Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by NAMS Editor
Embarking on a legal career is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including the academic requirements of prospective law schools. For many aspiring lawyers, the undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) plays a pivotal role in the admissions process. While top-tier law schools often have stringent GPA requirements, there are reputable institutions that offer more accessible entry points without compromising the quality of legal education. This article, we explored 9 law schools that are known for their relatively lenient GPA admissions criteria, providing aspiring legal professionals with viable options to pursue their dreams.
1. Touro Law Center
- Location: Central Islip, New York
- Median GPA: 3.0
Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center offers a dynamic legal education with an emphasis on experiential learning. The school provides various clinics, externships, and simulation courses, allowing students to gain practical experience. With a median GPA requirement of 3.0, Touro Law Center is accessible to a broader range of applicants, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the legal profession.
2. Northern Illinois University College of Law
- Location: DeKalb, Illinois
- Median GPA: 3.09
Northern Illinois University College of Law prides itself on offering an affordable legal education without compromising quality. The school emphasizes public interest law and provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in community service. With a median GPA of 3.09, NIU College of Law opens its doors to students who demonstrate potential beyond traditional academic metrics.
3. Willamette University College of Law
- Location: Salem, Oregon
- Median GPA: 3.13
As the oldest law school in the Pacific Northwest, Willamette University College of Law has a rich history of producing competent legal professionals. The school offers a personalized education with small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio. A median GPA of 3.13 makes it accessible to a diverse applicant pool, aligning with its mission to prepare students for various legal careers.
4. Loyola University New Orleans College of Law
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Median GPA: 3.14
Loyola University New Orleans College of Law combines a robust legal curriculum with a commitment to social justice. The school offers both civil and common law curricula, reflecting the unique legal landscape of Louisiana. With a median GPA of 3.14, Loyola provides opportunities for applicants who may not have top-tier academic records but exhibit strong potential in other areas.
5. Mitchell Hamline School of Law
- Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
- Median GPA: 3.14
Formed from the combination of William Mitchell College of Law and Hamline University School of Law, Mitchell Hamline School of Law offers flexible enrollment options, including part-time and online programs. The school is known for its practical approach to legal education, providing extensive experiential learning opportunities. A median GPA of 3.14 reflects its inclusive admissions philosophy.
6. University of North Dakota School of Law
- Location: Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Median GPA: 3.17
The University of North Dakota School of Law offers a personalized legal education with small class sizes and accessible faculty. The school emphasizes practical training, with opportunities in moot court, law clinics, and externships. A median GPA of 3.17 allows for a diverse student body, welcoming applicants with varied academic backgrounds.
7. Oklahoma City University School of Law
- Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Median GPA: 3.20
Oklahoma City University School of Law provides a comprehensive legal education with a focus on leadership and service. The school offers various joint degree programs and has a strong emphasis on professional development. With a median GPA of 3.20, it offers accessibility to a broader range of applicants, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.
8. DePaul University College of Law
- Location: Chicago, Illinois
- Median GPA: 3.20
Located in the heart of Chicago, DePaul University College of Law offers students access to a vibrant legal market. The school is known for its programs in health law, intellectual property, and public interest law. A median GPA of 3.20 makes it accessible to a diverse applicant pool, aligning with its mission to provide opportunities for all qualified students.
9. Howard University School of Law
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Median GPA: 3.24
Howard University School of Law has a historic legacy of promoting civil rights and social justice. The school offers a rigorous curriculum with opportunities for experiential learning in the nation’s capital. With a median GPA of 3.24, Howard Law remains committed to training a diverse cadre of legal professionals dedicated to public service.
