Miami Law Students: What to Keep in Mind When Considering Study Abroad
Plan Early
Students with an interest in studying at a foreign law school need to begin planning for their semester away as soon as possible, namely, during their first year of the J.D. program. Students must complete three semesters of the J.D. program before they are allowed to spend a semester at one of our partner schools.
Find Out about Second Language
Some schools only teach in the language of the country. For these programs a B2 level of language proficiency or equivalent is required.
Understand the Requirements & Tuition
Students applying to study at a partner schools should have a 3.0 GPA in Law School, and a specific interest/reason for wanting to study in a particular institution/country. Students who participate are ambassadors for the University of Miami School of Law, and are required to provide a report of their experience at the end of the semester. Tuition is paid to UM Law for the semester away, and loans are handled as though the student were studying at UM Law.
Prior to Applying
- Understand J.D. graduation requirements and make sure an International Exchange semester fits your study goals/timeline.
- Carefully review the International Exchange Program Policies and Procedures here.
- Review International Exchange Program information online (incl. academic calendars, course offerings, language requirements, etc.).
- Consider implications for summer and post-graduate job search (interview process for many clerkships, government honor programs, fellowships, and law firms taking place in Fall of 3L year).
- Final semester exchange is strongly discouraged to avoid delays in graduation, bar certification, etc. (typically Spring of 3L year).
- International students on an F-1 visa should contact their ISSS advisor prior to applying.
How to Apply
- Submit your application through Miami Law’s online International Exchange Programs Nomination Application Form (applicants may indicate first and alternate choice of host school).
- Upload supporting documentation:
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- Resume
- Miami Law transcript (unofficial copy sufficient)
- Statement of Intent
- Application review process might include interview
Selection Criteria
The application process can be competitive, and we often receive more applications for nominations than we have slots available. If we are not able to approve a student for their first choice of host school, we look at the student’s alternate choice. Selection will be based on the totality of the student’s academic and professional record, including the following:
- Applicants should hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Preference will be given to students applying for an exchange during their 2L Spring or 3L Fall semester
- Demonstrated interest in international and transnational issues (e.g. previous course work, work experience, internships, volunteer activities, undergraduate study abroad, etc.)
- Demonstrated potential for success in a semester abroad program
- Defined educational objectives for the exchange semester
- Proficiency in language of instruction (where applicable)
When to Apply
• Fall Semester – Students must apply for nomination by February 1
• Spring Semester – Students must apply for nomination by September 1
For International Exchange Students: What to Know About Coming to Miami Law
