Washburn University School of Law
Washburn University School of Law is located in Kansas City, Kansas. The school offers a convenient location for students interested in pursuing a career in law. Washburn Law's impact extends beyond the state's borders and into the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The school provides an excellent education for those interested in becoming lawyers.
Contents
History
The Washburn University School of Law is a municipal university in Kansas founded in 1865. The school was renamed in recognition of New England philanthropist Deacon Ichabod Washburn in 1868. The university receives partial funding from the state of Kansas.
Washburn University School of Law is a highly respected institution accredited by the American Bar Association since 1923. The school offers a variety of programs and courses that prepare students for successful careers in the legal field.
The Washburn University School of Law has a long and prestigious history, graduating many influential figures in the legal community. Five of its graduates have served as Chief Justice of the Kansas Supreme Court, including the first woman to hold that position, Kay McFarland. The school has also been a leader in promoting equality and diversity in the legal profession. Despite facing challenges in the past, it has always remained a strong and innovative institution.
The school offers a variety of programs to prepare students for success in the legal field, including certificate programs in Advocacy, Business and Transactional Law, Estate Planning, Family Law, International and Comparative Law, Law and Government, Natural Resources Law, Oil and Gas Law, and Tax Law. The school is also home to the Washburn Law Library, one of the premier legal research portals available to a worldwide audience of experts. Under the leadership of Dean Dennis R. Honabach, the school has launched several signature programs, including the Business and Transactional Law Center, the Center for Excellence in Advocacy, and the Children and Family Law Center. The law school classrooms have also undergone a significant renovation, with new features and state-of-the-art teaching tools.
Admissions
The Washburn Law faculty is dedicated to providing its students with the best possible education. They are accessible and supportive and take pride in helping their students succeed. The school has a long tradition of excellence in legal education, creating opportunities for its graduates in many fields. The student body is energetic and supportive, working together to help each other achieve their goals. Washburn Law is the place for you if you are looking for an excellent legal education.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 150-154-157 | 148-151-154 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 3.25-3.59-3.83 | 3.26-3.61-3.83 |
| Acceptance rate | 49.3% | 73.1% |
| Applications received | 469 | 372 |
| Acceptances | 310 | 272 |
| Matriculants | 96 | 117 |
For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle at Washburn University School of Law, the statistics reflect a competitive yet accessible environment. The middle 50% LSAT range for admitted students fell between 148 and 154, while the GPA range was 3.26 to 3.83. The school received 372 applications and admitted 272 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 73.1%. Out of those admitted, 117 students chose to matriculate, marking an increase in first-year enrollment compared to the prior cycle. These figures highlight both the inclusivity of the admissions process and the strong interest in joining Washburn Law’s academic community.
Application Process
The Washburn University School of Law application process will be completed once all items are received. This includes applying online through LSAC, attaching the personal statement and resume, and attaching the character and fitness supplement (if applicable) and diversity statement (optional). If there is any technical difficulty, don't hesitate to get in touch with LSAC's help desk. All required documents must be submitted to the Credential Assembly Service. This includes official LSAT scores and transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. At least one letter of recommendation is needed, though no more than three will be accepted.
When to Apply
The priority deadline for the fall start is April 1. However, they will continue to accept applications after that date. The priority deadline for the spring start is November 15. However, they will continue to accept applications after that date.
Deferments
If for some reason, you cannot attend the class you were admitted to, you may request a deferment of your admission to the next incoming class. Deferment requests should be submitted to the Admissions Office in writing and are granted on a case-by-case basis.
Personal Statement
The personal statement requested as part of the application is an opportunity for applicants to introduce themselves to members of the Admissions Committee. The statement is a significant part of the application, as the Committee evaluates applicants in many areas beyond test scores and grade point averages. Applicants should feel free to discuss any of the following areas:
- Education Background
- Community involvement
- Strengths and weaknesses in certain courses or activities
- Personal and professional goals
- Significant achievements
- Stories of personal growth, triumph, or struggle
- Motivation for attending law school
- Any other information that may be relevant to the admission decision, including information demonstrating the unique contribution an applicant can make to Washburn University School of Law.
Resume
A resume is an essential part of any law school application. It should list your educational background, including your degree, any honors or awards you have received, and any extracurricular activities or volunteer work you have done. It should also list your work experience, including any jobs you have had, summer internships, and permanent employment. References are not required as part of a resume.
Letters of Recommendation
At least one letter of recommendation is required to be considered for admission into the Washburn University School of Law. The best letters come from former or current instructors who can appraise the applicant's character, maturity, motivation, and academic ability. Applicants who have been away from their graduate or undergraduate institutions for some time may substitute recommendations from employers if obtaining a faculty recommendation is not feasible. Judges or public figures are not typically the best sources for recommendations because they often only have a passing knowledge of the applicant. No particular form is necessary, but an original, signed letter is preferred. Letters must be sent directly to Washburn Law from the person writing the letter or through CAS (previously LSDAS) letter of recommendation service.
Interviews
The Admissions Office does not interview applicants for the J.D. program. They do encourage applicants to visit Washburn Law to learn more about the school and the admission process.
Addendums (optional)
A candidate may submit an optional grade or LSAT addendum if there were extenuating circumstances beyond the applicant's control that resulted in less than stellar academic performance. Washburn Law also accepts diversity statements.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Washburn Law strives to keep legal education affordable while offering robust financial support. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the in-state (Kansas/ITWP participants) full-time JD tuition is $28,100, and for non-residents it is $41,930. These figures do not yet include additional costs such as room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Washburn also offers merit scholarships and participates in programs like the Interstate Tuition Waiver Program to reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible students
Cost of Attendance
| Category | Kansas Resident / ITWP Participant | Non-Resident Student |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $28,100 | $41,930 |
| Living Costs + Room & Board / Personal Expenses | ~$16,125 | ~$16,125 |
| Estimated Total COA | ~$42,465 | ~$56,025 |
Washburn University School of Law provides a transparent cost of attendance (COA) estimate to help students plan their finances for the 2025–2026 academic year. Tuition varies depending on residency status, with Kansas residents and Interstate Tuition Waiver Program (ITWP) participants paying lower rates compared to non-residents. In addition to tuition, students should expect standard living expenses that include housing, meals, books and supplies, transportation, and personal costs. These estimates are important not only for financial planning but also because they determine the maximum financial aid and student loans a student can receive. While scholarships, grants, and waivers can substantially reduce the actual amount paid, the COA serves as a comprehensive guideline for budgeting throughout law school.
Loan Fees
For the 2025–2026 academic year, students who borrow federal loans will be responsible for an additional loan origination fee of approximately $197 for both residents and non-residents. This fee is added on top of the total cost of attendance and is subject to change depending on the total loan amount borrowed.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Washburn University School of Law continues to provide strong financial support through a wide range of scholarships and aid programs. All admitted students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, which are awarded from the school’s general scholarship fund. These awards are made possible by alumni contributions and donor support, and they can significantly reduce tuition costs. In addition to scholarships, students may apply for need-based aid and federal student loans through the Washburn University Financial Aid Office. This combination of scholarships, loans, and grants helps make a legal education more affordable and accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
Academics and Curriculum
The Washburn University School of Law focuses on providing a conducive learning environment for its students. This includes having large enough classes to include multiple perspectives while also being small enough to encourage interaction among classmates and professors. An open-door policy allows students to meet with professors outside of class, and the school embraces diversity and open exchange of views. The curriculum is comprehensive and prepares students for success in the legal profession.
First-Year Program
The Washburn Law first-year program is staffed by full-time, tenure-track faculty members who give you a meaningful start on your legal education. Their low student/faculty ratio allows for informal advising, particularly in your first year of study. This allows you to get to know your professors and develop relationships that will benefit your law school career.
Upper-Level Curriculum
The Washburn Law School provides students with a strong curriculum and the opportunity to study various subjects in depth. In addition to fulfilling the upper-level requirements, students are encouraged to select a concentration that reflects their interests. Many students choose to specialize by participating in one of the school's certificate programs or designing an independent study program. Alternatively, students can take advantage of one of the school's signature programs in advocacy, business and transactional law, children and family law, international and comparative law, oil and gas law, or law and government.
Washburn Law Clinic
The Washburn Law Clinic allows students to practice law before they graduate. The clinic is staffed by upper-level law students and full-time faculty members trained in clinical education. This allows students to learn how to argue complex legal issues, make closing arguments, depose witnesses, and cross-examine hostile witnesses. The clinic also allows interns to represent individuals who can't afford legal counsel. Under the close supervision of faculty, interns work on issues such as criminal law, family law, juvenile law, civil law, appellate defense, and transactional law.
Externship Program
Law students can enhance their legal education by completing off-campus placements in their second and third years. These placements allow students to gain professional experience early in their legal careers. Many externs are given assignments that impact real people.
Quality of Life
At Washburn University School of Law, students can access top-notch education in a city environment. The school is located in Topeka, KS - home to around 127,000 residents. The campus is easy to navigate, with modern facilities and a low student-to-faculty ratio. This ensures that students will get to know their professors well. The school offers industry-standard programs that lead to in-demand jobs. The Washburn University School of Law offers a variety of academic programs as well as opportunities to get involved in campus clubs and organizations. Students can also participate in community service and cultural and recreational activities. The Mulvane Art Gallery regularly holds exhibits and events, and the White Concert Hall, Andrew J., and Georgia Neese Gray Theatre host music and theatrical programs. Whether you’ve got questions about paying your bill, adding money to your iCard, getting a job on campus now or a job after graduation or if you need someone to talk to, this is the place to find the answer. While on Campus, Visit the Student One Stop Office. One stop for all your needs.
Housing
Your Campus Home Living on campus isn't just about the ease of getting to class and activities - it is about late-night study sessions, meeting life-long friends and learning new things about yourself. There is nothing quite like living and learning in the heart of the Washburn community. To help everyone find the right home, we offer six housing facilities with traditional, suite-style and apartment options. No matter what your choice, you'll be safe with secure facilities and our very own Washburn University Police Department on duty 24/7.
Summer House
Summer housing is available to Washburn students meeting at least one of the following conditions:
- Students taking a summer course at Washburn
- A student enrolled for the upcoming Fall semester and who has lived with us this past year or will be living with us next year (booking required)
The Residential Living Housing Portal will open on April 1st for students who want to apply for summer housing. The available dates are from May 30th to August 5th. The only room option for students is the Living Learning Center because of maintenance and conference schedules. Students who are residents for the outgoing Spring 2022 term may apply for the first interim period from May 13th to May 29th. Students who are residents for the incoming Fall 2022 term may apply for the second interim period from August 6th to August 17th.
Employment Outcomes & Bar Passage
Graduates of Washburn University School of Law continue to see strong employment results after graduation. For the Class of 2024, employment status was known for all graduates, with 91% employed within ten months. Most employed graduates secured long-term, full-time positions, with the majority working in roles that required bar passage. A smaller portion found J.D.-advantage positions, while some pursued government, business, public interest, or judicial clerkships. The largest share of graduates went into law firms, but significant numbers also entered government service and other sectors. Employment remained regionally concentrated, with most graduates practicing in Kansas, followed by Missouri, Colorado, and other states. The first-time bar passage rate for 2024 graduates was about 71%, reflecting the school’s commitment to preparing students for professional success.
| Category | Number | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Total Graduates | 100 | 100% |
| Employed (10 months after graduation) | 91 | 91% |
| Bar Passage Required Positions | 78 | 78% |
| J.D. Advantage Positions | 10 | 10% |
| Other / Public Interest / Clerkship | 3 | 3% |
| Unemployed | 7 | 7% |
| First-Time Bar Passage Rate | – | ~71% |
| Geographic Distribution | ||
| Kansas | 54 | 59% |
| Missouri | 16 | 18% |
| Colorado | 5 | 5% |
| Other States / Countries | 16 | 18% |
Synopsis
The Washburn University School of Law is great for a well-rounded legal education. The faculty is nationally recognized, and the student body is delighted. The law school also offers a lot of practical experience through hands-on learning opportunities. Additionally, the alum network is very supportive and dedicated to helping students succeed.
Contact information
Washburn University School of Law
Attn: Law Admissions Office
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621
Phone: (785) 670-1185
Email: admissions@washburnlaw.edu
Summary
| Established | 1903 |
| Location | Topeka, KS |
| Dean | Jeffrey D. Jackson |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 121th |
| LSAT Median Score | 151 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.61 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 84% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | 63% (2025) |
| Cost | "$26,459 (in-state, full-time),
$39,567 (out-of-state, full-time)" |
| Average Debt | $102,190 |
| Application Deadline | August 1, 2025 |
Forum and Discussion
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References
Washburn University School of Law
Rank #121
LSD Law
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
