Most U.S. states require applicants to hold a JD degree to seek admission to the Bar. In California, a foreign lawyer must complete an additional 20 credits of study in an LL.M. Program, including instruction in bar-tested subjects.There are some states which do allow foreign law graduates to sit for the bar exam, including New York, California, New Hampshire, Alabama, and Virginia. The following states or jurisdictions have reciprocity with Pennsylvania. Applicants must meet the requirements of Rule 204 to qualify. Currently, 34 states and one jurisdiction that allow foreign attorneys to sit for the bar exam if they have earned LL.M. degrees in the United States. However, you'll typically need to complete a JD (Juris Doctor) program in the US to be eligible for the New York bar exam. In order to obtain a license to practice law, law graduates must apply for bar admission in the state(s) where they wish to practice. No. View Complete Table. Or if you want to explore legal opportunities in a state different from the one where you were admitted?