Archive · 2 Jul 2025
BCI: Unapproved Online LLM Programs Unrecognized
The Bar Council of India (BCI), which oversees legal education, has warned that if schools offer Master of Laws (LLM) degrees online or in a hybrid way without BCI's permission, those degrees won't be considered valid.
This means they can't be used for jobs, promotions, or other legal positions.
The BCI is cracking down because some schools are offering these degrees without approval.
They sent a notice to the high courts to make sure no one is hired or promoted using these unapproved degrees.
The BCI stated that some schools tried to justify their programs by calling them 'executive' programs.
However, the BCI stated that using the 'LLM' title without their permission is a deliberate attempt to trick students.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) declared online/hybrid LLM programs without its approval as unauthorized.
The BCI issued an advisory against unapproved online, distance, or hybrid LLM programs.
The advisory was sent to all High Courts on June 25 for necessary action.
Unapproved LLM qualifications will not be recognized for employment, academic appointments, or judicial service.
Showcause notices have been issued to several institutions offering unapproved programs.
- Who
- The Bar Council of India (BCI)
- What
- The BCI issued an advisory against unapproved online/hybrid LLM programs.
- When
- The advisory was sent to high courts on June 25.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To ensure that online or hybrid LLM programs are approved, and their degrees are valid.
Bar Council of India (BCI)
Institutions Offering Unapproved Programs
Approval
Bar Council of India (BCI)
LLM programs must have BCI approval.
Institutions Offering Unapproved Programs
Some institutions offer unapproved LLM programs
Degree Recognition
Bar Council of India (BCI)
Unapproved programs are not recognized for jobs or academic appointments.
Institutions Offering Unapproved Programs
Some institutions may claim their degrees are equivalent despite lacking BCI approval.
- Organization
- Bar Council of India (BCI)
- Advisory Issued
- Against unapproved online/hybrid LLM programs
- Action
- Sent to all high courts for action
- Date
- June 25
- LLM Definition
- Master of Laws
- Programs Affected
- Online, distance, blended, or hybrid