International Applicants

We welcome applications to our JD program from candidates who have been educated outside of the United States. International applicants should follow the same process as all other applicants to the JD program and will be considered for the same scholarships as well. Additionally, international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, and transcripts from institutions outside of the United States must undergo an international credential evaluation.

English Language Proficiency

For applicants to the JD program, we accept the following tests for English language proficiency:

• TOEFL iBT
• IELTS

We do not accept the TOEFL Essentials test. English language proficiency tests do not substitute for the LSAT or GRE; all applicants must submit scores from one of these two exams as well.

TOEFL and IELTS Scores

Successful applicants taking the TOEFL usually score at least 250 on the computer-based test, 600 on the paper-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test. If you have taken the internet-based test, your scores on the individual sections should, at a minimum, be 25 (reading), 25 (listening), 25 (writing), and 25 (speaking). Successful applicants taking the IELTS usually achieve a minimum score of 7.0. You are still welcome to apply if your score falls below this range. Each application receives a holistic review, taking into consideration LSAT/GRE score, academic performance, letters of recommendation, personal statement, résumé, any optional statements, and TOEFL/IELTS score.

English Language Proficiency Test Waivers 

Requests to waive English language proficiency tests are considered on a case-by-case basis after all application materials have been submitted. Your LSAT/GRE score, academic performance, writing samples, letters of recommendation, and résumé will be considered when reviewing your waiver request. Once you have submitted all application materials to BU Law via LSAC, you may use the English Language Proficiency Test Waiver Request Form to request a waiver.

Proof of English language proficiency is not required if your undergraduate degree was conducted primarily in English in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. Undergraduate or graduate education conducted in English in any other country does not qualify applicants for an exemption to the English language proficiency requirement.

International Transcripts

Transcripts from outside of the United States will undergo an International Credit Evaluation through LSAC, conducted by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) in order to determine degree and credit equivalency to degrees and credits earned in the United States. If you earned a 3-year degree outside of the United States, the international credit evaluation will also determine if your degree is equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree; if so, you are eligible to apply.

Visas and Immigration

If you are not a US citizen or permanent resident, you will need to secure a visa to enroll at BU Law. Should you be admitted to the JD program, Boston University’s International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) will provide assistance with the visa and immigration process.

If you have any questions, please email us at bulawadm@bu.edu.