Choosing Schools

Choosing a School

The most important factor in selecting law schools is understanding yourself and what you seek from your legal education. This includes clarity about your career goals, areas of interest (even if still emerging), learning preferences, values, and the types of environments in which you thrive. Reflecting on your academic strengths, work habits, leadership experiences, research or advocacy involvement, and the mentors who have shaped you will help you identify law schools best aligned with your aspirations. 

A strong sense of self and a clear understanding of what you bring to the table such as your analytical skills, writing strengths, personal experiences, and long-term goals, will greatly assist you in determining the right institutions to pursue. 

Factors to Consider

Location 

  • In-state vs. out-of-state / public vs. private
    State law schools often give preference to residents, though policies vary widely. Private schools generally do not show geographic preference. 
  • Geographic region and lifestyle
    Consider whether you prefer an urban, suburban, or rural environment, as well as factors such as climate, cost of living, and proximity to legal markets of interest. 
  • Legal markets and employment outcomes
    Law is regionally oriented. Think not just about where you want to study, but where you want to work after graduation. Look into where students are employed, the strength of local law firms, government opportunities, and clerkship placements. 
  • Multiple campuses or locations
    Some law schools have multiple campuses or satellite programs. Understand which campus you’d attend and what resources each offers.

Mission, Values, and Institutional Focus 

Every law school has a distinct mission and set of priorities. Some emphasize public service, social justice, clinical training, or community lawyering, while others focus heavily on corporate law, business and economics, interdisciplinary study, or research. 

Ask yourself: 

  • Does the school’s mission align with my interests and values? 
  • Are there clinics, concentrations, or centers that support my goals (e.g., tax law, environmental law, intellectual property, criminal justice, international law)? 
  • Does the school offer dual-degree programs (e.g., JD/LLM in Tax, JD/MBA, JD/MPA) that fit my academic trajectory? 

Understanding these elements helps ensure a strong institutional fit. 

Curriculum, Pedagogy, and Academic Environment 

Consider the teaching methods and academic structure that will best support your learning: 

  • Traditional vs. modern approaches to legal education 
  • First-year curriculum, electives, and upper-level offerings 
  • Opportunities for seminars, writing-intensive courses, and interdisciplinary study 
  • Availability of clinical programs, externships, field placements, and experiential learning 
  • Access to faculty mentorship and advising 
  • Class size and student-faculty ratio 

Also explore the academic culture, some schools are known for competitive environments, while others emphasize collaboration and support. 

Extracurricular and Professional Opportunities 

Law school extends well beyond the classroom. Consider: 

  • Clinics (e.g., Tax Clinic, Criminal Defense Clinic, Human Rights Clinic) 
  • Moot Court, Mock Trial, Negotiation or Arbitration teams 
  • Law journals and scholarly opportunities 
  • Student organizations, affinity groups, and bar association partnerships 
  • Networking events, pro bono programs, and public-interest opportunities 
  • Judicial, corporate, nonprofit, and government internship pipelines 

Meaningful involvement in these areas can shape your career trajectory. 

Student Body and Culture 

Your peers will become your colleagues in the profession. Explore: 

  • The school’s community, culture, and values 
  • Diversity and inclusivity 
  • Academic collaboration vs. competitiveness 
  • Support systems, such as mentorship programs, student groups, and wellness resources 

If you wish to connect with UConn alumni who have attended a particular law school, reach out to our office and we will do our best to connect you. 

Cost and Financial Support 

Law school is a substantial financial commitment. As you build your list, evaluate: 

  • Tuition and cost of living 
  • Scholarships, need-based aid, and merit awards 
  • Loan repayment assistance programs (LRAPs) for public-interest students 
  • Bar exam support programs 
  • Employment outcomes that affect long-term return on investment 

Understanding finances is key to choosing programs that are both academically and financially sustainable. 

Competitiveness and Selectivity 

While law schools commonly use holistic review, applicants should still be mindful of key metrics: 

  • LSAT or GRE medians 
  • Undergraduate GPA ranges 
  • Acceptance rates 
  • Employment outcomes and bar passage data 

Tools such as the ABA 509 Reports, Law School Transparency, and LSAC’s Official Guide to ABA-Approved Law Schools help applicants assess the strength of their profile relative to each institution’s typical entering class.

 

How Many Schools to Apply To

Most law school applicants apply to 8–15 schools, depending on competitiveness and goals. Some apply to more, some fewer. A balanced list typically includes: 

  • Reach schools – where admission is less probable 
  • Target schools – where your metrics align closely with medians 
  • Safety/likely schools – where you are above typical academic ranges 

It is common to begin with a larger list and refine it as you assess fit, costs, outcomes, and personal priorities. 

Remember that each law school application carries fees (CAS reports, school-specific fees, and potential supplemental requirements). Review LSAC’s Fee Waiver Program and institutional fee waivers to help manage costs.