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State Examination Working Abroad Pathways: How to Build an International Legal Career
- Kira Hoskins
- 12 hours ago
- 5 min read
Author: Kira Hoskins, Campus Ambassador
Finally, you’ve completed your First Legal State Examination or even your Referendariat and successfully passed your second legal State Examination, now comes the question “Can I begin my legal career internationally, and if so, how?”.
Well, you are not alone.
Many graduates from civil law systems wonder how they can access global opportunities that are often associated with common law qualifications. Understanding State Examination Working Abroad Pathways is essential if you want to position yourself competitively in today’s cross-border legal market.
This guide explores practical routes, key challenges, and strategies to help you successfully transition into an international legal career.
What Are the Main State Examination
Working Abroad Pathways?
Graduates with a legal State Examination qualification (comparable to the Bar Exam in other jurisdictions), particularly from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, have several viable options to pursue a career abroad.
Qualification Transfer and Requalification
One of the most direct pathways is requalifying in a common law jurisdiction. Options include:
United States LLM And Bar Exam where certain states permit foreign-trained lawyers to sit the bar after completing an LLM.
United Kingdom SQE Route which allows foreign-qualified lawyers to become solicitors without completing a second law degree.
This route increases global mobility and opens doors to international firms. It is noteworthy that after such requalification, the qualification in the original jurisdiction still remains existing, meaning one is double qualified: one qualification as lawyer in the original jurisdiction, and the second qualification in the additional jurisdiction.
Pursuing An LLM Abroad
An LLM is a powerful tool for State Examination graduates who want to build an international profile. It allows you to:
Specialise in international or comparative law.
Develop a global professional network.
Enhance your career opportunities with international employers.
Popular destinations include the United Kingdom, the United States, and Hong Kong.
The LLM is usually a two-semester full-time or 4 semester part-time rigorous course. It is advisable to people who didn’t achieve the distinction of a “Prädikatsexamen” (average of 9 out of 18 points) to complete an LLM at a top-tier university to increase chances of getting hired in big law firms.
The SQE Route
If you have completed your first and second State Examination, as per the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS), you are exempt from having to take the oral examination, as well as the SQE2 examination.
However, what awaits you is the SQE1 examination, a computer-based multiple-choice exam, and you must complete a QWE (Qualifying Work Experience).
Completing the SQE allows you to work as a fully qualified solicitor, mainly in England and Wales.
Working In International Law Firms
Many global firms actively recruit high-performing State Examination graduates. Typical roles include:
Foreign associate positions.
Working for firms in a foreign country, while not possessing the local qualifications. Typical fields include: International Desks, Foreign Legal Consultant and Transaction Lawyer.
International arbitration teams.
Working as specialised legal groups representing sovereign states, international investors and multinational coporations.
European Union and regulatory practices (see Point 4).
Strong academic results and language skills are particularly valuable in this pathway.
In House Legal Roles in Multinational Companies
Multinational organisations often hire civil law graduates for roles such as:
Compliance.
Contract management.
Data protection and regulatory advisory.
These roles offer international exposure without always requiring local qualification.
Careers In European and International Organisations
State Examination graduates are well suited for roles in:
European Union institutions.
United Nations bodies.
International non-governmental organisations.
These opportunities are ideal for those interested in public international law and policy.
Additional Advice
Additional advice for those who haven’t begun their Referendariat stage or are about to begin: look for stations that provide an opportunity to work abroad! This will lead you to more connections as well as being able to scope the working culture of the country you’re stationed at.
Key Challenges in State Examination Working Abroad Pathways
Recognition Of Qualifications
Civil law qualifications are not always directly recognised in common law jurisdictions, which can require additional exams or certifications.
Competition In International Markets
You may compete with locally and internationally qualified lawyers who are already familiar with the legal framework of the jurisdiction.
Adapting To New Legal Systems
Moving from a civil law system to a common law system requires adapting to different methodologies, terminology, and professional expectations.
How To Successfully Navigate State Examination Working Abroad Pathways?
Build An International Profile
Gain internships or work experience abroad.
Participate in exchange programmes.
Develop strong language skills.
Leverage Academic Excellence
Top State Examination results are highly respected internationally and can set you apart from other candidates. This implies scoring 9 or more points on the State Examination (so called “Prädikatsexamen”).
Network Strategically
Attend international legal events.
Connect with alumni and professionals.
Engage early with law firms and organisations.
Consider Dual Qualification
Combining your State Examination with a common law qualification significantly enhances your global career opportunities.
One option students at a few German universities, including the Free University of Berlin, benefit from, is to do an “Auslandssemester” (a year abroad). Some partner universities offer a dual bachelor’s degree alongside your LLB from your university, which means you can complete your LLM during your legal studies (usually in the 5. or 7. Semester).
However, don’t fret if you’re already past those semesters. The option to do an LLM is always available to do even after your State Examination.
How To Grow Your Profile As A Campus Ambassador?
Becoming a Campus Ambassador at Ravenscroft & Schmierer is a strategic way to strengthen your career prospects while studying.
As a Campus Ambassador, you will:
Write and publish articles on topics like State Examination Working Abroad Pathways.
Build a strong personal brand in the legal and academic community.
Develop marketing, communication, and thought leadership skills.
Connect with an international network of students and professionals.
This experience demonstrates initiative, global awareness, and commercial thinking, all of which are highly valued by international employers.
If you want to stand out and actively shape your career path, this is an excellent opportunity. Contact us to learn more and apply.
FAQ: State Examination Working Abroad Pathways
What Are The Best State Examination Working Abroad Pathways?
The most effective pathways include requalifying through the SQE or US bar, pursuing an LLM abroad, joining international law firms, or working in multinational companies and international organisations.
Can I Work In The UK With A State Examination?
Yes, you can qualify as a solicitor through the SQE route, making the United Kingdom a popular destination.
Do I Need An LLM To Work Abroad After A State Examination?
An LLM is not always required, but it strengthens your profile, expands your network, and improves your chances of securing international roles.
Is It Difficult To Move From Civil Law To Common Law Jurisdictions?
It can be challenging due to differences in legal systems, but established pathways make the transition achievable with the right preparation.
Are State Examination Graduates Valued Internationally?
Yes, especially candidates with strong academic results and multilingual abilities who can work in cross-border environments.
Why Should I Become A Campus Ambassador At Ravenscroft And Schmierer?
The programme helps you gain visibility, build your professional profile, and demonstrate valuable skills that enhance your international career prospects.
Disclaimer: This publication is general in nature and is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt with in this publication.
Campus Ambassador
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