20 Cheapest law schools in California

If you are considering attending law school in California maybe as an in-state student or an international student, knowing which schools offer high quality and affordable law programs will be of great importance to you. In other words, which schools make it easy to graduate with a manageable debt? In this article, you will get to know and learn about the cheapest law schools in California, acceptance rate, and programs offered.

What Is Law A School?

Many students who wants to study law or pursue a career in law have problems of not knowing how or where to start from.   

A law school is a school that is set up by the government of any country to provide advanced studies in law to students who want to become lawyers, judges or legal scholars it is usually a typically a three years program for full-time students and four years for part-time students.

In law schools, students are to learn about various areas of law, including criminal law, constitutional law, admiralty law, business law, constitutional law, environmental law, etc. Of which after completing studies, graduates must pass a bar exam to be licensed to practice law in their jurisdiction.

How Long Does It Take To Complete Law School In California

It takes 3 years to complete law school in Cali for full-time students and four years for part-time students, but some programs may take longer.

This programs are structured to allow students to earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which is the standard law degree required to practice law in the state. After completing their studies, graduates must also pass the California bar exam to become licensed to practice law in the state.

What Are Law Schools Requirements In California?

Requirements vary by university. General admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in the arts or sciences and at least three years of college or four years of community college.  

Some may also require an undergraduate major in specific fields such as science, engineering, mathematics, accounting, or political science.

List Of 20 Cheapest Law Schools In California

Below is the list of affordable law schools in California which are cost effective and within affordable range that suits your budget.

1. California Western School of Law
2. Chapman University School of Law
3. Golden Gate University-San Francisco School of Law
4. Loyola Law School
5. Pepperdine University School of Law
6. Santa Clara University School of Law
7. Southwestern Law School
8. Stanford Law School
9. Thomas Jefferson School of Law
10. Berkeley School of Law
11. Davis School of Law
12. University of San Francisco School of Law
13. Hastings College of the Law
14. Irvine School of Law
15. Pacific McGeorge School of Law
16. University of La Verne College of Law
17. University of San Diego School of Law
18. Gould School of Law
19. McGeorge School of Law
20. Western State College of Law at Westcliff University

1. California Western School of Law

California Western School of Law Acceptance rate:- 56.05%

School Website:- cwsl.edu

California Western School of Law is an independent non-profit law school and is the only ABA-accredited, not-for-profit school located on the Pacific Coast. It was founded in 1924 and offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program, as well as several advanced degree programs and certifications in legal specialties.

Its curriculum focuses on practical skills and hands-on learning experiences, including clinical programs, moot court, and internships.

Tuition Fee:

• Full-time Student (12 – 17 units per trimester)
  Tuition cost: $29,100 per trimester
• Part-time Student (6 – 11 units per trimester)
  Tuition cost: $21,720 per trimester

Programs offered in California Western School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program
3. Graduate Tax Program (GTP)
4. Advanced Certificate in Advocacy
5. Certificate in Dispute Resolution
6. Master of Science in Law (MSL) degree program
7. Master of Laws in Trial Advocacy (LL.M.T.A.)

 

2. Chapman University School of Law

Chapman University School of Law Acceptance rate:- 29%

School Website:- chapman.edu

Chapman University School of Law is a private law school located which was founded in 1995 and is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

Though there tuition is more expensive than the national average but the institution has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, and offers several programs and resources to support its diverse student body, with its curriculum that focuses on real-world experience that prepare students for careers in legal practice.

Tuition Fee:

• Full-time Rate:- (12-18 units): $30,145
• Part-time Rate:- (1- 11.5 units): $1,875 per unit
• Overload Charge:- (over 18 units): $1,875 per unit
• Interterm Tuition:- $1,875 per unit

Programs offered in Chapman University School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in American Law degree program
3. Dual-degree programs, including J.D./M.B.A. and J.D./M.A.
4. Certificate programs in Business Law and Advocacy
5. Externship programs

 

3. Golden Gate University-San Francisco School of Law

Golden Gate University-San Francisco School of Law Acceptance rate:- 61.3%

School Website:- law.ggu.edu

Golden Gate University’s School of Law is one of the many cheapest law schools in California which is a highly ranked private law school with a tuition cost of less than $26,000 per year.

It has a strong network of alumni and provides ongoing support and resources to help graduates achieve their professional goals. With there graduates consistently ranked one of the best for jobs, with an 85% employment rate in positions requiring bar passage after graduation and 74% passing the bar on their first attempt.

Tuition Fee:

JD, MLS, LLM, & SJD TUITION
JD Tuition	$1,750 per unit
MLS	$860 per unit
LLM Tuition	$1,860 per unit*
SJD Tuition	$21,800 per residency term (Note: students must complete two residency terms during the first year of the program.) $1,000 per candidacy term
J-1 Visa Visiting Scholar	$5,000 per semester (fees included)

Programs offered in Golden Gate University-San Francisco School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in American Law degree program
3. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation degree program
4. LL.M. in Estate Planning degree program
5. Certificate in Estate Planning
6. Certificate in International Law
7. Certificate in Taxation

 

4. Loyola Law School

Loyola Law School Acceptance rate:- 36.3%

School Website:- lls.edu

Loyola Law School is a private law school located in Los Angeles, California. It was founded in 1920 and is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).The school offers a wide variety of programs, with 12 different majors. 

Loyola also has a strong commitment to diversity and social justice, it ranks second for diversity according to the U.S. Graduates of Loyola Law School are well-prepared for careers in private practice, government service, public interest, and other areas of the legal profession.

Tuition Fee:

• Day Program = $62,390
• Evening Program = $41,690

Programs offered in Loyola Law School:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Comparative Law degree program
3. LL.M. in Entertainment and Media Law and Policy degree program
4. Certificate in Advocacy
5. Certificate in Public Interest Law and Policy

5. Pepperdine University School of Law

Pepperdine University School of Law Acceptance rate:- 36.3%

Website:- law.pepperdine.edu

Pepperdine University School of Law is a non-profit university with a Christian mission and values. It was founded in 1969 and is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

The law school was established with the goal of providing a rigorous legal education that prepares students for careers in the legal profession and also provides a foundation for a life of purpose, service, and leadership.

Over the years, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, and is known for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and supportive learning environment

Tuition Fee: 

Program	Rate	Per Unit Rate
Juris Doctor (JD)	$63,660/Year	$2,340
Masters of Law (LLM)	$60,840	$2,340
Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR)	$74,880	$2,340
Master of Legal Studies (MLS)	$74,880	$2,340
Certificate in Dispute Resolution	$32,760	$2,340
Certificate in Entertainment, Media and Sports	$32,760	$2,340

Programs offered in Pepperdine University School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Dispute Resolution degree program
3. LL.M. in Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law degree program
4. Certificate in Dispute Resolution
5. Certificate in Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law

 

6. Santa Clara University School of Law

Santa Clara University School of Law Acceptance rate:- 57.7%

Website:- law.scu.edu

Established in 1911, Santa Clara University School of Law is the oldest operating law school on the West Coast. They have a strong tradition of academic excellence and is known for its innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and supportive learning environment.

Tuition Fee:

• JD Tuition is $2,016 per unit
• LLM Tuition is $2,258 per unit.

Programs offered in Santa Clara University School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program
3. Certificate in Public Interest and Social Justice Law
4. Certificate in Intellectual Property and Technology Law
5. Certificate in High-Tech Law

 

7. Southwestern Law School

Southwestern Law School Acceptance rate:- 46.1%

Website:- swlaw.edu

Southwestern Law School was founded in 1911 as Southwestern College of Law and is the first law school in Southern California.

Over the years, Southwestern Law School has evolved and expanded to become one of the largest and most respected law schools in the state with an enrollment of approximately 1,000 students, including full-time, part-time, and online students.

Tuition Fee: 

• Full Time: $56,146
• Part-Time: $37,447

Programs offered in Southwestern Law School:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program in Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law
3. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program in Global Business Law
4. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program in U.S. Law for International Lawyers
5. Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution
6. Certificate in Business Law and Entrepreneurship
7. Certificate in Intellectual Property and Technology Law
8. Certificate in International and Comparative Law

 

8. Stanford Law School

Stanford Law School Acceptance rate:- 9.1%

Website:- law.stanford.edu

Stanford Law School is located in Stanford, California. It was established in 1893 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in the country.

In its early years, it was a small institution with a focus on preparing students for careers in the legal profession. Despite its size, it quickly established a reputation for academic excellence and attracted students from across the country and beyond.

Over the years, it has grown and evolved to become a leader in legal education, known for its innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and commitment to public service.

Tuition Fee:

• Per student estimated at $25,000 to $28,000 annually

Programs offered in Stanford Law School:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program
3. Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) degree program
4. Doctor of the Science of Law (J.S.D.) degree program

 

 9. Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Thomas Jefferson School of Law Acceptance rate:- 40.4%

Website:- tjsl.edu

Ranked as one of the top public interest law schools by The National Jurist, Thomas Jefferson School of Law was originally established to meet the growing demand for legal education in Southern California, and it quickly established itself as a leader in legal education in the region.

Over the years, the school has grown and evolved, building a reputation for innovative programs and a strong commitment to experiential learning but despite its growth and success, They remain dedicated to its founding mission of providing accessible, high-quality legal education.

Tuition Fee: 

• Tuition for the JD Program is $1100/unit
• Residential LLM is $1340 per unit
• online Graduate Program is $1620/unit
• online JSD Program is $1620/unit

Programs offered in Thomas Jefferson School of Law:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Trial Advocacy
3. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Business and Trade Law
4. Certificate programs in areas such as Intellectual Property Law and International Business Law

 

10. Berkeley School of Law

Berkeley School of Law Acceptance rate:- 20.2%

Website:- law.berkeley.edu

The Berkeley School of Law is one of the best-known and most prestigious public law schools in Berkeley, California. With a 1L class size of around 280, there is plenty of opportunity for one-on-one instruction from professors. 

Berkeley Law has produced many influential legal scholars, public servants, and leaders in the legal profession. Some of the notable alumni of the school include former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Earl Warren, former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, and former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich.

Tuition Fee: 

• JD program: In-state Students = $50,000 per year                                              Out-of-state residents. $63,000 per year.
• LLM program: $56,000 per year for both in-state and out-of-state residents

Programs offered in Berkeley School of Law:

1. JD (Juris Doctor) Program
2. LLM (Master of Laws) Program
3. JSD (Doctor of the Science of Law) Program
4. Dual Degree Programs
5. Clinical Programs
6. Public Interest Programs
7. Summer Programs
8. Executive Education Programs
9. Certificate Programs
10. Online Programs

11. Davis School of Law

Davis School of Law Acceptance rate:- 34.6%

Website:- law.ucdavis.edu

The Davis School of Law offers a comprehensive, quality legal education at an affordable price. It is known for its focus on environmental law and was the first US law school to offer a specialization in this field.

The school also has a robust clinical program, which provides students with hands-on legal experience by representing real clients in legal matters.

Tuition Fee:

• Fall Semester = $5,850.00
• Spring Semester = $5,850.00

Programs offered in Davis School of Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science)
4. Joint Degree programs with other UC Davis graduate programs

Areas Of Specialization:

1. Environmental Law and Policy
2. International Law
3. Intellectual Property Law.

 

12. University of San Francisco School of Law

University of San Francisco School of Law Acceptance rate:- 55.5%

Website:- usfca.edu

The University of San Francisco School of Law, a Jesuit-affiliated school with strong social justice values, founded in 1912, it is the oldest law school in the city of San Francisco and the third oldest in California.

It has a rich history of educating and shaping the legal landscape of the Bay Area and beyond. One of the unique aspects of USF School of Law is its commitment to social justice and its Catholic, Jesuit heritage.

Tuition Fee:

• J.D. program tuition is currently set at $45,765
• LLM (Master of Laws) program is currently set at $52,500

Programs offered in University of San Francisco School of Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. Dual Degree programs with other USF graduate programs

Specialized Programs:

1. Public Interest Law
2. International Law
3. Environmental Law.

13. Hastings College of the Law

Hastings College of the Law Acceptance rate:- 43%

Website:- law.unh.edu

With low out-of-state tuition and generous need-based aid, students will only have to pay an average of $30,000 for the three years that make up a typical bachelor’s degree course at Hastings. 

One of the unique features of UC Hastings is its location in the heart of San Francisco, which provides students with a wealth of opportunities for practical legal experience, including clerkships, internships, and externships in government agencies, private law firms, and public interest organizations.

Tuition Fee: average of $30,000

Programs offered in Hastings College of the Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science)
4. Dual Degree programs with other UC Hastings graduate programs
5. Intellectual Property Law
6. International and Comparative Law
7. Environmental Law.

 

14. Irvine School of Law

Irvine School of Law Acceptance rate:- 24.8%

Website:- law.uci.edu

The Irvine School of Law is an accredited, private institution and is the only law school in Orange County, California. Established in 2009, it is a relatively new law school but has quickly established itself as a leader in legal education and research.

One of the unique features of UCI Law is its interdisciplinary approach to legal education, which integrates courses and research from other fields, such as economics, psychology, and sociology, into its curriculum.

Tuition Fee: 

• Annual total fee for California Resident = $56,568.96
• Annual total fee for Non-California Resident = $64,811.96

Programs offered in Irvine School of Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science)
4. Dual Degree programs with other UCI graduate programs
5. Business Law
6. Environmental Law
7. International Law

15. Pacific McGeorge School of Law

Pacific McGeorge School of Law Acceptance rate:- 59.5%

Website:- pacificu.edu

Pacific McGeorge School of Law is a private law school located in Sacramento, California, Founded in 1924. The school has a strong reputation for its practical skills programs, which provide students with hands-on experience in various areas of law, such as mediation, negotiation, and trial advocacy.

Tuition Fee:

• California Resident: $53,909.99
• Non-Resident: $64,416.99
• Health insurance: $4,714.06
• UCSA/UCGPC: $3.50** (spring only)

Programs offered in Pacific McGeorge School of Law:

1. Environmental Law
2. Health Law
3. International Law
4. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
5. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
6. Joint Degree programs with other graduate programs at Pacific University

16. University of La Verne College of Law

University of La Verne College of Law Acceptance rate:- 40.8%

Website:- law.laverne.edu

With nearly 50 years of tradition, La Verne college of law prides on being the first fully accredited public school of law west of the Rockies.

The University of La Verne College of Law is a charter member and current president of the ABA-approved Western Association of Schools and Colleges. 

Their academic program includes a professional curriculum that culminates with admission to practice before all California state courts and jurisdictions and national admission.

Tuition Fee: 

• ABA Full time, per semester (12-16 units) = $15,140
• ABA Full time, per semester (12-16 units) = $14,420

Programs offered in University of La Verne College of Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. Joint Degree programs with other graduate programs at University of La Verne
4. Certificate programs in various areas of specialization, such as Environmental Law, Health Law, and International Law

 

17. University of San Diego School of Law

University of San Diego School of Law Acceptance rate:- 40%

Website:- www.sandiego.edu

The University of San Diego School of Law is a private Roman Catholic school, ranked #31 out of 199 by U.S. News and World Report. USD is recognized as one of the best law schools on the West Coast and has the third largest student body in California.

The school also provides students with opportunities for practical legal experience, including clerkships, externships, and internships in government agencies, private law firms, and public interest organizations.

Tuition Fee: 

• USD School of Law and Partner Schools: $1,250 per credit
• Non-Partner Schools:  $1,300 per credit

Programs offered in University of San Diego School of Law:

1. Business and Corporate Law.
2. Comparative Law.
3. ​General LLM with Concentration.
4. Taxation.
5. International Law.
6. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
7. LL.M. (Master of Laws)

18. Gould School of Law

Gould School of Law Acceptance rate:- 12.96%

Website:- gould.usc.edu

Gould Law School is a top-ranked public institution that provides students with opportunities to excel academically and actively engage in their community. Founded in 1896, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in the United States.

One of the unique features of Gould School of Law is its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive legal education that prepares them to tackle complex legal issues and succeed in a constantly changing legal landscape

Tuition Fee:

Students enrolling on a full-time basis = $72,798

Programs offered in Gould School of Law:

1. J.D. (Juris Doctor)
2. LL.M. (Master of Laws)
3. J.D./LL.M. Joint Degree
4. J.D./MBA (Master of Business Administration) Joint Degree
5. J.D./MPA (Master of Public Administration) Joint Degree
6. J.D./MFA (Master of Fine Arts) Joint Degree
7. Business Law
8. Intellectual Property Law
9. Public Interest Law

19. McGeorge School of Law

McGeorge School of Law Acceptance rate:- 30.50%

Website:-Link

McGeorge is a nationally ranked public law school located on the campus of the University of California at Davis. Situated in the rolling hills, McGeorge has an idyllic setting for those seeking tranquility and beauty amidst great educational opportunities.

The school is well-regarded for its focus on practical skills training and its commitment to public interest law and policy.

Tuition Fee: 

• Online LLM Tuition & Costs ($1,446 per unit)
• Online MSL Tuition & Costs ($1,457 per unit)

Programs offered in McGeorge School of Law:

1. JD (Juris Doctor)
2. LLM (Master of Laws)
3. MSL (Master of Science in Law)
4. SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science)
5. Certificate programs in areas such as Environmental Law, Public Law, and International Law.

20. Western State College of Law at Westcliff University

Western State College of Law at Westcliff University Acceptance rate:- 30.50%

Website:- westcliff.edu

Western State College of Law at Westcliff University has a unique history as it is the oldest continuously operating independent law school in California, founded in 1966.

The college offers a dynamic curriculum that prepares students for careers in a variety of legal fields, and has a strong commitment to diversity, equality, and social justice.

Tuition Fee:

• Full Time = $44,580
• Part Time = $29,800

Programs offered in Western State College of Law at Westcliff University:

1. JD (Juris Doctor)
2. LLM (Master of Laws)
3. MSL (Master of Science in Law)
4. SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science)
5. Certificate programs in areas such as Business Law, Litigation, and Family Law.

 

NOTE: Information’s about the tuition fee and programs offered in each of the law schools listed above is subject to change. You are best advised to visit the school using the school website link to seek more information’s about updated tuition fee.

 Conclusion

Listed are the 20 Cheapest law schools in California, I hope you find this article helpful in making academic decisions on which of the schools you can enroll in. What do you think about this article? let us know by sharing your opinions using the comment box.

FAQs

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What is the cheapest law school in California?

As of October 2021, UC Hastings’ tuition for an ABA-approved public law program costs $43,486 for residents and $49,486 for non-residents, making it the least expensive public law school in California.

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Which University of California is cheapest?

1. California State University – Los Angeles
2. California State University – Dominguez Hills
3. California State University – Northridge
4. California State University – Fresno
5. California State University – Stanislaus.

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What is the easiest law school to get into in California?

Whittier Law School

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Are there any free law schools in the US?

Yes, Yale Law School is the first law school to waive J.D. tuition for law students who cant afford a law tuition fee

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References:

worldscholarshub.com

scholarshipshall.com

Bestschoolnews.com