The Pepperdine University Law School Acceptance Rate highlights its competitive admissions process. Pepperdine University is special because it’s ranked among the top 50 schools by U.S. News, but it also accepts more than half of its applicants.
Pepperdine University is located in lovely Malibu, this private Christian university has about 3,700 undergraduates. If you’re thinking about applying for the fall of 2023, this blog will give you all the details about how hard it is to get in and what you need to do to apply.
Pepperdine University School of Law Rankings
Ranked 8th among the best law schools in the United States and 50 among 199 ABA-accredited U.S. law schools by US News and World Report. It holds the top position in Dispute Resolution and ranks 7th in the California Bar Exam.
Pepperdine University Law School Acceptance rate
Pepperdine University Law School’s acceptance rate is 4.9%. This figure is from the 2022-2023 application cycle in which out of the 4505 applications received, a total of 219 were enrolled.
This is a testament to the competitive nature of admission to Rick J. Caruso School of Law at Pepperdine University.
Pepperdine University Law School Application Requirements
To be considered for Pepperdine University admission, each candidate must meet certain requirements, and submit certain information and documents. All applicants for admission must have received a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university before law school registration. In addition, the following must be submitted:
- $60 non-refundable application fee
- Completed, signed, and dated application
- Resumé
- Personal Statement
- Optional Statement
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT) Score or Graduate Records Examinations (GRE) score
- Registration with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
- International Student Data Form (for visa holders)
Pepperdine University Law School LSAT
While there isn’t a specified LSAT score that’s considered a requirement, having a high LSAT score is an advantage to your application. As a guide, the median LSAT score for the 2022-2023 class was 164. Applicants must aim to hit this figure or do better to boost their admission chances.
What GPA is required to get into Pepperdine University Law School?
As a guide, the median GPA was 3.80. There is no specific figure, however, a high GPA score is an added advantage because GPA is an important factor considered by the admission board.
Pepperdine University Law School Tuition
The tuition fee at Pepperdine Law School is a flat rate of $63,660. However, the cost of attendance is higher as other fees and living expenses are factored into the calculation. Refer to the table below for the full cost of attendance.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition* | (flat-rate) $63,660 |
| Room | $18,800.00 |
| Board | $3,200.00 |
| SBA Fees | $60.00 |
| Wellness Fee | $500.00 |
| Books | $1,200.00 |
| Transportation | $1,600.00 |
| Medical Expenses | $900.00 |
| Personal Expenses | $5,900.00 |
| Total | $95,820.00 |
What is Pepperdine Law School known For?
Pepperdine Law School is renowned for its top-ranked dispute resolution program. Pepperdine Law School is widely recognized for its excellence in preparing students for careers in dispute resolution, offering comprehensive programs and resources in this field.
Is Pepperdine Law School expensive?
Yes, Pepperdine Law School costs over $95,000 for attendance. Pepperdine University School of Law is considered a private institution and is generally on the higher end in terms of tuition costs.
However, the school offers various financial aid options, including full-tuition scholarships.
What GPA do I need to get into Pepperdine Law School?
A GPA of 3.5 or higher is generally recommended for competitive admission to Pepperdine Law School. Pepperdine University School of Law, like many law schools, considers several factors beyond just GPA for admission.
While a strong GPA is important, other factors such as LSAT (Law School Admission Test) scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, work experience, and extracurricular activities are also taken into account.
How Hard is it to Get into Pepperdine Law School?
Admission to Pepperdine Law School is competitive due to its selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of about 28%. It considers factors like personal statements, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities, not just numbers.
Is Pepperdine a good law school?
Yes, Pepperdine University School of Law is generally regarded as a reputable institution with a strong legal education program and a good reputation within the legal community.
Do I have to write the LSAT for Pepperdine Law School?
Yes, for admission to Pepperdine Law School, you are required to take the LSAT. While the GRE is also an option, most students choose the LSAT.
Why You Should Apply For Pepperdine Law School?
There are several reasons why you might consider applying to Pepperdine Law School:
- Strong Reputation: Pepperdine Law School is well-regarded within the legal community and consistently ranks among the top law schools in the United States.
- Practical Skills Training: The school emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills training, preparing students for real-world legal practice.
- Ethical Focus: Pepperdine Law School places a strong emphasis on ethical principles and values, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate complex legal issues with integrity.
- Beautiful Campus Location: Situated in Malibu, California, Pepperdine Law School offers a stunning campus environment conducive to both academic and personal growth.
- Networking Opportunities: The school’s extensive alumni network and connections within the legal profession provide valuable networking opportunities for students and graduates.
- Diverse Community: Pepperdine Law School values diversity and fosters an inclusive learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive.
Pepperdine Law School Requirements
To secure your spot among the select group of successful Pepperdine candidates, it’s crucial to create a compelling law school application that effectively showcases your academic achievements, personal attributes, and professional ambitions. Here’s what Pepperdine requires from its applicants
- High School Transcripts: While Pepperdine doesn’t mandate a specific major, completing a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for law school admission. Your transcript should reflect challenging coursework to develop a diverse skill set. Maintaining a high GPA throughout college is essential, with Pepperdine’s current median GPA standing at 3.8.
- Standardized Test Scores: Pepperdine accepts both LSAT and GRE scores. While you can opt for the GRE if you believe it better reflects your abilities, the LSAT remains the preferred exam for law school admission. Successful Pepperdine Law School candidates typically achieve an LSAT score of 164.
- Personal Statement: As writing is fundamental in law school, applicants must submit a two to four-page personal statement. This essay should articulate your motivations for pursuing law, why Pepperdine is your choice, significant extracurricular or civic experiences, and any personal factors contributing to a diverse community.
- Resume: Provide a comprehensive resume detailing your employment history, academic honors, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work.
- Letters of Recommendation: In addition to your self-written application, Pepperdine requires two letters of recommendation, preferably from individuals who can assess your potential for success in law school. At least one recommendation letter should come from a professor.
- Optional Statement: Pepperdine values diversity and ethics, welcoming students from all faiths. While not obligatory, applicants are encouraged to submit an optional statement discussing how their values and faith can enrich Pepperdine’s community and align with its vision.
Pepperdine Law School Application Process & Deadlines
To apply to Pepperdine Law School, create an LSAC account and submit your application through the portal. Remember these key deadlines:
- September: LSAC applications open
- February 1: Deadline for the accelerated 2-year JD program
- February 1: Priority deadline for the regular JD program
- March: Recommended month to complete standardized tests
- April 1: Final deadline to submit the regular JD application
Pepperdine uses rolling admissions, so apply early for the best chance of acceptance.
