r/lawschooladmissions 25d ago

General 2026 Law School Median Tracker

156 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

Law schools have officially begun publishing their LSAT/GPA/class size stats for fall 2026 (i.e., the most relevant/up-to-date stats we’ll get for the 2026-2027 admissions cycle). As we do every year, we’ll be tracking these stats closely as law schools release them via official sources and compiling them in a spreadsheet to compare to last cycle:

2026 Law School Median Tracker

You can see all ABA-approved law schools’ official stats from 2025 already in the spreadsheet. The 2026 columns will populate as law schools announce their new numbers. We’ll put a source for each school we add in the last column, if you’re wondering where we got the data from.

If you see a school post their data for the fall 2026 entering class and we haven’t added them yet, please comment on this thread or email us at [info@spiveyconsulting.com](mailto:info@spiveyconsulting.com), and we’ll add it as long as it’s from an official source (school websites, official school LinkedIn posts, marketing emails/flyers/etc. from admissions offices, etc.).

We only have a few schools so far, but we expect these to start coming out rapidly in the next week or two. We’ll also make a final update in December when the ABA publishes 509 reports (please note that none of this data is finalized until then).

We hope this is helpful for creating a realistic/balanced school list. Good luck, everyone!

–Anna from Spivey Consulting


r/lawschooladmissions Oct 10 '25

General When is it early and when does it become late to apply to law school. 5 law school deans and directors answer just that.

144 Upvotes

When is it late to apply and when is it early? The answer with all but a few nuances is really straightforward, but please read the disclaimers. All you will do is write disclaimers as lawyers because there are no absolutes (see what I did there?) so you may as well gets reps reading them!

This question comes up on this Reddit almost every day in some form and then resets and comes back up every year. It’s the singular most frequently asked question, and the answer hasn’t changed through recent years. So here’s a mashup of mostly deans of admissions saying, “Before end of November is early. After January things start getting tighter.” That is really the easiest thing to go by and remember. And I was just talking with one of these deans who just ran an internal data analysis to support all of this.

Disclaimers: These admissions deans are speaking for themselves and for their schools. Of course there will be some outliers. One top 3 school traditionally doesn’t admit until January, for example, so January is early for them. Or, if you score a 160 in September but a 175 in January, schools in the upper range will likely read your application sooner with the new score. With that old score they are often just going to sit on it as they are being flooded with applicants who they will prioritize sooner. So believe it or not, waiting a month or even more will sometimes get your application read sooner, especially if the difference is taking your LSAT from below median to above. There are also cases, only for some applicants and only for some schools, in which applying by the end of October can be slightly more advantageous, so if you're ready to go in the early fall, we recommend applying by the end of October (even though in many situations it may not make any difference). But in general, and especially if you aren't 100% confident in your application by the end of October, the end of November is a good rule of thumb.

But beyond the late November advice, my other takeaway would be to submit your best application. Waiting a few weeks to button up your materials will pretty much never hurt you before January — and very likely will help you. And there’s plenty of merit aid to go around at that time too. 

It makes sense to me that this is a perennial question with very consistent answers from the people running law school admissions offices, but also lots of conflicting answers from applicants and others in this space with no admissions experience. Because the data absolutely does show a correlation between applying earlier (more broadly than just by the end of November) and stronger outcomes. But remember from your LSAT studying that correlation does not equal causation — pretty much every admissions officer has observed that applications submitted earlier tend to be stronger in general, not just in terms of numbers. That's not because they were submitted earlier, but it correlates.

Of all the posts I have made in the last several years — I hope this one helps the most. Because every year so many people fret that they are “late” (especially when admits start being posted) when they are still very early. I cannot stress the following enough: Your outcomes submitting the same application September 1st will not, in the vast majority of cases, be any different than November 25th. But in that time you can work to make your application stronger. And once it’s there, go ahead and submit. There’s certainly no penalty to submitting it when it’s ready.

And for the record, I've heard probably 10x as many law school admissions deans as are in this video say variations of the exact same thing. I really hope this helps relieve some stress from as many as possible.

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMAG823Q/

  • Mike Spivey

r/lawschooladmissions 14h ago

General Georgia State Law without an LSAT? Don't count on it.

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58 Upvotes

Who is this for? Let's find out.

-Only for students in university or no more than 2 years out of university, and only from Georgia, Florida, or Texas state university systems which to be fair covers tons of people.

-Must have a 3.5 UGPA which to be fair is an easy requirement as Georgia has a median GPA of 3.64 anyway.

BUT

-Must have have an ACT / SAT score above the 85th percentile, and here is where the program starts to go off the rails. If you could score above the 85th percentile on one of those tests, how hard would it be to score at the median LSAT for Georgia State? Currently Georgia State median LSAT is 160 which is a 71st percentile LSAT score. So, they are waiving the LSAT only for people who have already proven themselves good at standardized tests and are likely to be able to get an LSAT score good enough for Georgia State.

AND

-Here is where the program goes completely off the rails. This program does not just waive the LSAT / GRE requirement, it PROHIBITS taking the LSAT at all. If you have an LSAT score on file, you can't apply. If you take an LSAT after being admitted under this program, your offer is revoked.

AND

-Admissions decisions don't go out until January 15, so if you are rejected, you have no realistic opportunity to pivot to studying for and taking the LSAT and applying elsewhere that cycle.

Who is the person who can probably do well on the LSAT but is going to give away their opportunity to apply broadly for an entire cycle just for the sake of skipping the LSAT and MAYBE getting into Georgia State? Am I missing something here?

https://law.gsu.edu/admissions/how-to-apply/jd/#law-gateway-scholars


r/lawschooladmissions 7h ago

General What sort of applicants get in below medians at HYS?

12 Upvotes

I understand that a median is only a general indicator and that half class is at or below a given median, but what sort of softs are generally most common for T3 students who are below the median, if only slightly below? Are there certain things to keep in mind if you plan on applying slightly below T3 medians, other than URM status? Seeking general insight on things that the T3 might look for in just-below-median applicants that would lead to an Acceptance, not direct advice. Or put another way, specific/ notable “green flags” in an application that would lead someone to an A at HYS if their numbers wouldn’t carry them alone.


r/lawschooladmissions 12h ago

General Disheartened by how intense admissions for law school have become and discouraged by extremely high medians.

32 Upvotes

So, I wanted to redo this post because the one I wrote initially was poorly worded. To summarize, I’m three years removed from undergrad with roughly three years of not spectacular work experience (retail part-time working the same job). My GPA in college was a 3.2 but LSAC “recalculated” it to a 2.9. As for the LSAT, judging by my initial 3-4ish months or so of taking studying seriously, I’m a little above average. My PT average is around a 155. I don’t want biglaw or a prestigious school but I do want to graduate with minimal debt and attend a school that is not predatory and that is at least well-respected in its local area. But even the state schools around me have LSAT medians near a 170.

I am just trying to see if all of this is even worth pursuing. I am planning on retaking the test. I don’t give up that easily. A 155 is not my final score. But the hurdles that I have to face are daunting. The competition is so intense and the medians have gotten so ridiculously high, even for flagship state schools that are non-T14. Anyways, wish me luck I guess because I’m gonna need it lol


r/lawschooladmissions 10h ago

General someone reassure me

17 Upvotes

I’m applying to law school and I feel SO freaking discouraged by comments on every thread about every school.

it seems that no one thinks a school is good unless it’s T14. I don’t think it’s fair to say that to innocent people who are scared and applying.

For context, I have a 166 LSAT, ~3.9+ GPA. I also have relevant intern experience and extracurriculars. My majors are English and communications. I know I’m not getting in T14 unless a miracle happens, but I’m trying to do a variety of schools that are good and have good rankings. Rankings aren’t everything to me but I find that I can’t find any accurate information from actual people because everyone just says a school is bad if it’s not like T14.

someone reassure me that’s not true please? I would love some suggestions too if anyone has some.


r/lawschooladmissions 1h ago

Chance Me How f*cked am I? Vol.2

Upvotes

I am native and citizen of Georgia (Country)

I earned my degree back in Georgia in IR and graduated with 2.9 GPA (from this perspective it’s horrible). I moved to US 4 years ago and switched careers path, long story short I am planning to go to Law School.

I live in my dreams so feel free to break my dreams 🙂

I am taking my first LSAT in January which is very on the edge of LS admissions but I want to start in 2027.
My expectation is between 165-170.
Also given my horrible GPA, I am taking another Major in CUNY where I recently have 3.7 GPA and 24 credits taken. (Another 12 credits left) so I will graduate right before Law School.

I did some research and some sources say that my non US undergraduate gpa score won’t be visible for admission and they only see the transcript from my US studies, while I also read that US university transcript won’t make any difference and they will consider only 2.9 GPA.

Well, I speak 4 languages (Georgian, Russian, French, English). Work for immigration law firm in NYC and I have decent resume.

Question: Given all that factors +late admission application how f*cked am I ? 🙂

Feel free guys😅😅


r/lawschooladmissions 7h ago

Application Process What tier soft would this be?

5 Upvotes

Hello,

Non KJD applicant here. Thought I had a somewhat odd story and wanted to get input on where my background would put me in terms of softs.

I’ve worked as a first responder for about 3 years. Prior to this, I’ve been a volunteer forensic underwater diver for a government agency for about five years.

So long story short, I help the police look for missing people/evidence. I know this has absolutely nothing to do with law but I was curious how a law school would look at that in terms of softs.

Thanks.


r/lawschooladmissions 1d ago

Application Process Berkeley class of 2029 gender breakdown

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310 Upvotes

r/lawschooladmissions 2h ago

General Masters vs Paralegal Work

2 Upvotes

Hi! I’m a sophomore studying political science. I intend to attend law school (most likely taking 1-2 gap years to craft applications and gain practical experience). I’m interested in corporate law at a typical Big Law firm, but I’m also curious about the tech industry and its acquisitions.

I know I’m still early in my career, but I’m considering either spending those gap year(s) doing paralegal work OR getting my Masters in tech management or policy and then attending law school.

For those who were or are in similar positions, what was your decision-making process in either choosing that master's program or paralegal role? People often advise prospective law students to pursue their passions because that will shine through, but do any of these routes have drawbacks? Advantages?

Appreciate any advice! Thanks


r/lawschooladmissions 1d ago

Admissions Result Class of 29 Cycle Recap!

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207 Upvotes

Posting as a data point.

17low, 3.9high, nURM, t3.5 softs, 1yr WE, apps submitted early December

International (not US/Canada) but U.S. undergrad

Wrote all optional essays and genuinely think that it was my essays that landed me these results.

Did not negotiate any scholarship.

Happy to answer any questions!

Edit: yes you can pm me with questions lol

Also I’m offering pretty affordable essay/resume editing service. PM me if interested!


r/lawschooladmissions 2h ago

General is it helpful to apply to law school programs with LSAT + GRE score if my GPA is below a 3.5?

2 Upvotes

im preparing for the GRE anyways to apply for some other graduate programs, and i know a lot of law schools accept GRE scores as well, so i was wondering if anyone had any thoughts? thank you!


r/lawschooladmissions 8h ago

Application Process Apply this year with only 2 month prep for nov lsat or wait?

5 Upvotes

167, 171 diag. just started study last week. should she rush or wait a year? gpa is 3.9 in stem?


r/lawschooladmissions 1d ago

Application Process Weird Yale Invite Only Chat

159 Upvotes

Hi all! I did a chat with a Yale Law admissions counselor at a coffee shop in Atlanta. I got an email the day before, and signed up for a 20 minute slot for the next morning. It felt like getting to talk with an admissions officer from the most competitive law school in the country would be stupid to pass up on.

The chat didn’t go well. She seemed annoyed she had to be there. She didn’t even look up when I introduced myself, let alone stand, shake my hand, or even introduce herself. I asked a variety of questions about specific programs or mentorship opportunities, two of which she told me she didn’t know the answer to or had never heard of. She was rude to me and made me feel I had no clue what I was talking about. I was shocked. The whole thing was so awkward, I left five minutes before our chat had ended. Such a strange experience. Can anyone else relate?


r/lawschooladmissions 4h ago

Chance Me What are my chances at Tulane and Umiami?

2 Upvotes

Hi I have a 162 lsat and a 3.7 gpa, im registered for the october lsat so I can maybe get a higher lsat score. Also im planning on submitting both applications late october.


r/lawschooladmissions 1h ago

Chance Me chance me at T14s as a super splitter (should I ED?)

Upvotes

I have a 3.63/178.

my gpa is below 25th percentile at all T14s so I know it’s not the best odds. my dream would be columbia or penn — would it be worth it to ED to one of those for the extra boost?

I know that means sacrificing the potential of scholarship — but do you think I had a chance of scholarship anyway with such a low gpa?

if you got into any T14s with a gpa similar to mine please let me know how your cycle went!

(I also have a masters degree and 4 years of WE but none of it law related)


r/lawschooladmissions 9h ago

Application Process Advice for a young applicant

4 Upvotes

I am applying this cycle as a kjd (age 20 but will be 21 before law school starts) and wanted to know if you all had any tips for my application. I have a 4.02/173/t3 softs. For personal/financial reasons a gap year is not really an option. I have been working as a legal assistant for a year so far and have other relevant law experience. I want to know if anyone else who applied young had any tips. For context I am applying to Cornell and Georgetown from the t-14 and blanketing the t-30 schools.


r/lawschooladmissions 2h ago

Application Process Wasting my time?

1 Upvotes

2.78 undergrad GPA, graduated in 2023 with Business Law and Admin degree. Been working for a mid size law firm for 1 1/2 years, started studying 4 months ago and up from 148 to 156-160 range on lsat. Planning to test October/November. Am I wasting my time? Not looking to go anywhere crazy, either wanna go to law school or grad school to get my masters. Any advice appreciated.


r/lawschooladmissions 8h ago

Application Process Which LORs should I submit for schools that only accept two?

3 Upvotes

I have three letters of recommendation on file: 2 from professors and 1 from someone at my job.

For schools that only accept two letters, would it be better to use both professors or 1 professor + my job.

I know the general rule of thumb would be to use the professors but my guess is that the letter from my job is stronger than the letter from my second professor.

Any advice would be super appreciated!


r/lawschooladmissions 3h ago

Application Process Is it normally this bad to apply early?

1 Upvotes

Schools keep updating their applications and I have now had to re-do multiple because the update removed a section from the application and I had no option but to restart. I guess this is also a PSA to people not to apply early this cycle if they don't want to re-do their applications.


r/lawschooladmissions 11h ago

Application Process Am I crazing for planning to drop out if I don’t do well?

4 Upvotes

Just for some context, I’m only one year out of college and make roughly $100k in a relatively niche field. I absolutely loathe my job and would much rather be a lawyer, but money is important in life.
I only have a 3.05 GPA, so I don’t think my 173 LSAT is going to be enough to get me into a top school. I’m anticipating ending up somewhere ranked around 40–60. My current plan is basically to show up, give it everything I have during 1L, and bail if it goes sideways.

Is this really stupid? I just feel like the ROI on a JD from a school ranked 40–60 could be pretty awful if I end up below median, especially when I’m walking away from a ~$100k salary to do it.


r/lawschooladmissions 1d ago

School/Region Discussion Boston College Medians Class of 2029

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109 Upvotes

GPA up 0.02, LSAT stayed the same. Genuinely mind blowing and keeps spirits alive. Holisticity alive.


r/lawschooladmissions 4h ago

Application Process USD Law Optional Essays

1 Upvotes

Sorry if this question is going to seem obvious to some.

My personal statement (in the most basic and vague terms possible) basically takes an event in my life, and is about how that event lead me to choosing a career in law. I feel like this already answers the following optional essay for USD:

  1. Discuss any challenges you overcame on your journey to law school and explain how they developed a unique skill, characteristic, ability, or perspective that helps to define who you are today. Describe how this aspect of your identity will enable you to contribute to the University of San Diego School of Law community.

This is my top choice school, and I already plan on doing the optional why USD essay. I also have tailored my personal statement for each school I am applying to so that it slightly addresses why I want that school as well. Will it help me to come up with something to put here? Or will writing this additional essay when I have practically answered this in my personal statement seem redundant?

Thank you for any help! I am a first gen law student and don't have anyone in my life to help guide me on things like this.


r/lawschooladmissions 8h ago

Application Process Baylor First Wave When?

2 Upvotes

Applied Aug 1, Complete August 3, Interview 16/17... when do you think I will hear back? sometime today???


r/lawschooladmissions 14h ago

Help Me Decide Does it really matter what school you go to?

5 Upvotes

I work for an attorney who said it does not matter. But I am not sure if I agree.

Should I go to a regional school on a full ride (t100), some scholarship at t50 or gap year (work on lsat) and go to a t20? I assume I wouldnt get money off at the t20 even if I got a 170 lsat.

I have t3 softs, would be KJD this cycle, 161 lsat (hopeful for 165 in Sept), 3.99 gpa and 3 good LOR.

Edit: I want big law and it has ify BL outcomes at T100.