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Choosing the right subjects during your A-Levels or International Baccalaureate (IB) can significantly impact your chances of attending a top law school. For aspiring law students, selecting subjects that develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a solid understanding of societal structures is essential. In this article, Bearing Academy consultant in Legal Zaheed Evans explores the A-Levels and IB subjects recommended for future law studies.  

Understanding the Requirements

Law schools generally seek students with strong academic records and a demonstrated ability to think critically and communicate effectively. While specific requirements vary by university, most law programmes emphasise the importance of subjects that foster analytical and writing skills.

It is essential to research the specific requirements of the universities you are interested in. Some universities might have preferred subjects or additional requirements. For instance, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge often look for candidates with a background in traditional academic subjects.

Recommended A-Level Subjects for Law

Essay-based subjects in A-Level are seen as a training field for comprehension and analytical skills:  

History: Law schools value history as it provides insights into a society’s social, political, and economic developments relevant to many legal issues.   Historical context can enrich your understanding of legal principles and their evolution.   Historical research methods are similar to legal research, involving the ability to find, evaluate, and synthesise information.  Additionally, studying History requires an in-depth analysis of sources, forming arguments and evaluating evidence in clear, structured and persuasive writing, which is essential for legal studies.   

English Literature explores the complexities of human behaviour and motivation, providing insights into human nature.   This subject demands close reading and deep analysis of texts, enabling you to interpret complex information and form reasoned arguments.   Additionally, English Literature develops a firm grasp of language and its nuances, essential for legal drafting and interpretation.

Politics delves into the intricacies of governance, the law-making process, and constitutional frameworks, providing a solid foundation for legal studies.  It offers insights into social, economic, and political issues, providing a broader context for legal problems.   Students are encouraged to analyse political ideologies, policies, and events by studying Politics and developing critical thinking skills essential for legal reasoning.  The study involves constructing and evaluating arguments, a skill central to legal practice.  

Philosophy encourages deep analysis, questioning assumptions, exploring moral and ethical questions and evaluating arguments, which are essential for legal reasoning and problem-solving. Many legal concepts are abstract, requiring thinking beyond concrete facts. Philosophy helps develop this capacity. Additionally, Philosophy often involves clear and concise writing, which is essential for legal drafting. 

Mathematics and Economics offer unique skill sets that benefit law school applications.  Mathematics epitomises logical thinking, emphasising the ability to solve problems by breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts, which is crucial to law studies.  Economics provides insights into how economic factors influence legal frameworks, particularly in commercial or regulatory law areas.   This subject requires a deep understanding of complex systems and the ability to analyse cause and effect, skills directly transferable to law studies. Additionally, Economic analysis often involves data analysis and statistical methods, which can be helpful in legal research and argumentation.

Foreign language:  Studying a foreign language has been linked to improved cognitive abilities, such as memory, problem-solving and critical thinking.  These skills are crucial for legal analysis and argumentation.   Of numerous foreign languages, French is seen as a language widely used in international institutions, especially from an international relations perspective, such as the United Nations.   Mandarin, an oriental language widely used by the Chinese population worldwide, offers significant career prospects in business and international relations.      

Recommended IB Subjects for Law

For aspiring IB students passionate about law, taking at least 2 High-Level (HL) subjects, essay-based subjects, and Theory of Knowledge subjects would benefit law school applications. 

Studies in Language and Literature enhance critical analysis and interpretation skills, which are fundamental for law studies.

Individuals and Societies (History, Global Politics, or Economics) develop a broad understanding of societal structures and economic principles, providing a strong foundation for law studies.

Sciences (Environmental Systems and Societies, ESS, or Biology) encourage analytical thinking and evidence-based reasoning, which are beneficial for legal studies.

Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation) strengthen problem-solving and logical reasoning skills, which are crucial for law.

Balancing Interests and Requirements

While meeting university requirements is essential, choosing subjects you are passionate about is also important. Balancing your interests with required subjects can lead to a more fulfilling educational experience. Additionally, engaging in law-related extracurricular activities, such as debate club or mock trials, can strengthen your university application by demonstrating your commitment and interest in the field. 

Work Experience

Gaining work experience or internships in legal settings can provide valuable insights and enhance your application.

How We Can Help

Selecting the right A-Level or IB subjects is a critical step for aspiring students for law study. Students can enhance their university applications by choosing subjects that develop analytical and communication skills and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities and work experiences.  For personalised guidance and support in law school application, contact Bearing Academy's professional consultants at info@bearing-academy.com. Our experts can help you navigate the subject selection process and strengthen your law school applications.

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Sources:

- UCAS: [UCAS Law Course Requirements](https://www.ucas.com)

- University of Oxford: [Oxford Law Admissions](https://www.ox.ac.uk)

- University of Cambridge: [Cambridge Law Admissions](https://www.cam.ac.uk)

- Financial Times: [Business School Rankings 2024](https://www.ft.com)