As higher education evolves in the digital age, studying law is no longer restricted to traditional, on-campus experiences. Thanks to the expansion of accredited online programs, students can now earn law degrees from reputable institutions without ever stepping into a physical classroom. Even better, many of these programs come with scholarships and financial aid opportunities, making a legal education more accessible than ever.
Whether you're a working professional, an international student, or someone looking for a flexible study option, online law degrees with scholarships could be your perfect pathway. In this article, we explore top accredited online law degree options, the types of scholarships available, and how to find the program that best fits your goals.
Why Choose an Online Law Degree?
In 2025, the legal profession continues to diversify, with more roles requiring legal knowledge outside traditional courtroom careers. Online law degrees cater to this shift and offer several benefits:
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Flexibility: Study on your own schedule, from any location.
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Affordability: Lower tuition fees and no need for relocation or commuting.
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Career Advancement: Continue working while earning your degree.
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Global Reach: Access degrees from top institutions even if you're in a different country.
It's important to note that while many online law programs are accredited, they may differ in their outcomes—some qualify you for the bar exam, while others focus on legal theory, business law, or paralegal studies.
Types of Online Law Degrees
Before diving into scholarships, it’s crucial to understand the types of online law programs available:
1. Juris Doctor (JD) – U.S.
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Designed for students who want to become licensed attorneys.
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Limited accredited online JD programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
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Some states now allow online JD graduates to sit for the bar.
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.)
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Ideal for practicing lawyers who want to specialize (e.g., in tax law or international law).
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Available to both U.S. and international students.
3. Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) – U.K., Australia, Commonwealth Countries
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Equivalent to a JD in many countries.
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Offered by several accredited institutions online.
4. Legal Studies / Paralegal Degrees
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Non-lawyer programs focused on foundational legal knowledge.
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Useful for careers in business, compliance, or administration.
Top Accredited Online Law Degree Providers (2025)
1. University of London – LL.B. (UK)
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Accreditation: UK Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)
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Delivery: Fully online through distance learning
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Scholarships: Commonwealth Scholarships, Regional Bursaries
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Specialization: Criminal law, human rights, contract law
Why Choose It: A globally recognized law degree that prepares students for bar qualification in many countries.
2. St. Francis School of Law – JD (USA)
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Accreditation: California State Bar Committee of Bar Examiners
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Delivery: 100% online JD program
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Scholarships: Need-based and merit scholarships available
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Bar Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the California Bar Exam
Good Fit For: Students seeking an affordable U.S. law degree with bar eligibility in California.
3. Arizona State University – Master of Legal Studies (MLS)
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Accreditation: American Bar Association (for JD program); HLC for online programs
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Focus: For non-lawyers wanting legal knowledge in business, health care, or technology
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Scholarships: ASU Online Scholarships, corporate partner discounts
Best For: Professionals wanting to improve legal literacy in their fields without practicing law.
4. University of Southern Queensland (USQ), Australia – Bachelor of Laws
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Accreditation: Recognized by the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board in Australia
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Delivery: Online and flexible study model
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Scholarships: International student scholarships, equity-based grants
Key Benefit: Designed for international students; eligible for legal practice in Australia with further training.
5. Open University (UK) – Law Degree (LL.B. Hons)
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Accreditation: Solicitors Regulation Authority and Bar Standards Board
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Delivery: Entirely online, flexible schedule
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Scholarships: Disabled student scholarships, part-time learner bursaries
Ideal For: UK-based and Commonwealth students seeking affordable entry into the legal profession.
Scholarships for Online Law Degrees
Financial aid is increasingly available to online students, including law students. Here are the most common types of scholarships:
1. University-Specific Scholarships
Many institutions offer:
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Merit-based awards for academic excellence
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Need-based scholarships based on financial status
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Diversity or inclusion grants for underrepresented groups
Example: University of London’s EMFSS bursary supports students from developing nations.
2. Government-Funded Scholarships
Some governments now allow online learners to benefit from national aid schemes:
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Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships (UK-funded)
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Australia Awards Scholarships (some programs include online study)
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Fulbright for Online Short-Term Courses (for professionals)
3. Private Foundation Scholarships
Organizations like the Institute for International Education (IIE) or Soros Foundation offer legal education funding for students with exceptional need or from crisis regions.
4. Employer Sponsorship or Reimbursement
If you're working while studying, ask your employer about:
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Tuition reimbursement
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Sponsored education
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Corporate scholarships tied to legal compliance or HR roles
How to Qualify for Scholarships
To improve your chances of getting financial support for your online law degree:
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Maintain Strong Academics – Most merit-based scholarships require a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
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Submit Early Applications – Scholarships have earlier deadlines than program admissions.
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Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose – Explain your career goals, legal interests, and financial need clearly.
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Provide Documentation – This may include transcripts, reference letters, and proof of income.
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Demonstrate Social Impact – Highlight community service or leadership to stand out.
Are Online Law Degrees Respected?
Yes—if accredited, online law degrees are increasingly respected by employers, especially for roles that don't require bar passage, such as:
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Compliance officer
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Legal researcher
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Contract analyst
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Policy advisor
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Human rights advocacy roles
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International NGO staff
However, if your goal is to become a licensed attorney, be sure the online JD or LL.B. meets your country’s bar eligibility criteria.
Final Thoughts
Online law degrees are no longer a novelty—they are a reliable, affordable, and increasingly accredited pathway to legal education and career advancement. With institutions across the U.S., U.K., Australia, and beyond offering recognized programs, and scholarships specifically aimed at online learners, now is the best time to explore your legal ambitions.