Golden Gate University School of Law

University

At Golden Gate University School of Law, students can explore a wide range of topics related to the law and gain practical experience through internships and other hands-on experiences. The school has an experienced faculty team of experts in different areas, such as business transactions, taxation, legal analysis and writing, criminal law, health law, and more. Furthermore, the school has an extensive alum network to leverage for career guidance and networking opportunities.

History

Golden Gate, University School of Law, has a long and proud history of providing legal education to students in the San Francisco area since 1901. It was founded by brothers Hugh and Robert Gunn, members of one of the city's most prominent legal families that date back to before the Gold Rush. The University is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco and is proud to have produced some of the city's most influential legal minds over the past century.

The School of Law offers a rigorous academic program that combines traditional classroom instruction with experiential learning opportunities like clinics, externships, and real-world simulations, giving students an unparalleled hands-on experience. Students also have the opportunity to gain insight from prominent legal professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and other events. With more than 40 concentrations, students can customize their education to suit their interests and career goals.

The School of Law's faculty comprises internationally recognized experts in business law, intellectual property, taxation, litigation, health care, and more. The faculty is committed to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of practicing law in an ever-changing legal environment.

Admissions

Golden Gate University (GGU) School of Law’s 2025 admissions process is designed to be flexible and applicant-friendly, with rolling review and encouragement to apply early for the best consideration. Applicants typically apply through LSAC, submit required academic records (including official transcripts and, when applicable, LSAC foreign transcript evaluation), and provide supporting materials depending on the program (such as a résumé, personal statement, and addenda for character and fitness or academic context). GGU Law notes that applications are reviewed on a space-available basis even after posted deadlines, but submitting by the stated deadline improves the likelihood of full consideration.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2023–2024	2024–2025
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	150-153-155	150-153-155
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.02-3.28-3.46	3.01-3.09-3.47
Acceptance rate	25.5%	22.43%
Applications received	1021	1021
Acceptances	229	229
Matriculants	25	25

For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle (Class of 2025) at Golden Gate University School of Law, the reported statistics show an LSAT 25th–50th–75th percentile range of 150–153–155 and a GPA 25th–50th–75th percentile range of 3.01–3.09–3.47, reflecting a slightly higher upper GPA percentile compared to the previous year. The school received 1,021 applications, made 229 offers of admission, and enrolled 25 matriculants, resulting in an acceptance rate of 22.43% for the cycle.

Application Deadline

For the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, Golden Gate University School of Law states that applications must be submitted by the posted deadline to receive full consideration by the Admissions Committee, and while late applications may still be accepted, they’re reviewed only on a space-available basis, so applying early is strongly encouraged. However, Golden Gate University School of Law is no longer admitting new students to its ABA-accredited J.D. program, so the “2025–2026 application deadline” depends on whether you mean an LL.M. program (such as Taxation or Estate Planning) or another law-related program offered by the school.

Application Requirements

All aspiring law students are strongly encouraged to apply for Golden Gate University School of Law as soon as possible in the admission cycle. To start, applicants must register with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and submit their applications via LSAC’s website. The Admissions Committee only considers those applications submitted before the deadline; however, applications may still be accepted after the deadline and will be reviewed if space allows. Lastly, foreign-educated students must send their official transcripts to LSAC for evaluation; LSAC does not accept evaluations from other credential review services.

Application Checklist

Golden Gate University School of Law’s application checklist (for its graduate law programs such as the LL.M. and S.J.D.) generally includes a completed application form, official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, a current résumé, and a personal statement or statement of purpose explaining your academic and professional goals. Depending on the program, you may also need letters of recommendation, any required addenda (such as character and fitness disclosures, if applicable), and international applicant documentation like proof of English proficiency and evaluation of foreign transcripts when required. Applicants are expected to carefully follow all instructions on the application and submit materials by the posted deadline for full consideration, since late submissions are reviewed only if space remains available.

Admission Process

The admissions process at Golden Gate, University School of Law, involves completing an application form, which is available electronically on the LSAC website. Applicants must read and follow the instructions provided on the form carefully. Once all required materials have been provided, the application will be forwarded to the Admissions Committee for review. The average time frame for receiving a decision is four to six weeks, but it may be reached sooner. Admission decisions are final and will be sent via email and the LSAC Online Status Check. Applicants should ensure that all contact information on the application form is accurate and up-to-date to receive timely notification regarding admissions decisions.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a personal statement to be considered for admission to Golden Gate University School of Law. This statement should be at most two double-spaced pages in 12-point font and discuss the applicant's motivation to attend law school and why they would make an effective law student and attorney.

Resume

Applicants should submit an up-to-date resume outlining their educational and professional backgrounds and any current or past community service or volunteer activities. This document should provide a comprehensive overview of the applicant's qualifications and experiences, highlighting their successes and accomplishments in both academic and extracurricular realms. It should also include a detailed list of any honors and awards, publications, internships, and school or work organizations to which the applicant belongs. It is important to emphasize any areas of interest relating to Golden Gate University School of Law, such as international law, dispute resolution, healthcare law, business law, etc. Finally, the resume should include all contact information required by the university.

Statement of Interest

Those keen on applying to the Public Interest Scholars Program (PISP) or Environmental Law Scholars Program (ELSP) must indicate their interest in the application form and provide a supplementary Statement of Interest. If a candidate applies for both, separate Statements of Interest must be submitted.

Character and Fitness

If prospective students answer "Yes" to any of the questions in the Character and Fitness section, they will be required to submit an addendum. In this additional document, applicants must specify the date of the occurrence, give a detailed explanation explaining all relevant information regarding the incident and provide further evidence demonstrating how it was resolved. It is highly recommended that students seek advice from the Office of Admissions and the Committee of Bar Examiners in their desired state of practice before submitting their application. Golden Gate University School of Law is committed to providing prospective students with all necessary resources and guidance regarding character fitness questions. They understand this section's importance and want to ensure that all applicants are fully prepared and knowledgeable of all requirements.

Addendum

Applicants who want to emphasize their unique qualities or address any issues not included in the personal statement may include an optional addendum. This addendum might highlight diverse backgrounds, experiences, or qualifications that will support their candidacy and set them apart from other applicants. An addendum should be included for those with considerable differences between LSAT scores to explain the discrepancy.

At Golden Gate University School of Law, they recognize that all applicants are unique and bring various experiences and qualifications to our law school. They understand that LSAT scores only sometimes accurately reflect an applicant's potential for success in law school. Submitting thoughtful and well-written addenda can help applicants demonstrate the reasons for their lower scores.

They strongly encourage all applicants to consider whether an addendum would benefit their application and, if so, to include it when submitting their online application through LSAC. This can be a helpful tool in emphasizing qualities or addressing issues that are not included in the personal statement.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants to Golden Gate University School of Law are strongly advised to submit two to four letters of recommendation with their application. These letters should come from current or former professors, professional colleagues, and supervisors who accurately portray the applicant's intellectual and professional capabilities. Letters from friends and family members will not be considered and should not be submitted. All letters of recommendation should be sent to LSAC directly from the recommender. When choosing letters of recommendation, applicants are encouraged to select individuals who can speak to their academic and professional accomplishments, as well as their character and leadership skills. These letters can provide valuable insight into an applicant's qualifications for studying law at Golden Gate University School of Law.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report

The Golden Gate University School of Law facilitates access to legal education through its Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report. This document is a compilation of the applicant's LSAT score(s), post-secondary transcripts, and letters of recommendation, which are then sent to each law school that the applicant has indicated.

Applicants must possess a valid LSAT score to be considered for admission to Golden Gate. Scores less than three years old are preferred, and scores over five years old will not be accepted. Additionally, transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools must be submitted directly to LSAC for inclusion in the CAS report.

At a minimum, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited undergraduate institution before their first day of new student orientation. Admitted students must submit an official transcript reflecting the bachelor's degree and conferral date. Otherwise, they will have their offers of admission withdrawn.

Golden Gate University School of Law is dedicated to providing access to legal education through its Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report. The school can assess and review applicants fairly and comprehensively through this document. Applicants must fulfill all requirements for admission for their applications to be considered. It is also vital that admitted students provide proof of their conferred bachelor's degree before their first day of orientation. By following these steps, applicants can ensure that their applications are appropriately reviewed and considered for admission to Golden Gate University School of Law.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Golden Gate University School of Law’s tuition costs vary depending on the specific program (such as an LL.M. track), course load, and enrollment status, but students should expect tuition to be charged per unit along with additional fees that may include registration, student services, and other administrative costs. Because tuition and fees can shift each academic year, the most accurate approach is to confirm the current rate for the 2025–2026 year directly through the school’s published tuition schedule. If you’re planning your budget, it’s also smart to factor in real-life expenses like books, commuting, housing, and technology, since those often impact total cost more than students expect, especially in the Bay Area.

When it comes to financial aid, Golden Gate University offers support through a combination of federal student aid (for eligible students), scholarships, and institutional funding opportunities depending on program availability. Many students rely on federal loans by filing the FAFSA, while others may qualify for merit-based awards or need-based assistance that requires separate documentation. If you’re applying for a graduate law program, financial aid options can differ from J.D. funding, so it’s worth reviewing program-specific eligibility and deadlines early, especially if you’re trying to minimize out-of-pocket costs or reduce reliance on private loans.

Cost of Attendance

Golden Gate University School of Law’s cost of attendance is made up of direct costs (what you pay the university, like tuition and required fees) and indirect costs (your living expenses while you’re in school, like housing, books, transportation, and personal spending). The university includes both types of costs in its official cost of attendance estimate because they affect the total amount a student may need to attend law school for the academic year. This matters because your cost of attendance isn’t just what shows up on your tuition bill. It’s the full picture of what it realistically takes to stay enrolled and financially stable while completing your program.

Below is a sample annual breakdown using common cost categories schools include in their cost of attendance calculations. The exact totals can vary depending on your enrollment status and living situation, but this table shows a clear and realistic structure for presenting costs in a wiki-style format.

Cost Category	Estimated Annual Amount (USD)	Notes
Tuition and required fees (Direct costs)	$45,000	Paid directly to the university
Books and supplies (Indirect costs)	$1,800	Casebooks and required materials
Housing and food (Indirect costs)	$28,000	Rent, utilities, groceries
Transportation (Indirect costs)	$3,000	Transit, gas, parking, commuting
Personal expenses (Indirect costs)	$4,500	Phone, clothing, basic needs
Estimated Total Cost of Attendance	$82,300	Total estimated annual cost

Financial Aid

Golden Gate University School of Law’s financial aid options are designed to help eligible students cover the cost of attendance through a mix of scholarships, federal student aid, and private financing options. Students who qualify can apply for federal Direct Unsubsidized (Stafford) Loans, Direct Grad PLUS Loans, and in some cases Federal Work-Study, with eligibility typically determined by submitting the FAFSA each year using GGU’s school code 001205. Because funding is limited and aid packages vary by program and enrollment status, the law school encourages students to apply early and combine aid with personal savings or employment when possible.

Merit Scholarships

Golden Gate, University School of Law, offers many financial aid opportunities for legal students. Merit scholarships are available to qualified applicants, as well as special scholarships which may be applied toward tuition and fees. In addition, veterans can access benefits through the Veterans Affairs Department to finance their studies.

Federal Student Aid

Federal student aid, including Federal Work Study, Federal Direct Stafford, and Loans, are available to qualified students. Private loans may also be an option for those needing additional funds. To remain eligible for financial aid, students must maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP).

Summer Financial Aid

Summer Financial Aid is available to continue law students who meet certain criteria. Graduating students will need to complete specific processes to receive financial aid. All students should review the Financial Aid Forms, which outline the requirements and procedures for applying for financial assistance.

Academics and Curriculum

Golden Gate University School of Law is an institution that promotes a cutting-edge and individualized educational experience. Their courses are taught by highly skilled faculty members who hold extensive knowledge in multiple scholarly disciplines, as well as areas of legal study. Adjacent to the bustling city of San Francisco, their Juris Doctor program prepares students to succeed in the dynamic legal profession.

At GGU Law, students benefit from small class sizes and a supportive network of peers, professors, administrators, and alums. They take pride in helping students create individualized paths that best suit their goals and interests. From internships with local firms to courses on specialized topics - like entrepreneurship or intellectual property law - their program allows students to gain the skills and experience they need to succeed.

Whether you’re looking to launch your legal career or take it in a new direction, GGU Law can help you get there. Their unique approach to legal education can set you up for success in whatever field you choose to pursue. With GGU Law, you’ll get an education that is both challenging and rewarding - as well as a close-knit community of students and faculty dedicated to helping you reach your goals.

Joint Degree

The joint MBA/JD program at Golden Gate, University School of Law, provides students with the opportunity to pursue a law degree and a master's degree in business administration. By taking advantage of this accelerated program, students can reduce the time needed to complete both degrees as they can count certain credits from one program towards their progress in the other.

The joint MBA/JD program at Golden Gate University School of Law is designed for full-time students who already commit to pursuing both degrees. Students should be prepared to devote the necessary time and effort to participate in this expanded program as it requires acceptance into the Law School before beginning. With that being said, those who have the opportunity to participate in this program have an excellent chance to further their academic and professional goals.

Study Abroad

Golden Gate, University School of Law, provides a fantastic opportunity for students to broaden their legal education by studying comparative law in one of the world’s most iconic cities – Paris! In partnership with the Université Paris Nanterre, students can immerse themselves in France’s culture and gain invaluable insights into how other countries approach legal issues.

Through this program, students will understand how the law is interpreted and applied in different countries worldwide. In addition to gaining knowledge about international laws, students will also discover Paris’s vibrant culture with visits to its famous monuments, art galleries, and other attractions.

The two-week program will include lectures from comparative law experts and discussions and debates with students from different countries. This program will provide a unique opportunity for students to learn about French legal systems and practice their legal reasoning skills in an international setting.

Specialization Certificates

Golden Gate University School of Law offers an array of Specialization Certificates for JD students. These certificates help individuals focus on their elective courses, develop relevant skills, and strengthen their resumes. Participants in business law can expect comprehensive instruction on contracts, torts, business organizations, secured transactions, and more.

Clinics and Externships

At the Golden Gate University School of Law, students are provided with an extensive selection of clinics and externships to gain valuable experience, hone their skills, and make a real difference in the communities they serve. With these opportunities, law students have a unique opportunity to receive hands-on training in legal practice while advocating on behalf of those most in need.

The School of Law’s clinics covers a wide range of issues and specialties, such as immigration law, elder law, family law, and consumer protection. Students can gain experience in court proceedings, research and writing techniques, client interviews, and more through these clinics. Their externship programs also allow students to gain experience outside the classroom, offering opportunities to work in government agencies and legal services organizations.

At Golden Gate University School of Law, they are committed to ensuring their students have the best education and training possible. Their clinics and externships allow law students to gain valuable knowledge and skills while advocating for those who need it the most. Through their clinics and externships, students can gain a deeper understanding of legal practice while providing access to justice for underserved communities.

Women's Employment Rights Clinic

The Women's Employment Rights Clinic (WERC) is a comprehensive legal organization that fights for the rights of low-wage and immigrant workers. Dedicated to ensuring fair treatment in the workplace, WERC advocates for individuals through direct service, impact litigation, and public policy. WERC has improved labor issues such as wage and hour, workplace safety, and employment discrimination. The clinic is part of Golden Gate University School of Law which provides support and resources to the organization.

WERC takes on various cases from individuals who have experienced workplace injustice or unfair work treatment. At WERC, clients receive personalized care from Golden Gate University School of Law students and certified attorneys. With the support of knowledgeable and experienced professionals, clients can feel confident that their cases will be handled with expertise and competence.

Environmental Law & Justice Clinic

The Environmental Law & Justice Clinic at Golden Gate University School of Law is a unique opportunity for students to understand the complexities of environmental law, explore the various policy issues associated with it, and learn how attorneys can use their skills to bring about meaningful change. Through hands-on experience in actual cases, clinical students can contribute to protecting their environment and assist those most directly impacted by environmental injustices.

In the clinic, students begin by investigating a wide range of environmental law topics, including air quality, water pollution, hazardous waste management, climate change, land use and preservation laws, and other issues related to sustainability. Through targeted research projects and case studies, students learn to identify potential legal remedies and strategies that can be used to protect environmental resources.

Veterans Legal Advocacy Clinic

The Veterans Legal Advocacy Clinic (VLAC) at Golden Gate University School of Law was established to provide much-needed legal assistance to men and women in the military who have served their country. This clinic is the first of its kind in Northern California. It offers dedicated veterans specialized representation in medical care, disability benefits, and other related legal matters.

Pro Bono Tax Clinic

The Golden Gate University School of Law Pro Bono Tax Clinic is an incredible opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a legal setting. At the same time, they learn how to represent clients properly. Experienced attorneys supervise this clinic from the California Board of Equalization (BOE), who are dedicated to helping students hone and develop their skills as they work with clients. Through this program, students can gain valuable skills in client interviewing, case evaluation, legal research and analysis, tax compliance, litigation support, and more. In addition to gaining invaluable experience for their career paths, students also have the satisfaction of helping members of their community who may not be able to afford legal representation. The Pro Bono Tax Clinic is an excellent way for students to kick-start their careers while giving back to the community. With this program, Golden Gate University School of Law continuously strives to foster the development of future attorneys and ensure that everyone has access to justice.

Externships

Golden Gate, University School of Law, offers its students comprehensive clinical legal education programs through externships. In these clinics, students receive academic credit for working with faculty members, attorneys, judges, and government representatives under their guided supervision. Such opportunities are invaluable as they allow students to gain knowledge and experience through hands-on work with legal professionals. This provides a unique opportunity for students to become familiar with the field and understand how legal systems work in real-world contexts. GGU Law externships equip students with the necessary skills to be successful lawyers in their future practice. Additionally, these programs provide networking opportunities that can benefit further career development.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

For 2025 employment prospects and bar passage, the most recent publicly available outcomes show a mixed picture for Golden Gate University School of Law. On the employment side, the school’s ABA Employment Summary Report for 2022 graduates (the latest linked directly on GGU’s official consumer information pages) reports 118 total graduates, with 47 employed in jobs requiring bar passage, 29 employed in J.D.-advantage roles, and 32 unemployed but seeking work as of the ABA’s reporting date. Of those employed, the majority of placements were in law firms (across multiple firm sizes), public interest, business and industry, and government, with the largest share of employed graduates working in California. On the bar passage side, GGU’s ABA Bar Passage report shows that for the Class of 2022, 119 first-time takers sat for a bar exam in any jurisdiction, and 54 passed, for a 45.38% first-time bar pass rate, compared with the ABA national first-time weighted average of 72.69%, and California first-time performance of 41.84% (41 out of 98 takers).

Quality of Life

GGU Law students are fortunate to be in the middle of San Francisco, one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities. From every corner of the globe, people from all walks of life come together to create an inspiring atmosphere for learning. With public transportation readily available, students can conveniently explore this bustling metropolis and its stunning scenery.

The location of GGU Law also offers students a unique opportunity to engage in internships and externships with some of the biggest names in the tech industry, such as Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Salesforce. These experiences are invaluable for law students looking to gain legal experience under the supervision of practicing lawyers and faculty members.

At GGU Law, they believe in the potential of their students and the importance of providing them with an education that will open doors to a successful future. Their location in San Francisco ensures they have access to some of the world's most sought-after internship opportunities, giving them a leg up as they pursue their career dreams. They are proud to play a part in fostering the next generation of legal leaders.

GGU Law is truly an ideal setting for students to gain the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their field and impact their community. With unparalleled access to the ever-evolving tech industry, their students enjoy an advantage that cannot be found anywhere else. They are proud to provide a top-notch legal education and an incredible experience in one of the world's most dynamic cities. The possibilities for growth and success that await their students are truly endless!

Law Library

The Golden Gate University School of Law's library provides a wealth of resources, information, and services to law students, faculty, and staff. With their expert legal research and publication knowledge, the librarians can assist with any educational needs or class assignments.

The library is designed to meet the specific needs of law students, offering a wide range of materials, including books, journals, and other periodicals on legal topics as well as access to electronic databases. In addition to library resources, they provide comprehensive instructional services such as workshops and tutorials to help guide students in their research.

Synopsis

Golden Gate University School of Law is committed to preparing students for successful careers in the legal profession. The program provides a quality legal education with an affordable tuition rate, experienced faculty, and numerous opportunities to gain practical experience.

Contact Information

Golden Gate University School of Law
Admissions Office
536 Mission Street
2nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: 415-442-6630
Email: lawadmissions@ggu.edu

Summary

Established	1901
Location	San Francisco, CA 94105
Dean	Mark Yates, Esq.
2025 US News Ranking	Best Law Schools
LSAT Median Score	--
GPA Median Score	--
Bar Passage Rate	N/A (2025)
Employment Rate	N/A (2025)
Cost	-	Average Debt	N/A
Application Deadline	April 15, 2025

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Reference

LSD Law BCG Attorney's Advice for Associates
LSAC Guide
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