The aim of the programme is to provide a small number of LLB students with an opportunity to study law, as part of their undergraduate degree, in a jurisdiction outside of the European Union. This opportunity reflects the diversity of jurisdictions in which graduates of English law may pursue their legal careers and remains relatively rare in LLB courses. The creation of the new programme reflects the Faculty's own international standing. Students on the degree will spend a full academic year at a designated university in a country outside of the European Union, studying aspects of the legal system and substantive law of that country. Students are admitted to the LLB programme in the usual way and apply for selection to the International Legal Studies programme at the end of their first year.
Selection is by means of an interview.
The ability of students to live and study in a different cultural environment is as important as academic merit. There is no language requirement as students attend universities in which English is the language of instruction. Students are required to meet their own travel and living expenses during their year abroad. Hong Kong is currently the sole destination. It is hoped that the programme will be extended to other countries, particularly in Asia, where there exist strong historical and professional links with the English legal system.