Southwestern Law School

Southwestern Law School is a prestigious institution dedicated to public service and excellence for over a century. The school has grown from a small faculty of professors to one of the nation's largest and most respected law schools. The school prides itself on offering students an innovative curriculum that combines classroom learning with real-world experience. At Southwestern Law School, you will have the opportunity to learn from some of the most renowned faculty in the country and gain insight into the legal profession from diverse perspectives.

History

Southwestern Law School is a non-profit educational institution in Los Angeles, California, that has been providing progressive legal education programs for over a century. In 1911, John J. Schumacher founded the Southwestern College of Law to allow qualified students to pursue a law degree they may not otherwise have. Southwestern was the first law school in Southern California to use the Harvard case method of instruction and established a law review for students interested in scholarship.

Southwestern's current curriculum emphasizes the practical application of legal theory, with courses focusing on problem-solving, transactional lawyering, litigation skills, and professional development. Additionally, Southwestern offers several opportunities outside of the classroom, including clinics, externships, and writing opportunities. Southwestern is dedicated to helping its students become responsible members of the legal profession who can make a positive impact in their communities.

Southwestern Law School continues to be committed to providing progressive education that prepares its students for success in the legal profession. The school and its faculty work hard to ensure students become well-rounded and ethical lawyers ready to contribute to the legal field. With a strong reputation for excellence in legal education, Southwestern Law School is an institution of choice for those looking for a quality law school experience.

Admissions

Southwestern Law School provides an excellent education for those looking to pursue a career in the legal field. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, high bar passage rates, and job placement rates that prepare its graduates for a successful career. With the help of faculty, staff, and alum network, Southwestern Law School provides everything needed to become an excellent lawyer. So if you're looking for an institution that can give you the tools necessary to pursue a successful legal career, look no further than Southwestern Law School! It's the perfect place to start your journey. If you need more clarification 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	152-155-158	153-155-158
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.17-3.44-3.63	3.24-3.48-3.67
Acceptance rate	50.4%	39.4%
Applications received	2018	2946
Acceptances	1006	1160
Matriculants	344	406

For the 2024–2025 academic year, Southwestern Law School saw notable shifts in its admissions statistics compared to the previous cycle. The median LSAT score range for admitted students increased slightly to 153–155–158, up from 152–155–158 in 2023–2024. Similarly, the GPA range rose from 3.17–3.44–3.63 to 3.24–3.48–3.67, showing a stronger academic profile among successful applicants. Despite the rise in applications—from 2,018 to 2,946—the acceptance rate dropped significantly from 50.4% to 39.4%. This indicates a more competitive admissions process, even though the school extended 1,160 offers of admission, up from 1,006 the year before. Out of those accepted, 406 students ultimately matriculated, compared to 344 the previous year, showing an increase in the incoming class size. Overall, Southwestern Law School’s 2025 admissions data reflects growing applicant interest and higher academic benchmarks, alongside a more selective admissions process that continues to strengthen the institution’s academic standing.

Application Process and Requirements

To be considered for admission at Southwestern Law School, first-year applicants must meet the prerequisites of undergraduate pre-legal education. This means they may have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and must have specific political science, microeconomics, and constitutional law courses.

Furthermore, applicants must register with the Law School Admissions Council and subscribe to the Credential Assembly Service. Additionally, they are required to take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). They must provide a complete application file, including any additional documents requested by the admissions office. On top of these requirements, prospective students are also required to pay the application fee and may be asked to participate in personal interviews.

By following these steps, first-year applicants can begin their journey toward studying at Southwestern Law School. Whether they enroll in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program or pursue another degree, the admissions process will provide them with the necessary knowledge to begin their legal education. Once they are admitted, they can look forward to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the law and all its associated intricacies.

Application Deadline

Southwestern Law School continues to offer students a wide range of opportunities across its Juris Doctor and Masters of Law programmes. For those planning to enrol in the 2025 Fall semester, the application window opens on September 1, 2024, and closes on April 1, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to mark these dates carefully to ensure their materials are submitted on time.

The school provides several academic paths, including the traditional Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.), and Executive J.D. options. Students can choose from full-time, part-time, or evening programmes to fit their professional and personal schedules. This flexibility allows candidates to tailor their law education to their lifestyle and career goals.

Southwestern Law School also offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages to help offset tuition costs. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office for detailed guidance on eligibility and application procedures.

Applicants should note that the admissions process is highly competitive, as each application undergoes a careful review of academic records, LSAT scores, personal statements, and relevant experiences. Early preparation and attention to detail can make a significant difference in securing a place in the 2025 cohort.

Application Fee

Southwestern Law School requires a non-refundable application fee of $60 to apply. When applying online through LSAC, applicants will be taken step-by-step through the payment process during the final stages of submitting their application. Those who use a paper application can submit their payment through a check or money order to Southwestern Law School. Applicants who have received a fee waiver from either Southwestern Law School or LSAC are not required to pay an application fee.

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2024–2025 academic year, Southwestern Law School continues to provide a wide range of flexible program options for aspiring legal professionals. Students can pursue the Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree through full-time, part-time, or the SCALE accelerated program, each designed to meet different career goals and lifestyle needs.

Tuition for full-time J.D. students is approximately $57,890 per year, while part-time students can expect to pay about $38,670 annually. The SCALE program, a unique two-year accelerated option, remains competitively priced for those seeking an intensive, immersive law education.

Southwestern maintains its commitment to making legal education accessible through a variety of scholarships, merit-based awards, and financial aid packages. Students are encouraged to consult the Financial Aid Office to explore federal aid, institutional scholarships, and external funding opportunities. The school also promotes hands-on learning through clinics and externships, enabling students to apply their legal knowledge in real-world settings while receiving academic credit.

Cost of Attendance

Below is the estimated annual cost of attendance for Southwestern Law School students for the 2024–2025 academic year. Actual costs may vary depending on lifestyle, housing choice, and personal expenses.

Cost of Attendance (2024–2025)

Category	On Campus, Furnished Apt. (Monthly)	On Campus, Furnished Apt. (Annual)	Off Campus, House or Apt. (Monthly)	Off Campus, House or Apt. (Annual)	Off Campus, Relative’s Home (Monthly)	Off Campus, Relative’s Home (Annual)
ROOM & BOARD
Rent	$1,640	$19,680	$1,700	$20,400	$360	$4,320
Food	$520	$6,240	$520	$6,240	$390	$4,680
Utilities	$120	$1,440	$320	$3,840	$200	$2,400
Total Room & Board	$2,280	$27,360	$2,540	$30,480	$950	$11,400
BOOKS & SUPPLIES
Full-Time Day	$1,900	$1,900	$1,900	$1,900	$1,900	$1,900
Evening & PLEAS	$1,050	$1,050	$1,050	$1,050	$1,050	$1,050
SCALE	$2,900	$2,900	$2,900	$2,900	$2,900	$2,900
TRANSPORTATION
Gas & Oil	$190	$2,280	$300	$3,600	$260	$3,120
Car Insurance	$140	$1,680	$150	$1,800	$140	$1,680
Total Transportation	$330	$3,960	$450	$5,400	$400	$4,800
PERSONAL
Health Insurance*	$4,190	$4,190	$4,190	$4,190	$4,190	$4,190
Internet/Cellular/Entertainment	$320	$3,840	$420	$5,040	$300	$3,600
Total Personal	$640	$8,030	$750	$9,230	$600	$7,790

Note: Health insurance costs may vary depending on provider and coverage. All figures are estimates and subject to change. Students should verify the most current rates with the Southwestern Law School Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid

Southwestern Law School offers a comprehensive financial aid package to its students. This includes a combination of scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The school is dedicated to providing individualized assistance to each student to ensure they can focus on their studies rather than worrying about the cost of tuition.

Scholarships

Scholarships are offered to both incoming and continuing students. These can range from merit-based awards to need-based grants. To be eligible for a scholarship, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit their yearly transcripts.

Loans

Loans are another form of financial assistance offered to law school students. These can include federal loans such as Stafford, Perkins, and Graduate PLUS Loans. Additionally, private loan options are available to help cover the cost of tuition.

Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs are also available at Southwestern Law School. These offer students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while earning money to pay for their education. Work-study jobs are typically offered through the school and tailored to suit law school schedules.

Academics and Curriculum

First-year students will have a typical lecture size of 76 students. The school has 81 faculty members and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14.3 to 1. All 1Ls have the same schedule of requisite courses, including criminal law, civil procedure, contracts and lawyering. Unlike most other law schools, Southwestern Law offers first-years some choice in their schedule, as they can choose between torts or property in their first year and select an elective. There is also a 24-month alternative JD option known as SCALE, which immerses students in off-campus externships and 18 hours of class per week.

The law school's "cutting edge curriculum" has been recently reworked and "promises more study time, electives and professional focus." Students hope this change will reduce the stress associated with the first-year experience. As at most Tier 3 law schools, Southwestern Law's curriculum is described as difficult and the grading curve as harsh, but the students stick with it. Only about 2 percent of students did not return for their second year.

Experimental Learning

At Southwestern Law School, students have the opportunity to gain invaluable and evidence-based knowledge through a variety of hands-on experiential learning programs. Among these are clinics, externships, practicums, and public interest opportunities. These educational experiences allow law students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real legal situations, allowing them to experience legal practice firsthand.

Clinics

The law school’s Clinical Programs are a unique opportunity for students to solve real-world problems while representing individuals and organizations in court. Students engage in direct client representation and develop professional skills such as interviewing clients and writing briefs. Through these experiences, students gain an understanding of the law while also acquiring practical experience.

Externships

Southwestern Law School provides students with externship opportunities. These placements allow them to work in government offices, businesses, and non-profit organizations as they gain a better understanding of their chosen career path. Through legal research and analysis, drafting documents, and engaging in other on-the-ground activities, students learn how to apply the legal skills they’ve learned in the classroom.

Practicum Program

In addition, the practicum program allows students to undertake field research and participate in independent scholarly projects that shed light on real-world legal issues. The school also offers specialized public interest opportunities where students gain experience while serving an underserved population. Through these experiences, students gain an intimate understanding of the legal system and its implications for those in need.

By participating in any of Southwestern Law School’s experiential learning opportunities, students can acquire valuable real-world knowledge that will serve them well as they enter their chosen career path. Whether through a clinic, an externship, a practicum, or a public interest opportunity, Southwestern Law School provides students with the chance to engage in experiential learning and gain practical skills that will help them become successful lawyers.

Quality of Life

Southwestern Law School, located in Los Angeles just southeast of Beverly Hills, offers a truly unique experience for its students. As soon as you step onto the campus grounds, you’ll feel an atmosphere of tranquility and beauty that can only be found at one of America’s most prestigious law schools. The campus itself sprawls over two city blocks, making it easily accessible from anywhere within the city.

As a student of Southwestern Law School, you will also have unparalleled access to all that Los Angeles has to offer. From luxurious beaches and bars to world-class restaurants, clubs, and theaters – there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Getting around Los Angeles is also easy, with various public transportation options and plenty of Uber drivers. However, traffic can become a problem during rush hour, so it’s essential to consider that when choosing a place to live.

No matter the budget or lifestyle, there is an option for everyone regarding housing in Los Angeles. With so much to choose from, it’s no wonder why Southwestern Law School is one of the most sought-after law schools in the country! So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable educational experience, Southwestern Law School is worth considering.

The faculty at Southwestern Law School is renowned for their commitment to student success and for providing a comprehensive educational experience. With this in mind, the school is dedicated to preparing students to become creative problem-solvers with an ethical foundation that will make them successful attorneys. On top of all this, Southwestern Law School offers its students classes taught by some of the most distinguished legal minds in the world. The school also provides its students with numerous educational and career opportunities through its extensive alum networks, legal clinics, and internships.

Southwestern Law School is truly a place like no other – and it’s easy to see why it’s such a sought-after law school in the United States! With its outstanding faculty, comprehensive academic programs, and access to some of the best opportunities in Los Angeles, Southwestern Law School is an ideal choice for anyone pursuing a law degree. With all of its amenities and offerings, it’s no wonder why this school has become so popular among prospective law students. Southwestern Law School is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a great place to learn and grow.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

For the 2025 reporting year, Southwestern Law School graduates showed steady employment outcomes. Out of 227 graduates, approximately 86.8% secured employment, with 183 holding full-time positions. Among those employed, 151 graduates obtained jobs that required bar passage, while 34 graduates entered J.D.-advantage positions, where a law degree provided a competitive edge but bar admission was not required. In terms of bar performance, Southwestern’s first-time bar passage rate for 2024 stood at 63.98%, with 167 of 261 first-time takers passing the exam. This figure is slightly below both the national average (around 77%) and the California statewide average (around 76%) for first-time takers. These outcomes suggest that while Southwestern Law School continues to deliver consistent employment opportunities for its graduates, the bar passage rate remains an area for improvement. Prospective students are encouraged to make use of the school’s bar preparation support, mentorship programmes, and academic resources to strengthen their post-graduation success and ensure they’re fully prepared for professional practice.

Synopsis

The location and new curriculum at Southwestern Law are undeniable draws for prospective students. However, an average of $107,000 in debt and slim chances at obtaining a big-firm salary should counterbalance those draws. The median salary of the private sector is decent at $77,000, but this does not erase the risk of taking on so much debt. The California bar is a challenge for all students who take it, but Southwestern Law's relatively low pass rate should give pause to the prospective student. Indeed, there is nothing like going to school in Los Angeles. For students who crave this experience and who want to practice in California, Southwestern Law can be a worthwhile choice.

Contact Information

Southwestern Law School
Office of J.D. Admissions
3050 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010
213-738-6834
admissions@swlaw.edu
http://www.admissions.swlaw.edu

Summary

Established	1911
Location	Los Angeles, CA 90010
Dean	Darby Dickerson
2025 US News Ranking	154th
LSAT Median Score	155
GPA Median Score	3.48
Bar Passage Rate	64% (2025)
Employment Rate	N/A (2025)
Cost	"$60,728 full-time, $40,502 part-time"
Average Debt	N/A
Application Deadline	N/A

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Reference

LSD Law
Ranked 154
Guide to Fee Waivers
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
Success in Law School - A Unique Perspective
The Guide to Law School Loans