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University of San Francisco School of Law
Tied with the University of Louisville for the rank of 98 in the USNews and World Report rankings, the University of San Francisco School of Law presents a compelling option for those looking to stay and practice law in the vibrant Bay Area. Applicants should be warned, however, about the high cost of attendance and the relatively low possibility of working for a major law firm.
Contents
History
The University of San Francisco School of Law, established in 1912, is the city's oldest and largest independent institution of higher learning. It began with a modest one-room schoolhouse, but it has grown significantly in size and stature over the years. Today, the law school boasts more than 500 students enrolled and 135 students who receive their Juris Doctor degree each year.
The USF School of Law was initially housed in "The Shirt Factory," an old building situated on the corner of Hayes and Shrader Streets. Since then, it has expanded to occupy a four-story building near Golden Gate Park. Here, students receive an education grounded in service to humanity, justice, and the law through courses, clinical and experiential learning opportunities, research projects, and other social justice initiatives.
The USF School of Law also offers a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world legal experience through externships in San Francisco's legal community. This program allows students to hone their skills in a professional setting while earning academic credits.
The USF School of Law has a long and distinguished history of producing outstanding lawyers who become leaders in their profession, public service, business, and academia. The faculty is also highly respected nationally and internationally for its teaching excellence and scholarship. This combination of quality education, professional experience, and social justice initiatives makes the USF School of Law a top choice for those seeking an exceptional legal education.
Admissions
For its Fall 2025 JD admissions, the University of San Francisco School of Law welcomes applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree before the first day of classes and are prepared to bring distinct perspectives and experiences into the classroom. Candidates must complete the online application, submit official transcripts, and provide standardized test scores from the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) taken within the last five years. The admissions committee places strong emphasis on personal statements that articulate your motivation for studying law, any professional or service accomplishments, and how your individual background, such as language proficiency, leadership roles, or overcoming adversity, can contribute to a richly diverse and vibrant learning community. Because the school evaluates applications on a rolling basis, having a completed application earlier in the cycle increases your chances of being considered for merit-based scholarship opportunities. Additionally, USF Law takes seriously the character and fitness standards required by bar admission rules in all jurisdictions. Applicants must notify the office immediately of any new disciplinary or conduct matters occurring after application submission. Admission is contingent not just on academic criteria but also on meeting these fundamental ethical and professional standards.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 151-153-156 | 152-154-157 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.09-3.46-3.67 | 3.07-3.37-3.58 |
| Acceptance rate | 46.4% | 54.5% |
| Applications received | 1874 | 1869 |
| Acceptances | 1035 | 1019 |
| Matriculants | 158 | 164 |
For the 2025 admissions cycle, the University of San Francisco School of Law reported LSAT scores ranging from the 25th to 75th percentile at 152 to 157, while GPAs for the same range fell between 3.07 and 3.58. The acceptance rate increased compared to the prior year, reaching 54.5 percent. Out of 1,869 applications received, 1,019 applicants were accepted, and 164 ultimately matriculated into the entering class.
Education
Law school applicants are expected to earn a four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited university before classes begin in August. Those accepted into the program must provide official transcripts showing the awarding of their degree to the Office of Admissions. These transcripts should be sent directly from the college or university, with proof that all work requested in the application was completed. If applicants have sent their transcripts to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) through its JD CAS report, they must ensure that those transcripts are dated 2017 or later and show the degree conferral date.
At USF School of Law, students learn from a faculty committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. The curriculum is designed to give students the foundations of legal education and specialized training in their chosen fields. Students also benefit from a wide range of clinical opportunities and advanced research experiences. USF School of Law offers joint degree programs that allow students to pursue two different advanced degrees simultaneously. The school prides itself on its commitment to social justice and the development of socially responsible lawyers. The school also offers various student services and organizations that foster a strong sense of community, leadership, and academic success.
Personal Statement
The University of San Francisco School of Law is seeking applicants with a strong desire to pursue a legal education and the motivation and preparation to do so. As part of the application process, each applicant must submit a personal statement that allows the admissions committee to gain additional insight into their background, accomplishments, experiences, and interests.
The personal statement should reflect your accomplishments, co-curricular activities, areas of interest, and past or present employment. It should also include any college academic honors you have received. The ideal length for the personal statement is two to four pages, double-spaced, with no page limitation. Please write your name on the top of each page and attach your resume to the statement.
When writing your statement, the admissions committee looks for an honest reflection of who you are and why you chose to pursue a legal education at the University of San Francisco School of Law. Explain any obstacles or challenges you have faced that have shaped your life's journey and how you overcame them.
Letters of Recommendation
The University of San Francisco School of Law requires two letters of recommendation to support applications. An optional third letter may also be supplied, though up to three will be considered. The Admissions Committee suggests that applicants submit letters from individuals who are acquainted with their academic and professional history or have firsthand knowledge of the applicant’s qualifications. These could include supervisors from internships or practicums, faculty members from a college education, advisors or mentors connected with the applicant’s studies, and individuals responsible for managing the applicant’s professional career.
Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
All first-time first-year law school applicants need to join the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) to have their transcripts evaluated. Those applying to the University of San Francisco School of Law must register with CAS before the application process can begin. Through LSAC, users can access information about their service and how it works. Once registered, transcripts of all college work must be sent to LSAC for analysis. In turn, they will forward a report to each law school the applicant has designated, along with any letters of recommendation. However, USF may not review the CAS report until LSAC receives two recommendation letters. As such, failure to comply with this requirement may result in an application being disregarded by the admissions committee. Transfer applicants are exempt from this requirement. It is important to note that CAS is a required part of the admission process and must be completed before applying. So, please take the time to register for CAS and ensure all transcripts have been submitted through LSAC, as failure to do so may result in delays or failure to receive an admission offer from the USF School of Law.
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The University of San Francisco School of Law requires all applicants to complete the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and submit their scores via a Comprehensive Application Service Report (CAS Report). Applicants are also encouraged to utilize the highest LSAT score to maximize their admission chances. The LSAT is offered eight times a year, so it is essential to plan and register for the test as early as possible. The final test date USF recommends taking the LSAT is February 2022; however, applicants may take the April 2023 or June 2023 tests if necessary.
LSAT Writing Sample
LSAT Writing Sample is an essential component of the University of San Francisco School of Law admission process. All candidates must have a writing sample on file, either from an earlier paper-and-pencil administration or from LSAT Writing. If you do not have one, it is highly recommended that you take the LSAT Writing test as soon as possible. USF takes your writing sample seriously and is used to assess your eligibility for admission.
As of August 2020, all LSAT-Flex candidates must have a completed writing sample in their file to view the test scores or send them to law schools. LSAT Writing will open eight days before the test administration to facilitate this process. Those with a writing sample on file do not need to retake LSAT Writing.
Disclosures: Character and Fitness
All applicants to the University of San Francisco School of Law must submit a disclosure form in their application under the Character and Fitness section. This form requires applicants to provide any information about their academic probation, suspension, or disqualification from a previous law school. In addition, applicants must disclose any felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions, pending charges related to DUIs or alcohol and drug-related offenses, expunged convictions, and juvenile adjudications. All disclosures must include the date of each incident, a full explanation of the incident, the name of the charge, and the final disposition of each charge. Applicants must also provide information about any civil suits in which they were involved.
Application Fee
When applying to the University of San Francisco School of Law, it is essential to note that a non-refundable application fee of $60.00 must be paid when applying. This fee can be paid through an online payment method using a valid credit card. It is essential to understand that the application fee will not be refunded or applied toward tuition if you are admitted. If you withdraw your application before making a decision, the fee will not be refunded. When applying for admission, it is essential to keep this in mind. Applicants should make sure they can commit to the cost of applying and understand it is not refundable should admission not be granted. The fee will still need to be paid even if the application is withdrawn. It is highly recommended that applicants make sure they can commit to the cost of applying before applying. Applicants should also consider their financial situation carefully when deciding whether or not to apply for admission. The application fee is an essential part of the entire admissions process, and applicants should be aware of all the associated costs before submitting their applications.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The University of San Francisco School of Law positions itself as a strong option for students seeking a high-quality legal education grounded in professional preparedness. Full-time students pay an annual tuition and fee rate set by the university, while part-time students pay a prorated amount determined each academic year. In addition to tuition, all students are responsible for standard fees, including the Student Bar Association fee and the Loan Repayment Assistance Program fee. The institution notes that tuition and fee amounts may change without prior notice, but it emphasizes its commitment to maintaining a fair cost structure while still providing access to a rigorous legal education. By choosing USF School of Law, students are investing in a degree designed to support long-term professional growth.
Cost of Attendance
The University of San Francisco School of Law outlines an annual cost-of-attendance estimate to help students plan for both academic and living expenses. These figures account for tuition, fees, housing, food, transportation, personal needs, and course materials. For many students, the overall investment varies depending on whether they live on campus or off campus, as well as their personal spending patterns. Although the school periodically updates these figures to reflect changes in inflation and operating costs, they serve as a practical planning tool for students preparing for the financial commitment of law school.
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (Full-time JD) | $59,990 |
| Indirect Living Expenses (books, supplies, transportation, personal) | $10,634 |
| Total Estimated Cost of Attendance | $92,764 |
These figures reflect the school’s estimate of the total cost for a full-time JD student at USF Law for the 2025-26 year. The “tuition & fees” number covers the direct costs billed by the school. The “indirect living expenses” category covers anticipated spending on things like books, supplies, food, transportation and personal items. The total cost figure combines both direct and indirect amounts (though students are typically not billed for the full indirect amount) so you can plan your budget more realistically.
Financial Aid
The University of San Francisco School of Law offers a variety of summer financial aid options for law students who are continuing their studies at the school. These financial aid opportunities come from private loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans. With these funds, students can participate in the school's summer programs, such as the Intensive Advocacy Program (IAP), International Summer Externships, and regular Summer Sessions for credit. Students can also participate in domestic Summer Externships for unit credits at the USF School of Law with these financial aids.
Scholarships
At the University of San Francisco School of Law, they provide their students with many different financial aid opportunities to help make their legal education more affordable. Their Office of Financial Aid is dedicated to ensuring that all students have access to these options and will work diligently to explore any avenues that may be available. They take a comprehensive approach to ensure that their students can meet their financial needs and strive to ensure that every deserving student is allowed an education due to a lack of resources.
They offer several types of scholarships, including merit-based awards, need-based grants, and loan forgiveness programs. Merit-based awards are based on academic achievement or other criteria such as leadership potential and community service. Need-based grants are provided to those students who demonstrate financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Loan forgiveness programs are designed for students who have taken out loans to finance their education and are typically based on public service or other criteria.
Additionally, they offer numerous scholarships and grants through their generous donors and community partners. Their Office of Financial Aid is available to discuss all possible options, including these external scholarships and grants, so that students can make informed decisions about their financial aid package.
Academics
1Ls at USF follow a course of study that is comparable to 1Ls just about anywhere. The standard courses (torts, civil procedure, etc.) are required, and students also take a legal writing class. Legal writing is taught in sections of about 20, with the goal being to insure that students get a maximal amount of personal attention from professors as they develop this essential skill. Still, if personal attention from professors is a priority, then one might want to look elsewhere for a place to go to law school. USF's student-to-faculty ratio of 15.8-to-1 is not impressive compared with other schools in the top 100.
USF offers a number of joint degrees, including the J.D./M.B.A. They also have a number of journals and student publications, including a Maritime Law Review, one of only two journals devoted to that subject in the nation. Their library, The Dorraine Zief Law Library, opened in 2000 and is said to be both substantial in size and very usable.
Externships
The University of San Francisco School of Law offers a comprehensive program for law students to gain practical experience in the legal field. This program consists not just of practical fieldwork but also courses taught by faculty members that cover various topics related to their fieldwork. Through these courses, students can understand professional issues and litigation preparation, which can benefit their postgraduate careers. In addition, faculty members monitor the externships as a way of making sure that students are getting the best possible learning experience available and to make sure that they have real-world responsibilities to develop their professional relationships. With all this in mind, the University of San Francisco School of Law offers an excellent program to gain practical experience in the legal field.
Clinics
The University of San Francisco School of Law provides students with the chance to gain practical legal experience through its law clinic program. With the guidance of experienced professors, law students can actively participate in various real-life cases ranging from civil to criminal and juvenile law. This educational opportunity allows for hands-on training that is invaluable for individuals considering a career in law.
The University of San Francisco School of Law faculty has carefully designed its law clinic program to give students an immersive experience that combines legal theory, practice, and professional development. Through this program, law students can gain insight into the various aspects of legal work, such as research, interviewing clients, drafting legal arguments, and more. This valuable experience gives law students the necessary skills to effectively represent clients in court or negotiate settlements outside of court.
By participating in the University of San Francisco School of Law's clinic program, students gain practical legal experience and develop a sense of responsibility and commitment to their clients. This unique program offers students an opportunity to combine classroom learning with real-life experience and make a difference in the lives of their clients.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
For the 2025 cycle, the University of San Francisco School of Law’s employment and bar passage outcomes offer a clear picture of what graduates can expect after completing the JD program. The school’s first-time bar-exam pass rate is reported at about 67.37 percent, meaning roughly two-thirds of its graduates pass on their first attempt. Employment results show that approximately 77 percent of a recent graduating class secured positions within the standard reporting period, with most working full-time. Just over half of employed graduates obtained roles requiring bar passage, while nearly one-fifth entered positions where a JD was considered advantageous even though licensure was not required. These numbers suggest that graduates do find opportunities after law school, but they also show that outcomes can vary, making strong academic preparation, consistent studying, and intentional networking especially important for students aiming to maximize their prospects.
Quality of Life
San Francisco has many cultural and recreational opportunities for all types of people. From world-class art galleries and music venues to professional sports teams, the diversity and quality of life in San Francisco are simply unrivaled. The legal profession offers incredible opportunities to those who seek it, as there is almost no limit to the possibilities and paths that can be explored.
The campus of USF School of Law is in the heart of San Francisco, just a short walk from Union Square. From here, students have easy access to all the opportunities this great city offers. This central location allows for quick travel around the Bay Area and access to some of the city's most popular attractions.
The USF School of Law is focused on providing students with a world-class legal education and the opportunity to explore and engage in the many features of San Francisco. The USF School of Law provides students with everything they need to succeed in their chosen field with its top-tier faculty, cutting-edge curriculum, and unparalleled access to resources and opportunities. If you are looking for an outstanding legal education and the opportunity to live in one of the world's most incredible cities, then the USF School of Law is perfect.
Synopsis
The University of San Francisco School of Law offers a mission-driven legal education grounded in ethical preparation, practical learning, and community engagement. Admissions for the 2025 cycle emphasize personal background, motivation, and academic readiness rather than numerical data alone. Cost of attendance for the 2025–26 year reflects a significant investment, with tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses forming the full financial picture students should plan for. Employment outcomes show that most graduates secure work within the reporting period, with a little over half entering roles that require bar passage, while bar-exam performance sits moderately below national averages. Together, these details provide an honest, rounded view of what prospective students can expect academically, financially, and professionally as they consider USF School of Law.
Contact Information
University of San Francisco School of Law
Office of Admissions
2130 Fulton Street
Kendrick Hall, 230
San Francisco, CA 94117
Email: lawadmissions@usfca.edu
Phone: 415-422-6586
Summary
| Established | 1912 |
| Location | San Francisco, CA 94117 |
| Dean | Johanna Kalb |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 166th |
| LSAT Median Score | 154 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.37 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 67.4% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | N/A (2025) |
| Cost | $55,290 |
| Average Debt | N/A |
| Application Deadline | N/A |
Forum and Discussion
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Reference
LSD Law
Ranked 166
Guide to Fee Waivers
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
Success in Law School - A Unique Perspective
The Guide to Law School Loans
