The beautiful metropolis of Seattle is home to some of the top law schools in the country. With one of the strongest employment rates in the country and the highest final bar passing rate of 98.95 percent, it’s no surprise that many law students want to attend some of Seattle’s top law schools.
Most universities offer all six J.D. majors, including Asian law, environmental law, and comparative law. Seattle’s best law schools excel in a variety of areas, including intellectual property and international law.
Seattle Law Schools focus on establishing ideals that respect multidisciplinary understanding while embracing diversity and elevating public service.
Selecting the law school of your choice is a big decision. The curriculum will provide the basic foundation required to pass the bar and practice law effectively. You can also change the way you see and experience the field through clinics, internships, and other opportunities.
Surrounded by beautiful beauty and pristine wildlife, Seattle is home to some of the most famous law schools in the world. Studying in Seattle allows you to enjoy the outdoors while you focus on your studies.
Are you interested in attending law school in Seattle? Read on as we review some of the best law schools in Seattle.
Table of Contents.
- Are Seattle Law Schools Worth It?
- How much does law school cost in Seattle?
- Requirements for Law School in Seattle
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
- Transcripts and documents
- How to apply for law schools in Seattle?
- get a bachelor’s degree
- Take the necessary pre-entry exam
- Get letters of support
- Prepare a personal statement.
- Sign up for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
- Apply!
- Overview of the Best Law Schools in Seattle
- Seattle University
- university of washington law school
- Gonzaga University School of Law
- George Washington University School of Law
- What are the highest paying law school jobs in Seattle?
- Summer Legal Internships
- legal secretary
- legal research assistant
- Benefits of working while in law school
- Income
- time management skills
- Higher level of experience for your resumes
- Frequently Asked Questions Best Law Schools in Seattle
- Conclusions
Are Seattle Law Schools Worth It?
Considering attending law school in Seattle? When you consider the cost of attendance, you may wonder if it’s worth it. While scholarships and financial aid are available, many people who attend law school in Seattle see it as a worthwhile, long-term commitment.
Becoming a lawyer is a serious commitment, but it can provide you with the opportunity to earn a higher than average salary. It is crucial to note that there are several types of lawyers, and earnings can vary depending on the position. While a variety of other factors influence earnings, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for lawyers is $122,960. In 2016, the top 10% of attorneys had a median annual salary of more than $208,000.
In addition to the potential for better salaries for law students in Seattle, attending law schools in Seattle gives you the prestige of receiving a very high-quality education. Some of the best law schools in the country are located in Seattle.
Student life in Seattle is fantastic because you can enjoy wonderful weather and spend a lot of time on the beach. Law schools in Seattle also have an impressive number of student clubs where you can participate in a variety of exciting extracurricular activities.
Seattle is also a wonderful place to attend law school because of its networking opportunities. Since Seattle is a major economic hub, you can meet many key people and build a strong business network early in your career
How much does law school cost in Seattle?
Tuition has increased by an average of $5,326 every five years since 2005. Tuition at all ABA-accredited law schools has increased since the 1970s, according to historical data.
Some experts attribute the tuition increases to lower student-teacher ratios, higher teacher pay, the establishment of legal clinics for practical education, expansion of administrative staff rosters, and large school construction projects. .
Based on current trends, the average annual tuition for law schools in Seattle is $51,170. Law school tuition alone costs an average of $137,533 or $45,844 per year. The average annual living expense is $68,211 or $22,737 per year. Estimates for the cost of a part-time law school program are $34,329.
Requirements for Law School in Seattle
Getting into law school can be a time-consuming process. Some of the general prerequisites for some of the best law schools in Seattle include:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
While many graduate programs require specific coursework, law school programs do not. People applying to law school can have a variety of degrees. What matters is that you finish your degree with a high GPA.
Your undergraduate GPA is more important than the courses you study in college. Pay special attention to achieving the GPA required by your preferred school.
College degrees typically take at least four years to complete. You should start preparing for the LSAT and gather the appropriate documents for your application before you graduate.
According to admissions experts, law school applicants should understand that highly rated law schools prefer to admit students with exceptional college qualifications.
Although some of the best law schools in Seattle admit students who don’t have a high GPA from time to time, this is rare and happens only if they have other attributes that make up for that loss, like an amazing application essay or LSAT score. The median GPA of Seattle’s top law schools was 3.42 or higher.
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
As part of the application process, you must take the LSAT. The test costs an average of $215. The most crucial metric in determining your acceptance into law school is your score.
As a result, students often start studying for the test a year in advance. Do your best to stay within the average score of 150.
Transcripts and documents
Before you apply to law school, you must obtain official transcripts from all undergraduate, graduate, and certification schools.
The process of requesting your transcript can take several days, so get started as soon as possible. You must pay any fees owed to your alma institution before your application is granted.
Personal statement is another criteria for some of the best law schools in Seattle. Consider this phase as an opportunity to demonstrate your personality to the admissions committee.
You can discuss your job goals, academic achievements, and anything else that comes to mind. Some schools may provide individual suggestions; if not, you can conduct further investigation.
Law schools usually want at least one letter of recommendation, but could include more. These letters may be from college professors who have worked with you the most.
You might even approach an employer who can attest to your ability to balance work and school life. Consider meeting with them ahead of time to discuss the aspects of success you want to include in your letter.
The General Law LL.M. The program requires 40 quarter credits completed during a minimum of three quarters (nine months) of full-time study and residency in Seattle. Students can choose to study more than three quarters of the time.
Although the curriculum is for full-time study, in some cases it may be possible to study part-time.
How to apply for law schools in Seattle?
Applying to some of the best law schools in Seattle requires some advance planning.
Regardless of which law school you apply to, you must complete some key qualifications and stages as part of the application process.
get a bachelor’s degree
Before applying to law school, you must have completed or be on your way to completing a college education. The minimum educational qualification for applicants is usually a bachelor’s degree from an authorized university or college.
Some schools may accept an associate degree instead of a bachelor’s degree. To apply, no university degree or specific discipline is required. You can apply to law school if you have a degree in political science, linguistics, music, or any other unrelated field of study.
Take the necessary pre-entry exam
Depending on which law school you prefer, you can take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) before you apply. The LSAT tests a candidate’s skills and knowledge in reading, comprehension, critical thinking, reasoning, and other areas. While this test is a prerequisite for admission to many law schools, it is not required for some.
Regular JD applicants to The Colleges of Law are not required to take the LSAT or any other standardized tests. However, special student applicants must take both the LSAT and the College Level Testing Program test.
Get letters of support
Letters of recommendation are frequently requested when applying to the best law schools in Seattle.
These recommendations from professors, counselors, or supervisors will help the law school better understand your character and determine your admission status.
Most law schools require letters of recommendation as part of the admissions process. Make sure you get these letters from people you trust and who will speak highly of you.
Prepare a personal statement.
The personal statement is an important part of applying to law schools in Seattle. This is your chance to sell yourself to law school and explain why you should be admitted.
It’s also your chance to show off your writing skills, so make sure it’s well-written and error-free.
Sign up for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
Some law schools require a Credential Assembly Service or CAS report. This is a service that compiles your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and LSAT results for submission to law schools.
Upon request, CAS will forward your report to your preferred school.
Apply!
You are now ready to apply after gathering all the essential materials. You can start searching for law schools in Seattle with acceptance rates that correspond to your exam results, preferred location, or program area.
It’s also critical to look at each school’s tuition rates to ensure you’re applying to a school you can afford. Some Seattle law schools also charge a fee for the application form.
It is best to apply to colleges that have ABA accreditation. Verifies that the educational institution to which you are applying meets the indicated educational standards and allows you to take bar exams in any state. ABA-accredited institutions can be very beneficial for those considering moving or extending their practice to another state.
Overview of the Best Law Schools in Seattle
Seattle is home to some of the best colleges and universities. The booming economy and beautiful city make it one of the best bets for students trying to apply to law schools.
The best law schools in Seattle have proven themselves in the legal field by producing top-notch legal professionals. Below are some of the best law schools in Seattle.
- Seattle University
- University of Washington School of Law.
- Gonzaga University School of Law
- George Washington University School of Law
- Seattle Pacific University (PRE-LAW PROGRAM)
Seattle University
Seattle University School of Law is a professional graduate school affiliated with Seattle University, the leading independent university in the Pacific Northwest. The American Bar Association has granted accreditation to the School.
The law school offers Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and Master of Law Studies (MLS) programs. Seattle University School of Law is ranked 126th in the United States among law schools.
With an acceptance rate of 59 percent, admission to this law school is extremely competitive. The law school gives equal weight to three variables in admissions decisions: LSAT scores, undergraduate academic records, and personal achievement.
The average LSAT score for admitted students is 154, with a GPA of 3.24. The total cost of attendance (including full-time tuition, fees, and living expenses) at Seattle University School of Law is $70,564.
university of washington law school
The University of Washington School of Law is located on the northwest corner of the main campus in Seattle, Washington. It is ranked 49th in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report Law School Rankings, making it the highest-ranking law school in the Pacific Northwest.
The school has been fully accredited by the American Bar Association and has been a member of the Association of American Law Schools since 1909. As one of the best law schools in Seattle, admission is often very competitive. The school has an acceptance rate of 26.1 percent.
The School of Law awards the Juris Doctor (JD) degree, as well as the Master of Laws (LL.M.), Master of Jurisprudence (MJ), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Students seeking a JD can also select one of nine majors.
The total cost of attendance (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) at the University of Washington School of Law is $49,734 for Washington residents and $62,775 for non-residents.
Gonzaga University School of Law
Gonzaga University School of Law was founded in 1912. Since 1951, the Jesuit-affiliated law school has had full accreditation by the American Bar Association.
The university is also a member of the Association of American Law Schools. Graduates of Gonzaga University School of Law practice in all 50 states, as well as several associate states and international nations. The law school has an average GPA acceptance rate of 3.41 and a median LSAT score of 154.
The school offers both a Juris Doctor (JD) and a two-year JD program. It also offers dual degrees in Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration (JD/MBA), Juris Doctor and Master of Accounting (JD/M.Acc.), Juris Doctor and Master of Science in Taxation (JD/MSTax), and Juris Doctor and Master of Social Work (JD/MSW). Estimates of the cost of annual attendance at Gonzaga Law are $53,287 (including tuition, fees, and living expenses).
George Washington University School of Law
The George Washington University School of Law is the oldest and most prestigious law school in the country. The law school receives hundreds of applicants, so admission is extremely competitive. The acceptance rate for 2020 was 21%.
According to US News & World Report, GW Law is the 25th best law school in the US in 2023. Each year, the George Washington Law School offers more than 275 elective courses. U.S. business and financial law, environmental law, government procurement law, intellectual property law, comparative international law, litigation and dispute resolution, and national security and foreign relations law. are among the most extensive programs in the school.
To apply for the JD program, applicants must have taken the LSAT within the last five years. They must also submit a personal statement and at least one letter of recommendation. In addition to the LSAT, the GRE is also valid. An applicant who has taken both the GRE and the LSAT will have their LSAT score evaluated.
The total cost of full-time attendance at George Washington Law School (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) is $88,340.
What are the highest paying law school jobs in Seattle?
The type of job you choose while attending law school will determine the effect it will have on your studies. it is important to research carefully before making your decision. Below are some of the highest paying law school jobs to consider.
Summer Legal Internships
During the summer, many law firms offer legal internships. This is an excellent method to enter the professional world and start your legal career.
Criminal law firms, employment law firms, and family law firms are the most popular places to apply for a legal internship position. Legal interns typically conduct legal research, analyze documents, and outline regulatory filings. Interns can earn up to $34,857 per month.
legal secretary
Being a legal secretary is one of the best part-time jobs in law school.
Basically, legal secretaries are responsible for printing and scanning legal documents, scheduling court hearings, meetings, and depositions, attending meetings and taking notes, and arranging meetings between attorneys and clients. Legal secretaries earn an average salary of $42,833 per year.
legal research assistant
Most paralegals conduct research and verify the information for court cases, hearings, depositions, and legal meetings. Law students pursuing a career as attorneys may benefit from a research assistant position.
You can gain legal knowledge that is not taught in the classroom. Although most research assistants are hired by law firms, professors and other faculty members occasionally open those positions to students. Paralegals earn a median annual salary of $52,920.
Benefits of working while in law school
You will find that most law school students work while in school. You may be wondering why. Below are some of the benefits of working while in law school.
Income
Many students must balance multiple financial demands. Students require a lot of money when it comes to student loans, housing, and food.
Earning a salary while completing a three-year graduate degree can be helpful or necessary to your lifestyle, especially when you’re supporting yourself.
time management skills
Lawyers are responsible for strict deadlines in the processing of documentation and evidence. They typically work with numerous clients at the same time and contact a variety of people to gather evidence and obtain representation for each client.
Lawyers must have strong time management skills to be able to negotiate these requirements. They must be able to quickly organize their thoughts and materials.
Students are responsible for attending classes and lectures, studying, mock trials, and internships while in law school. Working part-time while attending school requires strong planning and time management skills. Practicing these activities in school can help prepare you for a future career.
Higher level of experience for your resumes
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of graduates may exceed the number of positions available for attorneys. They add that the job outlook for lawyers could grow 6% through 2028, and the decrease in entry-level position availability may be due to an increase in job availability for paralegals and paralegals.
Working part-time for a law firm or private attorney is likely to give you strong skills and a more outstanding resume, which can help you find work after law school.
Frequently Asked Questions Best Law Schools in Seattle
What is the LSAT score for law schools in Seattle?
Estimates for the average LSAT score for some of the top law schools in Seattle is 154.
What is the number 1 best law school?
The University of Washington Law School and Seattle University Law School are some of the best law schools in Seattle.
Do law schools in Seattle accept GRE?
Yes, law schools like Seattle University accept GRE.
What is the LSAT score for law schools in Seattle?
What is a good GPA to graduate from law school?
Estimates for the average GPA of some of the best law schools in Seattle are 3.32.
Conclusions
One of the advantages of studying in Seattle is the high quality of the city’s schools; you will also discover good job prospects after graduation.
Being an economically important region, you will find more than enough student jobs and internship opportunities.
This can significantly increase your chances of finding a good job later on because you can make a lot of important contacts early in life, which can help you move up the corporate ladder fairly quickly.
Greetings from Cameron , how can I access a scholarship opportunity for Law, because it’s what I want to major in
Hi Cameron. Besides reading fully this article above, you can also visit this page: https://www.pickascholarship.com/find-scholarships/ and choose as Area of Study, “Law” and then after click Search.