How to Get Into UC Davis Law School (2024-2025)
Learn how to get into the prestigious UC Davis School of Law in this helpful guide.
Posted February 3, 2025
Table of Contents
How Hard is It to Get Into UC Davis Law School?
UC Davis School of Law, commonly referred to as King Hall, is one of the leading law schools in California. It currently ranks 55th among 196 best law schools according to USNWR, and consistently ranks among the top law schools in the United States, with a competitive acceptance rate of 24.4%. This highly selective process underscores its reputation for academic excellence and commitment to producing skilled legal professionals.
Located at the University of California, Davis, King Hall is named after Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting its dedication to justice, equality, and public service. The school’s focus on immigration law, public service, and international law draws a diverse group of applicants. Its robust clinical programs and the California International Law Center further emphasize its emphasis on practical legal education. Aspiring students must demonstrate academic rigor, leadership skills, and a clear alignment with the school’s values to secure admission.
Acceptance Rate Over Time
| Class of 2027 | Class of 2026 | Class of 2025 | Class of 2024 | Class of 2023 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applications Received | 2,890 | 3,163 | 3,522 | 2,880 | 3,170 |
| Offers of Admission | 965 | 917 | 887 | 955 | 916 |
| Enrolled 1Ls | 198 | 206 | 208 | 198 | 210 |
| Acceptance Rate | 33.4% | 29% | 25.2% | 33.2% | 28.9% |
| Yield | 20.5% | 22.5% | 23.4% | 20.7% | 22.9% |
Programs Offered by UC Davis School of Law
The University of California Davis School of Law offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the diverse interests and career goals of its law students and graduate students:
- Juris Doctor (JD) - A comprehensive three-year program providing a strong foundation in legal theory and practical skills. Students can further specialize through clinics and electives under the guidance of experienced law professors.
- Master of Laws (LLM) - Designed for international lawyers seeking to deepen their understanding of the U.S. legal system. The program offers concentrations in areas such as Business Law, Environmental Law, and Immigration Law.
- Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) - A research-oriented doctoral program for those pursuing academic or policy careers. This program is ideal for graduate students who wish to focus on significant legal scholarship.
- Certificate Programs - Specialized certificates are available in areas such as Business Law, Public Service Law, and Environmental Law, providing law students with the opportunity to develop expertise in niche legal fields.
- Clinical Programs - Students gain hands-on experience through clinics addressing civil rights, social justice, and immigration law. These programs honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by focusing on equality and justice.
- Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) - UC Davis Law offers a Loan Repayment Assistance Program to help graduates working in public service careers manage their student loan debt, demonstrating the school’s commitment to supporting its alumni.
Admissions Requirements — Who Gets Into UC Davis School of Law?
UC Davis Law seeks a diverse, accomplished student body with strong academic credentials and unique perspectives. The school values student diversity, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive environment where UC Davis students from various backgrounds can thrive. The admissions process considers undergraduate performance, standardized test scores, work experience, and personal qualities.
UC Davis Law School Admissions Stats: LSAT, GPA, & Class Profile
The following statistics reflect the caliber of students admitted to UC Davis Law:
- Women: 63%
- Students of Color: 61%
- LGBTQIA+ Students: 22%
- Average Age: 24 (ranging from 19 to 45)
| 25th Percentile | Median (50th Percentile) | 75th Percentile | |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPA | 3.49 | 3.69 | 3.82 |
| LSAT | 159 | 165 | 167 |
What LSAT Score Do You Need for UC Davis School of Law?
To be competitive for admission, applicants should aim for an LSAT score within the following range:
- 25th Percentile: 160
- 50th Percentile (Median): 164
- 75th Percentile: 167
While scores below the 25th percentile are possible with a strong overall application, achieving a score of 164 or higher significantly enhances your chances.
Bonus: How to Get Into UC Davis Law School With a Low LSAT Score
- Highlight significant professional accomplishments or leadership roles.
- Write a compelling personal statement addressing your unique qualifications.
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation from credible sources.
Read: Top 30+ Free Resources for the LSAT
What GPA Do You Need for UC Davis School of Law?
A strong undergraduate GPA is critical for admission:
- 25th Percentile: 3.49
- 50th Percentile (Median): 3.72
- 75th Percentile: 3.87
Applicants with a GPA below 3.49 should emphasize their work experience or other unique qualifications.
Bonus: How to Get Into UC Davis Law School With a Low GPA
- Provide context for your GPA in an addendum.
- Showcase consistent academic improvement over time.
- Highlight relevant professional achievements.
How to Apply to UC Davis Law School
UC Davis Law Application Deadlines (2024 - 2025)
- Early Decision Deadline: November 1, 2024
- Priority Deadline: March 15, 2025
- Final Deadline: June 1, 2025
UC Davis Law School — Application Overview
- Application Fee: There is no application fee.
- Standardized Test Score: LSAT or GRE required; scores must be from within the past five years.
- Transcripts: All undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be submitted through the LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS).
- Letters of Recommendation: A minimum of two letters are required; up to three are accepted.
- Resume: A detailed resume outlining academic achievements, professional experience, and extracurricular activities is required.
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement discussing their motivations and goals for pursuing law at UC Davis.
- Optional Essays: Applicants are encouraged to submit a diversity statement or other addenda to provide additional context to their application.
Read: Crafting a Winning Diversity Statement for Law School: Essential Tips
Eligibility
To apply to the UC Davis School of Law, candidates must hold or expect to complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution before enrolling. For international applicants, demonstrating proficiency in English is mandatory unless they have completed their undergraduate studies in English-speaking institutions. English proficiency is typically proven through standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS, with competitive scores enhancing an applicant's overall profile. UC Davis evaluates applications holistically, so exceptional achievements or experiences can offset less competitive academic metrics.
Pro Tip: International applicants should prepare early to ensure their English proficiency tests, transcripts, and any additional documentation are submitted well before the deadline to avoid delays in processing.
Personal Statement
The personal statement is one of the most critical components of the UC Davis Law application. This essay should not only highlight your academic and professional accomplishments but also provide a narrative of your motivations, personal values, and how they align with UC Davis Law's mission to foster justice and equality. Authenticity is key—admissions officers seek a personal and unique perspective that distinguishes them from other candidates. Include specific examples of experiences that shaped your decision to pursue a legal career and explain why UC Davis Law is the ideal place for you to achieve your goals.
Expert Tip: Tailor your personal statement by referencing specific programs, clinics, or faculty at UC Davis Law that align with your interests. This demonstrates genuine enthusiasm and thorough research about the school.
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation offer critical insight into your intellectual capabilities, work ethic, leadership skills, and overall readiness for the challenges of law school. UC Davis recommends that applicants secure at least one letter from a professor or academic mentor who can attest to their academic abilities. The second letter should ideally come from a professional contact, such as a supervisor or mentor, who can speak to your work experience, character, and potential for success in legal studies. These letters should be detailed, and personalized, and provide specific examples of your contributions and strengths.
Pro Tip: Provide your recommenders with a comprehensive “recommendation packet,” including your resume, personal statement draft, and details about UC Davis Law’s values and programs. This helps them craft a letter that is both tailored and impactful.
Law School Resume
A law school resume serves as a professional snapshot of your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and extracurricular activities. UC Davis recommends limiting your resume to one page, focusing on accomplishments that directly relate to your legal aspirations. Highlight leadership roles, community service, internships, and any legal-related experiences. Use concise bullet points with strong action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, and include measurable results where applicable. A polished, well-organized resume not only reflects your readiness for law school but also your ability to communicate effectively.
Expert tip: Reach out to top law school admissions coaches to perfect your resume.
Read: Crafting Your Law School Resume: Template and Tips
Different Types of Applicants — Requirements for UC Davis Law
UC Davis welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including reapplicants, transfer students, veterans, and international candidates. Each category has unique requirements that should be addressed thoughtfully:
Reapplicants
Individuals who have previously applied to UC Davis Law and wish to reapply are encouraged to do so, provided they can demonstrate significant growth or new achievements since their last application. It's essential to highlight any additional academic accomplishments, professional experiences, or personal developments that strengthen your candidacy. Reapplicants should thoroughly review their prior application to identify areas of improvement and ensure that their new application reflects their enhanced qualifications and readiness for law school.
Transfer Students
UC Davis Law welcomes applications from students who have completed at least one full-time year of study at another American Bar Association (ABA)-)-approved law school. The application window for transfer students typically opens on January 1 and closes on June 30 for admission in the fall semester.
Applicants are evaluated primarily on their first-year law school performance, with those ranking in the top 30% of their class being the most competitive. However, the Admissions Committee also considers factors such as the rigor of the previous law school, LSAT or GRE scores, undergraduate GPA, and professional experience.
Transfer students may receive up to 31 semester units of credit from their prior institution, aligning with the first-year curriculum at UC Davis Law. It's important to note that only courses from ABA-accredited law schools are eligible for transfer credit.
Veterans
UC Davis Law is committed to supporting veterans in their pursuit of legal education. Veteran applicants are encouraged to highlight their military service, leadership roles, and unique experiences that have prepared them for the study of law. The Admissions Committee values the discipline, resilience, and diverse perspectives that veterans bring to the classroom. Additionally, veterans may be eligible for educational benefits and are advised to consult with the university's veteran services to understand the resources and support available to them.
International Candidates
International applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree and demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through TOEFL or IELTS scores, unless they have completed their undergraduate studies in English-speaking institutions.
The application should include a detailed account of the candidate's legal education and any professional experience. International students enrich the UC Davis Law community with global perspectives and are encouraged to share how their unique backgrounds will contribute to the diversity and richness of the academic environment.
5 Expert Tips on How to Get Into UC Davis Law School
- Craft a compelling personal statement - Your personal statement is an opportunity to share your story, motivations, and aspirations. Highlight unique experiences that have shaped your path to law school and explain how UC Davis Law aligns with your goals. Use this essay to demonstrate your passion for justice, diversity, and public service.
- Build strong relationships with recommenders - Secure letters of recommendation from individuals who know you well and can provide specific examples of your academic and professional abilities. Academic mentors and supervisors who can attest to your intellectual rigor, leadership, and potential for success in law school are ideal.
- Optimize your LSAT or GRE score - Prepare thoroughly for your standardized test, focusing on improving weaker areas. A competitive LSAT or GRE score strengthens your application and reflects your readiness for the academic challenges of law school. Consistent practice and targeted study are key.
- Emphasize unique experiences - Highlight non-traditional experiences or diverse perspectives that set you apart from other applicants. Whether it's a career in another field, volunteer work, or life experiences that have shaped your perspective, show how these contribute to your future in law.
- Prepare thoroughly for the interview - If invited for an interview, demonstrate your knowledge of UC Davis Law and how its programs align with your career aspirations. Be ready to articulate your motivations and experiences confidently, showing your enthusiasm for joining the UC Davis Law community.
Read: A Guide to the University of California–Davis School of Law Interview Process
The Bottom Line
- UC Davis School of Law offers a highly competitive but rewarding legal education.
- Strong LSAT/GPA scores, compelling essays, and impactful letters of recommendation are key to admission.
- Tailor your application to emphasize alignment with the school’s mission and values.
- Highlight unique experiences, such as public service, immigration law interest, or STEM backgrounds, to stand out.
- Engage with UC Davis-specific resources, like clinics and faculty, in your application to demonstrate genuine interest.
Partner with top law school admissions coaches to elevate your application and maximize your chances of success.
FAQs
How to increase your chances of getting into UC Davis?
- Keep the UC Davis GPA requirements in mind throughout high school so that you have the best chance of success. UC Davis admissions neither requires nor accepts standardized test scores or letters of recommendation. You will only submit your UC Davis application and your official grades.
What is the bar passage rate for UC Davis 2024?
- The UC Davis bar passage rate for first-time examinees on the July 2024 California Bar Examination was 87.4%. Full UC Davis bar passage data is available on the ABA law school reports website.
What does UCD look for in applicants?
- However, UC Davis requires a minimum 2.80 GPA to be selected for admission, and many of our most popular programs may require a higher GPA. Strive to achieve your highest possible GPA in order to be most competitive.
Does UC Davis look at essays?
- UC Davis requires that applicants to all graduate programs submit both a Statement of Purpose and a Personal History and Diversity Statement. Each essay can be no longer than 4,000 characters (including spaces).
Is UC Davis better than Harvard?
- Choosing between Harvard vs UC Davis ultimately comes down to various factors, including academic focus, campus culture, and financial considerations. Both universities offer excellent academic programs and numerous resources for students.
