nationally and internationally. In the QS subject

...Read more

78589944
Akanksha Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

There are n number of opportunities after studying law .

You can explore about -

  • UGC NET JRF ( more 3 year relexation for LL.M holder)
  • Judiciary 
  • Teaching as career
  • Young Professional ( legal) in various PSU or ministeries 

Among many of these, teaching is best career choice.

78589918
Dinesh upadhyay

Scholar-Level 16

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, LLM at Dhirubhai Ambani University, School of Law is a good choice as it is a renowned college in Gujarat that provides quality education to students in the Law stream. Dhirubhai Ambani Law School offers an LLM programme to students at the PG level for a duration of 2 years. 

M

Manori Datta

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

The TS LAWCET LLM exam is called the TS PGLCET. The TS PGLCET eligibility criteria are mentioned below:

Particulars

Details

Educational Qualification

  • Candidates must have obtained a 3-year or 5-year LLB degree or a graduation degree in any stream from a recognised university.
  • Candidates who are appearing for their final year/semester of the LLB course can also apply for TS PGLCET. However, they need their final year marksheet at the time of TS PGLCET counselling.

Minimum Marks in qualifying exam

  • General & OBC: Minimum of 50% marks 
  • SC/ST/PwD: Minimum of 45% marks 

Age Limit

  • There is no age limit to apply for TS PGLCET.

Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.

A

Atul Arora

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

LLM entrance examinations test the academic knowledge of the candidates who have completed their basic legal education. These entrance examinations are competitive as well as timed, and test the candidates' capabilities to answer questions from various branches of law in a short period of time. Many

...Read more

G

Gunjan Dhawan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Admissions to the LLM programme are very competitive, with Lacs of law graduates applying across government and private universities to pursue LLM. This competitiveness is due to the requirement of trained lawyers in various specialisations such as Corporate Laws, Business Laws, Criminal Laws, IPR

...Read more

I

Ishita Uniyal

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

The standard Admission process for the LLM course across every college is the same, and the candidates desiring to pursue LLM can check the points given below:

  • Candidates must select the college where they want to apply for the  LLM course. 
  • They must also decide which specialisation to choose as per

...Read more

M

Mohit Datta

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

There are two Master’s courses offered by Uppsala Uni in Sweden in the disciplines LLM Environmental Law and Investment Treaty Arbitration. Both of these courses are taught in English. The Environmental Law course gives students the theoretical and methodological knowledge about Environmental Law. W

...Read more

I

Ishita Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Here are some top LLM in Administrative Law college options offering great placement opportunities in India:

Administrative Law CollegesAverage Package Offered
NLU KochiINR 10.12 LPA
Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law UniversityINR 7.1 LPA
MNLU MumbaiINR 7 LPA
NLIU BhopalINR 6 LPA
NLU RanchiINR 6 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

M

Mohit Datta

Contributor-Level 9

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