Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in Virginia
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 9 | University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA) Acceptance rate: 9.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 165-171 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.49-3.94 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $44,600 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $49,600 per year Enrollment (full-time): 1,093 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 98.1%
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| 25 | Washington and Lee University (Lexington, VA) Acceptance rate: 24.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 159-165 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.5-3.8 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $41,947 per year Enrollment (full-time): 395 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 90.2%
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| 35 | College of William and Mary (Marshall-Wythe) (Williamsburg, VA) Acceptance rate: 22.0% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 161-167 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.46-3.82 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $26,200 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $35,200 per year Enrollment (full-time): 637 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 86.9%
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| 40 | George Mason University (Arlington, VA) Acceptance rate: 23.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 157-165 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.24-3.78 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $23,720 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $38,112 per year Enrollment (full-time): 510 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 96.4%
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| 61 | University of Richmond (Williams) (Richmond, VA) Acceptance rate: 23.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 158-164 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.13-3.66 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $35,430 per year Enrollment (full-time): 452 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 88.6%
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| 146 | Appalachian School of Law (Grundy, VA) Acceptance rate: 59.6% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 146-151 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.69-3.36 Tuition & Fees: N/A Enrollment (full-time): N/A Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 49.1%  |
| 162 | Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA) Acceptance rate: 48.3% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 148-153 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.98-3.53 Tuition & Fees: N/A Enrollment (full-time): 286 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 66.7%  |
| 172 | Regent University (Virginia Beach, VA) Acceptance rate: 37.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 150-158 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 2.96-3.6 Tuition & Fees: Full-time: $1,060 per credit Enrollment (full-time): 414 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 84.0%  |
All Law Schools in Virginia
Virginia is home to some of the nation’s top law schools, offering a diverse range of programs that cater to various legal career paths. With a rich history in legal education, Virginia’s law schools combine rigorous academic training with practical experience, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the legal profession.
The law schools covered here are:
- University of Virginia School of Law
- William & Mary Law School
- George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School
- Liberty University School of Law
- Regent University School of Law
1. University of Virginia School of Law
Overview
The University of Virginia School of Law (UVA Law), located in Charlottesville, is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the United States. Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, UVA Law is known for its distinguished faculty, rigorous academic programs, and vibrant student community. The school emphasizes leadership, ethics, and public service, making it an ideal choice for students looking to pursue high-level legal careers in both public and private sectors.
UVA Law offers a blend of traditional legal education and practical training, with a strong focus on constitutional law, business law, and human rights law.
Degree Programs
UVA Law offers a wide range of degree programs to meet the diverse interests of its students:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): A traditional three-year program that offers specializations in areas such as constitutional law, corporate law, and international law.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
- J.D./M.P.P. (Master of Public Policy)
- J.D./M.A. in History, English, or Government
- LL.M. (Master of Laws): A one-year program designed for lawyers seeking to deepen their expertise in specific legal areas.
- S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science): A research-based program for students interested in academic or high-level research careers.
- Clinics and Externships: UVA Law offers numerous clinics, such as the Innocence Project Clinic, Environmental Law Clinic, and the First Amendment Clinic, providing students with hands-on legal experience.
Admission Requirements
Admissions to UVA Law are highly competitive, with the school seeking applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT Score: 170
- Average GPA: 3.89
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT score (GRE accepted in some cases)
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
UVA Law looks for students who are not only academically strong but also possess leadership skills and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of UVA Law have excellent career prospects, with many going on to work at prestigious law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.
- Private Sector: $190,000 (Big Law firms)
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $80,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000
UVA Law’s strong alumni network and reputation ensure that its graduates are highly sought after by employers.
2. William & Mary Law School
Overview
William & Mary Law School, located in Williamsburg, is the oldest law school in the United States, founded in 1779. Known as the “Alma Mater of the Nation,” William & Mary Law has a long tradition of producing leaders in law, government, and business. The school is dedicated to training citizen lawyers—legal professionals who are committed to ethical practice, public service, and leadership.
William & Mary Law offers a collaborative learning environment with a strong focus on legal writing, research, and practical skills. The school is particularly known for its programs in constitutional law, intellectual property, and public service.
Degree Programs
William & Mary Law offers a variety of degree programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the legal profession:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program, with concentrations in business law, criminal law, and public service.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.B.A.
- J.D./M.P.P. (Master of Public Policy)
- J.D./M.A. in International Studies
- LL.M. in American Legal Studies: This program is designed for foreign-trained lawyers who wish to learn about the U.S. legal system.
- Clinics and Externships: William & Mary Law offers hands-on experience through its clinics, such as the Veterans Benefits Clinic, Immigration Clinic, and Domestic Violence Clinic.
Admission Requirements
William & Mary Law looks for students with a strong academic background, leadership potential, and a demonstrated commitment to public service.
- Average LSAT Score: 163
- Average GPA: 3.75
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT or GRE scores
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
The admissions committee values applicants who have demonstrated leadership skills, academic excellence, and a commitment to contributing to the community.
Starting Salaries
William & Mary Law graduates have strong employment outcomes, with many securing positions in top law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $150,000
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $75,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $60,000 – $70,000
The school’s robust alumni network and focus on public service help graduates succeed in various legal careers.
3. George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School
Overview
The Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, located in Arlington, Virginia, is known for its emphasis on economics, law, and public policy. The school offers a unique approach to legal education by integrating economic principles into the study of law, making it a leader in fields such as antitrust, regulatory law, and law and economics.
Scalia Law has a close relationship with Washington, D.C., providing students with opportunities for internships and externships at government agencies, think tanks, and law firms. The school is particularly well-known for its conservative and libertarian legal philosophy.
Degree Programs
Scalia Law offers a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of students interested in the intersection of law, economics, and policy:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The core program that emphasizes economic analysis of the law and offers specializations in areas like antitrust law, national security law, and intellectual property law.
- J.D. Part-Time Program: A flexible option for working professionals who want to pursue a law degree.
- LL.M. Programs: Scalia Law offers LL.M. degrees in areas such as Global Antitrust Law & Economics, Law & Economics, and Intellectual Property Law.
- Clinics and Externships: Students gain practical experience through the school’s Law & Economics Clinic, Immigration Litigation Clinic, and various externship opportunities in D.C.
Admission Requirements
Scalia Law seeks applicants with a strong academic background, leadership potential, and an interest in the intersection of law and economics.
- Average LSAT Score: 164
- Average GPA: 3.65
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT or GRE scores
- Resume
- Optional diversity statement
Scalia Law values students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a commitment to public policy, and a strong foundation in economics or business.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Scalia Law are highly sought after in fields such as antitrust law, corporate law, and government regulation.
- Private Sector: $90,000 – $150,000
- Public Sector: $60,000 – $85,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $65,000 – $75,000
The school’s proximity to Washington, D.C., provides students with unique opportunities to work in government and policy roles.
4. Liberty University School of Law
Overview
Liberty University School of Law, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a Christian institution that integrates biblical principles with legal education. The school is committed to producing lawyers who are guided by Christian ethics and values in their professional practice. Liberty Law emphasizes practical legal training, offering students numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience through clinics and externships.
Liberty Law focuses on areas such as constitutional law, family law, and criminal law, preparing students to advocate for justice from a Christian worldview.
Degree Programs
Liberty Law offers several degree programs that incorporate both legal and theological education:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program with a focus on constitutional law, public interest law, and criminal defense.
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.A. in Public Policy
- J.D./Master of Divinity
- Clinics and Externships: Students gain practical experience through Liberty’s Constitutional Litigation Clinic, Prosecution Clinic, and Criminal Justice Clinic.
Admission Requirements
Liberty Law looks for students who are not only academically capable but also demonstrate a commitment to Christian values and ethics.
- Average LSAT Score: 153
- Average GPA: 3.3
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement focused on faith and professional goals
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
- Optional faith-based statement
Liberty Law seeks applicants who are passionate about using the law to promote Christian values and social justice.
Starting Salaries
Liberty Law graduates pursue careers in private practice, public service, and nonprofit organizations.
- Private Sector: $65,000 – $100,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Liberty Law’s emphasis on ethics and leadership prepares graduates for roles in advocacy and public service.
5. Regent University School of Law
Overview
Regent University School of Law, located in Virginia Beach, is another Christian institution that integrates faith with legal education. Founded in 1986, Regent Law is known for its emphasis on public service, ethical practice, and constitutional law. The school offers a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention from faculty and engage in meaningful legal advocacy.
Regent Law prepares students to become leaders in the legal profession while adhering to Christian principles.
Degree Programs
Regent Law offers several degree programs that combine legal education with Christian values:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program with concentrations in constitutional law, human rights law, and criminal law.
- LL.M. in Human Rights and Religious Freedom: This program focuses on international human rights law and religious liberty.
- Clinics and Externships: Regent Law offers practical legal experience through its Civil Litigation Clinic, Immigration Law Clinic, and International Human Rights Clinic.
Admission Requirements
Regent Law seeks students who are academically strong and have a demonstrated commitment to Christian values.
- Average LSAT Score: 152
- Average GPA: 3.25
- Application Components:
- LSAC application
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT scores
- Resume
- Faith-based statement
Regent Law values applicants who are committed to using the law to promote justice and religious freedom.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of Regent Law find employment in a variety of legal fields, with a focus on public service and advocacy.
- Private Sector: $60,000 – $90,000
- Public Sector: $50,000 – $65,000
- Judicial Clerkships: $55,000 – $65,000
Regent Law’s focus on ethical practice and leadership prepares graduates for meaningful careers in law.