HLS’ commitment to the world of law — and law all over the world — is exceptional. Our community includes students from more than 70 countries and jurisdictions, teaching and learning that engages with multiple legal systems, renowned visitors and scholars from abroad, and an extraordinary global alumni network. We offer more than 100 courses and reading groups that focus on international, foreign, or comparative law, and students can engage in supervised projects spanning the globe through HLS clinical offerings. Every J.D. student takes an international or comparative law class during their time at HLS. In a typical year, more than 170 HLS students work, study, or conduct research abroad in more than 45 countries, supported by an array of resources including research centers and the world’s largest academic law library, and utilizing specialized frameworks and fellowship programs. The International Legal Studies office is dedicated to facilitating these opportunities.
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![Samantha Lint and Emma Broches pose on a bridge inThe Hague]()
Opportunities Abroad
Explore summer work and Winter Term abroad, studying abroad for a semester or a joint JD/LL.M. degree, and fellowships and grants.
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![Bill Alford and Samantha Power speaking at a panel discussion discussion]()
International Resources
Discover events, faculty and courses, student organizations and journals, research programs and centers, the world’s largest law library, and other resources at HLS and around the university.
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![Wossen Ayele '16 stands in WCC]()
Roadmaps
Read about some of the amazing ways students have explored international legal studies at HLS.
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Spotlight: Winter Term Abroad
HLS offers 2Ls, 3Ls and LL.M. students the opportunity to spend Winter Term abroad, pursuing internationally focused independent clinicals or research and writing projects.
Pursuing summer public service abroad
In 2022, 13 Chayes International Public Service Fellows worked with international organizations, governments and NGOs in ten countries.