Boston University Law School: Understanding LSAT Score Requirements and Admissions

Boston University School of Law (BU Law) is a highly regarded institution known for its rigorous academic environment and prime location in Boston, a vibrant hub for legal activity. Securing admission to BU Law requires careful preparation and a strong application, with particular emphasis on the LSAT score. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the LSAT score requirements for Boston University Law School, along with other key factors that influence admissions decisions.

Admissions Overview

Based on the latest available data, gaining acceptance to BU Law is competitive. For the entering class, a significant number of candidates applied, highlighting the school's desirability among prospective law students. Specifically, based on the 2025 ABA 509 Report, 7892 candidates submitted JD applications to Boston University Law School and 953 received acceptance letters. Of those accepted, 234 chose to enroll.

With an acceptance rate of approximately 20%, BU Law is more accessible than Ivy League schools while maintaining its reputation as a highly competitive institution.

LSAT Score Requirements: What You Need to Know

A strong LSAT score is a critical component of a successful application to BU Law. The school expects competitive scores, and applicants should aim to meet or exceed the median LSAT score to strengthen their chances.

Here's a breakdown of the LSAT score percentiles for enrolled students:

25th Percentile: 164
50th Percentile (Median): 170
75th Percentile: 171

To be competitive, applicants typically present a median LSAT score of 170.

BU Law ranks #22 in LSAT composite (168.3), an average of its 25th, 50th, and 75th percentile LSAT scores (164, 170, 171).

The Importance of a High LSAT Score

While BU Law considers multiple factors in its admissions process, the LSAT score remains a significant indicator of a candidate's potential for success in law school. A high LSAT score demonstrates strong reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical skills, all of which are essential for excelling in legal studies.

What if You Have a Lower LSAT Score?

It's important to remember that a lower LSAT score doesn't necessarily disqualify you from admission to BU Law. Here are some strategies to strengthen your application if your score falls below the median:

Highlight exceptional academic performance: Showcase a strong GPA and challenging coursework in your undergraduate studies.
Emphasize unique experiences in your personal statement: Share compelling stories that demonstrate your resilience, leadership, and commitment to social justice.
Secure strong letters of recommendation: Obtain recommendations from respected professionals who can attest to your intellectual abilities, work ethic, and character.

Other Factors Considered in Admissions

While the LSAT score is crucial, BU Law takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications. The admissions committee considers a variety of factors, including:

GPA

A strong undergraduate GPA is another important indicator of academic success. The GPA percentiles for the entering class are:

25th Percentile: 3.71
50th Percentile (Median): 3.88
75th Percentile: 3.93

To be competitive, applicants typically present a median undergraduate GPA of 3.88, placing BU Law’s entering class among the strongest in the nation.

BU Law ranks #27 in GPA composite (3.84), an average of its 25th, 50th, and 75th percentile GPAs (3.71, 3.88, 3.93).

Personal Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and goals. A strong personal statement should:

Begin with a compelling narrative or unique aspect of your background.
Clearly articulate your career goals and how BU Law aligns with those aspirations.
Highlight specific experiences or achievements that demonstrate your skills and values.
Reflect on how you will contribute to BU Law’s community and uphold its mission.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation provide critical insight into your academic abilities, work ethic, and character. Select recommenders who know you well and can write specifically about your qualifications. Ideal recommenders include professors, employers, or supervisors who can speak to your intellectual capabilities, leadership skills, and potential for success in law school.

Read also: History of the BU Bridge

Resume

Your law school resume should provide a concise and clear snapshot of your achievements. It should include:

Education: List your undergraduate institution, degree earned, and any honors or awards.
Professional Experience: Highlight internships, part-time jobs, or full-time roles relevant to the legal field.
Extracurricular Activities: Include leadership roles, volunteer work, or involvement in student organizations.
Skills: List technical, language, or other relevant skills.

Extracurricular Activities and Community Involvement

The admissions committee also considers extracurricular activities, community involvement, and professional experience. Boston University Law values diversity and actively seeks candidates from various academic and professional backgrounds.

Demographics of the Entering Class

Boston University Law School strives to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The demographics of a recent entering class reflect this commitment:

Women: 54%
Students of Color: 46%
LGBTQ+ Students: 15%
STEM Majors: 18%
International Students: ~13 countries

Application Process and Deadlines

BU Law uses a rolling admissions process, so it’s recommended to apply earlier in the cycle for the best chance at scholarships and seat availability.

Here are the application deadlines:

Application Opens: September 1
Early Decision Deadline: November 10
Regular Decision Deadline: April 1
Seat Deposit Deadline: May 1

To apply to Boston University School of Law, you need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, an LSAT or GRE score, and a complete application including:

A personal statement explaining your interest in law and BU Law.
At least two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
A current resume showcasing your achievements.

Please note that BU Law only accepts applications that have been submitted online via the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).

Programs Offered

Boston University Law School provides a robust range of programs tailored to meet the diverse interests of its students:

Juris Doctor (JD) Program: Offers a strong foundation in legal principles with opportunities for specialization.
LL.M. Programs: Focus areas include Taxation, Banking and Financial Law, and Intellectual Property Law.
Joint Degree Programs: Options like JD/MBA, JD/MPH (Public Health), and JD/LL.M. in Taxation.
Certificate Programs: Specialized certifications in Risk Management, Compliance, and Health Law.
Clinics and Externships: Including the Civil Litigation Program, Entrepreneurship & Intellectual Property Clinic, and the Federal Tax Clinic.

Additional Information for Specific Applicant Types

International Students

For applicants whose primary language is not English or whose undergraduate education was not conducted in English, submission of TOEFL or IELTS scores is mandatory. BU Law typically expects a minimum TOEFL score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT) or an equivalent IELTS score.

International applicants must also have their transcripts evaluated through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service to ensure academic equivalency. Additionally, proof of financial support may be required for visa purposes.

Career Changers

Career changers are encouraged to demonstrate how their previous experiences and skills make them strong candidates for law school. Transferable skills such as leadership, problem-solving, communication, and analytical abilities are particularly valuable. Using the personal statement to explain your motivation for transitioning to law and how your previous career has prepared you for legal studies can strengthen your application.

Dual-Degree Applicants

Applicants must meet the admissions requirements for both programs and submit separate applications. A well-crafted application should articulate how pursuing dual degrees aligns with your career aspirations and enhances your legal expertise. It’s important to note that dual-degree programs often require additional coursework and may extend your time in school by one to two years.

Expert Tips for Getting Into BU Law

Achieve a Competitive LSAT or GRE Score: Aim for a score that is at or above BU Law’s median LSAT score (typically around 170) or the equivalent GRE score.
Craft a Standout Personal Statement: Tell a story that highlights your resilience, leadership, or commitment to social justice.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Include work experience, volunteer work, and academic achievements that demonstrate your readiness for law school.
Network with BU Law’s Community: Attend admissions events and connect with representatives to learn more about the school.
Submit a Polished and Early Application: Applying early can significantly increase your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.

Cost and Financial Aid

Law school tuition at Boston University Law School is $69,870 annually.

Bar Passage and Employment Outcomes

BU Law ranks #26 in terms of bar passage rate among first-time test takers (92.3%), and it outperforms by +9.0% the state of Massachusetts's overall bar passage rate of 83.3%.

Conclusion

Gaining admission to Boston University School of Law requires a multifaceted approach. While a strong LSAT score is essential, a compelling personal statement, strong letters of recommendation, and a well-rounded resume are also critical. By understanding the admissions requirements and following the expert tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of securing a spot at this prestigious law school.

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