Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Illinois that provides Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). You can use the following list to pick a school that fits your needs. These law schools in Illinois are ranked based on the student reviews, alumni surveys, assessment of peer institutions, and official data reported by each law college. In addition, we also provide average LSAT scores, GPA and acceptance rates for each of these law schools in Illinois.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Illinois
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 5 | University of Chicago (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 17.5% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 167-173 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.71-3.94 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $47,502 per year Enrollment (full-time): 624 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 97.9%
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| 12 | Northwestern University (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 19.0% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 165-171 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.35-3.85 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $51,920 per year Enrollment (full-time): 801 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 94.0%
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| 36 | University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) Acceptance rate: 20.2% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 156-168 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.38-3.85 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $38,567 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $45,547 per year Enrollment (full-time): 639 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.2%
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| 62 | Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent) (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 38.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 155-162 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.09-3.66 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $42,030 per year Enrollment (full-time): 755 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.7%
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| 68 | Loyola University Chicago (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 33.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 156-162 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.13-3.57 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $39,496 per year Enrollment (full-time): 731 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 88.7%
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| 89 | DePaul University (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 42.2% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 154-160 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.13-3.58 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $41,690 per year Enrollment (full-time): 828 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 84.4%
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| 128 | John Marshall Law School (Chicago, IL) Acceptance rate: 49.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 149-156 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.98-3.29 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $38,100 per year Enrollment (full-time): 1,200 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 87.8%
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| 166 | Northern Illinois University (De Kalb, IL) Acceptance rate: 44.9% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 150-155 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3-3.42 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $18,688 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $33,311 per year Enrollment (full-time): 315 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 75.8%
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| 175 | Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (Carbondale, IL) Acceptance rate: 50.5% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 151-156 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.96-3.62 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $15,994 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $36,154 per year Enrollment (full-time): 373 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 72.6%
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All Law Schools in Illinois
Illinois is home to several highly regarded law schools that provide comprehensive legal education to aspiring lawyers. From large public institutions to prestigious private universities, law schools in Illinois offer a range of degree programs, areas of specialization, and opportunities for practical legal training.
1. University of Chicago Law School
Overview
The University of Chicago Law School, located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, is one of the most prestigious law schools in the country. Established in 1902, the school is known for its rigorous academic environment, emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, and strong focus on legal theory. The law school has produced a number of influential alumni, including U.S. Supreme Court justices, politicians, and business leaders.
Degree Programs
The University of Chicago Law School offers a variety of degree programs for students pursuing legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program that prepares students for general legal practice.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program designed for foreign-trained lawyers who want to gain expertise in U.S. law.
- J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-based doctoral program for students pursuing academic or policy careers.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration) in collaboration with the Booth School of Business
- J.D./Ph.D. for students interested in combining legal studies with social sciences
- J.D./M.P.P. (Master of Public Policy)
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of Chicago Law School is highly competitive, with the admissions committee looking for students with outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and intellectual curiosity.
- Average LSAT: 172
- Average GPA: 3.90
Other factors considered in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a statement explaining their motivation for attending law school and why the University of Chicago is the right fit for them.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from professors or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: Highlighting work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
Starting Salaries
University of Chicago Law School graduates are highly sought after by top law firms, corporations, and government agencies, resulting in some of the highest starting salaries in the legal profession.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $190,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $70,000
2. Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
Overview
Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, located in downtown Chicago, is one of the top law schools in the United States. Established in 1859, it is known for its strong focus on practical legal training, particularly through its emphasis on experiential learning. Northwestern Law is also notable for its extensive business law and technology law programs, as well as its strong alumni network in the Chicago legal market.
Degree Programs
Northwestern Law offers several degree programs, providing flexibility and specialization for different career paths:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with opportunities for hands-on learning through clinics and externships.
- Accelerated J.D. (AJD): A two-year option for students who want to complete their legal education in a shorter time frame.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): Available in International Human Rights, Taxation, and General LL.M. studies for both domestic and international lawyers.
- LL.M. in Taxation: A specialized program focusing on tax law.
- J.D./M.B.A.: A joint program offered in collaboration with the Kellogg School of Management.
- J.D./M.P.P.: For students interested in combining law and public policy.
- J.D./Ph.D.: For students combining legal studies with doctoral work in a related field.
Admission Requirements
Northwestern Law’s admissions process is holistic, with emphasis on academic achievements, leadership, and professional experience. The school is known for favoring applicants with work experience prior to law school.
- Average LSAT: 170
- Average GPA: 3.85
Other admissions considerations include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants are asked to write about their career aspirations, leadership experiences, and why Northwestern Law is a good fit for their goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from academic mentors or employers who can provide detailed insight into the applicant’s qualifications.
- Resume: Highlighting professional experience, community service, and extracurricular involvement.
Starting Salaries
Northwestern Law graduates are highly competitive in the job market, with strong placement in top law firms, corporations, and public interest positions.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $190,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $70,000
3. University of Illinois College of Law
Overview
The University of Illinois College of Law, located in Urbana-Champaign, is a leading public law school with a long history of excellence in legal education. Founded in 1897, the school is known for its strong programs in corporate law, intellectual property law, and criminal law. It is part of the University of Illinois system and offers affordable tuition for in-state students, making it an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality legal education.
Degree Programs
The University of Illinois College of Law offers several degree programs aimed at preparing students for a variety of legal careers:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program that includes a comprehensive legal curriculum and opportunities for experiential learning.
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program designed for international lawyers who want to gain a deeper understanding of U.S. law.
- J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-based program for those interested in legal academia.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.S. in Finance or Accountancy
- J.D./M.C.S. (Master of Computer Science)
Admission Requirements
The University of Illinois College of Law seeks students with strong academic credentials, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT: 161
- Average GPA: 3.60
Other important factors in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants should submit a statement discussing their interest in law, career goals, and reasons for choosing the University of Illinois.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or professionals who can attest to the applicant’s abilities and potential for success in law school.
- Resume: Highlighting work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the University of Illinois College of Law enjoy strong job prospects in both the private and public sectors, particularly in Chicago and the Midwest.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $105,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000
4. Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Overview
Loyola University Chicago School of Law, located in the heart of Chicago, is a private law school known for its focus on public interest law, health law, and child law. Established in 1908, Loyola Law has a strong commitment to social justice, offering students numerous opportunities for hands-on legal training and community service. The school is well-regarded for its clinical programs and is a leader in health law education.
Degree Programs
Loyola University Chicago School of Law offers a wide range of degree programs to meet the diverse interests of its students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program with opportunities for specialization in health law, child law, and public interest law.
- LL.M. in Health Law: A specialized program for lawyers interested in the health care sector.
- LL.M. in Business Law: For those who want to deepen their knowledge of business and corporate law.
- J.D./M.B.A.: A joint degree program with Loyola’s business school.
- J.D./M.P.H. (Master of Public Health): For students interested in combining law and public health.
- J.D./M.S.W. (Master of Social Work): For students interested in working at the intersection of law and social work.
Admission Requirements
Loyola Law’s admissions process is holistic, with emphasis on academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT: 158
- Average GPA: 3.45
Other considerations include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement that outlines their motivations for pursuing a law degree and how Loyola Law fits into their career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: These should come from professors or employers who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications.
- Resume: Detailing work experience, leadership roles, and community service.
Starting Salaries
Loyola Law graduates often find employment in law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the health care sector.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $85,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000
5. DePaul University College of Law
Overview
DePaul University College of Law, located in Chicago, is a private law school known for its strong focus on intellectual property law, health law, and public interest law. Established in 1912, DePaul Law has a long tradition of preparing students for successful legal careers through its extensive clinical programs and strong alumni network in the Chicago legal market.
Degree Programs
DePaul University College of Law offers a range of degree programs aimed at providing students with a well-rounded legal education:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A three-year program with opportunities to specialize in areas such as health law, intellectual property, and public interest law.
- LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law: For lawyers interested in focusing on patent, copyright, and trademark law.
- LL.M. in Health Law: A program designed for attorneys looking to specialize in the health care industry.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
Admission Requirements
DePaul Law seeks students with strong academic credentials and a commitment to public service, diversity, and leadership.
- Average LSAT: 155
- Average GPA: 3.35
Other important components of the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants must explain their interest in law and their career aspirations.
- Letters of Recommendation: From academic or professional mentors who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications.
- Resume: Highlighting leadership roles, work experience, and community involvement.
Starting Salaries
DePaul Law graduates are well-positioned for careers in the Chicago legal market, particularly in areas such as intellectual property law, health law, and public interest law.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $80,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $55,000
6. Chicago-Kent College of Law (Illinois Institute of Technology)
Overview
Chicago-Kent College of Law, part of the Illinois Institute of Technology, is a private law school located in downtown Chicago. Established in 1888, it is known for its strong emphasis on technology law, intellectual property law, and legal writing. Chicago-Kent has a reputation for preparing students for careers in emerging areas of law through its innovative curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities.
Degree Programs
Chicago-Kent College of Law offers a variety of degree programs to meet the needs of its diverse student body:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core three-year program with a strong focus on experiential learning.
- LL.M. in International Intellectual Property Law: A specialized program for students interested in global IP law.
- LL.M. in Financial Services Law: Focused on regulatory and transactional issues in the financial industry.
- Joint Degrees:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration) with the Illinois Institute of Technology
- J.D./M.S. in Environmental Management and Sustainability
Admission Requirements
Chicago-Kent’s admissions process is holistic, with the school looking for candidates who demonstrate academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to innovation.
- Average LSAT: 156
- Average GPA: 3.40
Other factors in the admissions process include:
- Personal Statement: Applicants should write about their interest in law, career goals, and how Chicago-Kent fits into those plans.
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from professors or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s potential.
- Resume: Highlighting relevant work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
Starting Salaries
Chicago-Kent graduates are competitive in the job market, particularly in areas such as intellectual property law, technology law, and financial services law.
- Median starting salary (private sector): $90,000
- Median starting salary (public sector): $60,000