University of Chicago Law School

Highly rigorous, theory-forward program with top clerkship and academic placement.
Chicago, IL
website
image of a volunteer mentoring teenagers in a tech workshop

Introduction
The University of Chicago Law School is known for its highly rigorous academic culture and strong focus on law and economics, producing graduates who excel in clerkships, academia, and elite legal practice.

TUITION

$72,000

ACCEPTANCE RATE

12%

CLASS SIZE

200

MEDIAN LSAT

173

MEDIAN GPA

3.9

About UChicago Law
UChicago Law is famous for its analytical and theory-driven approach to legal education. The school emphasizes close reading, structured debate, and intellectual rigor. Its academic culture attracts students who enjoy deep engagement with legal theory, economic reasoning, and policy analysis.

Academics & Learning Experience
Classes are small and discussion-based, fostering close relationships with faculty. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary study across economics, political science, and business. Clinics and experiential programs complement the theoretical focus with practical legal training.

Careers & Outcomes
Graduates place exceptionally well into federal clerkships, academia, and top law firms. UChicago consistently sends a high percentage of students into competitive clerkship roles and academic fellowships.

Who Thrives at UChicago
UChicago is ideal for students who enjoy intense academic environments, structured debate, and analytical approaches to law.

FAQs

Questions answered so you can get started quickly.

Does University of Chicago Law School offer merit scholarships?

University of Chicago Law School offers merit scholarships"; LSAT 174+ creates meaningful leverage;" UChicago competes for top applicants against Columbia and NYU with scholarship offers. The most important scholarship strategy variable is application timing — schools that run rolling admissions reward Early Action or Early Decision submissions with stronger packages because scholarship pools are fuller in the fall. Scholarship negotiation is also a real lever: if a peer school offers you a meaningfully better package

How does University of Chicago Law School's waitlist work?

University of Chicago Law School's waitlist — moderate movement"; UChicago's high yield from a self-selected intellectually serious applicant pool limits waitlist activity; a LOCI that demonstrates genuine engagement with law and economics scholarship is the best differentiator. The most effective waitlist strategy has three components: (1) a Letter of Continued Interest submitted promptly after being waitlisted

What does University of Chicago Law School look for in personal statements?

University of Chicago Law School reads for law and economics methodology

What GPA do I need for University of Chicago Law School?

The median undergraduate GPA at University of Chicago Law School is 3.9. Your LSAC cumulative GPA includes every college institution you attended — community college

What is University of Chicago Law School's acceptance rate?

University of Chicago Law School's acceptance rate is approximately 12%. At that selectivity level

What LSAT score do I need for University of Chicago Law School?

The median LSAT at University of Chicago Law School is 173. To be competitive for admission