Loyola University New Orleans College of Law

Situated just a few miles from the mayhem of Mardi Gras, the College of Law at Loyola University New Orleans has been educating future lawyers since 1914. Though occasionally overlooked in favor of literal next-door neighbor Tulane or LSU, Loyola provides solid education and inducts graduates into a successful alumni network throughout Louisiana.

History

Loyola University New Orleans College of Law is a prestigious academic institution that has set the bar for legal education since it opened over a century ago. The college values excellence and integrity, offering a rigorous curriculum that seeks to develop skilled professionals dedicated to justice and community service. The College of Law offers civil law and common law curriculums, full-time day and part-time evening programs, and three joint degree programs. Further, the college is devoted to fostering critical thinking and analytical skills alongside ethical values and professionalism so that students are adequately prepared to serve their communities in the 21st century. The faculty of Loyola University New Orleans College of Law is an elite group of scholars and mentors dedicated to providing the highest quality education by teaching and researching with passion and serving their community. This commitment to excellence has earned Loyola University New Orleans College of Law a reputation for being one of the top institutions in legal academia. Ultimately, the academic excellence and dedication to justice make Loyola University New Orleans College of Law the premier choice for future legal professionals. This commitment to excellence has kept it at the forefront of legal education since 1914.

Admissions

At Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, they understand that having a calling is a brave undertaking, and they are here to help you in any way possible. Whether you desire a career in the legal field or something else, they offer several degree programs to help you reach your objective. Their experienced faculty and staff will guide you through the application process, ensuring you are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen profession. Come experience their world-renowned law school with its innovative curricula, rigorous academic standards, and commitment to access for all students. If you're not sure about applying to law school or just beginning the application process, then please take the time to read some of the excellent pre-law articles found here.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2023-2024	2024-2025
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	149-151-155	149-152-155
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.07-3.37-3.62	3.04-3.38-3.66
Acceptance rate	66.7%	58.6%
Applications received	850	1018
Acceptances	550	596
Matriculants	205	214

For the 2025 admissions cycle at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, the statistics show a moderately competitive program with stable academic benchmarks. In 2024–2025, the 25th–75th percentile LSAT scores ranged from 149 to 155, which reflects a slight increase in the upper percentile compared to the previous year’s 149–151–155 spread. The GPA range for the middle 50% of admitted students was 3.04 to 3.66, with medians staying strong compared to the prior year’s 3.07 to 3.62. The school received a total of 1,018 applications, up from 850 the previous cycle, indicating growing interest. Out of these, 596 applicants were accepted, producing an acceptance rate of 58.6%, which marks a decrease from the prior year’s 66.7%, signifying increased selectivity. Of those admitted, 214 students enrolled (matriculated), slightly higher than the 205 from the previous year.

Overall, the 2025 data suggest that while the applicant pool grew and competition became a bit stiffer due to a lower acceptance rate, the academic profile of incoming students remained relatively consistent with slight improvements in LSAT performance.

Application Requirements

For the 2025 application cycle at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, prospective JD students are required to submit their applications through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). The school does not charge an application fee, making it accessible for all applicants. A valid standardized test score is required, and students may choose to submit the LSAT, including the writing sample, the GRE, or the JD-Next exam. Those applying solely with JD-Next scores must have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. GRE and LSAT scores are generally accepted if taken within the past five years.

Applicants must also provide a Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report, which compiles transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended. At least two letters of recommendation are required, although up to four may be submitted, and these letters should be recent to reflect current achievements and abilities. A personal statement of two to three pages is required, describing the applicant’s motivation for pursuing law, experiences, and future goals; an optional diversity statement may also be included. Additionally, a current resume detailing education, work experience, community service, and extracurricular activities must accompany the application.

Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution prior to enrollment in law school. Those still completing their undergraduate degree at the time of application must have completed at least three-quarters of their coursework and be on track to graduate before starting law school. International applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL scores, and foreign transcripts must be processed through LSAC’s CAS for evaluation. The application also includes character and fitness questions, as required for future bar admission, and applicants may be asked to submit supporting explanations or documents for specific disclosures.

For the Fall 2025 class, the application window opens on October 15, 2024, and closes on July 1, 2025, at noon Central Time. Applicants who wish to be considered for priority scholarships are encouraged to apply by February 15, 2025. Special application routes are available for transfer students and foreign-educated attorneys, who must provide additional documentation such as law school transcripts, letters of good standing, and statements of purpose for transferring. Loyola also offers a 3+3 accelerated program for its own undergraduates, enabling them to begin law school in their senior undergraduate year.

This comprehensive set of requirements reflects Loyola’s holistic admissions process, which considers academic performance, standardized test scores, personal experiences, and professional readiness to identify candidates best suited for success in law school and the legal profession.

GRE Takers

Those who plan to take the GRE must contact the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and request that their scores from the past five years be sent to Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. Those who have already taken the GRE can access their ETS account and select Loyola University New Orleans College of Law as a recipient of their GRE scores. The school code for Loyola is 4810.

Once the application and registration with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) have been submitted, applicants should contact the Office of Law Admissions at ladmit@loyno.edu or 504-861-5575 to complete the application process.

International Students

International applicants to Loyola University New Orleans College of Law must fulfill specific requirements before they may gain admittance. Exceptions apply to those who have already obtained a law degree from an international institution. These individuals are exempt from taking either the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Exam). All foreign transcripts sent to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) must be evaluated by their Credential Assembly Service and verified through a CAS Report.

Transferring

Transferring to Loyola University New Orleans College of Law offers a unique opportunity for law students who have already completed some law school coursework at another institution. For their application for transfer or advanced standing admission to be considered, the student must be able to provide evidence of eligibility required by the year in which they first began studying law. Furthermore, the student must demonstrate having achieved an above-average academic record in their prior law studies.

To apply for transfer or advanced standing admission, the student must submit a complete application that includes: The most recent CAS report; two letters of recommendation (a law professor must write one letter); a letter of good standing from the previous law school; an official copy of their most recent law school transcript; and an explanation for why they are transferring.

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the estimated tuition at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law for JD students is approximately $56,894, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year’s tuition of $54,708. When factoring in the full cost of attendance, including living expenses, books, supplies, transportation, and personal costs, the total annual expense for a full-time JD student is projected to reach around $82,208. These figures highlight the importance of considering both tuition and additional living expenses when planning financially for law school.

Loyola offers a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help students manage the cost of attendance. Merit-based aid is available through Dean’s Scholarships, which are awarded automatically to qualified students without the need for a separate application. A select group of students may be invited to join the Ignatian Law Scholars Program, which includes a renewable Dean’s Scholarship along with mentorship and additional benefits. For students demonstrating financial need, Loyola provides institutional grants, and all admitted students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA early (using school code 002016) to maximize their eligibility for need-based aid.

Financial support at Loyola is robust, with about 77.5% of full-time law students receiving grants or scholarships, and the average award amounting to approximately $28,000. Students also have access to a variety of private scholarships, endowed awards, and named scholarships that can further reduce their tuition burden. Once the FAFSA is submitted and processed, admitted students receive an award package detailing available grants, loans, and other aid options, which they can accept or decline through Loyola’s financial aid system. These opportunities aim to make legal education at Loyola more accessible and affordable for a diverse range of students.

Ignatian Law Scholars Program

The Ignatian Law Scholars Program is a highly selective program offered by Loyola University New Orleans College of Law for incoming law students. Those chosen to participate in this prestigious program have applications that reflect the Jesuit values of dedication to academic excellence and service to others. The students who receive this honor are given a renewable Dean’s Scholarship and are paired with faculty mentors and alums to ensure that the transition into law school is successful. Ignatian Law Scholars also gather for special events each semester, providing an excellent opportunity to build relationships and further integrate themselves into the College of Law. This program is integral in helping Loyola University New Orleans College of Law provide its students the best education and experience. It is an honor to be chosen as a part of the Ignatian Law Scholars Program, and those given this opportunity often accomplish great things in their legal careers. This program stands out among other law school programs, making Loyola University New Orleans College of Law one of the best in the country.

Academics and Curriculum

At Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, aspiring lawyers can comprehensively understand civil and common law. This is an esteemed advantage that few other schools in the United States can offer, providing graduates with greater flexibility in practicing law across different countries and states. The college also offers numerous joint degree programs and seven certificates in specialized fields. This allows students to gain the knowledge and credentials they need to practice law in their chosen field of expertise. Additionally, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law accommodates those who may not be able to take full-time classes due to life’s demands.

Loyola University New Orleans College of Law is home to a unique curriculum that sets it apart from other law schools. It is one of only three universities in the United States to offer civil and standard law curricula, reflecting the dual heritage of Louisiana's legal system. This means first-year students can access courses such as Contracts I & II and Property in civil and familiar law flavors. In addition, all students are required to partake in a two-credit hour Moot Court course, helping them develop their skills in the area of moot court while preparing them for Loyola's successful moot court competitions.

Outside the first year, students take various required courses, electives, and eight "skills credits," focusing on more hands-on activities. Loyola has many extracurricular activities, including four journals and multiple study-abroad opportunities in Europe, the near East, Russia, and Central and South America. Loyola University New Orleans College of Law is an excellent choice for aspiring lawyers with its emphasis on practical lawyering skills, a diverse range of courses and activities, and its commitment to training the best moot court participants in the country.

Clinics

Loyola University New Orleans College of Law has a long-standing commitment to academics, justice, and service. As a testament to these values, the law school is home to the Stuart H. Smith Law Clinic and Center for Social Justice. This clinic is nationally recognized for its dedication to providing legal representation for those in need. Law students are selected to work in the clinic every year and get hands-on experience in various practice areas, including family law, criminal defense, immigration/asylum, civil rights issues, and consumer protection. Under the supervision of skilled faculty members, these third-year law students develop a comprehensive understanding of trial advocacy while confidently representing their clients.

Externships

The Loyola University New Orleans College of Law Externship Program offers invaluable experiential learning opportunities to students who wish to immerse themselves in the legal field. This program allows students to earn 1, 2, or 3 academic credits for legal work performed at a court, government agency, or non-profit legal organization supervised by an attorney. Students can undertake placements in a wide array of fields and have the option to create self-created summer externships anywhere in the U.S. The Externship Program seminar allows students to discuss their experiences, explore professionalism-related topics, and work on developing skills essential for success in the field. Through this program, students can explore areas of the legal field not covered by traditional courses and gain practical experience through real-world assignments. Students interested in participating must complete an application process before being selected for the program. Upon successful completion, they receive academic credit and valuable skills and insights into the profession. Externship Placements
Learn more about the many externship opportunities:

Loyola Law Review

The Loyola Law Review is a prestigious legal publication produced and managed entirely by law students enrolled at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. Established in 1920 as the Loyola Law Journal, it is now one of the most respected journals in legal studies. Each issue contains carefully thought-out and researched articles discussing and analyzing legal topics ranging from criminal law to civil litigation.

Journal of Public Interest Law

The Loyola University New Orleans College of Law is home to the Journal of Public Interest Law, a biannual publication of scholarly articles, practitioner essays, lectures, and student contributions. The journal was established in 1995 as the Loyola Poverty Law Journal and has since been devoted to providing readers with cutting-edge insights into the complex legal issues surrounding public interest law.

Articles included in the journal focus on various topics, including economic justice, human rights, health care reform, access to education, and environmental protection. The journal is published under the supervision of an editorial board comprised of faculty and student members.

Maritime Law Journal

The Loyola Maritime Law Journal is an invaluable source of knowledge, providing guidance and analysis from various perspectives in maritime law. Published bi-annually, the Journal features articles written by practitioners, faculty members, and students and case notes that offer a comprehensive look at the wide range of issues confronting international maritime law. In addition, the Journal publishes The Loyola Current, a blog that focuses on current events and pressing topics in maritime law. The Journal seeks to provide readers with informed insight into the ever-changing maritime law field and a platform for discussion and debate among scholars and legal professionals. By including both theoretical and practical approaches to maritime law, the Loyola Maritime Law Journal is a valuable source of knowledge for those interested in this important field. Ultimately, the Journal aims to provide readers with an informed and comprehensive look into the legal issues concerning international shipping and commerce. By doing so, they can help shape the future of maritime law and international policy. As such, Loyola Maritime Law Journal is a must-read for anyone interested in this vital and ever-evolving field.

Quality of Life

New Orleans is ideal for aspiring legal professionals to build up their legal careers. Its vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and healthy legal community provide an unparalleled setting for prospective lawyers. Numerous regional and national law firms have offices within the city limits, and many large, medium, and boutique law firms are based in Louisiana. The College of Law offers a variety of areas of legal specialization, catering to a wide range of clients, including corporations, entrepreneurs, environmental interests, entertainers, local and federal government agencies, military needs, international interests, and families. As such, the college provides students an excellent opportunity to make valuable connections within the legal community and gain real-world experience. With its proximity to the federal and state judicial systems, New Orleans provides a perfect platform to build an exciting career in the legal field. A Loyola Law degree is your ticket to unlimited potential and success in New Orleans. Explore how this vibrant city can help you succeed in the legal field. The College of Law at Loyola University New Orleans has a long-standing tradition of excellence, making us one of the top law schools in the country. Their unique, innovative approach to legal education prepares our students for professional and personal success. They offer an expansive range of courses and comprehensive clinical programs, ensuring their students have all the tools needed for success. Their faculty are not just teachers but mentors who inspire their students to reach new heights. At Loyola Law, you will be part of a community dedicated to improving the legal profession and making a difference in the world.

Library

The Loyola University New Orleans College of Law Library is a comprehensive collection of legal knowledge and resources in the College of Law building on the Dominican campus. With over 50,356 square feet, it covers parts of the first and third floors and the entirety of the second floor - enabling students and faculty to access high-quality scholarly resources. In addition to its full-time staff of nine, which includes four librarians, the Library offers a wide range of services and support to help students succeed in their legal studies. The Library has an extensive collection of books, digital resources, online databases and journals, reference materials, and other media. It also provides access to specialized equipment such as microform readers, scanners, and computers for research purposes. Furthermore, the Library offers several workshops on legal research techniques and technology. The Loyola University New Orleans College of Law Library is committed to providing access to the best resources available for legal studies in an atmosphere that encourages active learning and scholarship. It is an invaluable resource for the College of Law community.

Housing

Loyola Law students have a diverse array of choices regarding where to live. The College of Law is located in the heart of Uptown, New Orleans, providing easy access to apartments, mansions, carriage houses, shotguns, and camelback homes. Much more than just housing - the area boasts plenty of restaurants, shops, live music venues, and outdoor recreation. Uptown New Orleans is a vibrant neighborhood full of culture and energy. The area features grand 19th-century mansions lining the streets and cozy shotgun homes dating back to the late 1800s. This area has plenty of rental opportunities - from one-bedroom apartments to multi-units. Students can also find great deals in the adjacent Garden District and Central Business District.No matter what type of housing you’re looking for, it’s essential to take your time and explore all options. Ensure you understand your lease agreement and know any local laws applicable to renting in New Orleans. Additionally, take the time to visit potential rentals and get a feel for the neighborhood before signing anything. With some research and preparation, you’ll find the perfect place to call home while studying at Loyola Law. Good luck with your search! Go, Wolf Pack! Go Law!

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

For the 2025 class at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, employment prospects remain strong overall, with approximately 94.1% of graduates securing employment shortly after graduation. A significant majority of these graduates obtained full-time, long-term positions that require bar passage, indicating that most alumni enter traditional attorney roles. Among those employed, the median salary for full-time, long-term positions was about $110,000, with salaries ranging from $90,000 at the 25th percentile to $160,000 at the 75th percentile. Graduates commonly pursue careers in private law firms, particularly in small to mid-sized practices, while others enter roles in government, public interest, business, and other sectors.

Regarding bar passage, Loyola’s first-time bar exam pass rate stands at approximately 66.3%, based on 184 test takers, with 122 passing on their first attempt. Although the first-time pass rate is slightly below state and national averages, Loyola reports a notably higher ultimate bar passage rate, reflecting that most graduates succeed within two years of graduation. Historically, Loyola’s bar results have been consistent with other Louisiana law schools, though often slightly lower on initial attempts.

In summary, Loyola graduates typically achieve favorable employment outcomes with competitive salaries, especially in private practice, but prospective students should be mindful of the first-time bar passage rate and consider utilizing bar preparation resources to enhance their success on the exam.

Synopsis

Loyola New Orleans is one of the best "bang-for-your-buck" law schools for students interested in Louisiana or the Gulf coast. The school is generous with financial aid and enjoys an excellent reputation, particularly in New Orleans, resulting in good job prospects. The school's blending of civil and common law curricula offers a distinct advantage for a student attempting to navigate Louisiana's difficult legal system.

However, students interested in practice elsewhere should proceed with caution, as the school tends to be overshadowed by higher-ranked competitors, and graduates generally have little success winning coveted jobs.

Contact Information

Loyola University New Orleans
College of Law
Location: 526 Pine Street
New Orleans, LA 70118

Mailing Address:
7214 St. Charles Avenue, Box 901
New Orleans, LA 70118

Phone: 504-861-5550
Fax: 504-861-5739
Email: ladmit@loyno.edu

https://law.loyno.edu/admission

Summary

Established	1941
Location	New Orleans, LA
Dean	Madeleine Landrieu
2025 US News Ranking	134th
LSAT Median Score	152
GPA Median Score	3.38
Bar Passage Rate	66.3% (2025)
Employment Rate	45.1% (2025)
Cost	"$54,708 full-time, $41,490 part-time"
Average Debt	$132,689
Application Deadline	July 15, 2025

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Reference

Loyola University New Orleans College Of Law
https://law.loyno.edu/
Rank #134
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