
Founded in 1869, Notre Dame Law School is the oldest Catholic law school in the United States. It combines a national academic reputation with a mission-driven focus on forming 'a different kind of lawyer' committed to service and ethical leadership.
Notre Dame offers a traditional curriculum enriched by international programs in London and beyond, strong offerings in constitutional law, and a distinctive focus on law and religion. The community is close-knit, with an emphasis on collegiality and mentorship.
Graduates of Notre Dame Law secure roles across the country in BigLaw, federal and state clerkships, government, and public interest organizations. The school's alumni network is particularly strong in Chicago, the Midwest, and major national markets.
A median LSAT of 168 places Notre Dame Law among the most competitive law schools. Applicants below 161 should consider retaking the exam or emphasizing other strong application components.
Yes, Notre Dame Law is extremely competitive with an acceptance rate of 18%. Successful applicants typically have LSAT scores above 161 and GPAs above 3.5.
While there is no strict minimum, the 25th percentile LSAT score is 161. 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 Notre Dame Law often use interviews (by invitation) to evaluate candidates holistically. Check the specific requirements in the Admissions section above.
92% of graduates are employed 10 months after graduation. A significant portion (45%) go into BigLaw firms, while 15% secure federal clerkships.