How important is it to have studied at a Russel group university for law

Lots of RG ask for AAA. Some will take AAB eg Cardiff, Liverpool.

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.

can always apply to law "with something" exeter law with business is AAB and warwick law with sociology is AAB

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.

Hey there,
This is such an important and common question, and as a law student who's spoken with peers, lecturers, and recruiters, I can say the answer is more nuanced than it might seem.
Studying at a Russell Group (RG) university can offer advantages, like name recognition, a wide alumni network, and some cachet with certain employers, especially in the City.
However, it is absolutely not the only route to a successful legal career, and top firms do not exclusively hire from RG unis, despite what some forums might say.
Many leading solicitors and barristers have come from non-RG universities or have done LLB degrees at universities like The University of Law (ULaw), BPP, or similar institutions that focus on practical legal education and strong links to the profession. ULaw, for instance, has campuses across the UK and takes a highly employability-focused approach, with career support and professional connections built into the course — and many of their graduates go on to train at top firms, including Magic Circle and US firms.
As for your grades — if you're predicted AAB or AAB, that's still very competitive. While the most RGs like UCL or Durham may ask for AAA, others (like Leeds, Cardiff, or Liverpool) might still consider you, especially if your personal statement and LNAT (if required) are strong.
Now to your other point: should you do a different course at a RG just to say you went to one, and then convert later?
That can be risky. The law conversion route (GDL/SQE Prep) is totally valid, but:
It’s better to do law at a university where you’ll thrive, feel supported, and come out with a First or high 2:1. Law firms care more about your actual achievements, commitment to law, legal experience (e.g., mooting, pro bono, internships), and how you present yourself — not just where your degree is from.
So don't feel pressured to chase a name at the expense of the right fit. If you're open to it, look into places like ULaw — they accept AAB/A*AB equivalents, have flexible entry routes, and are deeply connected to the profession. And remember: prestige can open a door, but performance keeps it open. All the best!
M
LLB

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.

Thank you this is so helpful omg!

Bear in mind that the post you refer to was made by someone paid to advertise UoL, who is only interested in you adding to the profits of his or her employer.

To get into a RG for law you typically need like A*AA but it’s more likely I’ll get AAB or A*AB. Should I go to a Russel group and do a less competitive course (just to have the ‘prestige’ of going to a RG) then do law conversion? I hear loads of stories about top firms not even bothering to read applications that don’t come from RG students.