Widener University Commonwealth Law School
The Widener Law Commonwealth community is close-knit and offers an exceptional law school experience. The experience is personal, practical, and professional. Request information to learn more about the Commonwealth experience.
Widener Law Commonwealth's mission is to provide a personal and practical education. The faculty, administration, and staff work together to provide a personalized education that emphasizes individual attention. This approach fosters collegiality and collaboration with a diverse body of students in the study of law. They also strive to provide a practical education; They train students to become lawyers.
Contents
Admissions
At Widener Law Commonwealth, they value diversity and inclusion. They are committed to enrolling students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The admissions committee does not just look at standardized test scores and undergraduate GPA when making admissions decisions. They have a rolling admissions process, so applying early before the full class is important. You can submit your application electronically through the Law School Admission Council website. If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions Office at 717.541.3903 or admitcwlaw@widener.edu. You can also reach LSAC at 215.968.1001 or lsac.org.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | -- | 147-148-151 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | -- | 3.06-3.36-3.64 |
| Acceptance rate | -- | 66.5% |
| Applications received | -- | 776 |
| Acceptances | -- | 516 |
| Matriculants | -- | -- |
For the 2024 to 2025 admissions cycle, Widener University Commonwealth Law School reported an LSAT range of 147 to 148 to 151 for the 25th, 50th, and 75th percentiles. The corresponding GPA range for admitted students was 3.06 to 3.36 to 3.64. The school received 776 applications and offered admission to 516 applicants, resulting in an acceptance rate of 66.5 percent. The table does not list the number of matriculants for the class, but the available data gives a clear picture of the academic profile and competitiveness of the incoming class.
Application Deadline
The application process for law school generally starts in October of the year before you plan to attend. You can apply online through LSAC.org. It would help if you kept a few essential deadlines in mind: January 1 is the binding Early Decision deadline, February 1 is the Early Action deadline, April 1 is the Early Admission and Express Admissions Programs deadline, and May 1 is the Trial Admissions Program consideration deadline. If you want to be considered for the Priority Admissions program, your application must be submitted by May 1. The final application deadline is July 1.
Application Fee
The application fee is $60.00, but it is waived for all applicants who apply on or before the priority admissions deadline of May 1st.
Application Requirements
The requirements for applying to law school are a completed application form, a 2-3 page personal statement, a one-page resume, academic transcripts from all post-secondary schools, and a valid LSAT score or GRE score. Two letters of recommendation are required, but the admissions committee will review up to three. If you are currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate school, at least one letter should be an academic letter of recommendation. Any required addenda should also be included with the application.
An applicant's optional diversity statement should explain any characteristics that would allow the applicant to contribute uniquely to the Widener Law Commonwealth community. This could include experiences, backgrounds, or perspectives that the applicant brings to the table. The statement should be thoughtful and well-written, expressing why the applicant believes they would be a valuable addition to the school.
Tuition and Financial Aid
For the 2025 academic year, Widener University Commonwealth Law School outlines a comprehensive cost of attendance that reflects both direct educational expenses and estimated living costs. Tuition continues to be charged on a per-credit basis for all students, and total budgets vary depending on whether a student enrolls in the Regular Division or the Extended Division. The school also recognizes that living arrangements significantly affect expenses, so it provides two distinct 9-month budget estimates: one for students who rent or own housing independently, and another for those living with parents or relatives. These budgets include tuition, mandatory fees, books, transportation, room and board, personal expenses, and loan fees. While tuition remains the largest cost driver in both divisions, living expenses and books also contribute meaningfully to the overall financial commitment. These estimates help students understand the full financial picture and plan realistically for the academic year, whether they’re managing rent, commuting from a family home, or balancing school with part-time work. The following tables present the school’s cost of attendance framework for 2025 based on the 9-month budget categories Widener provides.
2025 Cost of Attendance (Estimated)
The 2025 cost of attendance at Widener University Commonwealth Law School outlines the full financial commitment students can expect for a nine-month academic year. These estimates include tuition, required fees, books, room and board, transportation, loan fees, and personal expenses. Because living arrangements can significantly change monthly costs, the school provides separate budgets for students who maintain their own housing and those who live with parents or relatives. These figures serve as a guide for financial planning and help students understand the actual expenses associated with pursuing a legal education at Widener Commonwealth.
Students Living in Their Own Housing (Renters or Homeowners)
| Expense Category | Regular Division | Extended Division |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $51,480 | $37,752 |
| SBA Fee | $120 | $120 |
| Exam Fee | $70 | $70 |
| Personal Expenses | $5,598 | $5,598 |
| Transportation | $3,159 | $3,159 |
| Room & Board | $12,996 | $12,996 |
| Books | $1,850 | $1,480 |
| Loan Fees | $1,377 | $1,377 |
| Total Budget | $76,650 | $62,552 |
Students Living with Parents or Relatives
| Expense Category | Regular Division | Extended Division |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $51,480 | $37,752 |
| SBA Fee | $120 | $120 |
| Exam Fee | $70 | $70 |
| Personal Expenses | $5,598 | $5,598 |
| Transportation | $3,159 | $3,159 |
| Room & Board | $4,500 | $4,500 |
| Books | $1,850 | $1,480 |
| Loan Fees | $1,377 | $1,377 |
| Total Budget | $68,154 | $54,056 |
Financial Aid
There are many different types of financial aid available for legal education. Law Schools, federal programs, and private organizations offer different aid types. The most common type of financial aid is loans, but you should also look into scholarships and work-study opportunities. If you have any questions, contact the Financial Aid Office.
Endowed Scholarships
The Widener Law Commonwealth School offers a variety of scholarships to help students pay for law school. These scholarships range from $5,000.00 to full tuition and may be used to cover the cost of tuition only. Provided the student remains in good academic standing, with a GPA of 2.00 or higher, the scholarship is renewable for each year of law school.
Outside and Private Scholarships
Many private scholarships are available to students looking for additional financial aid. These scholarships can be found through county and state bar associations, veterans' organizations, church and ethnic organizations, alum associations of colleges or universities, and selected corporations. The Financial Aid Office at Widener University has researched and compiled information on over 300 scholarship opportunities that students can access through a database on the Commonwealth Law Financial Aid website.
Open Houses and Online Information Sessions are the perfect opportunities to learn more about the admissions process and what it's like to attend law school at Widener University Commonwealth Law School. You'll be able to speak with students, faculty, and staff to get a better idea of the school and see the beautiful campus.
Academics and Curriculum
The Widener Law Commonwealth faculty has approved a general studies curriculum for all students. This required core curriculum consists of instruction in subjects that the faculty deem essential and representative of a common core of understanding and shared experience, whatever your specialty may be after graduation. In addition to the core curriculum, the law school offers courses. Every law student can choose from two-course menus consisting of meaningful practice and enrichment courses.
Learning Outcomes
The learning outcomes are statements that describe what students should know and be able to do after completing the program of study. By looking at the published learning outcomes, students can get an idea of the skills and knowledge they will acquire in the courses. This can help professors develop assessment methods and tools to help improve student learning and help students achieve the outcomes.
Law Clinics
The Central Pennsylvania Law Clinic provides students with experience in administrative, consumer, elder, and family law. The clinic originated from the Harrisburg Civil Law Clinic, which opened its doors in 1991. Today, the clinic continues its tradition of helping people with their legal needs.
Real Case Work
The law clinic is an excellent opportunity to get experience interviewing clients, negotiating with opposing counsel, and trying cases in court. As a participant in the law clinic, you will be responsible for maintaining case files, corresponding with clients, and representing clients in court. You will be free to make decisions on handling your cases, but faculty members can help when needed.
Work with the Legal Community
The Central Pennsylvania Law Clinic provides essential legal services to the community, and working with the local legal community is a great way to gain experience and develop meaningful relationships. The Legal Service Program for Dauphin County, known as MidPenn Legal Services, refers to many of the clinic’s clients, along with the Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging, the YWCA Domestic Violence Clinic, and other service providers in the Central Pennsylvania area. Working with these organizations will help you develop essential skills and meaningful relationships that will benefit your professional life.
Emphasis on Practical Learning
The Central Pennsylvania Law Clinic focuses on providing practical legal experience in a supportive environment. Each clinic is supervised by an experienced attorney who can provide you with the skills you need to start practicing law. You will gain experience in various areas of Pennsylvania law, such as family law, consumer law, civil procedure, elder law, and litigation. By the end of your time in the clinic, you will be ready to start practicing law.
Externships
Widener Law Commonwealth offers externship opportunities that allow students to immerse themselves in the working lives of practicing attorneys and judges. By doing this, students can hone their research and writing skills while also earning academic credit. Additionally, externships provide students with a valuable network for future employment opportunities.
Their clinical, judicial, and business advising externship programs offer placements with state and county agencies, the commonwealth and Supreme Courts of Pennsylvania, senators, representatives of the state legislative body, and others. Their second and third-year externs work with judges, prosecutors, public defenders, legal services,s and government agencies.
Externs are students who work in placements and attend a full-day class component at the beginning of the semester, focusing on lawyering skills. Each semester, they usually earn 1-4 credits (50 hours of work per credit). After completing 3 semesters, they may apply to be certified under the PA Supreme Court Student Practice rule and have the opportunity to make court appearances with appropriate attorney supervision.
Employment Prospects & Bar Passage
For the 2025 reporting year, Widener University Commonwealth Law School continues to demonstrate steady employment outcomes for its graduates. Most students secure positions within Pennsylvania and surrounding Mid-Atlantic states, with employment opportunities spanning private practice, government agencies, judicial clerkships, and public interest organizations. A significant portion of graduates find roles in small to midsize law firms, which historically represent a strong employment market for the school’s alumni. Government positions, including roles within the Pennsylvania state system, remain another substantial employment avenue. The school’s emphasis on experiential learning, including clinics and externships, supports students in obtaining practical skills that translate directly into post-graduation opportunities.
Bar passage performance for the 2025 cycle aligns with the school’s traditional trends. Graduates typically perform strongest on the Pennsylvania Bar Exam, where the curriculum and academic support programs are tailored to the state’s exam structure. Widener Commonwealth continues to offer bar prep resources such as faculty-led workshops, commercial bar review partnerships, and individualized support for at-risk students. While bar passage rates vary year to year, the school's ongoing investment in academic success initiatives aims to provide students with a competitive foundation for licensure.
Quality of Life
The capital of Pennsylvania is home to Widener Law Commonwealth, the only law school in the state. This provides opportunities for students to live and learn in a thriving city environment. Harrisburg offers all the advantages of a small town while providing access to an urban center's energy and convenience.
At Widener Law Commonwealth, their campus is situated on more than 20 beautifully manicured acres in the mountains of Central Pennsylvania. This provides easy driving distance to major metropolitan cities like Baltimore, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York. Harrisburg is also ranked as the #1 Best Place to Live in Pennsylvania for 2021-2022.
They provide a student-centered focus that prepares students for practice. They offer many clinical and experiential learning opportunities. Their Environmental Law Program is ranked as the #1 school in the nation, and they also have a strong focus on government and business law. Their generous scholarship program makes our cost of living affordable. Additionally, they have been recognized by preLaw Magazine as having the #1 employment outcomes in the nation and by Princeton Review as a top law school for state and local judicial clerkships. Their faculty has a balanced student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for easier access and more support from professors. Career Development Office offers individual counseling, workshops, events, and job fairs to help build your career. Finally, their alumni network is robust, with over 3,500 members who support current law students.
Learning in Harrisburg
- The PA Capitol
Widener Law Commonwealth is located just six miles from the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex. This area is home to the state legislature, many state agencies, state courts, and federal courts.
- Networking
Their graduates work in many areas of state government, private firms, and companies. They are always looking for opportunities to help other Widener Law Commonwealth alumni.
- Law and Government
Harrisburg is a great place for its Law and Government Institute and students completing its certificate programs. They have access to the processes of legislation and policymaking that no other school in the capital region can offer.
Living in Harrisburg
- Nearby Attractions
Harrisburg is a great place to live if you're looking for a lot to do. There are many great restaurants, theaters, and museums downtown, and plenty of bars and nightlife options. Hershey and Gettysburg are nearby if you're looking for something more exciting.
- Outdoor Recreation
When you're looking for an escape from the city, nature is just a short drive away. You can enjoy various outdoor activities on the Susquehanna River and Appalachian Trail or explore Riverfront Park - one of the most scenic inland waterfronts in the country.
- Cost of Living
Central Pennsylvania is a great place to live if you're looking for the attractions of a major population center but don't want to pay the high cost of living. There are plenty of cultural institutions, shopping options, and restaurants to choose from, and the cost of living is much lower than in other big cities.
Synopsis
At Widener Law Commonwealth, they are dedicated to supporting and celebrating diversity across their campus community. They believe that having students and educators with diverse backgrounds and varied perspectives enhances the learning experience they offer and creates an environment that reflects the society in which their graduates will live and work.
Contact Information
Widener University Commonwealth Law School
3800 Vartan Way,
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Admissions Office
Phone: 717.541.3903
Fax: 717.541.3999
Email: admitcwlaw@widener.edu
Summary
| Established | 1988 |
| Location | Harrisburg, PA 17110 |
| Dean | andré douglas pond cummings |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 175th |
| LSAT Median Score | 148 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.36 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 53.8% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | 67.1% (2025) |
| Cost | "$54,720 full-time,
$36,520 part-time" |
| Average Debt | N/A |
| Application Deadline | July 1, 2025 |
Forum and Discussion
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Reference
BCG Attorney's Advice for Associates
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
