George Mason University School of Law

George Mason Law

George Mason University School of Law, located just outside of Washington, D.C. in Arlington Virginia, has plenty to offer its students. Between its increasingly strong regional reputation, fantastic career prospects, and incredibly low tuition, the school deserves an inquiry from any student who doesn't mind a conservative reputation and limited national mobility.

History

Renamed in 2016, Antonin Scalia Law School is located in Hazel Hall, established in 1999, and serves as the law school's home. The American Bar Association accredits the institution and is a member of the Association of American Law Schools. Its roots can be traced back to 1972 with the establishment of the International School of Law, which eventually merged with George Mason University in 1979 to form the George Mason University School of Law.

Admissions

George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School is currently accepting applications for its 2025 JD admissions cycle. Applications opened on September 17, 2024, and the final deadline to apply is April 30, 2025. Prospective students aiming for the Early Decision program or the Scalia Law Scholars full-tuition scholarship must submit their applications by January 15, 2025. To be considered for merit-based scholarships, applicants should complete their submissions by March 1, 2025.

Applicants are required to submit a completed application through LSAC, including a Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report with either LSAT or GRE scores taken within the last five years. Additionally, candidates must provide undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, a separate “Mason statement,” and at least one letter of recommendation. Optional forms are available for those applying as Early Decision candidates or for the prestigious Scalia Law Scholars program.

In terms of competitiveness, George Mason’s law school is highly selective. For the most recent class, the median LSAT score was 168 and the median undergraduate GPA was 3.92. Approximately 14.6% of applicants were admitted, with about one-third of those accepted choosing to enroll. Tuition for the 2023–24 academic year was around $27,762 for in-state students and $43,876 for out-of-state students, with a total cost of attendance (including living expenses) estimated at $62,196 and $78,044 respectively.

Scalia Law boasts strong career outcomes, with around 90% of graduates passing the Virginia bar on their first attempt and a significant portion going on to work in law firms, judicial clerkships, or public interest roles. The school also accepts transfer students, typically those ranking in the top 20–30% of their current ABA-accredited law school classes. Transfer application deadlines vary depending on the semester, with fall applications due by July 10 and spring applications by January 10.

The law school offers additional pathways including a Flex-JD (part-time) program with the same admissions criteria as the full-time JD, and a 3+3 accelerated degree program for George Mason undergraduates. For those not seeking a JD, the school also offers a Juris Master (JM) degree with rolling admissions, requiring a separate application and interview process.

For assistance or questions, applicants can reach out to the Admissions Office via email at lawadmit@gmu.edu or by phone at (703) 993-8010. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding Tuesdays. Virtual and in-person admissions events, including campus tours and info sessions, are regularly offered throughout the admissions season. This makes George Mason University School of Law an excellent choice for students seeking a top-tier education.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2023-2024	2024-2025
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	160 - 168 - 169	160 - 168 - 169
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.53 - 3.89 - 3.95	3.63 - 3.92 - 3.99
Acceptance rate	19.6%	14.6%
Applications received	2303	2397
Acceptances	323	350
Matriculants	96	115

The deadline for regular admission applications is March 1. Applicants who submit their applications by this date will receive priority consideration. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, so applicants are encouraged to apply early. George Mason University School of Law uses a holistic approach when reviewing applications. It considers all aspects of an applicant's file, including academic achievement, work experience, leadership qualities, and service to the community. The admissions committee also values diversity and looks for applicants who will add to the richness of the student body.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for Fall 2025 at George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School is approximately 14.6%. Out of roughly 2,397 applicants during the 2024–25 admissions cycle, about 350 were offered admission, highlighting the school's highly selective nature.

Application Fee

George Mason University School of Law requires all applicants to apply electronically through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). If you have applied to the school in the past, you must submit a new and complete application and maintain your LSAC CAS registration. Scalia Law has waived the application fee for all first-year JD applicants. To learn more about obtaining a fee waiver, click here.

CAS Report with LSAT/GRE

Applicants must register with the LSAC CAS to ensure that Scalia Law receives a current Law School Report furnished by LSAC. Applicants may contact LSAC directly at 215-968-1001 or through the LSAC Website.

Applicants must use the CAS Recipient Code for Antonin Scalia Law School, George Mason University. The Code is 5827.

LSAT/GRE

All applicants must take either the LSAT or GRE. Applicants with both LSAT and GRE scores should submit LSAT scores only; in such cases, GRE scores will not be considered. LSAT -To be considered for our priority deadline of March 1, an application must be completed by March 1. GRE -To have a complete application by our March 1 priority deadline, an applicant must take the GRE before February 8. Applicants who are applying under our regular deadline of April 30 must take the GRE before March 7.

Personal Statement

George Mason University School of Law requires submitting a personal statement not to exceed two pages, double-spaced. This is an opportunity for the applicant to provide the Admissions Committee with insights into himself/herself as an individual and what is reflected in other parts of the application. The thoughts and words of the personal statement must be uniquely those of the applicant. Basic proofreading is the only outside assistance allowed to create the personal statement.

The personal statement must be submitted as an electronic document and uploaded to the electronic application. Applicants should include their names at the top of the personal statement. For personal statements and application essays, check out the TLS Guide to Personal Statements.

One Letter of Recommendation

George Mason University School of Law requires that applicants submit one letter of recommendation using the LSAC CAS Letter of Recommendation Service. Applicants must follow the CAS procedures when submitting their letters of recommendation. For additional advice on obtaining letters of recommendation, click here.

Resume

Applicants must include an up-to-date resume. There are no format or content requirements. However, it should be a professional resume. Scalia Law does not have a page limit for the resume, so applicants should use their best judgment to decide the proper length. To read some advice about creating a professional law school resume, click here.

Mason Statement

The application requires the submission of an additional statement not to exceed two double-spaced pages that discuss the applicant's particular interest in Scalia Law.

Early Decision Application Options

Scalia Law Scholars Program\

The Scalia Law Scholars Program is an early decision program for students interested in attending George Mason University School of Law. Admission to the program is binding and admitted students would receive a full tuition scholarship. This program is designed for applicants who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities. Applicants must submit a signed Scalia Law Scholars Program Agreement to apply to the Scalia Law Scholars Program Program. Applicants who apply by January 15 will receive a decision by mid-February. Some applicants not admitted through the Scalia Law Scholars Program may be considered in the regular admission process. In contrast, others may be informed that their application has been denied and will not be evaluated again. Both full-time and part-time applicants can apply for the Scalia Law Scholars Program.

Early Decision Program

George Mason University School of Law's Early Decision Program is for applicants who are confident that Scalia Law is their top choice. The program requires an Early Decision Agreement. Applicants who complete the agreement by January 15 will receive a decision by mid-February. For the application to be complete, the applicant must have taken the LSAT (or GRE) on or before the November test offering. Applicants not admitted through the Early Decision Program may be considered in the regular admission process. Other Early Decision applicants may be informed that their application for admission has been denied and will not be re-evaluated.

The program is binding, meaning applicants admitted through the Early Decision Program agree to attend George Mason University School of Law. Applicants not admitted through the Early Decision Program may be considered in the regular admission process. Other Early Decision applicants may be informed that their application for admission has been denied and will not be re-evaluated. To read a TLS article about deciding between ED and RD (or Regular Decision), click here.

Tuition and Expenses

For the 2025–26 academic year, full-time JD students at George Mason’s Antonin Scalia Law School can expect an in-state tuition and mandatory fee total of approximately $27,832 (comprising $24,864 tuition plus $2,968 in student fees), while out-of-state students pay around $42,968 ($40,978 tuition plus $1,990 in fees). Beyond tuition, estimated living expenses—including room, board, books, transportation, and personal costs—are roughly $35,740, bringing the total cost of attendance to about $63,572 for Virginia residents and approximately $78,708 for out-of-state students. Most full-time JD students (98% of the Fall 2024 cohort) receive scholarship awards ranging from $7,000 to full tuition, with average grant aid of around $20,000, significantly reducing the net cost for many recipients.

Cost of Attendance

For the 2025–26 academic year, the estimated Cost of Attendance (COA) at George Mason’s Antonin Scalia Law School includes both tuition/fees and living expenses. In-state students can expect to pay a total of approximately $63,572, which covers $27,832 in tuition and mandatory fees, plus an estimated $35,740 in living expenses (including housing, food, transportation, books, and miscellaneous costs). Out-of-state students face a higher total COA of about $78,708, which includes $42,968 in tuition and fees combined with the same estimated $35,740 for living costs. These figures are based on a standard 9-month academic year and assume full-time JD enrollment. Importantly, the law school provides substantial financial aid: about 98% of incoming students receive scholarships, with awards ranging from $7,000 to full tuition, helping to ease the financial burden for most students.

**2025–26 Cost of Attendance: Antonin Scalia Law School**
Category	In-State Students	Out-of-State Students
Tuition	$24,864	$40,978
Mandatory Fees	$2,968	$1,990
Total Tuition & Fees	$27,832	$42,968
Estimated Living Expenses	$35,740	$35,740
Total Cost of Attendance	$63,572	$78,708

George Mason University School of Law's FLEX-JD Program offers a unique opportunity for students to complete their JD in as little as 21 credit hours. This includes room and board, transportation, personal expenses, loan fees, and books. The cost of attendance will vary depending on the student's living arrangement.

Student Loans

George Mason University's Office of Student Financial Aid is located at the Fairfax Campus and provides various services to help students finance their education. George Mason participates in the Federal Direct Loan Program, which requires students to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. To be prioritized for available funds, the federal processor must receive the FAFSA on or before March 1. Types of financial aid available include Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, and Federal Work-Study.

If you have questions about financial aid, you can visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website.

Scholarships and Fellowships

George Mason University School of Law is committed to providing students with financial assistance. The law school offers merit-based scholarships to help defray the cost of legal education. All applicants will automatically be considered for a standard scholarship. Scholarship and fellowship awards will be posted to student accounts and appear on Patriot Web after students are registered for fall classes in late July or early August.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Graduates of the Class of 2023 achieved a first-time bar passage rate of approximately 87.4% across all jurisdictions, which reflects the selective school’s consistent strength in preparing students for the bar exam. In terms of employment, about 82% of recent law graduates secured positions that require bar admission within ten months of graduation, while an additional 5% found roles categorized as JD-advantage positions. This results in a total employment rate of over 87%, aligning with national trends and demonstrating a strong post-graduate landscape. Specifically for Scalia Law graduates, approximately 37% enter law firms, 22% obtain judicial clerkships, and around 7–8% pursue careers in public interest law. These statistics highlight the school's successful placement record and suggest that students are well-positioned for a variety of legal career paths. Despite a competitive legal market, Scalia Law continues to offer robust outcomes for its graduates through a combination of academic rigor, professional support, and a strong regional reputation. For a full listing of clerkships obtained by Scalia Law School students and alumni, visit www.law.gmu.edu/career/clerkship.

**2025 Employment Outcomes & Bar Passage: Antonin Scalia Law School**
Category	Percentage/Rate
First-Time Bar Passage Rate	87.4%
Employed in Bar-Required Jobs	82%
Employed in JD-Advantage Roles	5%
Total Employment Rate	87%+
Employed in Law Firms	37%
Judicial Clerkships	22%
Public Interest Employment	7–8%

Reportable salary information does not include bonuses, part-time salaries, or other non-traditional compensation packages, and some graduates choose not to disclose their salaries. The Career and Academic Services Office does collect information about bonuses, part-time and hourly wages, and benefits packages. If you want to know more, don't hesitate to contact at 703-993-8020.

Quality of Life

George Mason Law

Looking for a conservative law school located in the highly developed suburbs of Northern Virginia? Then George Mason Law School is the school for you. If you are not, look elsewhere, as most students say that the school's conservative bias and Northern Virginia location permeate all facets of a GMU legal education. This includes the lifestyle led by Law Students. Many students are known to hold part-time jobs outside of class, and one 1L claims that his entire class seems "perpetually busy" and not interested in "having any fun whatsoever." Most students feel that the school is not overly-competitive, though, and they enjoy the sense of camaraderie that exists among the student body

Regarding social life, some complain, as did one 3L, that there isn't much to do in Arlington if you aren't satisfied with dividing your time between "the classroom and the bar scene." While it seems to be true that the drinking culture dominates social life, most students seem to be able to find alternatives. DC is not too far away, and there seem to be many school-sponsored events and student groups. As will be true with most law schools, social life at George Mason can only be what its students make of it. It seems that GMU gives its folks plenty to work with.

Faculty and Curriculum

George Mason University School of Law offers an intimate 4:1 faculty-to-student ratio, with 51 full-time and 184 part-time faculty members. This allows students to receive individualized attention and benefit from the faculty's wealth of experience and knowledge. The school can also offer a wide range of courses, ensuring that students can get the education they need to succeed in their chosen field of law.

George Mason University School of Law has an innovative and demanding curriculum that emphasizes the role of economic analysis in law. The school offers its students a wide variety of focus areas, providing them with the substantive preparation they need to succeed in practice. George Mason is dedicated to developing well-rounded lawyers who can think critically and communicate effectively. The school offers various courses covering all aspects of the law, from business and financial regulation to constitutional law. George Mason also strongly commits to public interest law and provides its students with the skills and knowledge they need to pursue careers in this field. The school is excellent for students seeking a challenging and rewarding legal education.

George Mason Law School runs its curriculum on a semester basis with the standard first-year curriculum. Almost 200 courses are available to choose from beyond those required in the first year.

GMU is known to have a strong focus on research, legal writing, and technical methods. The law school is renowned for its expertise in Law and Economics, offering both a joint degree and an LLM with such a focus. The school also offers students the opportunity to complement their studies with programs run by the Center for Law and Economics. The university has an excellent economics department, including two Economics Nobel Laureates as professors. As an epicenter (along with the University of Chicago Law School) for law and economics, George Mason is a hotspot for educating judges and academics about the interrelationship between economic principles and legal doctrine. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once called the Center's programs "[M]ore intense than the Florida sun."

In addition to the Law and Economics program is the National Center for Technology and Law, programs which would be a nice compliment to the school's many course offerings in Intellectual Property Law. George Mason Law School benefits from the United States Patent and Trademark Office also being in Arlington.

Academics

Clinics, Externships, and Legal Practicum
George Mason University School of Law's location means that Scalia Law students have great chances to get real-world experience while still in law school. They can sign up for multiple courses focused on practical experience, as long as it does not go over the number of out-of-class credits and pass/fail (or "CR") credits allowed by the school. The Career and Academic Services Office can find more information on the clinics, externship programs, and legal practicum.

Synopsis

George Mason’s Antonin Scalia Law School remains a competitive and respected institution in legal education. For Fall 2025, the school admitted approximately 14.6% of its 2,397 applicants, enrolling 117 students with a median LSAT of 168 and a median GPA of 3.92. Tuition is estimated at $27,832 for in-state students and $42,968 for out-of-state students, with total cost of attendance reaching $63,572 and $78,708 respectively. However, 98% of incoming students receive scholarships, often significantly reducing these costs.

Graduates continue to perform well, with a first-time bar passage rate of around 87.4%. Within ten months of graduation, about 82% of students secure bar-required positions and another 5% obtain JD-advantage roles. Career placement is well-distributed, with 37% entering law firms, 22% taking judicial clerkships, and 7–8% working in public interest. These strong academic credentials, financial aid opportunities, and promising employment outcomes position Scalia Law as a top choice for aspiring legal professionals.

Contact Information

George Mason University
Antonin Scalia Law School
Admissions Office
Suite 150
3301 Fairfax Drive
Arlington, Virginia 22201

Phone: (703) 993-8010
Fax: (703) 993-8088
JD Inquires: lawadmit@gmu.edu https://www.law.gmu.edu/admissions/

Summary

Established	1979
Location	Arlington, VA
Dean	Ken Randall
2025 US News Ranking	31th
LSAT Median Score	168
GPA Median Score	3.92
Bar Passage Rate	87.4% (2025)
Employment Rate	73.6% (2025)
Cost	"$27,762 (in-state, full-time), $43,876 (out-of-state, full-time)"
Average Debt	$103,623
Application Deadline	April 30, 2025

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Reference

https://www.law.gmu.edu/
Rank #31
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