Last Updated on January 1, 2023
The combination of grades you’ll be expected to achieve in order to earn a place on an LLB course will differ slightly depending on the university.
Most students who attend school and college in England and Wales still currently follow the academic route of GCSEs, followed by A-Levels.
The majority of UK universities generally look for a minimum of grade C or B, or level 4 or above, at GCSE in English, maths, and at times a subject such as foreign languages.
The top universities will then also require their prospective students to have studied at least three A Levels with results of AAA or AAB, and in some cases at least one A*.
Courses for the most popular universities are often over-subscribed, so meeting your entry requirements may not always guarantee you’ll get your first choice; universities will also take your personal statement into account, and some will look at your score on the LNAT.
Other accepted equivalent qualifications are generally:
- Scottish Highers
- International Baccalaureate
- University Foundation Programmes
- Cambridge Pre-University (Pre-U) Certificates.
Universities will outline their own entry requirements regarding these qualifications.
Preferred A-Levels: is there a subject blacklist?
You’ve probably heard a lot about top UK universities supposedly having a “blacklist” of A-Level subjects and the contentious issue of “hard” subjects vs. “soft” subjects.
“Hard” subjects are otherwise referred to as traditional academic subjects, such as English literature, history, maths, foreign languages and the core science subjects (i.e. physics, biology and chemistry).
The so-called “soft” subjects, on the other hand, are those that are more recent editions to the range of A-Levels available and tend to involve more vocational or practical elements in their syllabus, such as in theatre studies, media studies, business studies or psychology.
It has been reported that the top universities will not consider an applicant if they have studied one or more of the so-called soft subjects. In reality, it’s not as clear-cut as chucking an application in the bin as soon as they spot a “softie”.
Some universities have, however, stated they have a list of “preferred” subjects; though this will not necessarily be a determining factor in their final decision.
This leaves budding university students in a bit of a pickle when it comes to choosing their A-Level subjects, and quite rightly questioning how on Earth they are supposed to know which subject combination will be best for their chosen degree and institute (and that’s if they even know at this stage!)
So what’s the best A-Level choices for law?
Institutions will often give specific subject requirements for courses such as medicine. But what’s the guideline for an LLB?
Ultimately the subjects you choose should teach you skills that will be valuable in your law degree and the rest of your legal career. For example, a law degree is going to involve A LOT of essay writing, so it’s a good idea to take at least one subject that will develop these skills, for example, English language or literature (or combined) or history.
Take a look at your top choice universities and take note of any prerequisites they highlight for the course; if they have a list of “preferred” subjects, you should aim to tailor you subject choices to reflect those requirements—and your strengths!
Universities also recommend that a good spread of subjects is appealing, so a good mix will be wise. General Studies and Critical Thinking are NOT usually counted as one of these main A-Levels.
They can definitely look good alongside three or four strong A-Level results, but most universities will now not accept either of these subjects as a part of their entry requirements.
The majority of universities will also not stipulate A-Level law as a prerequisite for an LLB or or BA law course.
It is perfectly acceptable to apply for law without a law A-Level, so if someone at school or college keeps harping on that they will be taking law A-Level because it’s necessary, then they are most definitely mistaken!
What courses are available?
Courses at universities and colleges in the UK range from LLB degrees that provide the skills and knowledge required to practice in law, to BA/BSc degrees that focus on law more as an academic subject. As with other academic courses, its possible to combine many different subjects together. Common combinations include law with business, management, criminology, accounting, policing and a modern foreign language.
Subject combinations and available course option include:
- single, joint, and multiple subject combinations
- full-time, part-time and flexible study options as well as courses with a placement (sandwich courses)
- qualifications ranging from BA/BSc (Hons) and LLB degrees, through to HND, HNC and Foundation Certificates
A key consideration when choosing courses is whether or not you wish to pursue a law related career and choose to take a ‘qualifying’ law degree (LLB). Completion of an LLB degree will exempt you from the need to complete the Graduate Diploma in Law which non-law graduates have to complete if they wish to become a solicitor etc.
Are you considering an accelerated degree? Click here to read more about the possibility of completing your undergraduate course on a shorter timescale.
Entry requirements
A levels – To get on to a law degree you will usually require a minimum of two A levels, with three A levels and A grades needed for the most popular courses. Entry requirements range from BCC to AAA, with the universities and colleges most commonly asking for ABB. It is not a requirement to have A level law. Be aware that a few universities may not accept subjects such as PE, art, photography and dance as one of the three main A levels. In addition to A levels or equivalent you will also need five GCSEs (A-C) including science, English, and maths.
Scottish Highers – Entry requirements for Highers (the most common qualification) range from BBBB to AAAAB, with universities or colleges most frequently requiring BBBB. Occasionally, universities ask for Advanced Highers to supplement Highers. If Advanced Highers are requested, universities or colleges typically ask for ABB.
Vocational courses – Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in business, or Business and Administration SCQF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative to A levels/Highers by some providers. It’s essential that you check alternative entry requirements with universities or colleges.
Selection
Some courses require applicants to pass the National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT).
Personal statement
Universities are looking for:
- evidence that you are well informed about the subject and have strong interest/motivation, which could be demonstrated by:
- relevant work experience/shadowing or voluntary work
- additional reading and research of particular topics
- membership of related societies/clubs – e.g. a debating society
- a range of interests outside of academic study – e.g. sport, music, voluntary work
- a well written statement that demonstrates evidence of analytical skills and independent thinking
- ability to work individually and in teams
