Law grad with 90% GPA (First Class equivalent) applying to Cambridge LL.M. — Will a medical setback in 2nd year hurt my chances against higher GPAs?

Hi everyone!

I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree. In my country's grading system (out of 100), I finished with a 90 overall GPA, which qualifies as a First-Class Honours equivalent (and highest distinction locally).

However, I have a specific concern regarding my grade transcript trajectory and how competitive my application will be for the Cambridge LL.M. program.

Here is my situation:

1): During my 2nd year, I suffered a major accident that resulted in partial hearing loss. Coming to terms with this medical condition caused severe depression, and my GPA dipped to 84 that year. Unfortunately, 2nd year carried heavy credit-weighted core courses, which weighed down my cumulative average significantly.

2. Once I processed the trauma and adapted, I pushed myself as hard as I could. I pulled my GPA up to 91 in Year 3 and 97 in Year 4, bringing my final cumulative score back up to 90.

3)Applicants from my country applying to top-tier UK law programs often present cumulative GPAs in the 96–98 range. Even though 90 meets the formal First Class threshold, I’m worried that admissions committees might view a 90 as "lower" compared to other local applicants, despite my upward trajectory.

I plan to address this gap explicitly in the "extenuating circumstances" / personal statement section to explain the medical accident and the subsequent rebound in my grades.

My questions for the community:

How strictly does the Cambridge Law Faculty look at cumulative GPA alone versus a clear upward trajectory (especially with a strong 4th-year score of 97)?

Does the committee take genuine medical extenuating circumstances into serious consideration when evaluating a transcript dip?

With well-crafted application essays, strong reference letters, and a First Class degree, do I stand a solid chance, or does the intense competition make a 90 cumulative GPA a dealbreaker?

I would really appreciate any insights, experiences, or advice from current Cambridge LL.M. students, alumni, or anyone familiar with Oxbridge law admissions! Thanks in advance.