Does it matter how many law schools you apply to?

Asked by: Jaylin Reichert DVM  |  Last update: December 30, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (34 votes)

The key isn't applying to as many law schools as you can, it's applying to several good law schools that you have a realistic chance of gaining admission to! Keep in mind your scores and the application requirements of the schools you're interested in to create the best list of schools to apply to.

How many law schools should you apply to?

Your best bet is to apply to a minimum of two reach schools, two match schools, and three safeties. A reach is a law school whose students' average LSAT and GPA scores are higher than yours. Don't be discouraged from applying, but based on the numbers alone your chances are not outstanding.

Is applying to 30 law schools too many?

The number of law school applications that is considered "too many" depends on your individual circumstances. However, most experts recommend applying to between 10 and 15 schools.

Is applying to 7 law schools enough?

Most students don't need to apply to 20 law schools. Your applications will be diluted and you'll pay more. Give priority to 8-12 schools based on a mix of safety, target, and reach options.

Do law schools see how many schools you apply to?

No, schools can't see where else you applied unless they ask a question about it on their application and you self-report where you're applying.

Getting Into Law School as a First Gen With Lower Stats | scholarships + application journey

24 related questions found

Do law schools care what school you went to?

In one word, NO. Law schools care about many things: your GPA, your LSAT, the story you tell, the obstacles you've overcome.

How many law schools does the average student apply to?

Most students will apply to two reach schools, three target schools, and two safety schools, as a general rule. You should aim most of your applications at your target schools, with only a few applications saved for reach and safety schools.

Is a 3.7 GPA too low for law school?

The average GPA for law school is between 3.91. However, like LSAT scores, it's important to understand that the specific average GPA can differ depending on the law school and its level of competitiveness. Top-ranking law schools often expect higher average GPAs, typically ranging from 3.8 to 4.0 or even higher.

Is February LSAT too late?

The LSAT should be taken no later than February of the year for which the applicant is seeking admission and enrollment; testing earlier is recommended.

What GPA do you need to get into most law schools?

According to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), students need a GPA of at least 3.59 and an LSAT of 162 or more to get into any top 10 law schools. However, that is the bare minimum, and you should aim higher if you want to increase your chances of getting into the top 3.

Is a 3.3 GPA bad for law school?

A low GPA for law schools will entirely depend on your goals. If your GPA is at or below a school's 25th percentile, your GPA will be considered low for that school. So generally, if you're trying to get into the top schools, a GPA below 3.6 will be considered low.

Is 25 too late for law school?

It's never too late in life to apply to law school. Although most applicants are under 25, about 1 in 5 are 30 or older and a much smaller proportion are over 40.

Does going to a top 14 law school matter?

Graduates of T14 law schools have excellent employment prospects, often securing positions at top law firms, corporations, and government agencies. The strong job placement rates at T14 schools are a significant factor in their rankings and reputation.

Will a 3.5 get me into law school?

Law schools generally require that you have specified minimum collegiate GPA and LSAT scores to qualify for admission. Harvard, Yale, and the other top five-ranked law schools require that you have a GPA of at least 3.50 and an LSAT score of 170.

What is considered a target school for law school?

“Target schools”: Schools you feel you most likely qualify for based on LSAT, GPA, etc. “Reach schools”: Schools that might be a bit of a reach based on your qualification. “Safety schools”: Schools that you feel you'd safely qualify for.

What increases your chances of getting into law school?

Strong Academic Record and LSAT Score

There's really no way around it—your LSAT score, GPA, and the rigor of your undergraduate course work are basically the most important things law schools are looking for.

Which LSAT month is the hardest?

There isn't one specific month that is the easiest or hardest to write the LSAT, and if there was, it would change each year since the students writing the LSAT change each year! The hardest test will be the one you haven't fully prepared for, regardless of the month!

Can I get a 170 on the LSAT in 2 months?

A 170 will be difficult to obtain. It will require quality resources and substantial preparation. You should dedicate at least four months to reach this target. For the best LSAT support, consider teaming up with a 99th percentile tutor who can help you increase your score by 12 points!

Is the LSAT being phased out?

The ABA's House of Delegates will vote on the Council's proposed change in February 2023. If the House votes to nix Standard 503, the standardized-test requirement won't go away until 2025. So, the LSAT isn't definitely going away, and it's definitely not going away until 2025.

How rare is a 176 LSAT?

Less than 1% of test takers score a 176. It's a very hard thing to do. Don't let this sub skew your perception of what's realistic.

What are softs for law school?

Softs refer to everything in your application that isn't "hard" data.

Can I get into Harvard Law with a 3.8 GPA?

While the LSAT score and GPA are significant factors, Harvard Law considers applicants holistically, valuing diversity and unique perspectives. The LSAT score for Harvard Law School typically falls within the 169-175 range, while the average GPA for admitted students is between 3.8 and 4.0.

What is the easiest law school to get into?

16 Easiest Law Schools to Get Into Based on Acceptance Rate
  • Creighton University Law School – 79%
  • University of Wyoming Law School – 78%
  • Marquette University Law School – 77%
  • Loyola New Orleans Law School – 76%
  • Drake University Law School – 75%
  • Oklahoma City University School of Law – 72%

How many law students actually become lawyers?

[1] The numbers highlight an entry-level legal job market that is as robust as it has ever been. Almost 92% of law graduates found full-time, long-term employment, tied for the highest rate in more than 30 years. A record 78% of these graduates secured jobs that required a law license.

Are law school applications declining?

25% Through The Fall 2024 Law School Admissions Season: Applicants Are Down -3.3%, With Biggest Decline (-10.2%) In The 170-180 LSAT Band (Nov. 13, 2023)