Selecting Law Schools
Choosing a law school is one of the most important decisions you will make in your Pre-Law journey. There is no single “best” law school for every student. Instead, your decision should reflect a careful balance of factors that align with your goals, values, and circumstances. The process requires thorough research, honest self-assessment, and a willingness to weigh tradeoffs.
When evaluating law schools, consider the following categories of questions:
What is the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, housing, and living expenses?
What types of scholarships, grants, and loan repayment assistance programs are available?
How much debt are graduates typically carrying, and what is the average starting salary for alumni?
What are the bar passage rates for graduates, and how do they compare to the state and national averages?
What percentage of graduates are employed in legal positions within 10 months of graduation?
Does the school offer special programs, clinics, or concentrations that align with your career interests?
How is the law school regarded regionally and nationally?
Do you want to practice in a specific geographic area, and how well is the school connected to that region?
How do employers and alumni in your desired field view the school?
Is the law school in a city, suburban, or rural area, and does that setting fit your lifestyle preferences?
How accessible are courts, firms, public interest organizations, or government offices for internships?
What is the culture of the student body and faculty, and will you feel supported there?
Will you feel comfortable and included in the law school environment?
Are there student organizations, mentorship programs, and affinity groups that support your identity and goals?
Can you see yourself thriving in this community for three years of rigorous study?
Law School Admissions Council - Choosing a Law School
LSAC - GPA and LSAT Score Search
LSAC - Official Guide to Law Schools (Law School Profiles and Data)
Law School Transparency - Critical Data for Law Schools
LST - Score Reports for Law Schools
LST - Questions to Ask When Applying
LST - Where do you want to work?
The Pre-Law Program strongly encourages students to schedule an advising appointment before applying to law schools and again before making a final enrollment decision. Advisors can help you interpret data, compare options, and reflect on which law schools best support your academic goals and personal well-being.