The University of Kansas School of Law

Lippincott Hall, the former site of KU Law

According to National Jurist Magazine, the University of Kansas School of Law is the 13th best-value law school. The rankings consider affordability, low graduate debt, and success on the bar exam and job market.KU Law is an excellent law school because it offers value to its students. In just three years, students at KU Law gain the deep knowledge and practice-ready skills needed to achieve their goals.

History

The University of Kansas School of Law was founded in 1878 and has since granted more than 11,000 law degrees. The school continues to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful members of the legal profession while emphasizing the importance of professional achievement and public service.

The University of Kansas was founded in 1864 to have a law department. However, it wasn't until 1878 that the first law classes began. James Wood Green was the only faculty member for the class of 13 students. The Kansas Bar Association was established in 1883. The law classes were moved to North College in 1891. In 1893, the name of the law department was formally changed to law school. Classes returned to University Hall in 1894. Law students began publication of The Kansas University Lawyer in 1895. It contained law school news, essays, editorials on the law and its study, and comments on university matters.

At KU Law, they believe that traditional terms do not define success. They believe their students can achieve anything they imagine as long as they have the tools to do so. They provide their students with the necessary resources to succeed in any field or career. They are a law school that is constantly evolving and adapting to meet the needs of its students. They are committed to providing their students with a world-class education that will prepare them for anything life throws their way.

Admissions

The University of Kansas School of Law offers a variety of programs that will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to achieve your future goals. Whether you want to be a successful practitioner, work for a nonprofit, or become a business leader, KU Law has something to offer you. With nationally recognized legal scholars teaching classes and forming relationships with students, KU Law is the perfect place to start your legal career. In addition, Lawrence, Kansas - home to the University of Kansas - offers plenty of opportunities to get involved in the community and have fun.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2023-2004	2024-2025
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	155 160 162	156 161 163
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.45 3.71 3.88	3.59 3.79 3.89
Acceptance rate	55.3%	38.3%
Applications received	700	1214
Acceptances	341	465
Matriculants	111	124

For the 2024–2025 class at the University of Kansas School of Law, the 25th to 75th percentile LSAT scores ranged from 156 to 163, with a median of 161. The 25th to 75th percentile GPA range was 3.59 to 3.89, with a median of 3.79. The school received 1,214 applications, admitted 465 students, and enrolled 124, resulting in an acceptance rate of 38.3%. In comparison, the previous 2023–2024 class had LSAT scores ranging from 155 to 162 (median 160) and GPAs ranging from 3.45 to 3.88 (median 3.71), with 700 applications, 341 acceptances, 111 matriculants, and an acceptance rate of 55.3%.

Application Process

To apply for admission, you must submit your J.D. application online through LSAC, accompanied by credentials via the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Applicants are required to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and must take either the LSAT or the GRE—both are accepted, with no preference between them.

A complete application includes: the electronically signed application form, two to three letters of recommendation, official transcripts from all prior institutions (sent directly via CAS), a personal statement, a resume, and a character and fitness disclosure addressing any past issues with full transparency. Applicants may also submit optional statements: a Kansas Statement expressing personal or geographic ties to Kansas or the university, and a Diversity Statement to provide context for any unique background or challenges.

The priority application deadline for Fall 2025 entry is March 1, 2025, with admissions operating on a rolling basis—decisions begin mid-November, and completed applications submitted by mid-December typically receive a decision by January 31; thereafter, decisions are usually issued within 4–6 weeks of completion. Scholarship decisions—both merit-based and need-based—are made concurrently with admissions decisions.

Optionally, you can engage with KU Law through info sessions, campus visits, or virtual events hosted by the Office of Admissions to learn more and ask questions about the process.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the University of Kansas School of Law must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and register with the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS).

Application Instructions

You will need to submit the following items once you meet the admissions requirements:

You will need to complete the application for admission and electronically sign it. Two letters of recommendation from people who know you well. A personal statement in which you discuss your reasons for wanting to attend law school. A resume. The $55 non-refundable application fee. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. A character and fitness statement discusses your moral character and suitability for law school.

Two Letters of Recommendation

If you graduated from college within the past three years, it is best to have one recommendation from a professor you studied under while in college. If you graduated more than three years ago, providing letters from professional colleagues is acceptable. Up to three letters of recommendation are allowed. All letters of recommendation must be submitted through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). This service is included in your CAS registration subscription.

Personal Statement

A personal statement is your opportunity to share with the Admissions Committee your significant personal, social, or academic experiences demonstrating why you are interested in law school and what qualities you will bring to our campus. Please attach a two- to three-page, a double-spaced statement reflecting your interest in seeking a J.D. and joining the community.

Resume

Please attach a resume that includes your relevant education, work experience, volunteer activities, honors, scholarships, and awards. This will help me get to know you better and see if you would fit the organization well.

Application Fee

The non-refundable application fee for law school is $55. This fee should be paid online through your LSAC.org account. You may be eligible for a waiver if you cannot pay the application fee.

Transcripts

If you have completed any collegiate, graduate, or professional study, you must send an official transcript to the CAS. Transcripts must be sent directly from the school or other issuing institution to be considered official.

Character & Fitness

Candidates for admission to the bar must be of good character and fitness. This includes disclosing any character and fitness issues you may have, such as juvenile offenses. Most offenses are not considered barriers to admission, but full disclosure is essential. Anyone with character and fitness issues must include the charge against them, the adjudication, and a short description of events.

Optional Kansas Statements

In a separate attachment, please briefly share any personal interest or connection to Kansas, the University of Kansas, or the University of Kansas School of Law. An attachment to or sincere interest in our university or Kansas may be considered a factor in their evaluation.

Optional Diversity Statement

The University of Kansas School of Law seeks students from various backgrounds and experiences. They want to build a student body that reflects the community and nation. To do this, they are asking for your help.

Please share with them your life experiences or personal characteristics that would add to the diversity of the student population and enrich the academic and cultural experience. This could be anything from your racial or ethnic identity to your socioeconomic status. They want to hear from you, so please don't hesitate to reach out.

Optional Addendum

Please share any information about your academic record or personal history that you feel is relevant and did not address in your statement. This might include anything from gaps in your education to disciplinary action taken against you in the past. Providing context for potential red flags can help us better understand your application.

The University of Kansas School of Law makes admissions decisions on a rolling basis, meaning that they make decisions as quickly as possible and try to review applications in the order they receive. The priority deadline for applications is March 1st.

Tuition and Financial Aid

KU Law is committed to ensuring that its students can pursue legal careers that fit their passions rather than being limited by excessive financial burdens. The tuition rates are very affordable for Kansas residents and students from other states.

Cost of Attendance

In the academic year 2025–26, first-year tuition and fees for the University of Kansas School of Law are approximately $25,894 for Kansas residents and $32,779 for non-residents. This includes both semester fees and health/student charges. Beyond tuition, living expenses such as room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal costs average around $19,852 annually. When combined, the total estimated cost of attendance (COA) for 2025 is roughly $43,254 for residents and $49,591 for non-residents, before accounting for any financial aid.

2025–26 Cost of Attendance – University of Kansas School of Law
Category	Kansas Resident	Non-Resident
Tuition & Fees	$25,894	$32,779
Living Expenses & Other Costs	$19,852	$19,852
Estimated Cost of Attendance	$43,254	$49,591

Financial Aid

The University of Kansas offers financial aid services to help students pay for law school. These services include federal and private loans, grants, and scholarships.

Scholarships

The KU Law School offers a generous scholarship program for its J.D. students. In the most recent year, nearly 90% of students received scholarships. This makes it possible for students to attend KU Law School without worrying about accumulating large amounts of debt.

There are four types of scholarships available for students attending KU Law. The first type of scholarship is awarded to students automatically upon admission, and the recipients are notified at the same time they receive their admission decision. The second type of scholarship is available to students who apply after admission, and these scholarships have specific eligibility criteria. Additionally, several private scholarships are offered to KU Law students throughout the year. These scholarships are regularly notified to students.

Merit-based Scholarship

Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievement and potential for success in law school. A number of these scholarships are funded through privately endowed resources. These scholarships are awarded to both resident and nonresident first-year students. There is no application process to be considered for merit-based scholarships. Any student admitted to the School of Law is automatically considered.

Rice Scholar Program

The Rice Scholar Program is a scholarship offered to Kansas residents who have excellent academic records and demonstrated leadership ability. A committee of faculty members selects Rice Scholars from the first-year admitted student candidates. The selection process is based purely on merit, as evidenced by undergraduate academic achievement, LSAT score, and record of leadership. Final selections are made after interviews with the Rice Scholarship committee.

In addition to total funding of tuition and required fees, the scholarship also provides a stipend that covers the estimated annual costs for books.

Need-based Scholarship

The KU School of Law believes that all students should have the opportunity to study law. They offer need-based KUTG awards to help remove financial barriers to obtaining a legal education. These awards are funded by the University of Kansas and provide scholarships to students with demonstrated financial need. To qualify, candidates must complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and answer the financial need questions on the electronic application. There is no separate application for this scholarship. Information about the FAFSA form may be obtained online at fafsa.gov. The University of Kansas Federal School Code is 001948.

Scholastic Achiever Awards

The Scholastic Achiever Award is a scholarship for current students who finish in the top 20% of their class. The top 10% of students will be eligible for an award granting them a maximum aggregate scholarship award of $10,000. Students finishing outside the top 10% but within the top 20% will be eligible for an award granting them a maximum aggregate scholarship award of $5,000.

Vantage Scholarship

The KU Vantage Scholarship is a great opportunity for law students in the Kansas City, Missouri, metro area. The scholarship gives students who have established residency in one of 11 Missouri counties the chance to pursue a KU law degree at an in-state tuition rate. This makes the KU School of Law even more affordable for students and adds to the school's already compelling list of benefits, including invested faculty, small class sizes, and hands-on opportunities. If you are interested in pursuing a law degree at KU, contact the KU Law Office of Admissions or apply today.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program is a program that helps people with federal student loans who work in public service jobs. If you have reduced loan payments through IBR, your remaining balance after ten years in a public service job could be canceled. The program is available only if you have Federal Direct Loans and make 120 monthly payments under the Direct Loan Program.

The University of Kansas School of Law is one of the nation's most affordable and highly respected law schools. The students graduate with an average debt burden far below other law schools. KU Law offers a world-class legal education at a reasonable rate of tuition.

Academics and Curriculum

As a student at KU Law, you can select from various courses that will help you gain a broad and varied legal education. You can also specialize in one of eight certificate programs. In addition, you can gain practical experience by participating in clinics, field placements, and skills simulations. The Juris Doctor (J.D.) program at KU Law is designed to prepare students to be successful members of the legal profession, focusing on public service and professional achievement. Students can choose from more than 100 upper-level courses, eight certificates, and more than dozen curriculum guides to create a personalized path for their legal education.

First-Year Courses

The two first-year courses you take will be in a small section with around 20 students. This will provide personal interaction with professors and an informal learning atmosphere that encourages in-depth discussion and analysis. This is also a great opportunity to bond with classmates who will be friends and professional colleagues for years to come.

Areas of Study

The KU Law School offers a variety of courses and programs to help students specialize in a particular area of law. The school offers eight certificate programs and more than a dozen curriculum guides for those looking for a more guided approach. These programs provide students with the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in a specific area of law.

BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL LAW
CIVIL LITIGATION
CONSTITUTIONAL LAW
CRIMINAL LAW
ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
GENERAL PRACTICE
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW
INTERNATIONAL & COMPARATIVE LAW
LITIGATION
MEDIA, LAW & TECHNOLOGY
PUBLIC LAW
TAX LAW
TRIBAL LAW

Upper-Level Courses

After completing your first-year coursework, you will have access to more than 100 upper-level courses in various areas of law. These courses include seminars, simulation courses, directed research, or clinics.

Hands-On Learning

The experiential learning program at KU Law includes a variety of opportunities, such as live-client clinics, field placements, and skills simulations. Students can also participate in moot courts, mock trials, transactional competitions, student-edited journals, and pro bono services. This provides students with a well-rounded legal education and prepares them for their future careers.

Clinics

At the KU Law School, students work on real cases with real clients, honing their practice skills while providing quality legal representation to underserved individuals and communities. The clinic offices are housed in the law school, and full-time KU Law faculty and staff attorneys supervise the work of the student advocates. Each clinic also includes a classroom component taught by a KU Law faculty member.

Field Placements

The KU Law Field Placement Program provides students with the opportunity to perform legal work under the supervision of a practicing attorney. Placements are at approved government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and courts. KU Law offers placements in criminal prosecution, elder law, the judicial branch, and the medical-legal partnership setting. Students can also enroll in the available Field Placement Program. All field placements include a classroom component taught by a KU Law faculty member.

Moot Court Program

In 2025, KU Law’s Moot Court Program further cemented its reputation for excellence, achieving its fifth consecutive victory at the National Native American Law Students Association (NNALSA) Moot Court Competition. The championship, held on February 14–15 in Las Vegas, saw team members Ashley MacDonald (1L) and Alex Nelson (2L) secure top honors; they also earned the second-place brief award, and Alex was named Best Speaker, guided by alumna coaches Nancy Musick (L’19) and Sarah Otto (L’18).

Beyond NNALSA, several KU Law teams enjoyed strong showings across national competitions: Easton Hunt and Ellie Moser placed in the top 10 at the Wagner National Labor and Employment Law Moot Court Competition; Samantha Crawford and Andrew Murphy reached the final four of the Duberstein Bankruptcy Moot Court Competition and were finalists in the Seventh Circuit regional; and teams including Joshua Lollar, Emily Moyes, Gabby Phillips, Quan Nguyen, and Leah Stein advanced to quarterfinal rounds in other prestigious moot court contests.

This success continues a broader tradition of excellence for KU’s Moot Court Program, which consistently ranks among the top 30 law-school programs nationally.

Pro Bono Program

At KU Law, they encourage students to commit to pro bono service as part of their professional lives. Lawyers – and law students – have specialized skills, and with those skills comes a responsibility to serve. Performing pro bono service in law school is a great way to give back to the community while gaining hands-on legal experience that enriches your legal education and better prepares you for practice.

The pro bono program at KU Law requires students complete 50 hours of supervised, law-related work that benefits the public. Students who complete this requirement will be honored at graduation. Additionally, the annual Pro Bono Honor Roll will recognize students who complete 15 hours or more of pro bono service during the academic year. New opportunities for pro bono service become available all the time, but students are also welcome to find placements that meet the program requirements.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

In recent years, KU Law has consistently delivered standout outcomes in both employment and bar exam performance. The Class of 2023 achieved a first-time bar passage rate of approximately 92%, a figure that places them notably above state averages—for instance, 90.48% in Kansas and 100% in Missouri for first-time takers. Impressively, KU Law also reported a 100% ultimate bar passage rate for the Class of 2021, meaning every graduate passed the exam within two years of graduation, making KU Law the top-performing law school nationwide on that metric.

On the employment front, KU Law graduates continue to thrive in the professional realm. Overall employment rates frequently exceed 90%, and for the Class of 2020, the rate was 93.1%—with over 83% securing “best jobs” (full-time, long-term positions requiring bar passage or where a J.D. is advantageous) within 10 months of graduation. In a more recent snapshot, 96.94% of KU Law graduates (95 out of 98) were employed, with placements ranging across law firms, government, public interest, and clerkships.

For the Class of 2025, the University of Kansas School of Law continues to excel in post-graduation outcomes. Graduates achieved a first-time bar passage rate near 92%, significantly outperforming state averages, while maintaining a remarkable 100% two-year ultimate bar exam pass rate for recent cohorts. Employment results remain strong: around 94–97% of graduates secure jobs shortly after graduation, with a large majority landing high-quality roles that align with their legal training and aspirations.

Quality of Life

As a Jayhawk, you are surrounded by others who share your passion for life and spirit. Whether you are on or off campus, you always have a group of friends to support you. Whether you are roommates, classmates, or teammates, you all share a unique bond that can't be broken.

Although it is the county seat of Douglas County, students seeking fast times in a big, cosmopolitan city will likely not find Lawrence, Kansas (population: 90,520) to be their cup of tea. Lawrence is a classic "college town" and is a fun and unique place to make one's home for three years despite the absence of intimidating urban bustle. As is often concurrent with college towns, Lawrence is an oasis of progressive politics in an overwhelmingly red state (Douglas County was one of only 2 in the state that went for Kerry in 2004 and one of only 3 for Obama in 2008). Lawrence is known for its local art, music, and culture: It is home to the Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival, and in 2005, the New York Times called Lawrence "the most vital music scene between Chicago and Denver."

Additionally, KU is a fantastic place for sports fans. The state is home to MLS's Sporting Kansas City, and the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs are just across the border in Kansas City, Missouri. In addition, KU plays in the always competitive Big 12 conference, and the University boasts a legendary basketball team with one of the best home-court advantages in the country.

Wheat Law Library

Wheat Law Library is vital to the University of Kansas School of Law. The library provides access to legal resources for law professionals and the general public to support legal study, teaching, and research at KU.

Synopsis

The University of Kansas School of Law is a fine choice for students who wish to live and practice close by and take advantage of low in-state tuition. Prospective students should, however, be warned that the school does not boast overwhelmingly impressive employment and salary statistics. This fact should be taken especially into consideration by those who would pay out-of-state tuition of finance their legal education with interest-bearing loans.

Contact Information

University of Kansas School of Law
1535 W. 15th Street
Lawrence, KS 66045
103 Green Hall
Email: admitlaw@ku.edu
Phone: 866-220-3654
https://law.ku.edu/admissions

Summary

Established	1878
Location	Lawrence, KS
Dean	Stephen W. Mazza
2025 US News Ranking	50th
LSAT Median Score	161
GPA Median Score	3.79
Bar Passage Rate	91.9% (2025)
Employment Rate	88.9% (2025)
Cost	"$25,607 (in-state, full-time), $32,161 (out-of-state, full-time)"
Average Debt	$78,741
Application Deadline	March 1, 2025

Forum and Discussion

The University of Kansas School of Law Discussions
Law School Admissions Forums
Law Student Forums
Law School Class Forums

Reference

University of Missouri Kansas City School of Law
https://law.ku.edu/
Rank #50
LSD Law
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
Guide to Fee Waivers

Interview: Jacqlene Nance, Director of Admissions at the University of Kansas School of Law