University of California, Irvine School of Law
Lawzee SelectOverview
Opened in 2009, the University of California, Irvine School of Law is one of the newest ABA-accredited law schools in the country, yet it quickly achieved national recognition for its academic quality and employment outcomes.
Academic Environment
UCI Law is known for its small class sizes, accessible faculty, and curriculum that integrates clinics and skills training from the first year. Students often collaborate across disciplines with the broader UC Irvine campus, including business, public health, and social sciences.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of UCI Law place strongly into both Southern California and national legal markets, with especially good outcomes in litigation, public interest, and government work. High bar passage rates and strong mentoring make it a compelling option for students seeking a modern, student-centered law school experience.
Areas of Study
Top Clinics
Journals
LSAT Score Distribution
A median LSAT of 167 places UCI Law among the most competitive law schools. Applicants below 162 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 UCI Law
Is it hard to get into University of California, Irvine School of Law?
University of California, Irvine School of Law is moderately competitive with an acceptance rate of 20.5%. Applicants with scores near the median of 167 LSAT and 3.76 GPA have a strong chance of admission.
What is the lowest LSAT accepted?
While there is no strict minimum, the 25th percentile LSAT score is 162. Applicants scoring below this number face significant challenges but may be considered if they have exceptionally strong soft factors or work experience.
Does UCI Law require an interview?
Interview policies vary by year, but top-tier schools like UCI 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?
90% of graduates are employed 10 months after graduation. A significant portion (40%) go into BigLaw firms, while 12% secure federal clerkships.