How Much Does Law School Cost in 2025?
Contents
Are you dreaming of becoming a lawyer but worried about the price tag attached to law school? For students considering law schools in the US or UK, understanding the costs is a crucial first step before considering How to Get Into Law School. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, budgeting for tuition, living expenses, and additional costs can help you plan your academic journey. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of law school in 2025 and share tips on how to budget effectively for your legal education.
Basic Components of Law School Costs
Understanding the costs associated with law school is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their education. Basic components of law school costs can vary significantly, but they generally include the following:
- Tuition fees: Varies significantly based on the location and type of law school, as well as fee status of the applicant
- Living expenses: Housing, food, transportation costs, and other personal costs
- Additional costs: Textbooks, exam fees, membership fees, and other study-related costs
By understanding all these components, you can create a more accurate and comprehensive budget for your law school journey.
Boost your grades with our revision platform, used by 100,000+ students!
Access thousands of practice questions, study notes, and past papers for every subject.
Average Law School Tuition
Law school tuition can vary significantly depending on the country, type of institution, and whether you’re a domestic or international student. Below is a breakdown of average jd tuition costs for public and private law schools in the US and UK, helping you understand what to expect as you budget for your legal education.
| Country | Type of School | Tuition Range | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| US | Public (In-State) | $25,000–$35,000 | University of California, Berkeley: $29,000 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $35,000–$50,000 | University of Texas at Austin: $45,000 | |
| Private | $50,000–$75,000 | Harvard Law School: $72,000, Yale Law School: $74,000 | |
| UK | Public (Domestic) | £9,250 | University of Oxford: £9,250 |
| Public (International) | £15,000–£25,000 | King’s College London: £22,000 | |
| Private | £15,000–£30,000 | BPP University Law School: £13,620–£19,760 |
In general, private law schools located in urban cities on the East or West Coast tend to be more expensive. The higher tuition fees for international students reflect additional administrative costs and funding models that prioritize domestic students. However, international students often have access to scholarships, grants, and financial aid tailored to their needs, such as the Fulbright Program for US students or Chevening Scholarships in the UK, making law school more affordable.
For more detailed information on Tips for International Students Applying to UK Universities, check out this separate article.
Most Expensive Law Schools
| Rank | UK (Annual Tuition) | US (Annual Tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford: £38,550 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Columbia Law School: $81,888 |
| 2 | University College London (UCL): £31,100 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | NYU Law School: $79,954 |
| 3 | King's College London: £29,472 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Georgetown Law School: $79,672 |
| 4 | London School of Economics (LSE): £28,176 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Chicago Law: $79,539 |
| 5 | University of Edinburgh: £26,500 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Harvard Law School: $77,100 |
| 6 | Durham University: £25,750 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Duke Law School: $77,100 |
| 7 | University of Cambridge: £25,734 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Northwestern Law School: $76,704 |
| 8 | University of Glasgow: £25,290 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | UPenn Law School: $74,688 |
| 9 | University of Bristol: £23,900 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Stanford Law School: $74,475 |
| 10 | University of Nottingham: £20,500 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Yale Law School: $74,044 |
Most Affordable Law Schools
| Rank | UK (Annual Tuition) | US (Annual Tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Sunderland: £10,500 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Florida: $21,000 |
| 2 | York St John University: £11,300 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Arizona State University: $22,000 |
| 3 | University of Bolton: £12,450 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Georgia: $24,000 |
| 4 | University of Cumbria: £13,250 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of North Carolina: $24,500 |
| 5 | University of Chester: £13,450 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Alabama: $25,000 |
| 6 | University of Huddersfield: £13,500 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Arizona: $25,500 |
| 7 | University of Central Lancashire: £13,500 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | University of Houston: $26,000 |
| 8 | Teesside University: £14,000 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Indiana University Bloomington: $26,500 |
| 9 | Leeds Beckett University: £14,000 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Rutgers University: $27,000 |
| 10 | University of Law: £14,750 per year (international students); £9,535 per year (home students) | Ohio State University: $27,500 |
Achieve Law School Application success with our tutors
The world's admissions tutors trusted by parents globally.
Living Expenses
Living expenses are a significant part of the overall cost of attending law school. These expenses can vary depending on the location of the law school and the student’s lifestyle. Here are some estimated living expenses for law students in the US:
- Housing: $11,420 (average cost of shared accommodation in a city center)
- Meals: $6,600 (average cost of eating out or cooking at home)
- Personal Expenses: $4,780 (average cost of entertainment, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses)
- Transportation: $1,000 (average cost of public transportation or owning a car)
- Total: $23,800
For students in the UK, are some estimated living expenses for law students in the UK:
- Housing: £7,500 (average cost of shared accommodation in a city center)
- Meals: £3,000 (average cost of groceries or dining out)
- Personal Expenses: £2,500 (average cost of entertainment, personal care, and miscellaneous items)
- Transportation: £1,500 (average cost of public transportation or commuting)
- Total: £14,500
These estimates are based on a nine-month academic year, and students should adjust them according to their individual circumstances. For instance, opting for private accommodation can increase your costs, while sharing a flat or living in a less expensive area can help you save money. It’s essential to create a realistic budget that reflects your personal needs and lifestyle.
Additional Expenses
Law school costs extend beyond tuition and general living expenses. Here are some typical additional expenses to consider:
- Textbooks and materials
- US: $1,500–$3,000 annually.
- UK: £1,000–£2,000 annually.
- Exam fees and memberships
- LSAT or LNAT registration: $215 / £75.
- Bar exam fees: $500–$1,000 in the US.
- International Students: International students may face additional costs, such as transportation costs, visa fees, and health insurance premiums. These additional expenses can add up, making it essential for international students to plan their budgets carefully.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to help law students cover the costs of their education. There are various types of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Here are some key things to know about financial aid for law students:
- Tuition Fee Loans: Many law schools offer tuition fee loans to help students cover the cost of tuition. These loans can be a crucial resource for managing your financial obligations.
- Financial Aid Awards: Law schools often provide financial aid awards to students based on their academic performance, financial need, or other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce the overall cost of attendance.
- Financial Aid Office: The financial aid office at your law school can provide detailed information about the types of financial aid available and the application process. They can also assist with budget adjustment and help you understand federal regulations related to financial aid.
It’s essential to research and understand the financial aid options available to you to make informed decisions about your education. Applying for financial aid early and exploring all available resources can help you manage the costs of law school more effectively.
Budgeting Tips and Financial Aid
To manage law school expenses effectively:
- Create a detailed budget: Factor in tuition, living expenses, and additional costs.
- Apply for scholarships and grants: Many schools offer merit-based and need-based financial aid.
- Consider part-time work: Research assistantships or tutoring can help offset costs.
- Opt for used textbooks: Online marketplaces often have lower-priced options.
- Plan strategically: Living at home or choosing a less expensive school can save significant money.
- Understand full-time student expectations: Full-time students are expected to engage in a significant amount of learning each week, including typical contact hours and independent study time. Managing timely study hours is crucial, and there are financial implications to consider when attending as a full-time student.
Conclusion
Law school in 2025 represents a significant investment, with costs varying widely across institutions in the US and UK. By understanding average tuition rates, identifying affordable options, and planning for additional expenses, students can better prepare for this journey. If you’re navigating law school applications, check out resources like Online LNAT Tutors and Online LSAT Tutors to strengthen your chances of admission. For more insights into preparing for law school, explore our guides, including "15 Best Majors for Law School." Good luck on your path to becoming a lawyer!
FAQ
Can I work part-time during law school?
Yes, many law students work part-time to help cover expenses, but the workload can be challenging. In the US, the American Bar Association (ABA) limits full-time students to working no more than 20 hours per week during the academic year. Part-time jobs related to law, such as legal research assistant positions or internships, can enhance your resume while providing income. In the UK, international students on a Tier 4 visa are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. However, balancing work and rigorous law school coursework requires excellent time management. It’s essential to ensure that working doesn’t negatively impact your academic performance. Some universities also offer work-study programs that align with your academic schedule. Always consult your school’s policies and career services for guidance on working during law school.
What financial aid options are available for law students?
Law students in both the US and UK have access to a variety of financial aid options. In the US, students can apply for federal loans like Stafford or Grad PLUS loans, and some states offer grants or scholarships. Many law schools also have need-based and merit-based scholarships. Private scholarships, such as those from professional organizations or law firms, are another option. In the UK, domestic students can apply for government-backed loans through Student Finance, and some universities offer scholarships for both home and international students. International students may also qualify for scholarships from their home governments or organizations like the British Council. Additionally, some banks provide specialized loans for law school students. To maximize aid, research opportunities early, apply broadly, and ensure you meet all application deadlines.
Are there any hidden costs in law school apart from tuition?
Yes, law school comes with several hidden costs. In addition to tuition and living expenses, students should budget for textbooks, which can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 annually in the US and around £1,000 to £2,000 in the UK. Bar exam preparation courses can cost up to $4,000 in the US and £2,000 in the UK. Other costs include professional attire for internships, printing fees for assignments, and membership dues for student organizations. Some schools also charge additional fees for library resources, technology, and health insurance. If you're an international student, you may face visa application fees and health insurance requirements. Being aware of these potential expenses will help you plan your budget more effectively.
Get Expert Help with Your Law School Applications
The world’s Law School Application tutors trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.
Study and Practice for Free
Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide
Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.
Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!
Looking for Expert Help?
Are you ready to find the perfect law school application tutors? Let TutorChase guide you through every step of the way. Whether you need expert advice on university selection, help with personal statements, or top-notch tutoring for admission tests, we've got you covered.
Rachel
Professional tutor and Cambridge University researcher
Written by: Vicky Liu
Vicky has an undergraduate degree from The University of Hong Kong and a Masters from University College London, and has a background in legal and educational writing.
