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Case Western Reserve University School of Law
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USA
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About
The LLM degree in US and Global Legal Studies, first offered in Fall 1992, was among the first LLM degrees offered in the United States exclusively for graduates of foreign law schools. We've graduated 1,000 LLM students from dozens of countries on five continents.
We are part of Case Western Reserve University, a highly ranked research institution. Our university enrolls over 1,800 international students from countries worldwide. Our international law, health law, and intellectual property law programs are among the top in the nation. Our law faculty are ranked 25th in the nation in scholarly impact. LLM students take most of their classes with JD and SJD students.
University Rankings (3)
About Us
A Model Law School: We are a nationally recognized law school in the heart of University Circle, a thriving cultural neighborhood near downtown Cleveland, Ohio.
Our international law, health law and intellectual property law programs are among the top in the nation. Leadership courses and real-practice experiences are infused throughout our innovative curriculum. All students begin working with real clients in their first year and participate in a semester-long full-time practice experience during their third year.
National Jurist magazine named us among the top 25 law schools that deliver the best public interest law opportunities. The magazine also listed us among its first "honor roll of law schools" that deliver the best practical training.
We offer JD, LLM and SJD degrees, as well as nine dual-degree programs. During the third year, JD students may study abroad and complete a foreign LLM degree at one of four partner schools: Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Middlesex University in London, University of Paris Dauphine, and Zhejiang University Guanghua Law School.
Our Growing Presence: About two-thirds of our students are from outside Ohio. More than 10,000 alumni live and work all over the world. Our graduates are employed in a wide variety of legal, government, non-profit and business settings. Many of our alums are CEOs, law firm partners, government officials and other recognized leaders.
Expert Faculty: Our law faculty are ranked 25th in the nation in scholarly impact. They are noted experts in their fields, and their first priority is the success of our students. We have a welcoming, friendly environment that encourages collaboration between professors, administrators, staff, students and alumni. When you join our law school, you are part of our legal family.
Proud History: We were one of the first schools accredited by the American Bar Association* and have a long-standing commitment to diversity. We admitted our first African-American student in our first class in 1892. About 20% of our student body is comprised of underrepresented minorities.
A Connected Institution: We are part of Case Western Reserve University, a highly ranked research institution with over 5,600 graduate and professional students and more than 4,600 undergraduate students. The university is also home to the Weatherhead School of Management; School of Medicine; Case School of Engineering; The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing; School of Dental Medicine; School of Graduate Students; the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences; and the College of Arts and Sciences.
* Case Western Reserve University School of Law is accredited by the ABA's Council to the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar.
LL.M Admission and Scholarships
LLM applicants should have an undergraduate law degree. Students with degrees in other subjects - such a business, science or engineering – can be admitted to our LLM degree programs in International Business Law or Intellectual Property Law.
Conditional admission is offered to students whose academic credentials are strong, but who need more time to improve their English. Students can improve their English at ELS Cleveland, located on the Case Western Reserve University campus. Graduation from ELS is accepted in lieu of TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Fall Admission with the requirement to attend Summer Language and Law Institute
TOEFL 80-89
IELTS 6.0
Graduation from ELS Level 109
Fall Admission
TOEFL 90 and above
IELTS 6.5 and above
Graduation from ELS Level 110
Spring Admission
TOEFL 90 and above
IELTS 6.5 and above
Graduation from ELS Level 110
Merit scholarships are available to LLM students who have TOEFL and IELTS scores of at least 90 or 6.5 or who graduated from ELS 112. Students who add geographic diversity to the enrolling LLM class can qualify for more generous scholarships. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of the application for admission.
LL.M Application
Application and Process
Applicants to the LLM degree program can use the online or PDF applications. Candidates can submit applications as early as September; decisions are made on a rolling basis.
1. Deadlines
Admission is available for both fall and spring semesters. The deadline for fall semester is April 1; the deadline for spring semester is November 1. Sometimes students can apply after the deadline; email Ms. Liz Woyczynski, Administrative Director of Admissions and Student Services to inquire, at exh@case.edu.
2. Required Documents
- Completed application form and personal statement.
- Official copy of transcripts from all post-secondary educational institutions attended with notarized translation into English where applicable.
- An official TOEFL score or an IELTs record report is required for all students whose native language is not English—except those with a degree from an institution where English is the language of instruction. Our TOEFL institutional code is 1105.
- Two letters of recommendation.
3. LSAC Online Application
Complete the online application through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and register for the LSAC Document Assembly Service ($85), and law school report ($30/school). Mail to LSAC: Official transcripts, official TOEFL or IELTS score reports, and two letters of recommendation.
4. PDF Application
Email the PDF application and the required documents to llm-sjd@case.edu. There is no application fee.
5. Application Review
Applications are reviewed in order of their receipt and completion. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to apply early.
6. Mailing Address
Office of Foreign Graduate Legal Studies
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
11075 East Boulevard
Cleveland, Ohio 44106-7148 USA
7. Admission Inquiries and Applications
Ms. Elizabeth H. Woyczynski
Administrative Director of Admissions and Student Services
Office of Foreign Graduate Legal Studies
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
216-368- 2083 | exh@case.edu
Areas Near The Law School
The City of Cleveland Heights, where most students live, has three neighborhoods that are attractive to students (because of the proximity of a grocery store and other shops), known as Coventry, North Coventry, and Cedar-Fairmount. These areas are a 15-25 minute walk to school.
Another nearby neighborhood, historic Shaker Square, is about a 10-minute drive to the law school. The apartments are in very good condition and prices are comparable to those in Cleveland Heights.
There are many beautiful neighborhoods just west of the City of Cleveland as well. The city of Lakewood, which is about a 25 minute drive from the law school, is an area full of unique shops, restaurants and entertainment. Many properties allow for excellent views of Lake Erie or provide easy access to the lake.
An alternative housing option is available for law students who want to reside in a substance-free, recovery-based environment. The Recovery House at Case Western Reserve assists residents in developing healthy life skills while remaining free of alcohol and other drugs. It is located on Murray Hill Road, in nearby Little Italy immediately adjacent to campus. It is a two-unit fully furnished apartment-house with single and double bedrooms.
Some law students also choose to live and work as residence hall mentors or coordinators. For more information about this option go to the Graduate Positions page of the Housing and Residence Life website.
LL.M Students
Power of an Experience
Thriving in global legal practice requires graduates of foreign institutions to excel within the classroom while mastering the elements of interaction beyond it.
The LLM program provides students ample opportunity to practice language skills, interact with JD students and work with practicing American attorneys.
Program features, such as full integration into intellectual and professional life within Cleveland's legal and university communities, summer internships and LLM social activities, generate an enriching and well-rounded experience. Students graduate from the LLM program with a strong education in international law, as well as firm grounding in global interactions and the American legal system.
Our local legal community, including the program director, law school administrators and student mentors, offer LLM students academic guidance and act as lifelong connections for students around the world.
Meet Your Mentor
Every year students from Case Western Reserve School of Law's JD program affiliate themselves with the LLM program and its community as student mentors.
These student mentors plan LLM social events, familiarize foreign graduates with Northeast Ohio and campus life and help their LLM counterparts integrate fully into JD classes, as well as the intellectual and professional life of Cleveland's legal community.
In the end, students and mentors become very close friends.
Mentor events include LL.M. study groups, the JD vs. LLM soccer tournament (a.k.a. the Katz Cup), ski trips to Alpine Valley, apple-picking, fashion shows, holiday celebrations and more.
Moot Court & Mock Trial
Our Moot Court and Mock Trial programs simulate real-life cases, giving students the skills they need to be lawyers. We compete nationally and internationally and have a long-standing track record of success.
1. Dean Dunmore Moot Court Competition
We host the Dean Dunmore Moot Court Competition each spring to refine students' brief-writing skills and improve appellate oral advocacy.
This intramural appellate advocacy tournament is named in honor of Dean Walter Thomas Dunmore, who led the law school during one of its most prodigious periods of growth from 1910-1945.
Second and third year students enrolled in Appellate Practice work throughout the fall and early spring semesters to prepare their briefs and oral arguments. They then argue against each other in an NCAA bracket-style competition judged by faculty members, local judges and experienced practitioners. Traditionally, the final round of each year's Dunmore Competition is judged by distinguished federal and state judges and justices.
Recent final round judges have included the Hon. John J. McConnell, U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island; the Hon. Melody Stewart, Ohio Court of Appeals for the Eighth District; and the Hon. Mary Jane Trapp, former judge of the Ohio Court of Appeals for the Eleventh District; and the Hon. Maureen O'Connor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio, to name a few.
2. NATIONAL
The National Moot Court Team
This is the oldest and one of the most prestigious competitions. According to the NY City Bar, it is an annual inter-law school event co-sponsored by New York City Bar Association's National Moot Court Competition Committee and the American College of Trial Lawyers. Every year, more than 120 law schools compete in regional rounds throughout the United States, with winners advancing to final rounds at the New York City Bar. It began in 1950.
National Appellate Advocacy Competition
Case Western Reserve University School of Law sends teams to the ABA National Appellate Advocacy Competition, sponsored by the American Bar Association. According to the ABA, competitors participate in a hypothetical appeal to the United States Supreme Court. The competition involves writing a brief as either respondent or petitioner and then arguing the case in front of the mock court.
AULT MOCK TRIAL TEAM
The Ault Mock Trial Team is an intensive academic and skill based program designed to prepare students for trial practice. Students learn to develop trial strategies, examine witnesses, present arguments to juries and judges, use and understand the rules of evidence and procedure while becoming familiar with being in a courtroom. The program is focused on providing students with practical exposure to trial tactics while emphasizing the academic areas of evidence and procedure. It focuses on both the art and science of trial work.
The team represents the law school at national and regional trial competitions, including the Texas Young Lawyers Association National Trial Competition, the American Association for Justice National Competition and the Academy of Trial Lawyers of Allegheny County Mock Trial Competition. The team also hosts an annual competition with schools from Ohio and Kentucky.
The program is open to all second- and third-year students and membership on the team is gained through an open, school wide competition. Students who participate for one or two years receive academic credit.
Craven Constitutional Moot Court Team
This competition is in honor of Judge James Braxton Craven, Jr., who – after a long career of legal service in North Carolina – served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit until his death in 1977. Held at University of North Carolina School of Law, the competition involves one team of two or three students from each law school. In 2014, Case Western Reserve’s team won the Scribes Award, given to the best brief, out of all the nation's moot court competitions.
3. INTERNATIONAL
Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court
Organized by the International Law Students Association, the Jessup Competition is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious moot court tournaments, with over 600 schools competing from 100 countries from around the world. The competition involves a mock appellate argument before the International Court of Justice. Traditionally, our law school has one of the best Jessup teams in the country - having won the U.S. Regional Competition six out of the past nine years, the World Championship in 2008 and the Best Brief in the World Award in 2011.
International Criminal Court Mock Trial Competition
Organized by the International Criminal Law Network, the ICC Competition features 50 schools from 40 countries, arguing a mock appellate argument before the International Criminal Court. Each team member writes a 20-page brief due in January, representing the ICC Prosecutor, the Defendant, and the Government of the State where the Defendant is located. Each team member argues at least one preliminary round at the Americas' Competition held in New York in March. There are three semi-finals, and the three teams that make it to the finals go on to the International Rounds in The Hague in April, with a final round held at the real ICC. Professors Cassandra Robertson and Michael Benza coach this team.
Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot
The Vis Team, advised by Professor Timothy Webster, deals with international commercial disputes, usually regarding a breach of contract. The team travels to Hong Kong each year for a weeklong competition with some of the world's strongest moot programs. Students argue in a quasi-judicial setting featuring three arbitrators and two teams representing the Claimant and Respondent, respectively. Students consult substantive law, such as the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), academic treatises and the arbitration rules of the forum to craft arguments and advocate for their client. Many of the world's leading arbitration law firms and arbitral institutions sponsor the Vis Moot, and many of the volunteer arbitrators are themselves past participants or advanced practitioners.
Journals
The Law Review
Those who have demonstrated interest and ability are invited to become associates of the Law Review at the beginning of their second year. They write a scholarly paper on a topic of their choice, honing their legal analytical and writing skills while deeply exploring their interest in legal issues. In addition, they help select and edit articles submitted by judges, scholars, and other authorities.
Health Matrix
Health Matrix: Journal of Law-Medicine publishes two issues per year dedicated to thematic topics. Students contribute articles and work with submissions from outside authors representing such professions as law, medicine, and social work.
Journal of International Law
The Journal of International Law devotes three issues per year to timely and appropriate global themes. Second-year students are eligible to become associates, taking an active role in the editorial process.
Journal of Law, Technology & the Internet
JOLTI publishes two issues per year examining emerging technologies and how they relate to the law. JOLTI welcomes full length submissions from professors and scholars in relevant fields. Case Western Reserve students are eligible to join during their second year to contribute in the editing process and submit articles and notes for possible publication.
Faculty & Staff
We’re proud of our faculty's dedication to excellence in teaching and scholarship. But what always impresses new students is their accessibility. Our faculty take their commitment to outstanding teaching, to mentoring students, and to helping you find jobs, very seriously.
These factors combine to create a strong and collaborative learning environment.
And, whatever their job, our staff is always working overtime for you – from Academic Services and Admissions to Information Technology and Student Services, and everywhere in between. They make a point to get to know you and find out how they can help you get the most out of your experience here.
Click here for details.
LL.M Programs
The practice of law knows no borders. Our outstanding LLM and SJD programs provide even greater depth to prepare graduates for success in the international arena.
MASTER OF LAWS (LLM)
Practicing law in a global society demands a firm grasp of cross-border interests and implications of a nation's laws. Attorneys who advise international clients need to understand how to operate in various legal environments, and communicate and work effectively with lawyers and clients around the world. Our LLM degrees prepare lawyers for this challenge.
We offer four LLM degrees:
LLM in U.S. & Global Legal Studies
This program is for students interested in U.S. law who hope to improve their legal research, writing and analytical skills. This is the best degree to prepare for a US bar exam. Students may also earn a certificate of concentration in the subject area of their choice. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
LLM in Intellectual Property Law
This program is best for students interested in the doctrine and policy of U.S. intellectual property law, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
LLM in International Business Law
This program is designed for students interested in the academic analysis and practical applications of U.S. business law and international business transactions. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
LLM in International Criminal Law
Taught by leading experts in the field, this program provides students who hold a degree in law with an in-depth knowledge of international criminal law and procedure, international humanitarian law and national security law. It will equip them to practice international criminal law before international tribunals or national courts. The one-year program is based at our law school, but students have the option of taking their second semester at an international tribunal. The degree is also available on a part-time basis over two years.
Summer Language and Law Institute
The Summer Language and Law Institute is an intensive four-week training experience exclusively for foreign legal professionals and students. The institute introduces students to the practice and study of law in the U.S., provides students with a practical introduction to U.S. legal research and analysis; and improves students' English language skills through an integrated English for Legal Purposes program.
Transfer
STUDENTS SEEKING VISITING STATUS
Students currently enrolled in other law schools who wish to take courses at Case Western Reserve University School of Law for credit toward the other school's degree requirements may apply to attend as a Visiting Student. Visitor applicants must submit the following:
- A completed application, including the application fee (waived for LSAC electronic applicants);
- A statement explaining your reason for wishing to take courses at Case Western Reserve University School of Law;
- An original CAS report;
- An official transcript of completed law school work;
- A letter of good standing from your dean;
- A letter from your dean indicating that your school will accept academic credits from Case Western Reserve University School of Law; and
- An official class rank after all completed law school work.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Students currently enrolled in an accredited law school may apply for admission with advanced standing. The number of transfer applicants that we accept depends on the number of spots available in the second-year class. The primary factor in the admission decision is prior law school performance. Undergraduate grades and your LSAT score will also be considered.
Transfer applicants must submit:
- A completed application, including the application fee (waived for LSAC Electronic Applications);
- Personal statement;
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- An original CAS report;
- An official transcript of completed law school work;
- A letter of good standing from your dean; and
- An official class rank after all completed law school work.
The law school transcript and class standing must be based upon all coursework completed.
For more details, please click here.
Student Services
Get to know your Deans. Attend a social gathering with your peers and law alumni. Participate in a cultural event in our University Circle neighborhood.
Your law school experience extends well beyond the classroom. Our student services office organizes numerous events throughout the year, and keeps you informed of what’s happening in the law school and in our neighborhood.
1. Deans’ Open Forums and Gatherings
The Deans host open forums and informal gatherings while also being involved in the Deans’ Advisory Committee, a joint SBA and Student Services committee, as another way for students and the administration to share ideas and discuss what’s happening at the law school.
2. Service Events and Social Activities
We work with local cultural institutions and other graduate and professional programs to organize events so you can meet others in the CWRU community and enjoy the incredible cultural offerings available right here in University Circle. We also coordinate volunteer projects where students, faculty, administration and staff engage in service to the Greater Cleveland community.
The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association helps our students connect with members of the local bar and we regularly invite speakers to talk with students about the bar exam as well as important issues such as mental health and wellness.
3. Advising, Networking and Mentoring Programs
The Student Services and Career Development Office, in conjunction with our Alumni Relations office, hosts a number of networking and mentoring programs throughout the year, including the Take a Law Student to Lunch Program and speed networking events. These programs give students the opportunity to meet with alumni who can share their perspectives and experiences, and also answer questions about the legal profession, career paths, strategies for success, the job market and more.
We also provide a peer mentoring program for first-year students.
4. Academic Support Programs
Professor Carol Fox and our Academic Support Fellow offer academic support services to all students. They provide individual tutoring on study strategies, strengthening legal analysis and improving legal writing and exam-taking skills. They offer workshops to 1Ls on strategies for success in law school, including workshops on reading and briefing cases, outlining, time-management, and preparing for and taking exams. They also offer several workshops to upper-level students and graduates on preparing for the bar exam.
5. Tutoring Center
The tutoring center houses two peer tutor programs: the writing center and the AEP program. Tutors in both programs are second- and third-year students who have excelled in law school, who demonstrate the ability to facilitate learning of core tasks associated with legal education, and who can communicate understanding of the legal writing process and legal doctrine.
6. Writing Center
The writing center tutors will offer help to students at any stage of a project, including writing projects for LLEAP, papers for upper-level courses and notes—provided that your professor has authorized you to seek help from the writing center for that project. The goal of the writing center is to help students become better writers and not just to improve the written product. Writing enter tutors will not, therefore, simply edit or proofread a paper or advise students on the content of their work.
You are encouraged to use the writing center to get help with brainstorming, drafting or revising a paper, as well as discussing methods and techniques to improve your writing.
7. Academic Enrichment Program
The Academic Enrichment Program (AEP) can help you develop the skills necessary to succeed in your first-year courses. A tutor leads a group study session each week for each course, going over the material covered in the past week, answering questions about the material and discussing study skills that include briefing and synthesizing case law, outlining legal principles, exam preparation and exam taking. AEP tutors are also available to meet individually with students for one-on-one tutoring in any first year subject. AEP is open to all first-year students.
8. Student Complaints Policy and Procedure
If you have a concern or question, don’t hesitate to contact us. Procedures for submitting complaints are found on the intranet (login required).
Law Library
The Judge Ben C. Green Law Library supports the curriculum, instructional needs, and programs of our law school and strives to provide outstanding service and information access to our students, faculty and staff.
Our holdings include more than 410,000 books and volume-equivalents, complete collections of federal and state law, law reviews, current law services, an extensive British and Commonwealth collection, and special collections in taxation, labor law, foreign investments, international law, and environmental law.
The library is also building strong collections in law and medicine, intellectual property, and law of the European Union. It is also the only academic law library in the United States that is a depository library for the Government of Canada.
There are computer facilities on every floor of the library, providing access to more than 700 electronic services and library catalogs, and a wide range of software services.
Bar Associations
There are many legal professional associations, both locally and nationally, that you will want to join during your law school and post-law school career. These legal associations not only represent the legal profession, but also provide you with many resources such as networking opportunities.
For more information, please check the following links
Financial Aid
Understanding Your Financial Responsibilities
Pursuit of a legal education will require a significant investment of your various resources – including both time and money. We want to provide you information to help you understand the financial investment that is required of you as a CWRU Law Student.
In addition to the information presented here, our admissions officers can assist you with general questions regarding financial matters. Also, our law school has a special office which assists both enrolled and prospective students in understanding and managing the financial responsibilities of being a law student, including the process of applying for student loans.
Cost of a Legal Education At Case Western Reserve Law School
The costs indicated here are for the 2016-2017 school year.
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Costs Paid Directly to Case |
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Tuition |
$49,500 |
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Tuition per credit hour |
$2,066 per credit hour |
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Student Activities Fee |
$134 |
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Graduate Student Council Fee (estimated) |
$28 |
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Health Insurance (estimated, will vary) |
$1,760 |
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Associated Costs Paid to Others |
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Books and supplies (estimated, will vary) |
$1,800 |
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Living Expenses (estimated, will vary) |
$18,320 (nine-month budget) |
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Meal Plans |
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All students, whether they live on or off campus, may choose to participate in a university meal plan. In 2016–2017 meal plans start at $3510 per year (estimated, will vary). |
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Parking and Transportation |
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Student parking permits range in cost, depending on the location of the assigned lot. Free shuttle busses operate day and night on a regular schedule around the campus. For more information about transportation, visit Access Services. |
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Tuition Refund Policy |
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Student billing transactions are handled by the University Controller's office. To view tuition refund policies, visit theUniversity Registrar. |
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Types of Financial Assistance
Scholarships, student loans and other aid programs are available to help meet the cost of your legal education.
1. Merit-Based Scholarship Programs: Thanks to the strong support of our alumni, we are able to award significant scholarships to approximately two-thirds of each entering class. Every applicant with an exceptionally strong record is considered for a scholarship. Candidates who apply for admissions before February 1 have a greater chance of receiving an award.
Unlike most law schools, our scholarships are not conditional upon GPA. When you receive a scholarship from our law school, it’s yours for as long as you maintain good academic standing at Case Western Reserve. View the Scholarship Terms and Conditions.
Once you are admitted to our program, you will be automatically considered for our internal scholarships, which are merit based. There is no special application form or process that you need to complete for scholarship consideration.
Internal Scholarship Opportunities
External Scholarship Opportunities
2. Student loans: There are a number of loan programs, both federal and private, that can help you meet your educational expenses. The loans can be used to meet any or all of the established cost of attendance. It is possible to borrow funds for both the direct tuition expenses, as well as for reasonable living expenses. Loans must be repaid. They may be government-sponsored low-interest loans or regular bank loans at a reduced interest rate. On some loans, interest may not start to accrue until after graduation. On others, interest accrues immediately. Loans may be based on demonstrated financial need. Learn more about types of loans.
To be considered for a loan, you must complete the financial aid application process. We encourage you to begin the financial aid application soon after you've been admitted to our school because it may take up to three months to complete the entire process. You should start the application process before the end of June to have funds available early in the fall semester. You must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States to be eligible for most loan programs.
3. Other Aid Programs: There are two additional financial assistance opportunities available through our law school after enrollment.
Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)
Open to JD graduates licensed to practice law and who are making substantial use of their legal training to provide services that are in the public interest, the LRAP program pays a certain percentage of the awardees' monthly loan payment. Once funded, a recipient may apply for renewal of funding for up to eight years, provided that they maintain eligibility. Since its inception, LRAP has provided loan repayment assistance to more than 92 alumni.
Saul S. Biskind Public Interest Fellowships
This fellowship program provides stipends to students and graduates pursuing careers in public interest law.
AID ELIGIBILITY
Law students seeking need-based financial assistance must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a valid social security number
- Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working toward a JD degree
- Sign a statement of educational purpose and a certification statement on overpayment and default (both found on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Register with the Selective Service, if required
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
Dependency Status
Under current federal law, all law students are considered independent for purposes of qualifying for federal loan programs.
What can the loan funds be used for?
Student loans can be used only to fund specific educational expenses, including reasonable living expenses which are incurred while the student is enrolled in school. The student loan budget, sometimes called cost of attendance, includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and an allowance for personal incidental expenses. Loan funds can be used for these expenses only to the extent that they are not already covered by scholarship or support that you receive from your relatives.
The student loan budget is determined by the university's financial aid office, based on an estimate of your various educational expenses, as listed above. You are not able to receive student loan funds in excess of the student loan budget, regardless of the type of loan or the source of the specific loan funds. It must be noted that loan budget is not designed to replace income that a student may have been earning before entering law school. Also, it is not designed to fund discretionary purchases that a student incurs before or during law school (such as car payments or credit card payments, vacations, support of a spouse).
APPLYING FOR AID
Under current federal law, all law students are considered independent for purposes of qualifying for federal loan programs. All new law students applying for student loans should submit the following forms:
Step 1: Initial Application Process
Submit these two forms:
- The 2016-17 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) Our Federal School Code is EOOO82.
- The CWRU Financial Aid Application and read the instructions for completing the application.
Step 2: Required Application Supplements (if requested)
- Only those students who are selected for verification through FAFSA currently must submit a photocopy of your (and your spouse's) 2015 federal (IRS) tax return, including all schedules.
- The Law School Student Financial Services Office will contact all affected students via email.
Step 3: Notification of Financial Aid Eligibility
The Office of University Financial Aid will notify you of an initial Financial Aid Award. This initial award is based on data obtained from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The types and amounts of financial assistance given on the initial Financial Aid Award are tentative until all application requirements have been met.
Step 4: Other Application Requirements
- The Law school loan remittance form must be submitted once all loan applications and master promissory notes have been completed.
- Instructions and the loan remittance form will be sent to students in the July loan information packet.
Where do I send the completed forms?
- CWRU Financial Aid Application Form
- Photocopy of Federal Tax Return and documents (if required) to:
Law School Student Financial Services Office
Case Western Reserve University
11075 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106-7148
Contact: Tonya Phillips, Director of Student Financial Services
Phone: 216.368.3602 or 1.877.889.4279
Email: lawmoney@case.edu
For Foreign Graduates
LL.M in U.S. & Global Legal Studies - for foreign graduates only
This program is for students interested in U.S. law who hope to improve their legal research, writing and analytical skills. This is the best degree to prepare for a US bar exam. Students may also earn a certificate of concentration in the subject area of their choice. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
LL.M in Intellectual Property Law - for foreign graduates only
This program is best for students interested in the doctrine and policy of U.S. intellectual property law, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
LL.M in International Business Law - for foreign graduates only
This program is designed for students interested in the academic analysis and practical applications of U.S. business law and international business transactions. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.
Visit Us
Visit the Law School - schedule your visit here
During the semester, we offer the opportunity for you to visit with us on campus every Monday through Friday.
During the semester, your visit will include:
- A tour of the law school building guided by a law student or an admissions staff member
- Observation of a law school class
- The opportunity to speak with a professor
- The opportunity to talk with current students
- The opportunity to meet with an Office of Admissions staff member as well as members of the Financial Aid Office and the Career Development Office
We have the feel of a small college and the power of a national law school. Visiting can help determine if we are a good fit for you. We invite you to schedule an appointment to visit us on campus at your convenience, or, perhaps, meet us somewhere closer to where you live. Either way, we’re sure that you will be impressed.
If you are interested in attending a class please register online to select the class you would like to attend. You will then be asked to provide some information about yourself and your visit. If your schedule does not allow for you to observe a class on the day you wish to visit or no classes are scheduled you may select "Tour Only."
(Although most law classes are not in session during the summer, we will be happy to schedule a visit for you.)
MEET US: RECRUITMENT TRAVEL
Law School admissions staff would love to meet you and answer your admissions questions at the following locationsaround the country this fall.
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
Office of Admissions
11075 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106-7148
phone: (216) 368-3600
toll-free: (800) 756-0036
email: lawadmissions@case.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. E.S.T.
Milton A. Kramer Law Clinic Center
We are leaders in experiential education
All of our students work to solve the client’s real-world problems. And, depending on the clinic or externship you take, your experience can include writing briefs, arguing in court, or presenting to boards of directors or organizations.
Milton A. Kramer Law Clinic Center
We were one of the first law schools in the country to start a clinical program. We opened to the community over 45 years ago, a long-standing history that demonstrates our commitment to clients, to the highest-quality representation, and to excellence in education. Our clinic is a law firm within the law school and is staffed with eight full-time faculty members who have years of practice experience themselves. You will represent clients and client groups who can’t afford their own lawyers. Our clinic handles more than 100 cases per year for a total of approximately 16,000 hours of pro bono legal work.
Each student takes primary responsibility for his/her caseload. Cases are often complex and include ongoing representation of organizations, civil, criminal, and administrative appeals, consumer disputes, disability rights, fraud claims, emergency commitment and competency hearings, patentability and patent applications, trademark and copyright issues, misdemeanor and felony cases in adult and juvenile court, and innocence-project cases. The six clinics in our center each provide experiences in different areas of law.
Civil Litigation Clinic: The nature of the problems in the Civil Litigation Clinic can vary considerably and therefore students represent clients in a wide range of matters. Some clients have been sued on old credit-card debts by collection agencies that have inadequate documentation. Some cases involve home repair disputes. Others involve money disputes with family members. Student interns have represented clients who were victims of police misconduct or have been discriminated against because they are homeless. Our students’ work has resulted in a $1.17 million for one of our clients and an Ohio Supreme Court case.
Criminal Justice Clinic: Students are certified to practice criminal law in both misdemeanor and felony courts either as counsel for defendants or as a prosecuting attorney. The foundation of our clinical work is defense of indigent clients, but we balance that work with a significant prosecution experience. Interns have also handled appeals as both defense counsel and prosecutor. During the Spring 2014 Criminal Justice Clinic, eight students received 1st chair trial experience while trying four criminal jury trials and arguing a case in the 8th District Court of Appeals.
Community Development Clinic (CDC): Students represent community-based for-profit and non-profit entities on the full range of issues on which business lawyers advise their clients. For start-ups, they advise on the client’s choice of entity decision and then create the entity, establish its management structure and, if it is non-profit, assist it in obtaining tax exemption. For already established businesses, our students act as general counsel advising their clients on how to operate in compliance with law that regulates their activities, including on employment, zoning, licensing and tax matters. Our students also serve as deal lawyers - they draft and negotiate contracts, help their clients to structure tax, real estate and corporate transactions and set-up subsidiaries. Our students also help clients protect their intellectual property.
Health Law Clinic: Students represent children and adults in Social Security disability claims, guardianships concerning incompetence, access to health care, special education for children with disabilities, and other health and disability law-related issues, in administrative and court proceedings. This year students will also represent veterans regarding VA disability benefits and participate in a pilot project with doctors at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital - University Hospital which will focus on children’s health issues.
Human Rights and Civil Rights Clinic: The Human Rights and Civil Rights Clinic provides students an opportunity to experience a diverse range of human rights and civil rights litigation and advocacy domestically and internationally. Students work on cases and projects, often as co-counsel with other lawyers and organizations, addressing constitutional rights and international human rights violations. Examples may include: representing non-citizens in the U.S. unlawfully stopped by local law enforcement for civil immigration violations; representing non-citizens in applications for relief from removal or deportation, asylum, withholding of removal, and protection under the Convention Against Torture; and partnering with foreign non-governmental organizations in the research, reporting, and litigation of international human rights matters.
Intellectual Property (IP) Venture Clinic: Added to our center in Fall 2013, the IP Venture Clinic helps bring science to market. Students work with entrepreneurs to develop an IP protection strategy and to prepare documentation with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Students also work with startups on developing a clear business strategy. They also draft charter documents for the company and agreements to handle stock options, if necessary.
For Both Foreign and US Graduates
LLM in International Criminal Law - for both foreign and US graduates
Taught by leading experts in the field, this program provides students who hold a degree in law with an in-depth knowledge of international criminal law and procedure, international humanitarian law and national security law. It will equip them to practice international criminal law before international tribunals or national courts. The one-year program is based at our law school, but students have the option of taking their second semester at an international tribunal. The degree is also available on a part-time basis over two years.
