IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law

Chicago-Kent College of Law at the Illinois Institute of Technology offers an educational experience like no other. The university strongly emphasizes foundational skills training, providing students with the knowledge and tools to be successful attorneys. With the ability to gain practical hands-on experience before graduating, students can understand what it's like to enter the legal profession with confidence and preparedness. Finally, IIT's location in Chicago, Illinois, provides students access to one of the most thriving legal markets in the country. Whether you're looking for real-world experience or an engaging academic environment – Chicago-Kent College of Law has it all. There's no doubt that Kent students have multiple opportunities to build a successful legal career.

History

The history of IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law dates back to the late 1800s when Judge Thomas Moran and Judge Joseph Bailey envisioned a new way to provide equitable access to legal education. In response, they founded the Chicago Evening Law Classes as an opportunity for working men and women to receive instruction at night. The classes initially took place in the judge’s chambers but quickly moved to a more formal setting. In 1888, the Chicago College of Law was formally established, and in 1895 its first minority student and first woman graduate received their degrees.

Chicago-Kent College of Law is a renowned institution at the forefront of legal education since its 1969 merger with the Illinois Institute of Technology. This union was created to provide students with an innovative and comprehensive way of preparing for their future in the legal profession. Since then, Chicago-Kent has earned a reputation for its creative and forward-thinking approaches to legal education. The school is constantly striving to stay ahead of the curve and has achieved numerous firsts that have revolutionized the field of law. These include being one of the first law schools to offer a specialized degree in Intellectual Property Law and establishing a rigorous clinical program for its students.

Admissions

At Chicago-Kent College of Law, they understand the importance of finding the right law school to help you get started on your legal career. They strive to make the admissions process as straightforward as possible and offer various options for first-year and transfer applicants.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	152 - 158 - 161	152 - 159 - 162
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.17 - 3.48 - 3.68	3.31 - 3.56 - 3.74
Acceptance rate	47.0%	53.1%
Applications received	1629	1722
Acceptances	766	915
Matriculants	185	160

In the 2022 application cycle, Illinois Institute of Technology (Kent) Law School had 1,722 applicants vying for admission to the school's 1L class. Of those who applied, 915 were offered admission, and 246 out of the 915 accepted their offers, resulting in an overall yield rate of 26.89%.

The median LSAT score of the incoming 1L class is 159, with the 25th percentile at 152 and the 75th percentile at 162. Students who accepted admission to Illinois Institute of Technology (Kent) Law School had a median GPA of 3.56, with the 25th percentile at 3.31 and the 75th percentile at 3.74.

Overall, IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is one of the top law schools in the United States and attracts a large pool of highly qualified applicants each year. If you want to pursue a legal education at this prestigious institution, make sure you have a competitive application with excellent grades and test scores.

2022 Entering Class Profile
Full-time, day division (enrolled): 208
Part-time, day and evening divisions (enrolled): 22
Out-of-state residents (full time): 47%
Universities represented: 123
Number with advanced degrees: 16
Age range: 21 to 47

Full-time average age: 25
Part-time average age: 28

Undergraduate Majors
Social sciences and helping professions: 41%
Arts and humanities: 23%
Business and management: 13%
Engineering: 7%
Natural sciences: 7%
Other majors: 5%
Health professions: 2%
Computer science: 1%

Application Policy

Admissions to IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law are highly selective, with many more applicants than available spaces in each class. To ensure that the best and most qualified individuals are admitted, the Admissions Committee considers many criteria when making their decisions regarding admission. While grade point averages (GPA) and standardized test scores (LSAT or GRE) are essential, other qualitative factors, such as the rigor of the undergraduate curriculum taken, writing ability, personal statements, and letters of recommendation from academic sources, are also given consideration.

The Admissions Committee may take into account changes in major while at university; a significant improvement in grades; demonstrated leadership skills; the ability to overcome personal, economic, or societal challenges; and in cases where an applicant has been out of school for five or more years, success in a rigorous graduate program or excellence in another field can be viewed positively. Each application is assessed individually.

To be eligible for admission, applicants must have received their baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university before classes start mid-August. Anyone who will not have completed their degree by this time must inform the Office of Admissions in writing immediately.

Application Process

1. Application for Admission
2. Personal Statement
3. Letters of Recommendation
4. Credential Assembly Service (CAS)/Transcripts
5. LSAT/GRE Test Scores

Fall 2023 First-Year Applicants

Applicants to IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law for the 2023 first-year J.D. program are not required to pay an application fee. Those wishing to transfer to the law school may consult the transfer application process, while international applicants should refer to the international applicant process. When completing their applications, it is essential that applicants read each question carefully and ensure that they have provided accurate, complete information. Failure to do so may result in their application being delayed or even canceled, as well as a filing of applicant misconduct with LSAC and possible violations of the Chicago-Kent College of Law Code of Conduct. This could also jeopardize an applicant's eventual admission to the bar after graduation. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that applicants provide accurate and updated information when completing their application. Any changes in the provided information must be reported to the college in writing. This will help to ensure an efficient application process for all parties involved.

Application for Admission

You should submit your application to the Office of Admissions as soon as possible after September 15. However, it is advisable to aim for the suggested deadline. Being an incoming first-year student, you are only eligible for entry into the fall semester; a great opportunity is provided through the optional summer start program, which permits students admitted to the fall term to start their studies early.

The priority application deadline for IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is January 15, and the suggested regular application deadline is March 15. If you have registered for the Spring LSAT after March 15, you can still apply by May 15, the suggested deadline for spring registrants.

Personal Statement

All applicants to IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law must submit a personal statement as part of their application. This statement is a valuable opportunity for the Admissions Committee to gain insight into an applicant's background and experiences, allowing them to better understand an individual's qualifications and potential. Personal statements should be two to three pages long, typewritten, and accompanied by a resume. Additionally, an optional essay of no more than one page may be included that outlines the reasons for applying to Chicago-Kent College of Law.For more information on personal statements and application essays, check out the TLS Guide to Personal Statements.

Letters of Recommendation

Chicago-Kent College of Law requires all applicants to submit at least one letter of recommendation to be considered for admission. The most beneficial and informative letters are usually written by professors who have taught the applicant in college or postgraduate courses, as these individuals can honestly evaluate the student's academic potential and readiness for law school. To get some additional advice on obtaining letters of recommendation, click here.

Transcript

All potential IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law students, including those who are sending their GRE scores, must first register with the Law School Admission Council Credential Assembly Service. It’s essential to have official transcripts sent directly to LSAC from every university or postsecondary school the applicant has attended.

LSAT/GRE Test Scores

All IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law applicants must provide their LSAT or GRE test scores. Those taking the LSAT will have their results reported via the Credential Assembly Service report. At the same time, those opting for the GRE must arrange for an official score report to be sent straight from the Educational Testing Service. The institution code for Illinois Institute of Technology – Chicago-Kent’s parent university – is 1318.

Regarding the LSAT, applicants may submit multiple scores, and preference is typically given to the highest score achieved. However, if an applicant only submits a GRE score, then each section score will be considered with particular emphasis placed on the quantitative score.

For both exams, if an applicant has taken them more than once, the Admissions Committee may consider either the average, most recent or even the highest, depending on individual circumstances and preferences. Applicants submitting only a GRE score must provide their scores from tests taken within the last five years.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Chicago-Kent College of Law at the Illinois Institute of Technology is an excellent choice for those considering a legal education. The school guarantees a per-credit-hour tuition rate that will not increase throughout the J.D. program, even if students take approved leaves of absence in between their studies. To earn their J.D. degree, students must complete 87 credit hours and pay additional student fees that are not included in the tuition guarantee. Financial aid is available to qualified applicants, and Chicago-Kent encourages potential students to explore their options early in the enrollment process. With its commitment to providing affordable legal education, Illinois Tech's Chicago-Kent College of Law should be a top choice for law school students.

IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law offers two full-time programs: a Day Division Program and an Evening Division Program. The tuition for the full-time Day Division J.D. Program for the 2022–2023 academic year is $53,630, based on 23 credit hours. Likewise, the tuition for the same program in the Evening Division is $38,060.

Cost of Attendance

2022–2023 Full-Time J.D. Day Division Program

BUDGET COMPONENT	AMOUNT
Tuition	$53,630*
Activity Fee	$150
LRAP Fee	$70
CTA U-Pass Fee	$290
Fitness Center Fee	$50
Loan Fee	$1,021**
Room and Board	$17,766
Books	$1,426
Transportation	$2,790
Miscellaneous Expenses	$3,123
TOTAL	$80,316

2022–2023 Full-Time J.D. Evening Division Program

BUDGET COMPONENT	AMOUNT
Tuition	$38,060*
Activity Fee	$150
LRAP Fee	$70
CTA U-Pass Fee	$290
Fitness Center Fee	$50
Loan Fee	$1,021**
Room and Board	$17,766
Books	$992
Transportation	$2,790
Miscellaneous Expenses	$3,123
TOTAL	$64,312

Students attending IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law can apply for summer financial aid to help them cover expenses during their three-month break. This type of aid is based on the Cost of Attendance budget, which includes estimating all costs related to tuition, materials, and living expenses for the upcoming academic year. The tuition rate is determined by the next academic year's rate, while the living expenses are estimated using the current academic year's cost of attendance budget.

Financial Aid

Financial aid at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is designed to make it easier for students to cover the expense of their education. Several assistance options are available, including scholarships awarded directly by the college, loans from the federal government, and grants from institutional and private sources. The amount and type of financial aid offered depends on the student’s financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Scholarships

IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is proud to offer generous merit scholarships to new first-year and transfer students. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, test scores, leadership ability, and potential contributions to the law school community. There is no need for applicants to submit financial aid documents unless they are seeking student loans. Awards range from first-year grants to renewable full- and partial-tuition scholarships, with no GPA renewal requirement.

Academics & Curriculum

At IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, students are provided with a wealth of knowledge and mentorship from instructors who have made a name for themselves in the nation’s legal field. Their faculty have extensive experience in the legal world, and many also practice what they teach to their students.

Their curriculum is designed to meet the needs of each individual, with a variety of specialized J.D. certificate programs to choose from. Their 1L Your Way program allows students to customize their first-year coursework, and their part-time program allows working professionals to receive a high-quality education without giving up their careers.

They also offer numerous experiential learning opportunities — clinics, internships and externships, symposia, and more — that allow students to experience the real-world application of what they’ve learned in class. Their Career Services Department helps their students prepare for successful entry into the legal profession.

Foundational Skills Training

At IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, a strong emphasis is placed on students mastering foundational legal skills. As the first law school in the United States to mandate a three-year legal writing program, students are prepared to be well-versed in this set of skills and serve as a reliable foundation for their legal careers. This comprehensive program gives our students an edge when entering the legal field.

In addition to this comprehensive training in foundational skills, Chicago-Kent College of Law also provides courses in emerging legal topics, including tech law and intellectual property. This knowledge and technical experience from IIT's other colleges prepare graduates for success in a rapidly changing industry.

Legal Clinics

The C-K Law Group at the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law offers a range of clinics, all led by experienced practitioners. These clinics include legal services, policy consulting, community outreach programs, and research collaborations. Each clinic provides students with hands-on experience in the field of law, allowing them to develop valuable skills as well as make a positive impact in the surrounding communities.

List of Clinical Areas

Criminal Defense Litigation Clinic
Civil Litigation Clinic
Plaintiff’s Employment Clinic
Employee Benefit Claims Clinic
Environmental and Energy Law Clinic
Estate Planning, Probate and Transactional Law Clinic
Family Law
Immigration Law
Intellectual Property Law
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Tax Law
Special Intensive Clinic

Externships

IIT Chicago-Kent's Legal Externship Program (LEP) allows students to receive academic credit for working with a supervising attorney in a wide variety of legal areas. The program is designed to help students integrate the skills they have learned in the classroom with those they will need in the real world.

The LEP is a four-credit-hour program, which means externs will receive academic credit rather than pay for their work. Externships are available in both public and private civil or criminal law settings.

Judicial Externships acquaint you with the day-to-day operation of the courts as you work with trial and appellate court judges and their law clerks to research and write legal memoranda and draft opinions.

Legal Externships allow you to work in civil or criminal practice in a specialized area of your choice with supervising attorneys in federal, state, and local government agencies; corporate legal departments; or public interest organizations.

The Semester Law Firm Associate Program is a unique six-credit program during which students can work for academic credit as “associates” for prestigious Chicago-based law firms. Students must spend 24 hours a week at the firm that selects them and attend a classroom component. This program is only offered in the spring and fall semesters.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Chicago-Kent College of Law is a leading institution providing quality legal education to its students. Graduates from IIT receive ample opportunities to pursue careers and excel in law. According to the latest data, graduates who choose to work in the private sector make a median salary of $110,000 upon graduation. For those who choose to work in the public sector, the median salary is $66,000.

62.1% of IIT graduates go directly to work for law firms, while 3.1% clerk for a judge and 6.2% pursue public interest opportunities. An impressive 73.9% of IIT graduates pass the bar exam on their first try. These figures make IIT an attractive option for law school graduates.

Overall, 92.3% of 2021 graduates reported employment within ten months of completing their degree. Of these, 82.4% were employed in full-time and long-term positions such as bar passage-required, J.D. Advantage, or professional. This shows that IIT produces well-trained and proficient lawyers who are capable of performing a variety of legal duties with success.

These figures indicate the high-quality education students receive when attending the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Chicago-Kent College of Law. With the excellent employment rate and high salary graduates receive, IIT is an attractive option for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in law. The college is committed to providing exceptional legal education and producing top-notch lawyers capable of impacting the field.

Bar Passage

IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law has an impressive first-time bar pass rate across all jurisdictions of 74.65% for the 2021 calendar year. The Illinois first-time bar pass rate is even higher at 76.77%. Even more impressive is the ultimate bar pass rate within two years of graduation, with an incredible 90.37% for the 2019 graduates. These impressive statistics show that IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is dedicated to helping its students succeed in their legal careers.

The college offers various academic and practical resources to help students prepare for the bar exam. This includes practice exams, workshops, mentoring programs, and simulated law clinics designed to hone their skills and build confidence. IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law also provides comprehensive career services to help students find legal internships that match their interests and goals.

IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is committed to helping its students succeed in the legal profession. The college's outstanding bar pass rate is a testament to the hard work and dedication put in by students and faculty alike. With a supportive environment, comprehensive resources, and personalized career services, IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law is an excellent choice for those pursuing a legal career.

Quality of Life

Chicago-Kent College of Law is situated in downtown Chicago, within the Loop, just a stone's throw away from government offices, courthouses, and an abundance of law firms. This city provides students with a unique and exciting opportunity to challenge themselves and grow professionally while taking advantage of the many benefits of living in an energetic hub of activity.

As the birthplace of modern jazz and home to some of the best Chicago-style pizza, there's plenty for students to explore in their free time. With access to Lake Michigan's scenic shoreline and various neighborhoods, all days have to be different in this diverse city. On top of that, law students benefit from the connections they make with the over 9,000 Chicago-Kent alums living in and around the area. With all these resources, students can count on finding a supportive network of legal professionals to guide them as they start their careers.

At Chicago-Kent College of Law, students gain an all-inclusive experience that combines the city's rich culture and traditions with world-class legal education. With a school located in the center of one of the top legal markets in the country, opportunities are abundant for students to capitalize on and make their mark on the field. Whether connecting with other legal professionals or exploring all that Chicago offers, the possibilities are endless for law students at Chicago-Kent.

All in all, it's no wonder that Chicago-Kent College of Law is known as one of the top law schools in the country—from its convenient location to its extensive alum network, this school provides law students with an unforgettable experience that can't be found anywhere else.

Location

Chicago-Kent College of Law is located conveniently in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois – a mere block west of Union Station and three blocks south of the Ogilvie Transportation Center. Students and visitors alike have easy access to the law school via multiple Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus routes, as well as expressways such as the Kennedy (I-90/94) and Eisenhower (I-290), which are located just two and three blocks away, respectively. In addition, full-time enrollment at Chicago-Kent includes a U-Pass from the CTA, making getting around town even more affordable. On top of the public transportation options available to students and visitors, the college also has discount parking agreements with several garages within walking distance of the law school. Thus, with its convenient location and various transportation options, Chicago-Kent College of Law provides easy access for students, faculty, and visitors.

Housing

Chicago is attractive for many law students thanks to the city's plentiful and affordable accommodation options. Many students opt to live independently, while others choose to team up with friends or family members to split rent costs. The central location of the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law makes it easy, convenient, and cost-effective for students to commute from all areas of the Chicago metropolitan area. Please visit the link below to find out more about housing in Chicago. HOUSING AND WHERE TO LIVE

Facilities

Chicago-Kent College of Law is home to a modern and impressive 10-story building. The exclusive 280,000-square-foot establishment provides the necessary resources for an exceptional legal education.

From spacious and high-tech classrooms for lectures and seminars to real mock courtrooms with state-of-the-art computer and audiovisual technologies, this building is designed to support the highest quality of legal education. Faculty offices are located around the library, and there are many comfortable spaces for students to gather between classes.

The school’s modern facility boasts the latest technology in teaching and research, providing an innovative approach to legal education. To learn more about the facilities available at Chicago-Kent College of Law, visit the link. FACILITIES

Synopsis

Chicago-Kent College of Law is renowned for its Legal Writing and Intellectual Property programs. These programs have earned the school the distinction of being ranked among the top ten in the US News & World Report rankings. Those who attend Chicago-Kent Law are required to take part in a Legal Writing course during both semesters of their first year. Dy abroad programs, including those in Germany, Denmark, and New Zealand, ensure that students with hopes of taking their legal education beyond American borders can do so.

Contact Information

Chicago-Kent College of Law
Admissions Office
Conviser Law Center
565 West Adams Street, Suite 230
Chicago, IL 60661
Phone: 312.906.5020
Email: admissions@kentlaw.iit.edu

https://kentlaw.iit.edu/law/admissions/jd-admissions

Summary

Established	1969
Location	Chicago, IL
Dean	Anita K. Krug
2022 US News Ranking	94th
LSAT Median Score	159
GPA Median Score	3.56
Bar Passage Rate	74% (2022)
Employment Rate	53% (2022)
Cost	$52,545 Full-Time J.D. Day Division $38,985 Full-Time J.D. Evening
Average Debt	$97,164
Application Deadline	January 15, 2023 (Priority) March 15, 2023 (1L JD Students)

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Reference

https://kentlaw.iit.edu/
Rank #94
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