
New York University School of Law (NYU Law), located in the iconic Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, is consistently ranked among the top 5-6 law schools in the United States. It is widely regarded as the most forward-thinking of the elite institutions. Unlike the traditional 'Old Ivy' feel of its uptown rival (Columbia), NYU Law prides itself on being a Global Law School—a hub for international legal theory, public service, and modern jurisprudence. It is the premier choice for students who want a top-tier education integrated into the energy of downtown New York City.
NYU Law is famous for pioneering the 'Lawyering' Program, a simulation-based curriculum that teaches 1Ls practical skills (negotiation, drafting, interviewing) alongside legal theory.
NYU Law offers a rare 'Double Threat.' It is a dominant feeder for elite NYC 'BigLaw' firms (ranking alongside Columbia and Penn for corporate placement), but it also places a higher percentage of graduates into prestigious Public Interest fellowships (like Skadden or Brinkley Fellowships) than almost any other school. Whether you want to earn $225k at a Vault 10 firm or prosecute international war crimes at the Hague, NYU provides the specific pipeline to get there.
A median LSAT of 172 places NYU Law among the most competitive law schools. Applicants below 169 should consider retaking the exam or emphasizing other strong application components.
Yes, NYU Law is extremely competitive with an acceptance rate of 16.7%. Successful applicants typically have LSAT scores above 169 and GPAs above 3.8.
While there is no strict minimum, the 25th percentile LSAT score is 169. Applicants scoring below this number face significant challenges but may be considered if they have exceptionally strong soft factors or work experience.
Interview policies vary by year, but top-tier schools like NYU Law often use interviews (by invitation) to evaluate candidates holistically. Check the specific requirements in the Admissions section above.
71.07% of graduates are employed 10 months after graduation. A significant portion (52%) go into BigLaw firms, while 7.2% secure federal clerkships.