Howard University School of Law

Welcome to Howard University School of Law, a premier legal education and training institution. Their school is dedicated to training and preparing the next generation of legal professionals who will lead America and the world in civil rights, international law, business law, environmental law, and more. They strive to provide an exceptional learning experience for their students through a robust and challenging curriculum, encouraging dialogue between faculty and students, and providing access to cutting-edge technology.

Their alums at Howard University School of Law are integral to the community. They are proud of their accomplishments in law school and the field—many are leading lawyers and judges across the country. Their alums stay connected to the law school, returning for special events and speaking engagements. They also showcase the accomplishments of their students, faculty, and staff on their website through profiles and success stories.

History

Howard University School of Law was founded in 1869 to train lawyers who could work to secure and protect the newly established rights of African Americans in the United States. Opening with only six students, the law school initially met at night in the homes and offices of its part-time faculty members. As it grew, both in physical size and in the depth of its curriculum, it became a center for civil rights advocacy, legal activism and a clearinghouse for information on civil rights issues.

Today, Howard University School of Law continues to educate lawyers committed to civil rights, social justice, and community service. With a diverse student body and faculty from across the United States and multiple countries, the law school offers students an educational experience of exceptional quality. It has an extensive curriculum that prepares lawyers to work in various legal fields and specialized courses on civil rights advocacy and social justice issues. The faculty is highly accomplished and respected in their respective legal fields. Howard University School of Law students also has access to various experiential learning opportunities, including clinical courses, internships and externships, judicial clerkships, and research projects. The law school also offers study abroad programs in countries such as China, France, India, Mexico, and South Africa.

Admissions

At Howard University School of Law, we create an environment where students, faculty members, staff, and alums come together to gain knowledge from traditional sources like textbooks and modern resources like the participation of multiple stakeholders within the institution. They understand that the interactions between everyone involved in law school are essential to fostering a truly educational experience.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	150 - 153 - 156	152 - 154 - 158
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.13 - 3.41 - 3.58	3.24 - 3.49 - 3.69
Acceptance rate	34.2%	24.5%
Applications received	1549	2560
Acceptances	530	628
Matriculants	189	136

Howard University School of Law has a competitive admissions process. During the 2022 application cycle, 2,560 applicants were vying for admission, of which 628 were offered a spot in the incoming class. Of those offered admissions, 153 were accepted and matriculated, which translates to an impressive yield rate of 24.36%.

The most competitive applicants to Howard University had a median LSAT score of 154. The 25th percentile LSAT was 152, and the 75th percentile LSAT was 158. Similarly, the median GPA for successful applicants was 3.49; the 25th percentile GPA was 3.24, while the 75th percentile GPA was 3.69. These statistics demonstrate that a successful application to Howard University School of Law requires dedication and hard work. However, those who make an effort will be rewarded with an excellent legal education from one of America's most renowned law schools.

Application Deadline

The deadline to submit an application to Howard University School of Law is February 28, and the Admissions Committee will begin considering applications starting in November. This means that it’s important for applicants to make sure their application is complete before then. Submitting an application as early as possible is strongly encouraged, and doing so increases the chances that a candidate will receive notification of their application status in December or March.

Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)

Howard University School of Law requires all applicants to submit a score from the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). To be eligible in the current admissions cycle, students must take their LSAT before the deadline. The university does not accept scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as a valid substitute for the LSAT. However, if GRE scores are available and the applicant would like them to be considered in their application, they can submit these to Howard Law. Applicants must ensure they meet the required deadlines and have their LSAT score sent directly from LSAC to Howard University School of Law's Admissions Office.

Personal Statement

Personal statements allow potential students to showcase their character, skills, and experiences to demonstrate why they would be an excellent addition to the Howard University School of Law. The personal statement should detail factors such as diversity, academic excellence, community engagement, and professional experience, which are essential for the Admissions Committee to consider in their decision-making process.

For example, the personal statement can discuss how attending Howard University School of Law will allow you to pursue your ambitions and goals. Additionally, the statement should explain why Howard is a perfect fit for you, how it stands apart from other institutions, and what excites you about its unique offerings. If applicable, applicants should also include their experiences with the law and how those have informed their decision to pursue a Juris Doctor.

The personal statement should be double-spaced, no longer than three pages, and provide an accurate representation of yourself. In crafting your statement, it is essential to remember that you are telling the Admissions Committee who you are and why you would be a valuable addition to their law school. Your statement should be engaging and concise, giving the reader an accurate portrait of who you are and how you will contribute to Howard University School of Law.

Two Letters of Recommendation

Howard University School of Law requires applicants applying to the school to provide two letters of recommendation in addition to their College Certification. These letters should come from faculty members enrolled or recently graduated from their institutions; however, those currently employed full-time can submit letters of recommendation written by professional colleagues, employers, supervisors, or co-workers.

These letters must address the applicant's academic potential and character to be accepted. All letters of recommendation must be submitted through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), a service available to all member schools that are included in their CAS registration subscription. It is important to remember that without two letters of recommendation, your application will not be considered for admission to the Howard University School of Law. Therefore, you must submit three documents: College Certification and two Letters of Recommendation. Doing so will help ensure an efficient and smooth admissions process.

Resume

They require a comprehensive record of your employment history since you finished high school, including any summer or military roles. You should include the dates for each job you have worked. If some time has passed since you finished college and you have yet to be employed full-time, please explain what activities or jobs you have undertaken up until now. Howard University School of Law is committed to a holistic review process, so you must provide us with an accurate account of your work and life experiences. To read some advice about creating a professional law school resume, click here.

Transcripts

They require a copy of your Transcripts from the CAS report that is submitted via the LSAC.org website.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Howard University School of Law is a prestigious institution in the nation's capital. It offers a top-notch legal education and provides students with quality training and guidance to prepare them for their chosen career path.

For those looking to attend, direct cost estimates include tuition fees of $36,404. In addition, indirect cost estimates include housing at $14,912, dining costs at $5,896, transportation at $3,168, and personal/misc expenses at $3,672. Books and supplies are estimated to be around $1,900.

The cost of attending Howard University School of Law can vary depending on individual circumstances. However, the high quality of education and resources available to students makes it a worthwhile investment. With the proper guidance and dedication, students can enjoy a successful career in law upon graduation.

Howard University School of Law is an outstanding institution offering students a top-notch legal education. The estimated costs can initially seem overwhelming, but students can make it work with careful budgeting and the right resources. With the help of knowledgeable staff and faculty, students can gain a quality education and develop their legal skills in preparation for a successful career path.

Financial Aid

Welcome to the Howard School of Law Financial Aid page! They will help you navigate the sometimes intimidating process of financially preparing for law school at Howard University. Their goal is to provide students with all the necessary information and resources to make informed decisions about their financial situation.

Applying for financial aid can be arduous, so they are committed to making this as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Their staff is dedicated to helping you understand the practical applications of different types of financial aid available, such as Federal Student Loans, Pell Grants, and need-based scholarships. They also assist with researching and applying for external scholarship opportunities.

Scholarships

They strive to offer their students the best educational experience at Howard University School of Law. All applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon applying to the school and do not need to complete any additional forms or applications. Upon being accepted, candidates will receive an acceptance letter with information regarding their scholarship awards, if any have been granted. If you do not receive any scholarship award information during the admissions process, it is likely because you did not qualify at the time of your application.

Loans

Howard University School of Law is one of the most prestigious law schools in the nation, offering students a wide range of academic and professional opportunities. For any student with an unmet need, meaning the cost of attendance minus any scholarships they may have obtained to attend the school, several loan options are available to help cover their tuition expenses.

The Unsubsidized Loan is the most widely available loan option to all US citizens. Each student can receive a maximum of $20,500 in an unsubsidized loan per academic year, which is split between semesters. This loan only accrues interest after graduation.

The Grad Plus Loan may be an attractive option for students needing additional funding. This loan is credit-based and requires students to apply for it at www.studentloans.gov. The amount of money a student can receive through this loan depends on the cost of attendance minus any scholarships or Unsubsidized Loans they have already received. For example, if the cost of attendance is $60,000, the amount of money a student can receive through the Grad Plus Loan can be, at most, $39,500.

Howard University School of Law students needs to understand their options for financing their education. By researching loan options and making informed decisions about which loans are most suitable for their individual needs, students can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to finance their education. By being proactive and aware of all available loan options, students can make sure that they have enough money to cover their tuition costs and be financially successful during their time in law school and beyond.

Academics & Curriculum

Howard University School of Law offers its students a wide range of academic opportunities that meet the same high standards as any ABA-accredited law school. Students must abide by the typical grading system, with a C average or better required for satisfactory completion of their studies. Beyond the core curriculum, Howard offers many unique options for those who wish to explore legal specialties such as intellectual property law and public interest. The university is also home to several student publications, a moot court team, and clinics for criminal justice and alternative dispute resolution studies. Finally, with its range of student organizations covering various ethnic backgrounds, Howard Law School provides an inclusive environment for all students seeking a top-quality legal education.

Quality of Life

Studying law at Howard University School of Law in Washington, DC, offers an exciting and unique experience to those that want to be in the midst of a vibrant city. DC is the capital of the United States. It is home to many world-renowned cultural attractions and institutions, making it an excellent place for students looking to explore and learn. The Howard University School of Law provides students with an exceptional learning environment, outstanding faculty, and access to the best legal resources. With a commitment to serving underserved communities, Howard graduates are prepared to take on challenging cases that others may be hesitant to tackle.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Howard University School of Law is a top-tier institution for those looking to become a lawyer. The school has consistently produced outstanding lawyers and leaders nationwide, with JD graduates from Howard making an impressive median salary of $162,000 upon graduation if they choose to pursue a career in the private sector. Even those who take up low-paying jobs in the public sector are still rewarded with a respectable salary of $56,100.

Howard University School of Law has earned its reputation for producing outstanding legal professionals, with an impressive 54.7% of graduates going on to work at law firms and 7.5% clerking for judges. Those who wish to pursue a career in the public interest will find 15.1% of Howard Law graduates taking up such roles.

Moreover, more than two-thirds of Howard University law students (69.9%) successfully pass the bar exam on their first try and become qualified to practice law. This is a testament to the quality and rigor of instruction offered at the school, making it an ideal choice for those pursuing a career in law.

Overall, the combination of high-paying job prospects with impressive bar exam pass rates ensures that Howard University School of Law will remain one of the leading institutions for legal education and training. Graduates from this school are well-positioned to excel in their chosen field and become respected professionals.

Synopsis

Considered the star of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Howard offers a law school that, while not highly ranked, places graduates in some of the most elite firms in the country from coast to coast. For African-American and other underrepresented minority students, Howard affords opportunities not dissimilar to those of a top-tier school.

In sum, Howard University Law School can be an attractive option to someone looking for a legal education that provides strong job prospects in a dynamic city environment.

Contact Information

Howard University
School of Law
Admissions Office
2900 Van Ness Street, NW
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 806-8000

http://law.howard.edu/content/admissions

Summary

Established	1869
Location	Washington, DC
Dean	Danielle R. Holley
2022 US News Ranking	98th
LSAT Median Score	154
GPA Median Score	3.49
Bar Passage Rate	70% (2022)
Employment Rate	60% (2022)
Cost	$37,160 1L $36,460 2L and 3L
Average Debt	$174,122
Application Deadline	March 15, 2023

Forum and Discussion

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Law Student Forums
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Reference

http://law.howard.edu/
Rank #98
LSD Law
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
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The Guide to Law School Loans
Guide to Fee Waivers