FAQs

Certificate​

Is this LL.M. a Certificate or a Master’s degree ?

The LL.M. Certificate in International Law is legally awarded as a Certificate under the higher education regulations of the French-speaking Community of Belgium. However, the programme corresponds to an advanced postgraduate qualification at EQF Level 7 and carries 60 ECTS credits. It is designed for graduates and professionals seeking specialized expertise in international law. To help graduates explain the nature and level of the qualification to employers and institutions abroad, an explanatory letter is issued together with the certificate.

Yes. The programme is entirely taught in English, including the MOOCs, the Live Sessions, the examinations, and the research paper.

No. The programme is delivered fully online and can be completed from anywhere in the world. However, each year we organize a certificate ceremony in Louvain-la-Neuve, to which all graduates are invited (15 places available). This event provides an opportunity to spend two days on campus, receive your certificate, meet the professors, and connect in person with fellow students. Attendance at the ceremony is optional and is not required to complete the programme.

Admission​

What are the admission requirements ?

Applicants are expected to hold a Master’s degree in Law, Political Science, or International Relations. To apply, candidates must submit an online application, including:

  • A curriculum vitae ;
  • A copy of the master’s degree ;
  • A cover letter outlining the motivation and relevant background.

Yes. Applicants who do not hold the required Master’s degree may still be considered for admission through the recognition of relevant professional experience in the field of Law or International Affairs. All applications are reviewed individually by the Selection Committee, which evaluates candidates’ academic and professional backgrounds, as well as their motivation for joining the programme.

No. Applications from candidates without a master’s degree are not eligible for admission.

Applications are reviewed in two rounds each year:

  • First round: applications submitted between 1 September and 31 December. Admission decisions are communicated by mid-January.
  • Second round: applications submitted between 1 January and 31 May (final application deadline). Admission decisions are communicated by mid-June.
  • Applications received after 31 May are automatically placed on a waiting list.

Fees​

How much does the programme cost?

The tuition fee is 4,500 EUR for the complete programme, whether you choose the one-year or the two-year study track. There are no additional fees during the programme.

Yes. The tuition fee is identical for all students, regardless of nationality or country of residence.

At present, the programme does not offer scholarships or grants.

Yes. Students may pay the tuition fee in instalments. However, the full tuition fee must be paid no later than two weeks before the start of the programme. Students wishing to arrange a payment plan should contact the programme administration in advance. Please note that all tuition fees are non-refundable. Once a payment has been made, no refund can be granted, including in the event of withdrawal from the programme.

Content & Time Frame

What does the programme consist of?

The programme is composed of:

Together, these components represent a total workload of 60 ECTS credits.

The one-year track is intended for students who have already completed the MicroMasters programme or do not work full-time. For the other students, especially those working full-time, we strongly recommend the two-year track, which offers a more manageable workload and greater flexibility. For more information: see here.

During the first year, students complete the five MOOCs, each requiring approximately 40 to 60 hours of work. During the second year, students attend the live sessions (20 Live Sessions each of 2 hours) and should expect approximately 2 to 4 hours of preparation per session. The second year also includes the completion of the research paper, prepared over several months under the supervision of a faculty member.
The two-year track is designed to be compatible with full-time professional activity.

To be awarded the LL.M. Certificate in International Law, students must obtain:

  • A minimum average grade of 10/20 for the MOOCs
  • A minimum average grade of 10/20 for the Live Sessions examination
  • A minimum grade of 10/20 for the Research Paper

Students must successfully complete all programme requirements in order to graduate.

Students may conduct their research in one of the following fields:

  • International Public Law
  • International Humanitarian Law
  • International Human Rights Law
  • International Investment Law
  • Asylum and Refugee Law
  • International Environmental Law
  • International Criminal Law

Research topics are chosen in consultation with the academic team and supervisor.

No. However, students are strongly encouraged to attend all live sessions, as they provide opportunities for interaction with professors and fellow participants and help prepare for the final examination. The Live Sessions are not recorded.

The LL.M. Certificate in International Law is an advanced postgraduate qualification corresponding to Master’s-level learning outcomes (EQF Level 7). Admission to a PhD programme is always determined by the institution concerned, and prospective candidates should check the specific admission requirements of the university where they intend to apply.

Still have questions?

Contact us

May deadline approaching!

Application for the LL.M. must be submitted by May 31, 2027

⚠️ When applying, make sure to select the online Certificate LLMI2FC (to not confuse with the on campus Advanced Master in International Law)

 
Application Information