Cornell Law School Admission Guide

By | July 21, 2023

Cornell Law School, located in Ithaca, New York, is one of the prestigious Ivy League institutions known for its excellence in legal education. Established in 1887, the law school has a rich history of producing outstanding legal minds and providing comprehensive legal training. The campus offers a vibrant learning environment, combining academic rigor with a strong sense of community.

Cornell Law School Acceptance Rate and Ranking

As a prospective student, you’re likely curious about Cornell Law’s acceptance rate and its national ranking among law schools. As of today’s date in 2023, Cornell Law is highly regarded and consistently ranks among the top law schools in the country.

  • Ranking: According to the latest available data, Cornell Law is the 10th best law school in the United States and the 3rd in the State of New York, behind Columbia Law School.
  • Acceptance Rate: Cornell Law School’s acceptance rate varies from year to year and is subject to change. As of the most recent data, the acceptance rate hovers around 17.4%. Please note that the admission process is highly competitive, and prospective students should present a strong academic record and exceptional qualities to stand out among other applicants.

LSAT Scores and GPA

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and Grade Point Average (GPA) are crucial factors in the law school application process. Cornell Law carefully evaluates these components to assess applicants’ aptitude and potential for success in legal studies.

  • LSAT Scores: The LSAT is a standardized test that measures critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension skills. To be competitive for admission to Cornell Law, applicants should aim for LSAT scores in the 75th percentile, 174, or higher. Keep in mind that higher LSAT scores increase your chances of securing admission and may also qualify you for potential scholarships.
  • GPA: Your undergraduate GPA is another critical aspect that admission committees consider. While Cornell Law does not have a strict cutoff for GPA, most admitted students possess a strong academic record, with GPAs typically above 3.94. However, a higher GPA does not guarantee admission if other components of the application do not align with the school’s criteria.

Transferring to Cornell Law School

If you are considering transferring to Cornell Law from another ABA-approved law school, there are specific credit transfer policies you should be aware of:

Students transferring from another ABA-approved law school may receive up to 32 credit hours toward the 84 credit hours required for a JD degree. The Registrar will determine the amount of credit based on the courses taken at the previous law school.

Students currently enrolled in the JD program at Cornell Law may receive up to 6 credits of advanced standing for work completed at other ABA-approved law schools, including summer and winter session programs. However, transfer credit will only be granted for courses completed with a grade of C or better. It is essential to obtain prior approval from the Dean of Students before enrolling in these courses. Check their official website for more information about transferring to the Law School.