By In Texas, attending law school is a significant step. Of course, you have big dreams. But where do you even start?
At the outset, choosing the right law school isn’t just about rankings or prestige. Rather, it’s about fit, vibe, cost, and your career goals. Maybe you have to factor in even the weather (Texas heat is no joke!).
This guide is not merely a polished and academic checklist. Rather, it’s a straight-up and no-fluff walkthrough to help you figure out how to find the best law schools in Texas. Hence, you will not lose your mind in the process.
Best Law Schools in Texas: What Really Matters?
Before you start Googling rankings or obsessing over LSAT scores, ask yourself the following questions:
- What kind of law do you want to practice?
- Does the location matter to you—big city versus small town?
- Are you chasing prestige or practicality?
- What’s your budget? (It really matters!)
However, it is important to note that not every “top” law school is the best for you. In fact, some schools are excellent for a career in corporate law. Moreover, others come with top-end trial advocacy programs.
Meanwhile, some law schools have strong alumni networks. Apart from that, others are more affordable and still get you where you want to go.
The Big Names! – Best Law Schools in Texas
When someone talks about the best law school in Texas, these are actually the best ones. Essentially, these schools consistently rank highly, have solid employment statistics, and are highly competitive to get into. Moreover, they are also worth it if you’re up for the grind.
1. University of Texas – Austin School of Law
The following table consists of some of the essential information about the Austin School of Law:
| Ranking | #16 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 15.6% |
| Median LSAT | 171 |
| Tuition | $38K (for residents) $56K (for non-residents) |
| Bar Passage Rate | 94.01% |
This law school in Texas is the crown jewel. To be honest, UT Austin is selective, pricey, and intense. However, it also has a 91.7% employment rate. Hence, if you want prestige and don’t mind the hustle, this is it.
2. Texas A&M University School of Law
The following table consists of some of the essential information about the Texas A&M University School of Law:
| Ranking | #26 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 13.48% |
| Median LSAT | 168 |
| Tuition | $32K (for residents) $48K (for non-residents) |
| Bar Passage Rate | 95.71% |
This law school is recognized for its expertise in intellectual property law. If that is what you want to be good at, this school is the best for you. Moreover, 98.3% of graduates secure jobs promptly.
Mid-Tier Law Schools: Not Ivy, But Still Impressive
These schools may not be among the top 10 nationally, but they are still considered part of the top 10 law schools in Texas. They offer great programs, decent tuition, and strong employment outcomes.
3. SMU (Dedman) Law School
The following table consists of some of the essential information about the SMU (Dedman) Law School:
| Ranking | #42 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 30.39% |
| Median LSAT | 165 |
| Tuition | $58K (for all) |
| Bar Passage Rate | 96.3% |
SMU is located in Dallas, a big city that comes with big opportunities. If you’re interested in corporate law or want to network effectively, this is a good choice.
4. University of Houston Law Center
The following table consists of some of the essential information about the University of Houston Law Center:
| Ranking | #68 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 28.44% |
| Median LSAT | 161 |
| Tuition | $37K (for residents) $52K (for non-residents) |
It specializes in health care and IP law. Although somewhat affordable, it comes with good employment statistics. Moreover, if you want to stay in Houston, this one is a no-brainer.
Budget-Friendly & Underrated: The Hidden Gems
Not everyone wants to spend $ 50,000+ a year. Also, not everyone needs to pay that amount. These schools are easier to get into, less expensive, and still provide you with the necessary training to get licensed and working.
5. Texas Tech University
The following table consists of some of the essential information about Texas Tech University:
| Ranking | #82 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 36.80% |
| Median LSAT | 158 |
| Tuition | $27K (for residents) $39K (for non-residents) |
Texas Tech University has a low tuition fee and a high bar passage rate (92.09%). In fact, it also has an 87.4% employment rate. Hence, if you are looking for value, this is it.
6. South Texas College of Law, Houston
The following table consists of some of the essential information about the South Texas College of Law, Houston:
| Ranking | #150 in the U.S. |
| Acceptance Rate | 44.30% |
| Median LSAT | 154 |
| Tuition | $21K (per semester) |
Known for trial advocacy, the South Texas College of Law is comparatively easier to get into. Also, it has lower costs. Despite that, it achieves an 80.7% employment rate among graduates within 10 months.
How Do You Actually Choose the Best Law School?
Obviously, there is no perfect formula to choose the best law school in Texas. But here’s a rough checklist to help you narrow it down:
- Location: Do you want to stay close to home? Do you prefer a city with job opportunities?
- Specialization: Are you interested in IP, health law, or trial advocacy?
- Stats: Take a look at LSAT/GPA medians. Be realistic in this case.
- Bar Passage Rates: To rank higher, you need better preparation.
- Employment Outcomes: Will you get hired?
- Tuition & Scholarships: Can you afford the school’s tuition fees? – Think long term.
Moreover, do not forget to visit the campus if you can. Then, talk to current students and read forums. Finally, trust your gut.
Your Path, Your Pace!
Finding the best law schools in Texas isn’t about chasing someone else’s dream. Rather, it is about building yours. Hence, whether you’re aiming for UT Austin or leaning toward Texas Tech, what matters most is how you use the opportunity.
Although law school is challenging, with the right fit, it can also be transformative. Hence, take your time and do your homework.
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