Law

How to Apply

Here's your step-by-step guide to applying to law school in Australia!

Overview

We know there’s a lot of information on this page, but don’t worry—OzTREKK will be right there with you.

Here’s what you’ll find on this page:

If you have questions or concerns at any stage in the process, we are just a call or an email away!

1. Eligibility

Determining Your Eligibility

Eligibility is based on academic merit. To determine your eligibility,

Minimum vs Competitive Requirements

It’s important to distinguish between minimum and competitive requirements as they can vary significantly. Minimum requirements are defined by each university and are the lowest scores (GPA) required to be eligible to apply to a program. Competitive requirements are the minimum scores that receive an offer.

It’s our goal to be honest and transparent about your chances of receiving an offer, because meeting the minimum requirements does not mean you’ll be a competitive applicant. Sometimes applicants decide to apply to a different program—and we can help with that, too!

Check out our helpful FAQs for more insight on eligibility.

2. Apply Online

Start Your Application

Fill out the OzTREKK application.

Don’t worry! This application only comes to us. Think of it as your starting point: It’s nothing more than you telling us which programs you’re interested in so we can ensure you don’t miss a deadline.

What to expect on the application
The basics! Your full name, address, program of interest, etc., plus your education history—so have start and graduation dates handy. If you can’t remember your exact start or grad date, just put an estimate.

Once you’ve pressed “Submit,” we’ll contact you to outline your next steps, and will list which documents you’ll need to send to our office. Again, we aim to make sure you never miss a deadline!

If you’d like to make changes to your application or to your program selection, don’t stress. We can adjust anything as we go!

3. Submit Documents

Send Your Documents to OzTREKK

You’ve pressed “Submit” on your OzTREKK application and you’re ready for the next step: sending in your documents!

No guessing required. We’ll send you a handy checklist outlining all the required documentation for each university.

Where do I send my documents?
All application documents, aside from your official transcripts*, should be emailed to OzTREKK as PDFs: law@oztrekk.com

*Transcripts in their original, sealed envelopes must be mailed to the OzTREKK office or emailed directly from your school to our office: transcripts@oztrekk.com

How do I know OzTREKK received my documents?
As soon as we receive your transcripts (whether by email or by post), and the other required documents, we will let you know—every time. Just keep an eye on your inbox!

When do I send my documents?
The earlier the better! We’ll need all documents sent to us before the application deadlines; the earlier we have them, the more guidance we can provide. You can also send them along gradually, as you get them. We’ll take care of keeping you organized.

Fast Facts

  • Even if you apply to multiple universities, you only need to send one copy of your documents.
  • All our university partners accept OzTREKK-certified transcripts. Once they have our stamp of approval (yes, a literal stamp), they’re good to go!
  • Most universities waive their application fees for OzTREKK students.
  • You will be kept up to date with your application status: outstanding documents, which applications have been submitted, upcoming deadlines, etc.

4. OzTREKK Submits Application

OzTREKK Submits Your Complete Application(s)

Once all your documents are in, OzTREKK will submit your application to the university! We’ll send you a confirmation email and provide an outcome date estimate.

Now what?
This is the waiting period. It can be stressful, but now that your application is under assessment, we will share everything you need to know in this “layover” phase! This will include

  • resources for confident decision-making if you receive an offer (or multiple offers!);
  • financing information (including contacts); and
  • community connections (OzTREKK events and more!).

Best Fit

Finding Your Best Fit

Play around with our compare programs feature to determine which program might be the best fit for you.

Remember, we’re here for you throughout the entire process, so always feel free to ask us questions. You deserve the right to feel comfortable and confident with your decision, and we’ll do whatever we can to support you.

Happy applying!

FAQs

Have a look through our law FAQs, including program titles, eligibility, practicing in Canada, and much more! If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, please contact us. We’re here to help!

Can I apply if I’m only 17?

Yes, but you’ll require parental or guardian consent (signature). OzTREKK will provide the necessary documentation for this signature.

If you won’t be 18 when your program starts, you’ll be required to show that you’ll be living with an approved guardian until you turn 18. If you don’t have an approved guardian in Australia, you may need a family member to apply for a guardian visa to accompany you. This guardian visa should be obtained as part of the student visa application

 

Can my entire application be submitted through OzTREKK?

Absolutely. We will manage and submit your application(s) on your behalf and communicate any updates from the universities. We’re here to be an advocate for you, and to walk you through the entire process from start to finish.

OzTREKK will keep you on track with application deadlines, interview dates, and any applicable events. We’ll supply you with a step-by-step list of what you’ll need to submit, and when.

Should you have any questions along the way, just send us an email or book a chat! That’s why we’re here!

Are there any scholarships for international students?

Scholarship options in Australia are usually limited for international students as they tend to be reserved for those undertaking postgraduate research degrees; however, we can advise you where to look and whether specific programs have a history of offering scholarships.

Occasionally, scholarships are granted to high achievers—those with very high marks. In previous years, we have seen $5000- to $10,000-scholarships given to OzTREKK students.

Check out OzTREKK’s Financing page to learn more about scholarships and paying for your degree.

What does “rolling admissions” mean?

Rolling admissions means the university assesses applications as they are received, or on a “first come, first served” basis. As soon as they’ve met the quota and the program is filled, they close the applications. So, for a program that has rolling admissions, the earlier you apply the better!

How does OzTREKK know if my application will be competitive?

The majority of Canadians applying to full-degree programs in Australia (i.e., not study abroad courses, which usually only last a semester or two) apply through OzTREKK. They’re studying medicine, dentistry, law, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc.

Since they’re using OzTREKK’s services, this gives us a good idea of the starting point of a competitive application each year, allowing us to help you determine which universities/programs are most likely to present you with a letter of offer!

You can get started on determining your chances by reviewing the admissions requirements on each program page. Then, visit our GPA Conversions and Eligibility pages for details and suggestions to help you get into the program of your dreams. Of course, OzTREKK is always here to help if you have questions.

What is a 5.0 GPA in Australia?

Unlike in Canada, GPAs in Australia are simple. They are standardized, so they mean the same thing to everyone.

In Australia, a 5.0 / 7.0 would roughly translate to a 2.7 / 4.0 or approximately 70% – 72%, but keep in mind all universities assess slightly differently.

Learn more on our GPA Conversions page where we list the most common Canadian GPA scales to their corresponding Australian GPA grade.

Which prerequisites do I need?

Prerequisite courses vary by university and by program. We’ve listed university- and program-specific requirements on each program’s page under “Admissions Requirements.”

How do universities calculate GPA?

Calculations differ by university, but most use cumulative (all units within a program) or weighted GPA (typically last 2 or 3 years of study). See GPA Calculations for more information.

What are official transcripts, and how do I send them?

Currently, our Australian universities require original transcripts to assess your application—certified by OzTREKK, which means we have to put our stamp on paper. Literally.

Usually, students order transcripts from their high school, college and/or university and have them mailed to our office. Alternatively, you can pick up your transcripts and mail them to OzTREKK, as long as they remain in their original, sealed envelopes.

You will need to submit final transcripts (showing your degree/diploma is completed) from every institution you have attended. We only require one copy of each transcript, even if you apply to multiple universities or programs.

OzTREKK educational services
301-1 Sherbrooke St. E.
Perth, ON K7H 1A1 CANADA

Alternatively, your high school, college and/or university can email them to transcripts@oztrekk.com.

P.S. Try sending your documents via FedEx and Purolator, especially when you need your documents to arrive at our office ASAP. If you use Canada Post’s courier Xpresspost, please don’t request a signature, as this can add unexpected delays!

As soon as your transcript arrives, we’ll let you know!

What are the average marks for entry?

Varies by university and program chosen. If you’re considering a graduate-entry law degree, the minimum cGPA is approximately 65% — 70%; competitive is 75% – 80% cGPA.

For Bachelor of Laws degrees, most eligible candidates have a high school diploma with an overall average of approximately 65% – 75%.

Can I stay in Australia to practice?

While graduates are eligible to continue the steps to practice in Australia, it is imperative to understand the visa process that is associated with continuing to live and work in Australia. Find out more about staying in Australia to practice law.

What if my transcripts / documents are not in English?

If your documents are not in English, you must provide full translation of each document, either prepared by your university or by a registered translator. You must not translate the documents yourself.

Please note OzTREKK must receive the official translation directly from the university or translator in order to certify the document. Please read How Do I Send My Transcripts for more information.

Are there any scholarships available to law students?

Scholarship options in Australia are usually limited for international students as they tend to be reserved for those undertaking postgraduate research degrees; however, we can advise you where to look for scholarships and whether specific programs have a history of offering scholarships.

In 2018, OzTREKK law students received more than AUD $80,000 in scholarships!

Is the LSAT required for Australian university law programs?

Of the OzTREKK-represented law degrees, only Monash University Law School will accept the LSAT, but it is not required. Depending on your GPA, submitting a strong LSAT can make your application more competitive.

Undergraduate Bachelor of Laws programs do not require the LSAT.

How will the law schools calculate my average? From my last two years, or from all years?

All OzTREKK-represented law programs will base your law application academic assessment on your cumulative average.

If you’re considering undergraduate-entry law degrees straight from high school, they will consider your top 5 – 6 courses from your Grade 12 results, depending on your province.

Check university-specific law program pages for details.

Will my Australian law degree be recognized in Canada?

Graduate qualifications in law from Australian universities are recognized internationally. The basic process when returning to Canada and meeting the requirements to practice as a lawyer is as follows:

  • NCA – Assessment and challenge examinations
  • Articling (or a Law Practice Program – LPP)
  • Barrister & Solicitor Exams
  • Being “called to the Bar”

When you return to Canada after completing an international Law degree, including a degree from an Australian law school, you will first apply to have your credentials assessed by the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA). All applications are assessed by the NCA on a case-by-case basis because everyone’s application is usually unique based on their own personal experiences and academic history.

NCA assessments focus on the core common law subjects in which you will demonstrate competence, including five Canadian subjects which are mandatory for all applicants. Most Australian law school graduates who apply through the NCA would be asked to complete challenge exams in the following five areas:

1. Canadian Administrative Law
2. Canadian Constitutional Law
3. Canadian Criminal Law
4. Foundations of Canadian Law
5. Canadian Professional Responsibility

Once you have successfully completed the assigned requirements, the NCA will issue a Certificate of Qualification. That certificate is required to apply to a Canadian law society in a common law jurisdiction. Be sure to visit the Federation of Law Societies of Canada website for accreditation and certification information and contact us if you have any questions.

For further details on the steps required, please visit our Practicing law in Canada page.

When can I start my law studies in Australia?

Australian law programs commence in the first semester of each year, which is in late February/early March. Many of our law programs also have mid-year (June/July) and third-trimester intakes (August/September).

Learn more about your law degree options.

What is the difference between the undergraduate-entry Bachelor of Laws, and the graduate-entry Bachelor of Laws, and the Juris Doctor?

The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and the Bachelor of Laws graduate-entry (LLB GE) and Juris Doctor (JD) are all law degrees which upon their completion enable you to apply in your jurisdiction to practice as a lawyer.

Bachelor of Laws (LLB): This is an undergraduate law degree. Students can enter this LLB program directly from high school or after a college diploma or partially completed university degree.

Bachelor of Laws (LLB GE): Some Australian universities offer a graduate-entry stream for the LLB, which means applicants require an undergraduate degree to be eligible for entry.

Juris Doctor (JD): This is a graduate-entry law degree. Applicants require an undergraduate degree to be eligible for entry.

All LLB and JD programs educate students to practice law and allow you to apply for registration in Canada. The main difference is that the LLB is offered at the undergraduate level, and the JD is offered at the postgraduate level.