Sorbonne-Queen Mary Double LLM: A Gateway to Global Legal Excellence
Welcome to the Sorbonne-Queen Mary Double LLM program, an elite dual-degree opportunity designed for aspiring lawyers seeking a truly international perspective on law. Jointly offered by the renowned Sorbonne University in Paris, France, and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) in the UK, this program equips students with advanced knowledge in international and comparative law. For Indian students dreaming of studying abroad, this course bridges two of Europe's most vibrant legal hubs, offering a unique blend of French civil law traditions and English common law principles.
Whether you're a fresh law graduate from India or a practicing professional, the Double LLM prepares you for high-impact careers in global law firms, international organizations, and multinational corporations. With its focus on cross-border legal challenges, the program is particularly relevant in today's interconnected world, where Indian professionals increasingly engage with European markets.
Program Overview
The Sorbonne-Queen Mary Double LLM is a prestigious one-year full-time program (with options for part-time study) that allows you to earn two LLM degrees: one from Sorbonne University and one from QMUL. This dual qualification enhances your employability, as it demonstrates expertise in both civil and common law systems—crucial for Indian lawyers navigating international trade, arbitration, and compliance.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 12 months full-time, split between Paris (first semester) and London (second semester).
- Degrees Awarded: Master of Laws (LLM) from Sorbonne University and LLM from Queen Mary University of London.
- Language of Instruction: English, with optional French modules for deeper immersion.
- Start Date: September intake annually.
- Location: Semester 1 at Sorbonne's historic campus in the Latin Quarter, Paris; Semester 2 at QMUL's modern facilities in Mile End, London.
This structure ensures a seamless transition between the two cities, fostering cultural adaptability—a skill highly valued by Indian employers in global roles.
Curriculum and Modules
The curriculum is interdisciplinary, emphasizing international business law, human rights, and European Union law. You'll explore how legal frameworks apply to real-world scenarios, such as cross-border mergers, intellectual property disputes, and sustainable development—topics increasingly relevant to India's growing economy.
Core Modules (Compulsory):
- International Commercial Law: Covers contracts, sales, and dispute resolution under UNCITRAL and CISG frameworks.
- Comparative Law: Analyzes differences between French, English, and Indian legal systems.
- EU Law and Policy: Focuses on the single market, competition law, and Brexit implications.
- International Arbitration: Practical training in resolving disputes through bodies like the ICC in Paris.
Elective Modules (Choose 2-3 per semester):
| Semester | Elective Options | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Paris (Sorbonne) | Intellectual Property in Europe; Corporate Governance; Environmental Law | Civil Law Perspectives |
| London (QMUL) | Banking and Finance Law; Human Rights in International Law; Technology and Data Privacy | Common Law Applications |
In addition to coursework, the program includes a research dissertation (10,000-15,000 words) on a topic of your choice, supervised by faculty from both universities. Indian students often choose topics like "India-EU Trade Agreements" or "Arbitration in Emerging Markets," leveraging their unique insights.
Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, and workshops with guest lectures from leading practitioners. You'll also participate in moot court competitions, simulating real international tribunals—a fantastic way to build your resume for top Indian law firms like Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas or global players like Linklaters.
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
This program is accessible to Indian students with a strong academic background in law. Sorbonne and QMUL value diversity, so applications from India are encouraged, especially given the rising number of Indian alumni in European legal circles.
Entry Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB or equivalent) with at least 60% marks or a 2:1 honors degree from a recognized Indian university (e.g., NLSIU Bangalore, NLU Delhi).
- English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5) or TOEFL iBT 100. For Indian students, exemptions may apply if your undergraduate degree was in English.
- French Language: Not mandatory, but B1 level (DELF) is advantageous for Paris-based modules and daily life.
- Work Experience: Preferred but not required; 1-2 years in a law firm or corporate legal department strengthens your application.
- Supporting Documents: Personal statement (500 words), two academic references, CV, and transcripts.
Admission is competitive, with around 30-40 spots per year. The selection process includes an online interview for shortlisted candidates, focusing on your motivation and international outlook.
Fees and Funding Options
Studying abroad can be an investment, but the Double LLM offers excellent value with its dual degrees. For Indian students, understanding costs and scholarships is key to making it feasible.
Tuition Fees:
- Sorbonne Semester: €6,000 (approx. INR 5.5 lakhs)
- QMUL Semester: £15,000 (approx. INR 16 lakhs)
- Total Program Fee: €21,000 (approx. INR 19 lakhs), excluding living expenses.
Living Costs:
| City | Monthly Estimate (INR) | Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | 1.2-1.5 lakhs | Accommodation: 80,000; Food: 25,000; Transport: 10,000 |
| London | 1.5-2 lakhs | Accommodation: 1 lakh; Food: 30,000; Transport: 15,000 |
Scholarships and Funding: Indian students can apply for:
- QMUL International Excellence Scholarship: Up to £5,000 for merit-based applicants.
- Sorbonne Excellence Grants: €3,000-€5,000 for non-EU students from emerging economies like India.
- Indian Government Schemes: ICCR Scholarships or Education Loans from SBI/Global Indian International School partnerships.
- Part-Time Work: Up to 20 hours/week allowed on a student visa, with opportunities in legal internships paying €10-15/hour in Paris or £12-18/hour in London.
Many Indian alumni secure funding through these routes, reducing the net cost significantly.
Why Choose the Sorbonne-Queen Mary Double LLM?
For Indian students, this program stands out for its global recognition and practical edge. Sorbonne's legacy in civil law complements QMUL's strength in commercial law, giving you a competitive advantage over single-degree holders.
Career Prospects:
- Employability Rate: 95% of graduates secure jobs within 6 months.
- Top Destinations: London law firms (e.g., Allen & Overy), Paris-based multinationals (e.g., TotalEnergies), or back in India with firms handling EU deals (e.g., AZB & Partners).
- Roles: International Lawyer, Compliance Officer, In-House Counsel, or Policy Advisor at organizations like the UN or WTO.
- Salary Expectations: Starting salaries of €50,000-£60,000 (INR 45-55 lakhs) in Europe; higher in India for dual-qualified lawyers.
Beyond academics, the program builds a network of over 500 alumni worldwide, including many from India. Events like the Indo-European Law Forum connect you with peers and mentors.
Student Life: Thriving in Paris and London
As an Indian student, you'll find both cities welcoming and multicultural. Paris offers iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and a rich Indian diaspora with communities in the 20th arrondissement. London, with its 300,000+ Indian residents, has vibrant areas like Southall for authentic cuisine and festivals like Diwali celebrations at Trafalgar Square.
Support for Indian Students:
- Visa Guidance: Tier 4 (UK) and Long-Stay Student Visa (France) assistance, including post-study work options (2 years in UK, 1 year in France).
- Cultural Integration: Indian student societies at both universities host Holi events, yoga sessions, and career panels with Indian lawyers.
- Health and Wellbeing: Access to NHS in the UK and French healthcare; mental health support tailored for international students.
Travel between Paris and London is easy via Eurostar (2 hours, €50-100), making the dual-city experience exciting rather than overwhelming.
Application Process
Applying is straightforward and can be done online through a joint portal.
Steps to Apply:
- Research Deadlines: Applications open in October; deadline is March 31 for September start.
- Submit Online: Via QMUL's portal, selecting the Double LLM option.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure all are in English/French; get transcripts attested by Indian authorities if needed.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates attend a 30-minute virtual interview in April-May.
- Acceptance: Offers by June; pay deposit to secure your spot.
For personalized advice, contact our study abroad counselors specializing in Europe. This Double LLM isn't just a degree—it's your launchpad to a borderless legal career.