Suffolk University Law School
Suffolk Law is one of the best law schools in the country for its legal writing, trial advocacy, and dispute resolution programs. This makes Suffolk an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in law. Suffolk Law has risen 45 spots in the last seven years, making it one of the top law schools in the nation.
Suffolk Law School was founded over 100 years ago to provide higher education opportunities for those who may not have otherwise had access. The school has a long and rich history that has seen it grow into one of the largest law schools in the United States. Today, Suffolk Law continues to provide an excellent education to students from all backgrounds, helping to create a more just and equitable society.
Contents
History
Suffolk University Law School was founded in 1906 by Gleason Archer. Archer was motivated to start the school after he saw a need for better access to legal education. He had grown up impoverished in rural Maine, and he knew first-hand how important it is for people to have access to legal education to improve their lives. Archer was also generously supported by others who believed in his vision, enabling him to create a school that has transformed the lives of thousands of people over the years.
Suffolk University Law School has a long history of being an excellent institution for legal education. It was founded with the belief that anyone, no matter their background or circumstances, should have the opportunity to pursue a legal education. The school has grown to become one of the largest in the country while remaining dedicated to providing a quality education for its students. In celebration of its centennial anniversary, Suffolk Law School displayed a timeline of its history in the Great Hall.
Admissions
Suffolk University Law School values an inclusive community and supports diversity among its students, faculty, and staff. People of different backgrounds and cultures enrich the school community's beliefs, and they are committed to building a culture of cooperation among diverse groups.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | " 150-154-158" | 151-155-159 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | " 3.33-3.55-3.72" | 3.35-3.55-3.74 |
| Acceptance rate | 60.7% | 65.3% |
| Applications received | 2899 | 2870 |
| Acceptances | 1864 | 1874 |
| Matriculants | 388 | 401 |
For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle at Suffolk University Law School, the data shows a competitive yet accessible profile. The middle 50% range of LSAT scores for incoming students was 151 to 159, while the middle 50% GPA range was 3.35 to 3.74. Out of 2,870 applications received, the school accepted 1,874 applicants, reflecting an acceptance rate of 65.3%. From those admitted, 401 students matriculated, making up the new first-year class.
These figures highlight that Suffolk Law maintains a relatively inclusive admissions process compared with some peer institutions, while still expecting strong academic performance. The rise in matriculants from the prior year (388 to 401) also suggests growing interest in Suffolk Law as a choice for aspiring lawyers in 2025.
In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
LSAT or GRE
Applicants are required to take either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). If you take the GRE, you must tell the Educational Testing Service to send your scores to Suffolk Law—code: 4343.
LSAC Account
You will need to create an LSAC account before you can apply to Suffolk Law School. The priority application deadline is April 1, and you should take the LSAT no later than February to ensure that your application is complete before the deadline.
Transcripts and Recommendations
You must submit all college and graduate school transcripts and at least one letter of recommendation to the Office of Law Admission. The transcripts and letters of recommendation must be sent through LSAC's Credential Assembly Service. You must register for this service separately. The personal statement and resume must be uploaded as part of the online application.
Application Fee Waiver
If you have already paid the $60 application fee to LSAC, it is non-refundable. However, you can get a free fee waiver from Suffolk University. Once you have completed the steps above, your application will be completed and sent to us for review and decision. If you have any questions or need help with the process, contact our Admission Office.
Resume
Applicants are required to submit an updated resume with their application. Upload your resume as part of the LSAC.org application to Suffolk Law School. Any gaps in employment or education should be noted and explained in a separate addendum submitted with the personal statement.
Personal Statement
A personal statement is where you can explain your motivation and preparation for the study of law. It is also a chance for you to showcase your writing skills and highlight any aspects of your background that may be relevant to the evaluation of your application. Ensure all information, such as gaps in employment or education, is explained in a supplement to the statement.
Tuition and Expenses
When getting a legal education, there are many things to consider. One of the most important things to consider is the cost of attendance and how you will finance your education. It's also important to be well-informed about the application process to maximize your time in law school.
Cost of Attendance
For the 2025–2026 academic year, Suffolk University Law School has set annual tuition at $62,610 for full-time day students and $46,958 for full-time evening students, reflecting a notable increase compared with the 2024–2025 rates. In addition to tuition, living costs such as housing, food, transportation, and miscellaneous personal expenses make up a significant portion of the overall budget, often adding more than $40,000 to a student’s annual expenses. Suffolk provides several cost scenarios, including estimates for students living off campus, living on campus, or living with family. The difference among these scenarios is substantial, with those living with family experiencing considerably lower total costs. The published cost of attendance represents the maximum financial aid a student may receive from all sources, including Suffolk institutional aid, federal loans, and work-study programs. Finally, students in their final year are eligible for an additional allowance of $912 to help cover the Massachusetts bar exam fee.
| Scenario / Division | Day Division | Evening Division |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $62,610 | $46,958 |
| Mandatory Fees | $1,436 | $1,078 |
| Books | $1,250 | $920 |
| Average Loan Fees | $1,354 | $1,354 |
| Housing & Food (Off-campus) | $30,496 | $30,496 |
| Transportation | $3,432 | $3,432 |
| Miscellaneous (personal, etc.) | $5,220 | $5,220 |
| Total Cost of Attendance (Off-campus) | $105,798 | $89,458 |
| Living on Campus / Resident Option | $96,190 | $79,850 |
| Living with Family (Reduced Housing) | $79,566 | $63,226 |
Full-Time Students (Annual, Fall + Spring)
| Category | Ohio Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $26,649 | $26,749 |
| Living Expenses (room, board, personal, transportation) | $17,050 | |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 (approx.) | |
| Health Insurance / Other Costs | Varies | |
| Total Estimated Cost of Attendance | $44,199 | $44,299 |
Part-Time Students (Annual, Fall + Spring)
| Category | Ohio Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $18,276 | $18,376 |
| Living Expenses (room, board, personal, transportation) | $17,050 | |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 (approx.) | |
| Health Insurance / Other Costs | Varies | |
| Total Estimated Cost of Attendance | $36,826 | $36,926 |
Additional Notes
- Summer living expenses are estimated at $6,450 if enrolled.
- Figures reflect average budgets; actual expenses may vary depending on housing and lifestyle.
- Course and professional fees may apply in addition to tuition.
Financial Aid
Suffolk University offers a financial aid program to help students meet the cost of legal education, even if their personal and family resources are insufficient. Over 45% of Suffolk Law students receive grant or scholarship funds from the school, and 85% receive some form of financial aid overall. The school participates in several programs to help finance the costs of legal education, and awards can include scholarships, grants, loans, fellowships, and employment. Students should apply for financial aid as early as possible after January 1st and meet all deadlines. New students should not wait for an admission decision to apply for financial aid.
Academics and Curriculums
Suffolk University Law School offers flexible degree programs, comprehensive areas of focus and practice, and real-world learning through clinics & experiential programs.
Faculty
At Suffolk Law, the faculty are dedicated teachers and scholars. Their professors are highly respected legal experts with years of experience in leading law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations. They not only guide their students but also contribute to the field of law as thought leaders.
Externships
Classroom learning is essential for a complete legal education. However, at Suffolk we believe that's only a part of the equation—practice-ready lawyers get real-world experience while in school.
Legal Clinics
Legal clinics are a way for Suffolk Law students to get hands-on experience and try out specific fields across a number of industries. And Suffolk Law has 11 in-house clinics to choose from, focused on areas from family law to immigration to intellectual property and more.
- Clinics & Experiential Opportunities
- IP Clinic
- Immigration Clinic
- Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Clinic
Suffolk Law is a well-respected law school that has been ranked by U.S. News for its skills programs for three consecutive years. This ensures that Suffolk Law graduates are some of the most highly skilled in the nation.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
For the Class of 2024, Suffolk University Law School graduates experienced strong employment outcomes. Within ten months of graduation, approximately 90% of graduates found employment in some capacity, with the majority securing full-time positions. Of the 338 graduates, about 174 (just over half) entered law firms, while 65 went into business and industry roles, 40 found employment in government, and 12 pursued public interest work. A smaller number accepted judicial clerkships, including both federal and state placements. Over 70% of employed graduates remained in Massachusetts, reflecting the school’s strong regional connections and influence in the Boston legal market. Suffolk’s Office of Professional & Career Development, which provides resources such as counseling, networking opportunities, job postings, and clinical placements, plays a key role in supporting these outcomes. Overall, Suffolk Law’s employment data indicates that graduates are competitive in securing professional opportunities, especially within the local legal community.
Bar Passage
Suffolk Law also demonstrates solid results in bar passage. For the 2024 bar exam cycle, 329 graduates took the bar for the first time, and 261 passed, yielding a first-time pass rate of about 79%. In Massachusetts specifically, Suffolk graduates achieved a first-time pass rate of 82.4% on the July 2024 exam, which is consistent with or slightly above national averages for comparable law schools. These figures highlight the effectiveness of Suffolk’s bar preparation support, which includes dedicated resources and academic programs designed to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the exam. Suffolk’s JD program qualifies students to sit for the bar in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with most graduates choosing to sit in Massachusetts due to its Uniform Bar Exam requirements. The school also offers additional allowances for bar-related expenses, reflecting its commitment to supporting students through the final stage of their professional training.
Quality of Life
Suffolk University is a great place to live and study. The campus is surrounded by diverse restaurants, historical landmarks, and live music venues. You can find everything from international cuisine to museums and outdoor spaces nearby. Suffolk University Residence Life can help you find the right housing and dining options for your needs. They have a variety of on-campus housing and meal plan options, as well as off-campus apartments. Their students come from all over the world, so no matter where you're from, you'll feel at home here.
Residence Halls
Suffolk University housing is located throughout downtown Boston, making city living part of the college experience. The Ames Building is a historic skyscraper in Boston that was completed in 1893. It was the first skyscraper in Boston and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It has also been designated as an official Boston landmark. The Ames Building has had many uses over the years, including an office building, a hotel, and now a residence hall for Suffolk University undergraduates. The occupancy of the building by Suffolk students is expected to begin in the Fall 2020 semester.
Housing
Suffolk University's downtown Boston residence halls offer a variety of living options, from traditional dorms to apartments. All of the residence halls have great views of Boston and are conveniently located near public transportation and restaurants. Living in Suffolk University housing is a great way to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. If you have any questions or need help with your housing needs, don't hesitate to contact the Department of Residence Life & Housing.
Library
The Moakley Law Library is located on the sixth and seventh floors of Sargent Hall. It has a comfortable research and study area, as well as study rooms and carrels with wireless Internet access. The library has a large collection of both print and electronic resources, which students, faculty, and attorneys have access to. Librarians are available to help with research projects, and staff in technical services work to keep the library's resources up-to-date. In the Legal Practice Skills course, students learn how to conduct legal research from the librarians.
Synopsis
Suffolk University is a great place to get an education. Located in the heart of Boston, Suffolk offers a variety of degree programs that can provide students with the skills they need for successful careers. The school also offers flexible learning options, which makes it convenient for people with busy schedules. Additionally, the faculty at Suffolk are very dedicated to their students and are able to provide them with the guidance they need to be successful.
Contact Information
Suffolk University Law School
Admissions Office
120 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-573-8144
Email: lawadm@suffolk.edu
https://www.suffolk.edu/law/admission
Summary
| Established | 1906 |
| Location | Boston, MA |
| Dean | ANDREW M. PERLMAN |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 127th |
| LSAT Median Score | 155 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.55 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 79.3% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | 53.5% (2025) |
| Cost | "$59,730 full-time,
$44,798 part-time" |
| Average Debt | $138,950 |
| Application Deadline | April 1, 2025 |
Forum and Discussion
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Law Student Forums
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Reference
https://www.suffolk.edu/law
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