Why I Choose New Zealand Over UK/US for My LLM?

While most students first look towards the top four study-abroad destinations for law, our conversations with alumni led us to a surprising insight. We spoke with Manvi Singh, who made an unconventional choice. She picked New Zealand over the US and the UK. Surprised? We were, too. That's exactly why we invited her for a talk and asked about her journey.

Manvi didn’t take New Zealand's favour because she studied there. Instead, she shared a balanced view, laying out the real advantages and clear differences that helped her make an informed decision. From choosing the right specialization to future prospects, she covered it all.

So, if you have missed the podcast, then you can take the keyaways with extra information to make this guide even more helpful for you. So, what makes New Zealand’s LLM stand out? Know it by reading this guide.

Types of Latin Legum Magister (LLM)

LLM isn’t a one degree; it includes various divisions under it. New Zealand, much like the UK and Australia, offers diverse LLM programs:

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  General LLM: Allows you to choose subjects across various fields.

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  Specialized LLM: Focuses on areas like environmental law (a favorite in NZ), immigration, or real estate laws.

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  Research LLM: Includes writing a thesis and is ideal for those planning a PhD.

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  Professional LLM: Tailored for working lawyers to upskill while staying connected to the legal practice.

Manvi Singh choose to pursue a Public LLM; among its various subfields, she selected Environmental Law as her focus. She decided on these main programs because of cultural and personal values. New Zealand shares similarities with India because they connect nature through spiritual and cultural beliefs. However, after development, they also preserved the environment by successfully integrating modern development with environmental respect. This unique balance inspired Manvi to go for Environmental Law, seeking to understand and promote sustainable progress.

Can You Do an LLM Abroad and Still Practise Law in India?

Many students don’t plan to come back to India. However, if you are planning to return to India, then you can still see the future scope in India as well. The LLM from NZ, the UK, or Australia doesn’t automatically qualify you to practice law in India. But, streams can affect that chronology.

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  Specializes in evergreen streams such as international law, environmental law, or corporate law.
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  Join legal academia or policy think tanks.
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  Work with global law firms or NGOs.
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  Build a career in immigration or real estate law. These are booming sectors in New Zealand and globally. If you wish to settle, then do take an elective related to these topics.

When to Go Abroad to Study LLM? As a Fresher or an Experienced

Career paths in law can vary, but having the right guidance can help you plan better. When we asked Manvi Singh about this, she shared practical advice for Indian students. She recommended completing your bachelor's degree in India before applying for a master’s abroad. This approach not only reduces the overall education cost but also gives you time to decide on a specialization. Jumping straight into a bachelor’s program abroad can turn out to be costly because freshers are still unsure about their focus area.

That said, there are two possible scenarios for pursuing law studies internationally:

For Freshers:

If your goal is to gain exposure to global legal frameworks and develop independent thinking through interactive discussions, you can choose to start your legal education abroad right after the 12th. This route offers early immersion in international legal systems.

For Professionals:

If you are already working in the legal field, you have an idea of subjects. This helps them decide on an upgrade, especially in specialized sectors like environmental law, immigration, or property law.

Manvi said that the classroom culture in New Zealand is highly discussion-oriented. Prior work experience often enriches these debates, but even freshers can benefit and grow quickly by being part of this interactive learning environment.

Can You Do an LLM and Prepare for the Bar Exam Simultaneously in New Zealand?

Unlike the UK or Australia, New Zealand offers students the flexibility to pursue multiple goals. For Indian students planning to take the Bar exam after returning home, it’s entirely possible to balance LLM studies with Bar exam preparation. New Zealand universities maintain a flexible academic structure without rigid schedules, making it easier to manage both commitments.

Clearing a bar exam along with the LLM degree helps students save a year. This also helps in a fast transition from the classroom to the court. This also increases the employability and allows students to start earning earlier, helping in both career growth and financial stability. This makes the loan repayment process easy and efficient. 

Cost of LLM: New Zealand vs the UK

New Zealand is a small country, but that comes with both advantages and challenges. Manvi Singh pointed out, one of the biggest benefits is the flexibility it offers for global mobility. After completing your LLM in New Zealand, students move out to other countries and can explore wider job opportunities. But, can still return to New Zealand within 3 years as their Post Study Work Visa isn’t strict. 

Many of her friends are employed in countries like Australia, the UK, or Ireland. It’s not just about studying in New Zealand; it’s about opening doors. 

Recently, New Zealand has had an MOU with India, signed in 2023. Under this agreement, several New Zealand universities offer scholarships specifically for Indian students. The scholarship support can range from NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000 (approximately INR 2.5 to INR 10 lakhs), depending on the course, university, and student profile, making higher education in New Zealand more accessible and affordable.

Explore more scholarship option!

Benefits of Studying LLM in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a range of benefits for students pursuing an LLM, making it a standout choice compared to the UK and Australia:

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  Discussion-Based Learning: New Zealand universities aren’t theory-based; instead, professors take interactive classes that develop critical thinking and open dialogue over rote memorization.

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  Empathetic and Supportive Environment: They have student-friendly and inclusive policies, making international students feel welcomed in the country.

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  Generous Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV): New Zealand offers a 3-year post-study work visa, with no obligation to find a job within 6 months, thus providing flexibility and freedom.

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  Cultural Bonus: New Zealand is a smaller, community-driven country. You might cross a street, and strangers might greet you with love and affection. 

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  Affordable Education: LLM programs in New Zealand are often more cost-effective, with lower tuition fees and living costs.

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  Scholarship Opportunities: Thanks to the MOU with India, scholarships ranging from NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000 are available, reducing the financial burden.

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  Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS): New Zealand has an FTS where students transfer a year's living expenses into a New Zealand bank account, and the government releases the funds monthly. This promotes:

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    Financial discipline
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    Ease of managing expenses
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    Peace of mind for families back home

PhD vs JD

Many students confuse JD (Juris Doctor) and PhD in Law, but these two qualifications serve completely different purposes in the legal education system. Here’s a clearer comparison:z

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a degree that offers affordability, flexibility, and a truly enriching academic journey, New Zealand’s LLM stands out as a compelling choice. It costs significantly less than the UK or Australia, yet provides an immersive learning environment where you can breathe, think critically, and develop your career at your own pace.

But pursuing an LLM is not just about academics; it’s about growth, networking, and shaping a global mindset. As Manvi Singh’s story shows, studying in New Zealand can be a life-transforming decision that opens doors to new perspectives and opportunities.

Want to check your scholarship eligibility or explore funding options? Use GyanDhan’s free loan eligibility checker tool. If you’re interested in connecting with more students like Manvi, or hearing from alumni who’ve taken this path, join our GD community today and get direct access to real student experiences.

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