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Law Schools in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

March 12, 2025
6 min read

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Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 6/17/24

Discover each North Carolina Law school's rankings, bar passage rates, acceptance rates, median LSAT scores, and median GPA. 

If you’re considering attending a law school in North Carolina, you’ll have wonderful options. North Carolina has several institutions renowned for their quality programs and academic excellence. This article is your map to finding the best fit for you.

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Top Law Schools In North Carolina

Here are the best law schools in North Carolina with their updated stats.

Law School Name Our North Carolina Law School Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
Duke Law School #1 13.88% 170 3.89 94.44%
University of North Carolina School of Law #2 15.18% 167 3.85 92.00%
Wake Forest University School of Law #3 26.84% 166 3.84 92.39%
Campbell University School of Law #4 34.43% 156 3.57 81.88%
Elon University School of Law #5 47.85% 153 3.41 59.35%
North Carolina Central University #6 31.95% 150 3.46 56.59%

Whether you're drawn to a specific field of law or seeking a comprehensive legal education, this section will guide you through the standout features of each school.

1. Duke Law School

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Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
Duke Law School #4 13.88% 170 3.89 94.44%

Duke University School of Law is the best law school in North Carolina, ranking fourth in the country. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum as well as several hands-on learning experiences. Its programs, bar passage rate, and selectivity in admissions emphasize the quality of education it provides. Duke Law's dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity further enhances the enriching educational environment.

Among the most elite law schools, Duke Law's graduates demonstrate outstanding achievements in diverse legal sectors. The school's impressive bar passage rates and notable employment outcomes underscore its effectiveness in preparing students for prosperous legal careers.

Duke University boasts a 13.88% acceptance rate. The school has a median LSAT score of 170 and a median GPA of 3.89. The school’s JD application fee is $175 for aspiring students. The tuition fee is marked at $77,100 for enrolled students.

2. University of North Carolina School of Law

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Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
University of North Carolina School of Law #20 15.18% 167 3.85 92.00%

The University of North Carolina School of Law is renowned for its commitment to public service and academic rigor. The institution's dedication to shaping ethical and socially responsible legal professionals is evident in its diverse programs and experiential learning opportunities.

With its strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice, UNC School of Law prepares graduates to tackle complex legal challenges with compassion and competence. As a steadfast contributor to the legal field, UNC School of Law continues to produce skilled advocates who contribute positively to the ever-evolving legal field.

The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill is ranked the 20th-best law school nationwide, boasting an acceptance rate of 15.18%. The school has a median LSAT score of 167 and a median GPA of 3.85. UNC-Chapel Hill mandates a $75 application fee. Tuition fees at UNC are pegged at $28,082 for residents and $51,320 for non-residents.

3. Wake Forest University School of Law

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Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
Wake Forest University School of Law #25 26.84% 166 3.84 92.39%

Wake Forest University School of Law holds the third position in the state and 25th in the country. Wake Forest Law is a respected choice among North Carolina law schools focusing on experiential learning and a commitment to academic excellence. Its high bar passage rates and selectivity in admissions underscore its dedication to producing competent legal professionals.

Wake Forest Law is renowned for its inclusive and supportive community, emphasizing collaboration and hands-on experience. The school's strong emphasis on practical learning through clinics and externships equips students with real-world skills.

Wake Forest Law's commitment to nurturing a diverse student body enriches the learning environment. WFU’s acceptance rate is 26.84%. The school has a median LSAT score of 166 and a median GPA of 3.84. Wake Forest University mandates a $75 application fee for prospective applicants. The tuition cost at WFU is $55,162.

4. Campbell University School of Law

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Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
Campbell University School of Law #134 34.43% 156 3.57 81.88%

Campbell University School of Law, also known as the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law, equips students with hands-on skills through robust clinical programs and real-world simulations. The institution's commitment to fostering professional values and ethics prepares graduates for the legal profession's demands.

Situated in a nurturing environment, Campbell Law encourages collaboration and mentorship among its students and faculty. Its emphasis on building strong ethical foundations and community engagement sets it apart. As an institution dedicated to producing ethical and competent legal practitioners, Campbell University School of Law continues to make a meaningful impact on legal education.

Campbell University boasts a 34.43% acceptance rate. It also has a median LSAT score of 156 and a median GPA of 3.57. The school does not impose an application fee, and tuition costs $50,330.

5. Elon University School of Law

Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
Elon University School of Law #5 47.85% 153 3.41 59.35%

The law school's curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for real-world challenges. It offers several experiential opportunities, including moot court, bridge-to-practice programs, and term-based legal courses. Moreover, Elon University Law's emphasis on collaboration with nonprofits and public agencies underscores its commitment to addressing contemporary legal issues and promoting social justice.

Elon University School of Law presents an attractive option for aspiring legal professionals seeking a well-rounded education combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its focus on hands-on learning, interdisciplinary engagement, and community collaboration prepares students to thrive in the dynamic and evolving field of law.

Elon University School of Law's dedication to fostering an engaging student atmosphere is reflected in its modest acceptance rate of 47.85%. The median LSAT score is 153, and the median GPA is 3.41. This diverse and accomplished student body contributes to a vibrant and collaborative learning community.

6. North Carolina Central University

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Law School Name National Ranking Acceptance Rate Median LSAT Score Median GPA First-Time Bar Passage Rate
North Carolina Central University #178-196 31.95% 150 3.46 56.59%

North Carolina Central University School of Law stands out for its focus on producing culturally competent legal professionals. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, the school offers clinics and externships that equip students with practical skills. Its specialized civil rights and constitutional law programs reflect its dedication to addressing pressing legal issues.

NCCU Law's legacy of producing advocates championing social justice and equity resonates in its alumni community. As a trailblazer in fostering a diverse legal workforce, North Carolina Central University School of Law continues to promote justice and equality through legal education significantly.

North Carolina Central University is ranked among the top 200 universities, with an acceptance rate of 31.95%. The school has a median LSAT score of 150 and a median GPA of 3.46. It requires a $50 non-refundable application fee, and tuition costs $6,722 for residents and $18,058 for non-residents.

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How to Find More Law Schools Near North Carolina

If you seek law schools around North Carolina, take our law school quiz to help you make a good choice.

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FAQs: Best Law Schools in North Carolina

What other questions do you have about law schools in North Carolina? Check out the answers below.

1. What Are the Best Law Schools in North Carolina?

The top law schools in North Carolina include Duke Law School, the University of North Carolina School of Law, and Wake Forest University School of Law. These institutions offer diverse programs and renowned faculty.

2. How Many Law Schools Are in North Carolina?

North Carolina has six accredited law schools, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for aspiring legal professionals.

3. What Is the Most Accessible Law School To Get Into in NC?

Elon University School of Law is the most accessible law school in North Carolina. It boasts a 47.85% acceptance rate and has a median LSAT score of 153 and a median GPA of 3.41, both on the lower end.

4. What Is the Most Affordable Law School in NC?

North Carolina Central University has the most affordable tuition in North Carolina at just $6,722 for residents and $18,058 for non-residents.

5. Is There a Law School in North Carolina That Specializes in a Particular Area of Law?

Yes, some law schools in North Carolina offer specialized programs. For example, Duke University School of Law is known for its dual degree options, including a JD/LLM in International and Comparative Law, a JD/LLM in Law and Entrepreneurship, and a JD/MA in Bioethics and Science Policy.

6. What Resources Do North Carolina Law Schools Offer to Help Students Succeed?

North Carolina law schools provide several resources to support student success. These include legal clinics, externship programs, moot court opportunities, and career services. The diverse offerings help students gain practical experience, develop legal skills, and connect with professionals in their desired fields.

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Final Thoughts

Law schools in North Carolina are, without doubt, some of the best in the country. There’s a school for everyone. You can find a range of high-quality institutions in North Carolina, regardless of what you’re looking for in your dream law school! 

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