Notre Dame Law School
Lawzee SelectOverview
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.
Academic Environment
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.
Career Outcomes
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.
Insider Perspective
Notre Dame Law School is perhaps the most distinctive of the top-20 schools because of its mission. The 'Different Kind of Lawyer' slogan is sincere; the faculty and students view law as a service vocation, not just a career. This creates a remarkably tight-knit, supportive community where ethical formation is taken as seriously as civil procedure. It is also an appellate clerkship factory, punching way above its weight in placing students with federal judges (especially conservative ones). The alumni network is famously responsive—the 'Notre Dame Mafia' in Chicago and D.C. looks out for its own. If you are religious (Catholic or otherwise), you will find a welcoming home here, but the environment is open to everyone. One unique perk is the London Program, which allows 2Ls to study in London for a full year—an experience no other top law school replicates at that scale. Admissions advice: They care deeply about your 'Why Notre Dame.' If your application looks like a generic T20 application, you won't get in. You need to articulate why their specific mission matters to you.
Areas of Study
Top Clinics
Journals
LSAT Score Distribution
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.
Undergraduate GPA Distribution
Application Components
- ✓Personal Statement
- ✓CAS Report (LSAT & Transcripts)
- ✓2-3 Letters of Recommendation
- ✓Resume
- ?Diversity Statement (Optional)
- ?Interview (By Invitation)
Frequently Asked Questions about Notre Dame Law
Is it hard to get into Notre Dame Law School?
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.
What is the lowest LSAT accepted?
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.
Does Notre Dame Law require an interview?
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.
What is the employment rate for graduates?
92% of graduates are employed 10 months after graduation. A significant portion (45%) go into BigLaw firms, while 15% secure federal clerkships.