St. Thomas University School of Law

St. Thomas University, School of Law, is an exceptional institution that offers students an outstanding quality of student life. In 2021, The Princeton Review ranked St. Thomas as the 8th best law school for student life quality and has consistently been in the top 10 since 2008. We attract passionate students from all across the world who bring with them a wide variety of different voices, beliefs, and experiences. We encourage our students to discuss their thoughts on important matters in an engaged yet civil manner and remind them that it is their job to maintain the high quality of life that drew them to St. Thomas Law in the first place.

History

St. Thomas Law School, located in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a highly regarded institution that the American Bar Association has accredited since 1999. The school offers an innovative, comprehensive curriculum designed to educate students in traditional legal subjects, cultivate their professional formation, and develop ethical values essential for success in the legal profession. In addition to traditional courses, St. Thomas Law School offers several specialized programs, including International and Comparative Law, Environmental and Natural Resources Law, Indian Nations and Tribal Sovereignty, Technology and Privacy Law, Health Care Systems Law Reform, as well as Pro Bono/Public Service Internships.

At St. Thomas Law School, they also recognize the importance of developing their students' leadership skills and preparing them for success in their professional lives. To this end, the school offers several student-led organizations such as the International Law Student Association, Public Interest Law Group, Small Business/Startup Law Clinic, Women's Legal Forum, and many more.

Admissions

The University of St. Thomas School of Law is dedicated to helping students achieve their personal and professional goals. If you feel the University of St. Thomas School of Law could be a good fit, they encourage you to apply today! All applications are completed through the Law School Admission Council, and there is no application fee. 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	149-152-154	149-152-155
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.09-3.40-3.61	2.98-3.3-3.58
Acceptance rate	50.3%	60.7%
Applications received	1351	1505
Acceptances	695	913
Matriculants	229	390

For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle, St. Thomas University School of Law reported a median admissions profile that reflects moderate selectivity and increased enrollment momentum. The middle 50 percent of admitted students posted LSAT scores between 149 and 155, with a median of 152, while GPAs ranged from 2.98 to 3.58, with a median of 3.30. The acceptance rate rose to 60.7 percent, up from the prior year, alongside a higher volume of interest, with 1,505 applications received. Of those applicants, 913 were offered admission, and 390 ultimately matriculated, signaling a notable increase in enrolled students compared to the previous cycle. Overall, the 2025 statistics suggest growing applicant demand and a stronger incoming class size while maintaining relatively consistent academic benchmarks.

Application Date

St. Thomas University, School of Law is committed to providing its students with a top-tier legal education. The Admissions Committee takes great care in evaluating every prospective student's individual qualities, skills, and strengths, and they consider all information that is provided in the application.

The application period begins in September and closes on August 1st. We encourage all prospective students to take their time and provide as much information as possible in their applications.

The St. Thomas University School of Law strives to create an environment that fosters learning, growth, and professional development. They recognize the importance of a diverse student body and believe it is essential for providing their students with the best education possible.

Criteria

The University of St. Thomas School of Law has a very individualized approach to admissions. All applicants are assessed using six distinct criteria, including LSAT score, undergraduate grade point average, writing proficiency, the potential for leadership capabilities, motivation, and the demonstrated ability to contribute to the school's mission. While LSAT scores and GPA remain essential to the admissions process, they are not the only factors considered. The Admissions Committee considers applicants' other activities and experiences, as well as their letters of recommendation and personal statements, to determine if they would be a good fit for St. Thomas Law's program.

The University of St. Thomas School of Law is committed to admitting students who can demonstrate academic excellence and the ability to work with others and contribute positively to their community. The Admissions Committee considers all aspects of an applicant's background and experience to decide which candidate is best suited for the program.

Lsat Scores

St. Thomas University, School of Law strongly recommends that applicants consider only the most recent LSAT score when applying for admission. Scores older than three years will not be accepted, and those more than five years old will be disregarded altogether. In addition to the LSAT score, the Admissions Committee considers a range of other components to evaluate an applicant's overall profile.

It is important to note that LSAT scores can vary significantly, and the Admissions Committee will try to understand their context when making a holistic assessment of an application. For those currently preparing for the LSAT, Khan Academy offers free test preparation courses to help build the critical thinking skills required for success on the LSAT and in law school. The course is tailored to each individual's strengths and weaknesses, so it can be a valuable resource for those wishing to maximize their chances of admission.

Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2025 academic year, St. Thomas University School of Law’s tuition and financial aid structure reflects the full financial commitment of earning a J.D. while also highlighting available support options. Annual tuition and mandatory fees for full-time law students are estimated at $31,820, with total billed costs varying based on enrollment status and individual circumstances. To help manage these expenses, the law school offers a range of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, federal loans, and work opportunities. A majority of students receive some form of grant or scholarship assistance, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs and make attendance more manageable across all three years of study.

The Cost of Attendance (COA)

This goes beyond tuition and represents the full annual estimate of what students should expect to spend while enrolled, including housing, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses. These figures are used to determine financial aid eligibility and provide a realistic budgeting framework. Actual costs may vary depending on lifestyle choices and housing arrangements, but the breakdown below reflects typical annual estimates for law students.

Estimated 2025 Cost of Attendance (Annual)

Expense Category	On Campus	Off Campus	With Parent
Tuition & Fees	$31,820	$31,820	$31,820
Books & Supplies	$1,540	$1,540	$1,540
Housing Allowance	$16,120	$22,176	$0
Food Allowance	$6,050	$6,050	$6,050
Transportation	$3,320	$5,040	$5,040
Personal Expenses	$5,482	$5,482	$5,482
Estimated Loan Fees	$1,900	$1,900	$1,900
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance	$66,232	$74,008	$51,832

Indirect Costs

For the 2025 academic year, indirect costs at St. Thomas University School of Law represent the everyday living and educational expenses students incur beyond tuition and mandatory fees. These costs typically include housing, food, transportation, books and supplies, personal expenses, and loan-related fees. While indirect costs vary based on individual lifestyle choices and living arrangements, they make up a significant portion of the overall cost of attendance and are factored into financial aid eligibility calculations. Students living off campus generally face higher housing and transportation expenses, while those living with parents often experience lower overall indirect costs. Planning for these expenses in advance helps students budget realistically and understand the true financial commitment of attending law school in 2025.

Scholarships

The University of St. Thomas School of Law is committed to providing merit-based scholarships to students who demonstrate excellence in academics, possess a unique perspective, and bring a diverse background to the law school community. To ensure that the scholarship funds are allocated equitably, no predetermined number of awards is given each year.

President’s Scholarship

The President's Scholarship at St. Thomas University School of Law is a premier award for exceptional students who demonstrate the highest academic excellence and a passion for the school's mission and vision. The award offers recipients full-tuition coverage, making it one of the most generous scholarships in the university.

The scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis to applicants with outstanding academic performance and who demonstrate their commitment to the school's mission and values. Recipients must exhibit leadership, initiative, creativity, and excellent communication skills.

Dean’s Scholarship

The Dean’s Scholarship at the University of St. Thomas School of Law is a prestigious honor awarded to outstanding candidates who have demonstrated excellence in their academic performance as well as being an excellent fit for the mission and values of the university’s law school. The scholarship covers a generous amount of tuition fees for law school, ranging up to 90%. This generous award is only given to select students, making it a highly sought-after scholarship and an excellent reward for any deserving candidate.

Access to Justice Scholars Program

St. Thomas University School of Law is proud to offer its Access to Justice Scholars program, which seeks to support individuals interested in and committed to providing legal services in rural or small-town settings. The program works alongside the Minnesota State Bar Association, matching Access to Justice Scholars with mentors with relevant experience practicing law in rural areas.

All applicants who meet the academic requirements are encouraged to submit an essay outlining their commitment to pursue legal practice in rural or small-town settings with their application for admission. Those accepted into the program will have the opportunity to receive up to 75 percent tuition discount each year of their J.D. program. After acceptance, students will be invited for an interview with the faculty admissions committee.

The Access to Justice Scholars program is just one way St. Thomas Law actively supports individuals seeking legal service in rural and small-town settings, highlighting our commitment to providing access to quality legal education. Through the program, applicants can gain valuable experience and guidance from experienced practitioners while pursuing their degrees.

Student Loans

Students considering financial aid at the University of St. Thomas may have several potential loan options available through federal, state, and private programs that can help them fund their studies. To apply for these loans, students must begin by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be found online at https://fafsa.gov/. The FAFSA must be submitted by July 1 of the upcoming academic year, though it can be completed any time after October 1.

The University of St. Thomas school code for the FAFSA is 002345, and students should use our main campus address (2115 Summit Ave., Saint Paul, MN) when completing the form. The results of the FAFSA will be sent to our Graduate Financial Aid Office on the Minneapolis campus.

Academics and Curriculum

St. Thomas University School of Law offers a comprehensive and diverse education to prepare students for their legal careers. With 68 first-year students, the school has 70 full-time and part-time faculty members (47% are part-time), resulting in a student-to-faculty ratio of 16.1:1. All first-year students take the same required course schedule, which includes legal writing and the typical 1L core courses.

The curriculum is well-rounded, with a healthy mix of theory and practice classes, varying use of the Socratic method, and a range in teacher quality. The workload is known to be heavy, mainly because of its C curve grading system, which can add to the anxiety and competitiveness of the students. This system has led to nearly a fifth of students dropping out before their second year, with an additional 4-plus percent leaving during their second and third years.

Despite this, STU’s focus on providing its students with a comprehensive legal education is not lost. The law school prepares its students for success in their legal career and beyond with resources such as a career services office and several student organizations. With an intense focus on providing its students with a quality education, St. Thomas University School of Law is dedicated to helping each student achieve their goals.

STU also works closely with the local community, providing a variety of externship options for its students and hosting legal clinics that give back to the local area. These opportunities provide students with invaluable real-world experience and knowledge from which they can benefit during and after their time at St. Thomas University School of Law.

Overall, St. Thomas University School of Law provides an excellent legal education and focuses on providing its students with the resources and guidance they need to succeed. From the rigorous curriculum to the variety of real-world experience opportunities, the school is committed to helping each student reach their potential.

Legal Clinics

St. Thomas University School of Law is home to the Interprofessional Center for Counseling and Legal Services. This unique initiative brings faculty and students from legal, psychological, and social work disciplines to assist those facing difficult circumstances. This Center offers an invaluable opportunity for law students to learn more about advocacy for marginalized populations in the Twin Cities area and collaborate with social work and psychology students on various projects.

At the Center, law students gain practical experience in providing legal services to individuals from all backgrounds, including those who cannot afford private attorneys or may lack access to other forms of assistance. The Center allows students to observe how an interdisciplinary team of professionals from different disciplines can work together to serve their clients better. Students also have the opportunity to become well-versed in various legal topics, including healthcare issues, political asylum applications, and social justice initiatives.

Throughout their experience at the Center, law students can grow as professionals by learning how to advocate for their clients effectively and understanding the importance of providing empathetic representation. This is a critical component to success in any legal field and one that St. Thomas University School of Law strives to develop in its students through the unique opportunity it provides at the Interprofessional Center for Counseling and Legal Services.

Their expert faculty members not only guide students through their experience at the Center but also provide a wealth of resources and knowledge to help them succeed in their legal careers. Whether first-year law students or advanced practitioners, St. Thomas University School of Law students can benefit significantly from the Center’s educational opportunities and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.

Externships

The University of St. Thomas School of Law offers a wide range of legal externships to help students gain practical experience in the legal field and develop a comprehensive understanding of the law. Through these programs, students can choose among five different areas of fieldwork: judiciary, public sector, business, compliance, and misdemeanor defense. Students who have completed one of the five externships are eligible to participate in an advanced externship, providing them with more substantive and challenging experiences. The legal externships offered by St. Thomas School of Law are designed to allow students to gain real-world experience and become practice-ready lawyers. The activities students engage in during their externship and the requests of their field supervisors help them develop a better understanding of the law and prepare them for a successful career in the legal profession. In addition to gaining valuable experience, students enrolled in these externships can earn credits toward St. Thomas School of Law’s required experiential coursework.

Practicum Courses

Practicum courses at St. Thomas University School of Law are an incredible opportunity for students to gain valuable experience in the legal field by simulating real-world problems in a carefully managed and supervised learning environment. In these classes, students can explore their interests and deepen their understanding of the law by engaging in legal work under the watchful eye of experienced faculty.

At St. Thomas University School of Law, practicum courses offer a variety of topics and areas of specialty, from civil litigation to criminal prosecution. In each course, students can hone legal skills such as research and writing, interviewing and counseling clients, negotiation, advocacy in court proceedings, trial practice, and more. Through these courses, students can gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed in a legal career.

The St. Thomas University School of Law is committed to providing its students with an exceptional educational experience. Practicum courses provide an invaluable opportunity for students to explore their interests, develop practical legal skills, and receive mentorship from experienced faculty in a supportive learning environment. Practicum courses are an invaluable part of a thriving and comprehensive legal education at St. Thomas University School of Law.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

For 2025 employment prospects and bar passage, St. Thomas University School of Law presents a generally positive outlook for graduates entering the legal profession. Recent employment data indicate that a strong majority of graduates secure full-time, long-term positions shortly after graduation in roles that either require bar passage or meaningfully benefit from a juris doctor degree. These outcomes reflect the school’s emphasis on practical training, individualized career advising, and employer connections, particularly within Florida and surrounding legal markets.

Bar passage results show some year-to-year variation but demonstrate steady progress and institutional focus on improvement. First-time bar passage rates differ by jurisdiction and exam administration, while the two-year ultimate bar passage rate for recent graduating classes has remained notably higher, indicating that many graduates successfully pass the bar within two years of graduation. The law school supports this effort through structured bar preparation programs, academic support services, and continued guidance after graduation, all aimed at increasing licensure success and strengthening long-term career outcomes.

Quality of Life

St. Thomas University, School of Law, is an exciting place to experience a unique blend of academic excellence and a unique South Beach lifestyle. From the new and modern facilities, an abundance of food choices, and the lively atmosphere of one of America's premier hotspots - there is something for everyone at STU.

The campus offers a variety of activities and classes to enjoy. The law school offers an impressive range of extracurriculars, from academic competitions and seminars to student organizations. And with a variety of housing options both on-campus and off-campus, students can easily find a place that fits their budget and lifestyle.

As with any major city, living in Miami has pros and cons. The city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and stunning beaches. However, crime rates are higher than average, and the cost of living can be steep. Despite this, St. Thomas University School of Law prides itself on providing a safe environment for students to thrive and make memories that will last a lifetime.

No matter what you are looking for, St. Thomas University School of Law has it all. With top-notch facilities and a unique college experience, law students will find an educational experience that is second to none, along with a lifestyle that can't be matched anywhere else.

They are proud of St. Thomas University School of Law's commitment to an inclusive and diverse academic environment that works towards justice in their world. It is a place where students feel supported and heard, no matter what their background is. They believe this type of atmosphere encourages growth and creates leaders for the future.

St. Thomas University, School of Law, is proud to provide the best quality of student life. Their commitment to an inclusive and diverse academic environment promotes justice and allows students to put their passion for service, leadership, and social justice into action. With more than three dozen active student organizations and highly ranked quality of life standards, St. Thomas University School of Law is an excellent choice for law students who want to make a difference in their communities and the world.

Contact information

St. Thomas University School of Law
Office of Admissions
16401 NW 37th Ave.
Miami Gardens, FL 33054
(305) 623-2310
admitme@stu.edu
www.stu.edu/law

Summary

Established	1984
Location	Miami Gardens, FL 33054
Dean	Tarlika Nunez-Navarro
2025 US News Ranking	178th-195th
LSAT Median Score	152
GPA Median Score	3.3
Bar Passage Rate	58.4% (2025)
Employment Rate	N/A (2025)
Cost	$45,840
Average Debt	N/a
Application Deadline	July 1, 2025

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Reference

LSD Law Ranked 178-195 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