For aspiring lawyers, transferring to NYU Law is a highly sought-after opportunity. With its esteemed reputation, rigorous academic programs, and exceptional faculty, NYU Law consistently ranks among the top law schools in the nation. If you’re considering a transfer, it’s crucial to understand the admissions process thoroughly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the NYU Law transfer journey.

Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for transfer, you must meet the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited law school with a JD program
- Completed at least one full academic year of law study
- GPA of 3.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
- Strong academic record with a rigorous course load
- Exceptional personal statement and letters of recommendation
- Demonstrated passion for law and legal scholarship
Application Process
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Submit your Application: The transfer application opens in August and closes in January. You must submit all required materials through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
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LSAT Score: You must submit an LSAT score taken within the past five years. The average LSAT score for transfer applicants at NYU Law is around 170.
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Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your current and previous law schools.
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Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your academic excellence, legal interests, and why you’re eager to transfer to NYU Law.
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Letters of Recommendation: Obtain three letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or legal professionals who can attest to your qualifications.
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Supplemental Materials: Consider submitting additional materials such as a legal writing sample, a résumé, or any other relevant documents that demonstrate your skills and experience.
Admissions Process
After you submit your application, the admissions committee carefully reviews each component. They consider your GPA, LSAT score, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and supplemental materials.
Interviews are typically conducted in March. The committee uses interviews to assess your communication skills, legal reasoning abilities, and suitability for NYU Law’s academic community.
Transfer Credit
If you’re admitted to NYU Law as a transfer, you may be eligible for transfer credit for courses you’ve already completed at your previous law school. The amount of credit you receive depends on several factors, including the content and level of rigor of your previous coursework.
Benefits of Transferring to NYU Law
- Prestige and Reputation: NYU Law is consistently ranked among the top law schools in the nation, giving you access to an exceptional legal education and professional network.
- Rigorous Academics: The law school’s renowned faculty and curriculum provide a challenging and intellectually stimulating environment that fosters critical thinking and legal analysis skills.
- Diverse Legal Education: NYU Law offers a wide range of specialized programs and concentrations, allowing you to tailor your legal education to your interests and career aspirations.
- Career Development: The Office of Career Services provides comprehensive career support, including job placement assistance, networking events, and mentorship opportunities.
- Global Reach: NYU Law’s global network and partnerships offer students opportunities for international study, research, and pro bono work.
Comparison of NYU Law and Other Top Law Schools for Transfers
Law School | Acceptance Rate (Transfer) | Median GPA | Median LSAT |
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NYU Law | 10% | 3.85 | 170 |
Harvard Law School | 14% | 3.92 | 173 |
Yale Law School | 12% | 3.88 | 172 |
Stanford Law School | 11% | 3.87 | 171 |
University of Chicago Law School | 13% | 3.86 | 170 |
Pros and Cons of Transferring to NYU Law
Pros:
- Exceptional academic reputation and rigor
- Diverse and specialized legal education
- Comprehensive career support
- Global reach and international opportunities
- Access to a prestigious alumni network
Cons:
- Highly competitive admissions process
- Expensive tuition and fees
- Location in a costly urban area
- Large class size in some courses
Frequently Asked Questions
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When should I apply for transfer? The transfer application opens in August and closes in January.
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What is the acceptance rate for transfer applicants? The acceptance rate is around 10%.
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What is the average GPA and LSAT score for transfer applicants? The average GPA is around 3.85, and the average LSAT score is around 170.
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How much does it cost to attend NYU Law? Tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year are estimated to be $70,756.
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Does NYU Law offer scholarships for transfer students? Yes, a limited number of scholarships are available based on academic merit and financial need.
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What are the career outcomes for NYU Law graduates? Graduates of NYU Law have excellent career prospects in law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academia.
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Does NYU Law offer joint degree programs? Yes, NYU Law offers joint degree programs in law and business, law and social work, and law and public administration.
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What is the campus life like at NYU Law? NYU Law is located in Greenwich Village in New York City, offering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating campus life with a diverse student body and active student organizations.