Charleston School of Law
The Charleston School of Law has a long tradition dating back to 1825 when a group of Charleston lawyers petitioned the South Carolina Legislature for a charter to establish a law school in the city. The Legislature responded by passing Act No. 2379, which established “a Lecture-ship on the Law.” In February 1826, the Charleston Forensic Club began offering lectures, establishing the South’s first law school. That legacy continues today through the Charleston School of Law.
The Charleston School of Law strives to produce graduates who are ready to enter the legal field and have a strong sense of morality and integrity. The school is dedicated to preparing students to become lawyers who will make a positive difference in their communities. The curriculum is designed to give students a well-rounded education rooted in excellence. The school is located in Charleston, with a long history of legal scholarship and a highly respected legal community. This allows students to learn from mentors and gain real-world experience through externships. The school’s mission is to create lawyers who will use their skills and knowledge to improve society.
Contents
History
The Charleston School of Law is a school that has been around for a long time. It was originally founded in 1825 as a way to offer lectures on law. In 2002, a group of judges and attorneys got together to create a new law school that would focus on community and offers students a great education. In 2003, the school was granted a license to begin accepting students.
Admissions
The Charleston School of Law understands that the application process can seem daunting. But don't worry, the admissions team will answer any questions and help you through the process.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 149-153-155 | 150-153-155 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.20-3.49-3.72 | 3.26-3.54-3.75 |
| Acceptance rate | 56.6% | 50.1% |
| Applications received | 1871 | 2136 |
| Acceptances | 994 | 1070 |
| Matriculants | 257 | 269 |
Charleston School of Law’s 2025 admissions profile shows a competitive but accessible landscape for prospective students. The incoming class posted LSAT scores in the 150 to 155 range for the 25th to 75th percentiles, with GPAs between 3.26 and 3.75. These figures reflect a slight upward shift from the previous year, suggesting the school attracted a stronger academic cohort. Applications also increased from 1,871 to 2,136, which indicates rising interest in the program and a growing applicant pool. Despite the higher number of applications, the acceptance rate dropped from 56.6 percent to 50.1 percent, reinforcing the trend toward greater selectivity. Acceptances rose to 1,070, and the number of matriculants increased from 257 to 269, meaning more admitted students chose to enroll. Overall, the data points to steady institutional growth, a strengthening applicant profile, and a more competitive admissions process for the 2024 to 2025 cycle.
LSAT
The Charleston School of Law requires all applicants to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) in order to assess their ability to complete the program. LSAT scores are valid for five years, and in the case of multiple scores, the school will use the high score. The LSAC has partnered with Khan Academy to offer free LSAT prep. Applicants are also required to register with the Law School Admission Council's (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS). A current CAS Report is required to complete a file.
GRE
The Charleston School of Law has decided to accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as an option for admission, starting with the fall 2023 application. This change is being made in an effort to make law school more accessible to potential students. In order to be accepted with a GRE score, an applicant must not have a reportable LSAT score on file. If an applicant has been admitted with a GRE score but later takes the LSAT, the Admission Committee will reevaluate the applicant's file. Applicants who choose to apply with only a GRE must submit an explanation for why they have chosen to take the GRE over the LSAT. While some merit scholarships will be available for GRE applicants, the majority will be for those with an LSAT score.
Tuition and Expenses
Charleston School of Law’s 2025 tuition and expenses reflect the financial commitment students take on as they move toward a legal career. The cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, living expenses, and academic resources that support students throughout the year. These figures help applicants understand what it truly takes to plan for law school so they can make decisions that feel grounded and manageable.
The following table provides a clear snapshot of the estimated 2025 cost of attendance. It’s a helpful starting point for comparing financial needs, exploring aid options, and deciding what feels realistic for your situation.
Estimated 2025 Cost of Attendance
| Expense Category | Full Time (Annual) | Part Time (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $46,910 | $36,850 |
| Fees | $1,850 | $1,550 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| Housing and Food | $18,500 | $18,500 |
| Transportation | $2,700 | $2,700 |
| Personal Expenses | $4,100 | $4,100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $75,860 | $65,500 |
The Estimated 2025 Cost of Attendance at Charleston School of Law gives students a realistic picture of the financial commitment required for the year, covering tuition, fees, books, housing, transportation, and personal expenses for both full time and part time enrollment.
Financial Aid
At the Charleston School of Law, we understand that financing a legal education can be a difficult task. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships, including need-based and merit-based scholarships, to help students pay for their education. In addition, we offer financial aid counseling to help students make informed decisions about their finances. This includes information on budgeting, loan comparisons, and debt management after graduation. We want our students to be able to focus on their education without worrying about money, and we're here to help them every step of the way.
Scholarships
The Charleston School of Law Office of Admission offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships. Current Charleston School of Law students may also be eligible for the Presidential Honors Program, which includes a scholarship, based on outstanding academic performance during their first year or first thirty credits earned at the law school.
Merit-Based Scholarship
Your application to the School of Law is also your application for merit scholarships. Decisions will be based on two factors: GPA and LSAT score. Typically, the Office of Admission makes merit scholarship offers at the time of acceptance. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Admission by email or by phone at 843.377.2143.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarship decisions will be made by the Office of Admission based on financial need. There are no GPA or LSAT score requirements to qualify for need-based scholarship funds. Accepted students who are offered a merit scholarship do not also qualify for a need-based scholarship. There are separate applications for students enrolling in the spring semester and those enrolling in the fall semester. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Admission by email or by phone at 843.377.2143.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
Charleston School of Law’s 2025 employment prospects highlight a steady pathway into the legal profession, with graduates finding roles across private practice, government, public interest, and corporate environments. Many students secure positions in small and mid sized firms throughout South Carolina, while others pursue clerkships that strengthen their legal foundation and open doors to long term opportunities. The school’s hands on training, clinics, and emphasis on practical skills continue to support students as they transition from the classroom to the workplace, helping them build confidence and professional connections.
Bar passage outcomes for the 2025 cycle reflect the school’s ongoing efforts to strengthen academic support and bar preparation resources. Charleston School of Law invests heavily in workshops, tutoring, and bar readiness programs designed to help students approach the exam with clarity and resilience. While passage rates can fluctuate from year to year, the school remains focused on improving performance by aligning its curriculum with bar-tested competencies and ensuring students receive the individualized support they need to succeed on the first attempt.
Quality of Life
The city of Charleston is a great place to live. There's a lot of history and culture here, as well as plenty of hospitality and Southern charm. And the beaches and weather are great too. If you're looking for a place that has it all, Charleston is definitely it.
The Charleston Regional Development Alliance reports that Charleston's population is growing rapidly, which is drawing in more and more young talent who are looking for job opportunities. Some of the most respected organizations in the country are located in Charleston, including Boeing, Blackbaud, Google, Gildan, Joint Base Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, Port of Charleston, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Nucor Steel, and Volvo. This makes Charleston a great place to live if you're looking for a career.
Synopsis
The Charleston School of Law is a nationally recognized law school that has a student-centric culture. The faculty and staff are committed to preparing you for success in the classroom and in the legal profession. The Charleston School of Law is an ABA-accredited law school, which means that it meets the standards set by the American Bar Association.
Contact Information
Charleston School of Law
Admissions Office
385 Meeting St,
Charleston, SC 29403, USA
Phone: (843) 329-1000
Email: info@charlestonlaw.edu
Summary
| Established | 2004 |
| Location | Charleston, SC |
| Dean | Jonathan A. Marcantel |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 178th-195th |
| LSAT Median Score | 153 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.54 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 65.6% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | N/A (2025) |
| Cost | $48,234 |
| Average Debt | $138,804 |
| Application Deadline | 1-Mar-2025 |
Forum and Discussion
Charleston School of Law Discussions
Law School Admissions Forums
Law Student Forums
Law School Class Forums
Reference
https://www.charlestonlaw.edu/
LSD Law
Ranked #178-195
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