The Best Cambridge Colleges For Law

The Best Cambridge Colleges For Law in 2024

If you’re applying for a law degree at the University of Cambridge, selecting the right college is a crucial decision that can impact your overall university experience. With many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which college is the best fit for you. 

In this guide, we will explore and evaluate the best Cambridge colleges for law students based on several important factors. 

The Best Cambridge Colleges For Law

Below are the 6 best colleges for Law at Cambridge Univeristy in 2024. 

Downing College

Downing College is one of the best Cambridge colleges for Law. With around 90 applicants per year. 

Downing College offers an outstanding academic experience that goes beyond the classroom. As a student at this friendly and welcoming institution, you will enjoy a range of opportunities that will enable you to develop personally and academically.

Things that make Downing stand out is the way that teaching is structured.

Downing is the best Cambridge college for law

The University and the College work together to provide an education that’s both comprehensive and tailored to your needs. You’ll attend lectures and practical classes with students from other colleges, allowing you to learn from a diverse group of peers.

Law course has always been one of the principal courses taught at Downing. With one of the largest law college communities at Cambridge University, the Law Fellows and Bye-Fellows are always available to answer any questions regarding studying Law at Downing. They even welcome invitations to visit schools!

The nature of the course is such that they acquire skills that are relevant to a wide variety of careers. So, whether you want to become a lawyer, or are interested in exploring other career paths, a Law degree from Downing College could be a great choice for you.

The College’s Maitland Robinson Library is a fantastic resource, providing students with access to a vast array of books, journals and other materials. In addition, the College Computer Room is available for use by all students, allowing you to work on your assignments or conduct research at any time of the day or night.

Downing’s location is another huge advantage. The College is situated on Regent Street, just a stone’s throw away from many of the University’s faculties and departments. When you’re not in lectures or supervisions, you can explore all that Cambridge has to offer, from its museums and theatres to its pubs and restaurants.

Downing is an exceptional place to study (Law) LLB and live. With its excellent accommodation, a wealth of opportunities and a supportive community, it’s the perfect environment for Law students who want to achieve their full potential and career.

At Downing College, the standard conditional offer for Law is typically AAA at A Level or 41-43 points overall and 7, 7, 6 at a Higher Level in the International Baccalaureate. Submitted work is not required. All applicants need to take the LNAT test.  

Gonville and Caius

For sure we can say that Gonville and Caius is one of the best Cambridge colleges for law degrees. 

Studying law at Caius College at Cambridge is an excellent choice for those interested in a world-class education and an intellectually challenging, supportive, and forward-thinking community. 

By choosing Caius, you will be joining a community of lawyers who are leaders in their fields across the globe.

The Cambridge law course is designed to encourage students to think critically, read widely, and develop their conclusions about the law, its effects, and the policies that underpin it. 

With the opportunity to study abroad and a wide range of subjects, you will acquire analytical skills that will open doors to diverse careers. 

Keep in mind, Caius is a traditional law college with a strong reputation for law and a team of experienced supervisors with diverse research interests. This unique combination enables Caius to provide in-house undergraduate supervisions, which helps students build strong relationships within the community and receive tailored academic support.

Life at Caius College is a good experience that places you at the heart of the bustling University town. Located in the centre just off the market square, within minutes of the University Library and other faculties, making it easy to attend lectures, access sports facilities, and enjoy the many shops and cafes nearby.

Caius has a large and diverse community of students, including approximately 500 undergraduates and 260 graduates, making it one of the largest and most vibrant colleges in Cambridge. 

The largest and most vibrant colleges in Cambridge

This means that there is a wealth of people to meet and connect with, as well as a wide range of clubs, societies, and social events to participate in. 

Trinity Hall

Are you interested in studying law at one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Cambridge? Trinity Hall has a long tradition of teaching student law. Legal education has been a priority for over 650 years, it’s considered as oldest and the best Cambridge colleges for law.

Trinity Hall College at Cambridge is considered as one of the best law colleges

Founded by William Bateman, Bishop of Norwich, in 1350, Trinity Hall has a rich history of excellence in the law. Its Fellows and students have aspired to the highest levels of achievement in the Law, and many have gone on to successful legal careers as practitioners, judges, and academic lawyers.

Although the number of undergraduate Law students admitted to Trinity Hall has decreased in recent years, the college remains committed to providing top-notch legal education. 

The Law Fellows at Trinity Hall are dedicated to academic excellence in the study of law and are passionate about fostering a friendly and supportive legal community. Regardless of your background, you will find an inclusive environment where you can thrive and develop the skills and critical understanding needed for a successful career in law.

At Trinity Hall, you will have access to world-class resources to aid in your legal studies, including a Law Library that houses over 60,000 books, including rare books and manuscripts. The college also offers an extensive program of legal research seminars and lectures, which bring leading legal scholars from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise.

Trinity Hall also provides opportunities for you to gain practical legal experience outside of the classroom. The college has close ties with the legal profession, and you will have access to a wide range of internships and work placements. 

The learning process of a law course at Trinity Hall College Cambridge involves attending lectures, participating in small group teaching through supervision, and taking written examinations. The lectures are taught by members of the Faculty of Law, and students attend an average of 10-12 hours of lectures per week.

Jerwood Library is an excellent resource for students pursuing a law degree, with a well-stocked Law collection on the top floor. Students can enjoy breathtaking views of the River Cam and The Backs while studying.

College has a vibrant student-led Law Society that organizes engaging speaker events, mooting competitions, and social events throughout the year.

Magdalene College

If you’re looking for a law college that provides an active and supportive legal community, Magdalene College is the perfect fit. 

With three Fellows in Law, the college boasts a large, friendly, and active legal community that has achieved numerous successes in law.

Magdalene College at University of Cambridge in the UK

Since 2002, Magdalene law students have won over 20 University prizes in the Law Tripos, including five students who topped a Part of the Tripos across the University in 2003, 2004, 2008, 2013, and 2017. 

These achievements demonstrate the quality of legal education that Magdalene College offers, with its students excelling in various aspects of the field.

The Wigglesworth Law Library is a great resource for law students, offering a strong core collection of legal materials. Whether you’re studying for an exam or conducting research, the library has everything you need to support your academic goals.

Magdalene College Law Society is an essential part of the college’s legal community, and the society’s officers are undergraduates who take an active role in organising its activities. The society organises social events each term, such as the careers evening and second-hand book sale, which provide a great opportunity to connect with other law students and professionals.

Magdalene College is situated in a beautiful location, right on the River Cam. The college’s stunning setting is something that many students and visitors find truly memorable. The picturesque riverside offers a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

While Magdalene College is not located in the heart of the city, it is still conveniently located, with most of Cambridge’s main attractions within easy reach. Everything is easily walkable or cyclable from the college, allowing students to explore the city’s many shops, cafes, museums, and other cultural landmarks.

St. John’s College

St John’s College is one of the most prestigious colleges in Cambridge and is renowned for its law programme. The college has a strong tradition in legal education, with several famous alumni, including former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. 

St John’s College has a world-class law course and provides students with access to some of the most distinguished legal scholars and practitioners. Admits around 12 undergraduates each year to its Law programme. 

As soon as students arrive on campus, they are immersed in the fundamentals of legal studies. The college places a strong emphasis on building foundational skills, including legal reading, writing, argumentation, and textual analysis. These skills are essential for success in the legal field, and St John’s ensures that its students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

One of the unique features of the Law programme at St John’s College is its focus on the interdisciplinary nature of legal studies. Students are encouraged to explore the connections between law, philosophy, politics, and other fields. This broad approach to legal education helps students develop a deeper understanding of the complex issues they will encounter as legal professionals.

Churchill College

As a law student at Churchill College, you’ll have a unique experience compared to those at the older and more prestigious colleges at Cambridge University. Churchill is a newer, modern and vibrant college, providing an atmosphere that’s different from the traditional academic environment.

While your lectures will be held centrally at the Cambridge Faculty of Law, your community will be at Churchill, where the thriving group of undergraduate and postgraduate students ensures a diverse and dynamic atmosphere. The college’s Fellows, who have varied interests from company law and tax to philosophy and jurisprudence, contribute to the welcoming environment for law students.

One of the many benefits of being a law student at Churchill College is that you’ll be automatically enrolled as a member of the Churchill Law Society. This student-run society brings together the law community, providing a platform for informal mentoring and regularly organized events.

The society’s activities help students to expand their legal knowledge and network with fellow law students and professionals.

Churchill’s location is quite convenient, being just a few minute’s bike ride away from the town centre, and it’s located near the University Library, which is perfect for students who need easy access to research materials.

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Why Study Law at Cambridge University?

Studying law at Cambridge University provides students with a world-class legal education that is respected worldwide. 

Cambridge University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, and its law school is consistently ranked as one of the best in the UK. According to the Time Higher Education ranking report, Cambridge is ranked number 1 in the UK and 3 in the World for Law degrees. 

Cambridge University’s law courses are home to some of the most distinguished legal scholars and practitioners, which ensures that students receive a top-tier legal education.

Cambridge Colleges offers a wide range of law courses that cater to different interests and career aspirations. Students can choose to pursue undergraduate law degrees (LLB), postgraduate law degrees (LLM), or research degrees

The university’s law faculty is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to legal studies, which ensures that students are exposed to a wide range of legal perspectives.

In addition to the high-quality legal education, studying law at Cambridge University provides students with numerous opportunities to gain practical experience. 

The law colleges have strong links with leading law firms, barristers’ chambers, and other legal institutions, which provides students with access to internships, work placements, and other career-enhancing opportunities.

What is the Cambridge Law Test?

If you are applying to Law you may have heard about the Cambridge Law Test, a unique aspect of the Cambridge admissions process and entry requirement for years. 

However, as of 2022, the university has changed this requirement, and instead, applicants are only required to take the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT).

For those curious about the Cambridge Law Test, it was an exam designed to assess a student’s aptitude for the subject. This test included legal scenario questions, multiple-choice questions, and an essay section. 

According to the university, prior knowledge of the law was not necessary, and the test aimed to evaluate a student’s understanding and presentation skills.

The essay section of the test was perhaps the most challenging, and applicants had one hour to craft an argument in response to a given prompt. The test was administered on the day of the student’s interview, adding an extra layer of pressure.

Although the Cambridge Law Test is no longer a requirement, it’s still important to understand the format and expectations of such tests. 

Do I need to take the LNAT test?

All applicants are required to take the LNAT test as a part of the Admission process at Cambridge. 

The LNAT test is a part of the admission process for universities to determine who they will accept into their undergraduate law programmes. This comprehensive test comprises two distinct sections,  a multiple-choice exam and an essay. It lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes. 

It is worth noting that the LNAT test is not designed to assess your knowledge of law or any other particular subject. Rather, it measures your ability to learn and apply the fundamental skills necessary to succeed in law school. 

It is highly recommended that students practice and prepare for this exam.

Section A involves a computer-based multiple-choice exam that requires you to read and comprehend passages of text. This section evaluates your understanding of the text, and your scores will be automatically assessed by the computer system. Your resulting LNAT score will be marked out of a total of 42.

In Section B, you will be presented with three different essay prompts, and you must compose an essay on one of them. While this section is not graded by the testing centre, it provides an opportunity for you to demonstrate your ability to construct persuasive arguments and draw logical conclusions.

Entry Requirements for Law Cambridge Colleges

Law at Cambridge is a highly competitive course, with over 1500 applicants every year. The entry requirements for studying law at Cambridge University are quite competitive, and prospective applicants are required to meet high academic standards. 

For undergraduate law degrees (LLB), the university requires applicants to have excellent academic records, with a minimum of AAA at A-level or equivalent. Applicants are also required to take the Law National Admissions Test (LNAT), which assesses their critical thinking skills and aptitude for the study of law.

Applicants for Law must take the LNAT test from 1 September to 15 October.  Applicants can register for the LNAT test from 1 August to 15 September 2023.

Typical successful applicants have A-levels in English, History and Mathematics

Most of the college’s written work is not required. However, some colleges require them to submit written work. These are Lucy Cavendish, Pembroke, St Edmund’s and Wolfson. 

Also, you will need to submit a personal statement before 15 October via UCAS.

Cambridge Law Acceptance Rate

Law is a very competitive course. The acceptance rate for law at Cambridge University is relatively low, with only a small percentage of applicants being admitted each year. 

The acceptance rate varies depending on the college, with some colleges being more competitive than others. According to the official Admission report, the acceptance rate for undergraduate law degrees at Cambridge University is 13%.

In 2021, 1870 students applied with 246 applicants accepted. 

Choosing The Best Cambridge College For Law

If you are considering studying law at the University of Cambridge, one of the most important decisions you will need to make is which college to apply to. With 31 colleges to choose from, each with its unique character and strengths, it can be a daunting task to decide which one is the best fit for you. 

We share some tips and guidance to help you choose the best Cambridge college for law.

  • Do your research – The first step in choosing a college is to do your research. Look at each college’s website, student forums, and guides like ours, read their prospectus and try to get a sense of what they offer. You may also want to consider factors such as location, accommodation, and social life. It’s important to have a good understanding of what each college can offer you before making your decision.
  • Consider your academic interests – When choosing a college, it’s important to consider your academic interests. Some colleges may have particular strengths in certain areas of law, and you may want to choose a college that aligns with your interests. 
  • Community and networking are important – Another important factor to consider is the community at each college. The people you meet and the friendships you form during your time at Cambridge will be an important part of your university experience and career. 
  • Size of the college – The size of the college is another important factor to consider. Some colleges are small and intimate, while others are larger and more bustling. Think about the kind of environment you thrive in and consider whether you would prefer a smaller or larger college.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the best Cambridge college for the law is a decision that can impact your academic and personal life. 

It’s crucial to consider a variety of factors such as academic reputation, student experience, and lifestyle to make a good decision. 

With this ultimate guide, you have a better understanding of what to look for when selecting your law college. 

FAQ

Is Cambridge a good university for law?

Yes, Cambridge is a highly regarded university for studying law. It is consistently ranked as one of the top law schools in the world, and its law programme is highly competitive and prestigious.

Is Cambridge law hard to get into?

The Law course is very competitive. It’s much harder to get into a Law course at Cambridge than into other universities in the UK. Typically applicants will need to achieve A*AA in A-level grades.