Best Law Colleges in California 2025: Top-Ranked Universities, Courses, Fees & Admission Guide

Dreaming of studying law in California? It might just be your perfect match! Home to some of the most prestigious law schools in the U.S.—including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA—this state isn’t just about Hollywood and beaches. It’s a global legal hotspot where over 14,000 law school hopefuls apply each year, including thousands of international students from countries like India, China, and the UK.

From high bar passage rates to connections with Silicon Valley firms, courts, and NGOs, law schools here are designed to turn students into tomorrow’s legal leaders. Let’s explore the best law colleges in California for 2025—plus everything you need to know about fees, courses, scholarships, career paths, and housing!

What Are the Best Law Colleges in California in 2025? 

Thinking of studying law in California? You’re not alone. The state attracts over 14,000 law school applicants each year, including a growing number of international students from India, China, the UK, and beyond. In fact, according to the ABA Legal Education Data 2024, five California law schools ranked in the Top 30 nationwide, with Stanford University and UC Berkeley (Boalt Hall) consistently leading the pack.  

These schools offer more than just a degree—they provide access to high bar passage rates, lucrative internships, and career pipelines into tech giants, government agencies, entertainment law firms, and global NGOs. Let’s dive into the best law colleges in California for 2025 and what makes each one stand out: 

Stanford Law School (SLS)

Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford Law School (SLS) stands as one of the most prestigious law colleges in California and globally. It ranks consistently among the top 3 law schools in the U.S.—alongside Yale and Harvard. In 2024, Stanford received over 4,500 applications for its JD program and admitted just 180 students, making its acceptance rate an ultra-competitive ~4%.  

The median LSAT score among admitted students was 173, and the median GPA was 3.95, placing SLS applicants in the top 1% of law school candidates nationwide. International students make up around 10% of the class, particularly strong in the LL.M. and S.J.D. tracks. Below are the key details of Stanford Law School (SLS): 

UC Berkeley School of Law (Boalt Hall)

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, UC Berkeley School of Law, widely known as Boalt Hall, is one of the most respected public law schools in the U.S. In 2024, UC Berkeley Law received over 6,300 applications, admitting roughly 1 in 5 students with an acceptance rate of ~21%. The median LSAT score of admitted applicants stood at 170, and the median GPA was 3.87, indicating an elite student profile.

Each incoming JD class consists of around 320–330 students, with about 9% international students across the JD, LL.M., and J.S.D. programs. Berkeley Law offers one of the highest post-graduation employment rates in the nation, with 98% of graduates employed within 9 months, often in BigLaw, NGOs, clerkships, or government service. Below are the key details of UC Berkeley School of Law (Boalt Hall):

UCLA School of Law

Situated in sunny Los Angeles, UCLA School of Law received over 7,000 JD applications in 2024 and maintained a competitive acceptance rate of ~29.7%. The median LSAT score for admits was 166, and the median GPA was 3.74, reflecting a highly qualified applicant pool. With approximately 975 students enrolled, it’s one of the larger law schools in the state and offers over 20 legal specializations. 

The school reports a 96.7% employment rate within 10 months of graduation, with strong placements in BigLaw firms, entertainment studios, and government agencies. UCLA Law also features unique programs like the David J. Epstein Program in Public Interest Law and Policy and is consistently ranked among the top 10 schools for entertainment law in the country. Following are the key details of UCLA School of Law: 

USC Gould School of Law

Located in Los Angeles, the USC Gould School of Law is one of California’s oldest and most prestigious law schools. USC Gould is particularly appealing for students interested in entertainment law, intellectual property, and alternative dispute resolution, thanks to its proximity to Hollywood and California’s dynamic legal landscape. 

In 2024, USC Gould received over 5,000 applications for just under 190 seats, reflecting its selective 12.3% acceptance rate. It also boasts a bar passage rate of 91% (CA Bar 2024) and a graduate employment rate of 95% within 10 months—placing it among the top-performing private law schools in the state. Below are the key details of USC Gould School of Law: 

Which Courses Are Offered by Top Law Colleges in California?

California is home to some of the most prestigious and diverse law programs in the U.S. Whether you’re an aspiring attorney, international legal scholar, or policy expert, the state’s top law schools offer a wide array of degree pathways to fit your goals.  According to the ABA 2024 Legal Education Report: 

• Over 52,000 students are currently enrolled in law programs across California. 
• J.D. programs account for nearly 70% of enrollments, while LL.M. and S.J.D. programs attract thousands of international students annually. 
• About 30% of law students in California pursue specialized tracks or dual-degree options. 
• Law schools in California maintain bar pass rates of over 84% and post-grad employment rates above 90%, making them a top choice for legal careers.

Now let’s break down the key law courses you’ll find at California’s top Law institutions:

What Is the Cost of Studying Law in California for International Students?

Thinking of pursuing law in California? Great choice—but be ready for a financial commitment. California is home to some of the top-ranked and most competitive law schools in the U.S., which also means that tuition and living expenses can be quite steep for international students. 

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) 2024 and Law School Transparency, the average annual cost for international students studying law in California ranges from $65,000 to $95,000, depending on the university, city, and personal lifestyle. Here’s what makes up that cost: 

• Tuition & Fees (varies widely by institution) 
• Health Insurance (mandatory for international students) 
• Living Expenses (housing, food, transport, personal) 
• Books & Supplies 
• Visa & SEVIS Fees 

Below are the estimated annual costs for international students (2025): 

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Law Colleges in California? 

Applying to law schools in California? You’re in good company! According to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), over 6,000 international students applied to U.S. law schools in 2024—and a significant number had their eyes on California’s legal powerhouses like Stanford Law, Berkeley Law, and USC Gould. 

In fact, California ranks as the #1 U.S. state for law school applications from abroad, thanks to its strong job market, proximity to global legal hubs (like Silicon Valley and LA), and top-ranked universities. In 2024, Stanford Law had an acceptance rate of just 6.9%, while Berkeley Law received more than 6,400 applications for just 300 seats—a clear sign of how competitive these programs have become. Below are the key details of general admission requirements for Law Colleges in California: 

What Are the Best Student Accommodation Options Near Law Colleges in California?

Finding a good place to live while attending law school in California is just as important as choosing the right college. Whether you’re planning to stay on campus or looking for off-campus options, California’s top law schools are surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods with everything from luxury student apartments to budget-friendly shared flats. 

According to the California Student Housing Survey 2024, over 65% of law students prefer off-campus housing due to factors like independence, better amenities, and flexible lease terms. However, on-campus housing remains popular among first-year JD students and international students because of its proximity to libraries, lecture halls, and student communities. Below are the top student accommodations near top law Colleges in California:

Conclusion 

Studying law in California isn’t just about earning a degree! Whether you’re eyeing Stanford’s innovation-driven JD programs, Berkeley’s public interest law legacy, or UCLA’s entertainment law edge, each school brings something unique to the table. With acceptance rates ranging from 4% to 30%, top-tier bar passage rates, and career placement over 90%, California truly sets the bar high—literally and academically.  

And don’t forget—picking the right student accommodation can make your law school experience even better, so plan early! So go ahead—update your resume, prep that personal statement, and get ready to apply. Your California law school adventure is just around the corner! 

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