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Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
Indiana University's law school in Indianapolis is named for Robert H. McKinney, a distinguished lawyer, businessman, and civic leader. Located on Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) campus, the law school actively collaborates with the IU Schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Social Work, the Kelley School of Business, the Fairbanks School of Public Health, and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The law school building, Lawrence W. Inlow Hall, is a state-of-the-art facility with modern classrooms and private study areas, located a short walk from the state's courts, the legislature, and major law firms. IU McKinney is the only law school in Indiana offering both day and evening programs.
Contents
History
The Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law has a long and storied history. Founded in 1894 as the Indiana Law School, the school was originally housed in an architectural landmark known as the Maennerchor Building. Initially offering evening classes, it eventually became a full-time program after 68 years of operation.
The school has become essential to the state's higher education landscape. It was in 1944 that the law school became a part of Indiana University, and it is currently named after former Governor Edward Whitcomb, who graduated from the school in 1950. The faculty includes leading legal scholars and practitioners, while students have access to unique clinical opportunities both in the city of Indianapolis and abroad.
Today, the IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law continues to play an essential role in educating bright, talented lawyers for Indiana and beyond. A solid commitment to excellence provides students with a rigorous legal education grounded in practice-oriented opportunities. It offers courses and specialized programs, including an LLM in American Law and an innovative online program. The school is also committed to providing students with the resources they need to succeed as future lawyers through its career services center, moot court program, and library. The IU Robert H McKinney School of Law is proud to be a part of Indiana University's commitment to helping students reach their potential.
Admissions
Attending the IU McKinney School of Law is an educational decision and an empowering one that can reshape your life and profession. For those who are just beginning to set foot in the legal world or seeking a higher law degree, this institution has something special for you. If you're unsure about applying to law school or just beginning the application process, please take the time to read some of the excellent pre-law articles found here.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 151 - 155 - 158 | 152 - 155 - 159 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.30 - 3.61 -3.79 | 3.31 - 3.59-3.83 |
| Acceptance rate | 64.9% | 62.9% |
| Applications received | 907 | 782 |
| Acceptances | 565 | 492 |
| Matriculants | 248 | 263 |
For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle at the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, the reported statistics show a competitive but accessible profile. The middle 50% range for LSAT scores was 152–159, a slight increase from the prior year, while the 25th–75th percentile GPA range rose to 3.31–3.83. Out of 782 applications received, 492 were accepted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 62.9%. From those offers, 263 students matriculated, marking an increase from the 248 matriculants in 2023–2024. These numbers highlight steady selectivity with improving academic credentials among incoming students, suggesting a gradual rise in competitiveness and student quality.
Preparing your Application
The Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University offers an exceptional educational opportunity to those wishing to pursue their Juris Doctor degree. With a rich history of teaching and academic excellence, the school is committed to preparing its students for the legal profession.
Applicants must register with the Law School Admission Council's Credential Assembly Service (CAS) to apply for admission. CAS registrants may access the electronic application at no additional cost beyond the initial registration fee.
Applicants must be mindful of important dates and deadlines, which vary depending on your deadline and program preference. The priority deadline for receiving a decision by May 1 and to receive maximum consideration for merit-based scholarships is March 1. Additionally, the November 15 deadline is necessary for applicants wishing to apply via the Early Decision Program.
Application Requirements
Admission to the Robert H. McKinney School of Law requires prospective students to meet specific criteria. The first requirement is that the applicant must have earned a baccalaureate or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university before the start of the fall semester, and 90 of these credit hours should have been in academic courses rather than courses focused on skills training.
Anyone interested in pursuing a J.D. at the Robert H. McKinney School of Law should take either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The GRE DI Code for IU McKinney is 3977, and LSAT-flex exams will also be accepted. In addition, the applicant will need to register for the LSAC's Credential Assembly Service (CAS). All their transcripts from any institution they have attended must be forwarded to LSAC.
Prospective students should also submit two letters of recommendation to LSAC and a completed Law School Application, including a personal statement and resume. This should be done by May 15, the year you seek admission, and there is no application fee.
Admission Selection Process
The Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University takes a comprehensive look at each applicant to make admissions decisions. The Admissions Committee begins by assessing the student's undergraduate GPA and LSAT or GRE score, using a formula that considers current students' academic performance. However, this is just the starting point for consideration.
The Committee also looks at other factors such as the quality and strength of the applicant's undergraduate program, the depth and breadth of their extracurricular activities, any employment they have held during college or afterward, any graduate work they may have undertaken, personal statement that reflects on their suitability for law school, and letters of recommendation from faculty and employers.
Combining these elements allows the Admissions Committee to understand each applicant's academic and professional capabilities and character. This helps ensure that only applicants well-suited to succeed in law school are admitted.
The Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University is committed to making the admissions process thorough and fair and looks forward to reviewing applications from all qualified candidates. With a holistic approach to evaluating applicants, the Admissions Committee can ensure that each admitted student is ready for legal study challenges.
By taking the time to consider each applicant carefully, the Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University can ensure that its students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their legal careers.
Tuition and Financial Aid
For 2025, IU McKinney’s tuition & financial aid structure reflects a dual-tiered system depending on residency (in-state vs. out-of-state), with additional support in the form of scholarships and grants. The law school offers merit-based scholarships (and other donor-funded awards) to admitted students, and students may access federal student loans, plus some state or institutionally-supported aid. The cost of attendance goes beyond just tuition and fees — living expenses, books & supplies, and personal expenses are also part of the financial planning. Many students receive some form of grant or scholarship to offset these costs.
Cost of Attendance
Here is a wiki-style table summarizing the 2025 cost of attendance for McKinney Law, for both Indiana residents (in-state) and out-of-state students. All figures are U.S. dollars.
| Expense Category | In-State Student (Indiana Resident) | Out-of-State Student |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $33,499 | $53,563 |
| Living Costs / Room & Board, Transportation, Personal Expenses | $22,892 | $22,892 |
| Total Cost of Attendance (Tuition + Fees + Living & Other Costs) | $56,391 | $76,455 |
| Average Grant / Scholarship | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Cost After Grants / Scholarships (Estimate) | $41,391 | $61,455 |
Financial Aid
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law offers an array of financial aid options to help offset tuition costs, including scholarships, loans, grants, and other forms of assistance. Some options are merit-based, while a student’s financial needs determine others. McKinney is committed to helping its students achieve their educational goals, and it provides a range of resources to aid in that endeavor. Additionally, the school offers budgeting and financial literacy guidance for those who wish to manage their finances more effectively. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to reap the full benefit of their legal education.
By providing various tuition options and financial aid opportunities, Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law is committed to helping students obtain a quality legal education regardless of their economic circumstances. The school’s dedication to providing an accessible pathway to a successful legal career is unparalleled in Indiana.
Scholarships
The Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law has various scholarship opportunities for students. While federal and state aid programs typically do not offer gift aid (i.e., money that does not need to be repaid) to graduate/professional students, IU McKinney School of Law provides scholarships in varying amounts depending on academic achievement, financial need and other factors.
Loans
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loans are two options for graduate and professional students. Unlike Federal Direct Subsidized loans, which are intended exclusively for undergraduate students, these loan options are offered to degree-seeking individuals who have reached a higher level of education.
Unsubsidized loans do not require the borrower to demonstrate financial need. Interest begins accruing on these loans as soon as they are disbursed. Still, repayment of principal and interest begins after graduation or when the student drops below half-time enrollment.
The Federal Direct Graduate PLUS loan is a credit-based loan with no annual or aggregate limit. It is designed to cover educational expenses not met by other aid and requires the borrower to demonstrate a satisfactory credit history. However, if the borrower’s credit check is denied, they may still be eligible for the loan with an endorser with a satisfactory credit rating.
For Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law students, it’s important to remember that Federal Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loans require a loan origination fee. This fee is deducted from each Disbursement before being credited to your student account.
When you take out a Federal Direct Unsubsidized or Graduate PLUS loan, you must complete Entrance Counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note. The purpose of the counseling session is to ensure that you understand your loan and repayment obligations. At the same time, the MPN serves as your binding legal document with the U.S. Department of Education.
Federal Work Study
Federal Work-Study is an opportunity for graduate students at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law to support their studies financially. This type of financial aid differs from scholarships and loans in that it must be earned; it is not awarded upfront like other forms of funding. A student hired by an employer can earn Federal Work Study funds as a paycheck.
To be eligible for Federal Work Study, graduate students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once a student has been notified that they are eligible and have accepted their award, it is time to seek employment opportunities. There are on-campus positions available, but off-campus positions may provide more tailored opportunities according to the student’s interests.
Academics and Curriculum
The Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University is an excellent choice for anyone pursuing a law career. Their curriculum covers the full range of topics, from the fundamentals of legal theory and practice to more complex concepts and specialized skills. Students can expect to understand the law comprehensively and obtain invaluable practical experience through experiential learning opportunities. They offer a variety of courses, from seminars and lawyering skills classes to clinics and externships with local judges, organizations, and attorneys. Additionally, students can take advantage of programs such as the Institute for Immigration Law & Practice or the Business Law Institute to gain specialized knowledge in areas related to their interests. With so many options available, their graduates are well-prepared to practice law in any circumstance and can pursue the specialty of their choice. Their faculty includes renowned legal scholars dedicated to providing a top-notch education for their students. Students also benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention from professors, allowing them to maximize their learning potential. Ultimately, their goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skill set necessary for a successful career in law. Whether you're just beginning your legal education or looking to specialize in a particular area, the Robert H. McKinney School of Law at Indiana University will provide the tools and guidance needed to reach your goals!
Joint Degrees
They offer 8 joint degrees with other Indiana University schools on the Indianapolis campus: JD/MD (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Doctor of Medicine) JD/MBA (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Business Administration) JD/MHA (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Health Administration) JD/MPH (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Public Health) JD/MPA (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Public Affairs) JD/MLS (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Library Science) JD/MPhil (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Arts in Philosophy) JD/MSW (Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Social Work)
Clinics
IU McKinney has 8 live-client clinics:
- Appellate Clinic
- Civil Practice Clinic
- Criminal Defense Clinic
- Conservation Law Clinic
- Disability Clinic
- Health and Human Rights Clinic
- Immigration Clinic
- Wrongful Conviction Clinic
J.D. Certificates/Concentrations
Certificates and concentrations are available in the following areas:
- Criminal Law Graduate Certificate
- Environmental and Natural Resources Law Graduate Certificate
- Health Law Graduate Certificate
- Intellectual Property Law Graduate Certificate
- International and Comparative Law Graduate Certificate
- Advocacy Skills Graduate Concentration
- Corporate and Commercial Law Concentration
Legal Writing
The IU McKinney Legal Analysis, Research, and Communication (LARC) program has been ranked in the top 10 in the nation for six consecutive years. They offer:
- Advanced Persuasive Writing and Oral Advocacy
- Appellate Advocacy Clinic
- Contract Drafting
- Moot Court Competitions
Law Reviews
Law reviews are an essential part of the legal world, allowing students to contribute to the field and gain experience with research and writing. By participating in a law review, students can earn academic credit while exploring the legal field in greater depth.
A law review is typically a student-run journal that publishes articles from professionals, judges, and other members of the legal community. In addition to these articles, student-written “notes” are also published in a law review. These notes focus on specific academic subjects and are heavily researched.
Students can join one of three law reviews at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law. These are the Indiana Law Journal, the Indiana International & Comparative Law Review, and the Indiana Health Law Review. Each of these law reviews will provide students with a chance to learn more about legal research and writing and gain insight into particular areas of the law.
The staff for each journal is composed exclusively of current law students responsible for writing the articles, doing research, and editing them. Students may apply to be a member of the three law reviews each semester.
Participating in a law review at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law provides an invaluable opportunity to gain experience researching, analyzing legal issues, and writing about them. It is an opportunity to contribute uniquely to the legal field and gain academic credit.
Centers & Programs
The Research Centers and Programs of Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law are highly acclaimed for their work in the legal field, both in the local community and worldwide. Focusing on scholarly research, they provide expertise and insight into current legal issues to benefit many stakeholders. They have been instrumental in guiding policymakers, lawyers, and members of the public. The Centers focus on a variety of issues such as financial regulation, environmental law and policy, intellectual property law, business and taxation law, health care law and policy, gender studies in the legal profession, legal entrepreneurship and innovation, civil rights protection, medical-legal partnerships to benefit vulnerable populations, and international human rights law.
Employment Prospects and Bar Passage
Graduates from McKinney generally fare respectably when it comes to the bar exam and finding legal employment. For the 2024 calendar year, McKinney’s first-time bar passage rate was 76%, meaning that 175 graduates took the exam for the first time and 133 passed. This result is close to the statewide averages in Indiana.
On the employment front, McKinney graduates tend to secure jobs that utilize their law degrees. Their ABA employment summary reports show a majority of new alumni obtaining full-time, long-term positions which require bar passage (i.e., practicing attorney roles), or “J.D. Advantage” roles where the law degree is helpful though not strictly required. While the detailed percentages for full-time vs. part-time or short-term positions vary year-to-year, the school’s published data indicate that McKinney graduates are competitive and generally successful in gaining meaningful legal employment within a reasonable period after graduation. Indiana University - Indianapolis Robert H. McKinney School of Law provides its graduates with the knowledge and skills they need to become successful lawyers. With high first-time bar passage rates and a median salary of $80,000 for graduates entering the private sector, IU-I grads have every reason to be confident in their future legal careers. With excellent education and strong alums support, IU-I law grads are sure to have successful legal careers. They will be prepared for any challenge that comes their way. IU-I grads are thus well-equipped for the field of law and beyond.
Quality of Life
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law is the ideal choice for students looking to pursue their Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, thanks to its location within Indianapolis, its flexible course offerings, and the extensive network of alums it has to offer.
Situated in the bustling downtown area of Indianapolis, IU McKinney is surrounded by an array of externships, entertainment, and employment opportunities. The city is quickly becoming a hub for young professionals, with plenty of attractions and great places to live.
The school also offers the unique opportunity to pursue a J.D., full-time or part-time. IU McKinney provides courses through its McKinney Law Online, allowing students to complete their studies conveniently.
IU McKinney has an impressive alum base of over 12,000 graduates who have gone on to work in leading law firms, top companies, non-profit organizations, and government or judicial positions. With such a vast network of professionals worldwide, IU McKinney provides its students with an excellent foundation for success.
IU McKinney is perfect for an exciting and rewarding law school experience. With its location in Indianapolis, flexible program options, and expansive alum network, students can expect plenty of support throughout their journey at IU McKinney. It is truly an ideal place to pursue a J.D. degree and jumpstart a successful legal career.
Contact Information
INDIANA UNIVERSITY
ROBERT H. MCKINNEY SCHOOL OF LAW
Admissions Office
530 W. New York St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: 317-274-2459
Email: lawadmit@iupui.edu<
https://mckinneylaw.iu.edu/admissions/jd/index.html
Summary
| Established | 1894 |
| Location | Indianapolis, IN |
| Dean | Karen Bravo |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 107th |
| LSAT Median Score | 155 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.59 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 76% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | 34.1% (2025) |
| Cost | "$29,232 (in-state, full-time),
$47,415 (out-of-state, full-time)" |
| Average Debt | $95,634 |
| Application Deadline | May 15, 2025 |
Forum and Discussion
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Reference
https://mckinneylaw.iu.edu/
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