J.D. Study Abroad
USC Law offers four study abroad programs* for J.D. students which provide opportunities to learn about foreign legal systems and experience different cultures. Qualified second and third year J.D. candidates are exposed to international law as they take part in exchange programs with leading partner institutions worldwide. Experience in other cultures and knowledge of international legal arenas is important for law school graduates in an increasingly interconnected world.
Information sessions are held each fall for current J.D. students on the study abroad opportunities available through USC Law. Current students may view detailed policies and application materials on the law school portal.
* Study abroad offerings are subject to change in any given semester. Admission to the J.D. program does not guarantee admission to participate in a USC Law study abroad program. Please contact the Graduate & International Programs office for the most up-to-date information.
USC Gould School of Law
Graduate & International Programs
699 Exposition Boulevard, Room 105
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0071
Tel: 213-821-5916
Email: studyabroad@law.usc.edu
Website: law.usc.edu/studyabroad
Testimonials
“The semester abroad program provided me with a great experience that I would recommend to almost anyone, particularly students who are interested in meeting different types of people and learning about different countries and cultures.” Gloria Chang, J.D. 2007
“The best part of the program was the opportunity to become immersed in a different culture, legal community, and business environment. It was really interesting to learn about what else is out there, outside of the legal community in the United States, as well as to see all the massive opportunities for growth in business in different parts of the world.” Lutfi Kharuf, J.D. 2009
“The exchange program is a fantastic opportunity that all students should consider. It greatly adds to the law school experience, and those that go through the program finish law school with a broader and more enlightened view of law that cannot be acquired otherwise.” Phillip Lin, J.D. 2009
“I now have more guidance in my long-term career goals and I’ve networked and made connections with lawyers and professors all over the world. I truly believe the experience was invaluable in helping to direct my future.” Betsy Popken, J.D. 2010
FAQs
Who is eligible to participate in USC Law study abroad programs?
USC Law study abroad programs are only open to current USC Law J.D. students. Current students may participate in the fall or spring of the 2L year or the fall of the 3L year. Transfer students, LL.M. students, and students on restricted enrollment are not eligible to study abroad.
How many students are selected to study abroad each year?
USC Law can send up to 2 USC J.D. students to each program each semester. Since we can only send a limited number of students, the selection process tends to be quite competitive.
What is the application process?
Applications and policies are available to current J.D. students on the law school’s portal website. Students rank programs of interest on the application form. Applications are due in the spring of each year, after which interviews are conducted with candidates for all programs.
What is the admissions committee looking for in a candidate?
The committee weighs academic records heavily. Since studying abroad requires a lot of self-motivated study, we look for students who perform well in school and also prove to be independent in nature. Some experience abroad may be helpful, as well as having clear ideas on how this program will aid long-term academic, professional and personal goals.
How much does the program cost?
Exchange program students continue to pay fulltime USC Law tuition while they study abroad. Students will be individually responsible for all other fees, including health insurance, housing, meals, transportation, etc.
Can I participate in another study abroad program not sponsored by USC Law?
Students can participate in another ABA-accredited law school study abroad program during the summer. A maximum of five units from an approved program may be considered to be transferred to students’ JD degrees, which must be approved by and coordinated with the law school Registrar before attending any study abroad program. Participation in an outside study abroad program not sponsored by USC Law during the academic year is not encouraged. Interested students must petition to the law school’s Registrar.
