Northwestern University

IL · Private · East North Central

Acceptance rate: 12% (7,976 applicants)
Median LSAT: 173 (middle 50%: 167–175)
Median GPA: 3.96 (middle 50%: 3.76–4.00)
Tuition: $79,722 (per year, nonresident)
Bar passage: 91.8% (+9.3 pts vs. state average)

Deadlines

Application deadline: Feb. 15, 2027

Essays

Personal statement (No limit stated)

The personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee and distinguish yourself from other applicants. You may discuss, among other topics, your personal or professional goals, or personal, academic, or career history.

Optional essay 1 (1 to 2 pages, double-spaced, at least 11-point font)

Describe your interest in attending Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.

Optional essay 2 (1 to 2 pages, double-spaced, at least 11-point font)

Describe any experiences in your life or unique qualities you think would benefit Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and/or your classmates.

Optional essay 3 (1 to 2 pages, double-spaced, at least 11-point font)

Did you face any particular challenges we should know about when considering your academic history or test scores?

Optional essay 4 (1 to 2 pages, double-spaced, at least 11-point font)

Elaborate on your career aspirations. In your response, delineate the primary milestones, challenges, or professional prerequisites of your goals.

Editor's notes

Do the video interview. It's optional for regular decision, but about 95% of the entering class completes one, and Northwestern says doing it shows interest in the school. Practice until 30 seconds of prep and a 90-second answer feel normal. You get one take.
Work experience is central here. 85% of the 2025 class spent at least a year out of college, and the policy statement lists work experience and career progression among its factors. Use the personal statement and résumé to show what you've done and where it's headed, not only what you studied.
Apply by Dec. 31 if you can. Before then, anyone who registers gets a fee waiver. After Jan. 1 you'll need a need-based application. Early decision closes Oct. 15, and ED applicants must interview.
Scholarships need their own application. Every award here is based on merit and need, and nothing comes automatically with the admission letter. Watch for the aid deadline in your offer and file on time.