| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1891
Location: New York City, New York
Type: Private Law School
Ranking: Tier 2 Law School (Ranked #129 in Best Law Schools – U.S. News & World Report 2024)
Accreditation: American Bar Association (ABA)
Bar Passage Rate (2023): ~80%
Employment Rate (10 months after graduation): ~90%
Campus: Urban, located near the courts and law firms in Lower Manhattan
Motto: "We are New York’s Law School."
NYLS offers JD (Juris Doctor) and LLM (Master of Laws) programs, with various specializations.
Full-Time JD Program (3 years)
Part-Time Evening JD Program (4 years) – For working professionals
JD Concentrations:
Business & Financial Law
Intellectual Property (IP) & Technology Law
Government & Public Interest Law
Real Estate & Urban Development Law
Criminal Law
LLM in Taxation
LLM in Financial Services Law
JD/MBA (with New York University – NYU)
2-Year JD for Foreign-Trained Lawyers
Online Legal Studies Programs
Website: N/A
Acceptance Rate: ~50% (Moderately Selective)
Median LSAT Score: 153-156
Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.3-3.6
Bachelor’s degree (any major)
LSAT or GRE score
Personal Statement
Letters of Recommendation
Resume/CV
Application Deadline: March 15 (Fall Intake)
JD Full-Time Tuition: ~$57,000 per year
JD Part-Time Tuition: ~$42,000 per year
LLM Tuition: ~$45,000 per year
Living Expenses (NYC): ~$25,000 per year
Scholarships available for high-achieving students.
Located in Lower Manhattan, close to Wall Street, law firms, and government buildings
Modern Law Library & Research Centers
Legal Clinics & Internships (Corporate Law, Immigration, Criminal Defense)
Student Organizations & Law Journals
Networking Events with NYC Legal Community
Employment Rate (10 months after graduation): ~90%
Median Starting Salary: ~$85,000 (Law Firms)
Top Employers: Law Firms, Government Agencies, Corporate Legal Departments
Strong Internship & Clerkship Opportunities in NYC
Popular Career Paths:
Law Firms (Big Law, Mid-size, Small Firms)
Corporate Counsel (Finance, Tech, Media)
Public Interest Law
Government & Judiciary (Clerkships)
1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) Programs
NYLS offers different J.D. tracks to accommodate students with varying schedules and career goals:
Full-Time Day Program (3 years)
Part-Time Evening Program (4 years)
Two-Year J.D. Honors Program (for highly qualified students)
2. Master of Laws (LL.M.) Programs
NYLS provides advanced legal education in specialized areas:
Taxation LL.M.
Financial Services Law LL.M.
3. Joint Degree Programs
NYLS collaborates with other institutions to offer joint degrees:
J.D./M.A. in Taxation (with NYU School of Professional Studies)
J.D./M.B.A. (with various business schools)
4. Certificate and Specialty Programs
NYLS has a range of certificate programs focused on different areas of law:
Intellectual Property and Privacy Law
Business and Financial Law
Real Estate Law
Public Interest and Government Law
5. Focus Areas and Centers
NYLS is known for its specialized academic centers, such as:
Innovation Center for Law and Technology
Center for Business and Financial Law
Center for International Law
Wilf Impact Center for Public Interest Law
Ronald H. Filler Institute for Financial Services Law
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
LL.M. in Taxation |
1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) |
$35,000 – $45,000 |
|
LL.M. in Financial Services Law |
1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) |
$35,000 – $45,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (J.D.) |
3 years (Full-Time) / 4 years (Part-Time) |
$60,200 (Full-Time) / $45,000 (Part-Time) |
|
LL.M. in Taxation |
1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) |
$35,000 – $45,000 |
|
LL.M. in Financial Services Law |
1 year (Full-Time) / 2 years (Part-Time) |
$35,000 – $45,000 |
Tuition fees are approximate and may vary yearly.
Academic Qualifications:
For J.D. Program: A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is required.
For LL.M. Programs: A first degree in law (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for non-native English speakers.
Minimum TOEFL score: 90 iBT (may vary)
Minimum IELTS score: 7.0
LSAT or GRE (for J.D. Applicants):
Required for J.D. applicants. LL.M. applicants are not required to take the LSAT.
Transcripts & Credential Evaluation:
International students may need to submit transcripts evaluated by LSAC (Law School Admission Council) or WES (World Education Services).
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation:
A strong personal statement and at least two letters of recommendation are required.
International students typically apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
NYLS provides guidance on visa application and maintaining SEVIS status.
Students must show proof of financial support for tuition and living expenses.
NYLS offers merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic performance.
External scholarships (such as Fulbright Program or private legal foundations) may also be available.
NYLS has strong connections with law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies in New York City.
International students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience after graduation.
Located in Tribeca, New York City, NYLS offers a vibrant legal and cultural environment.
Support services for international students include:
Academic Advising & Career Counseling
Legal Research Centers & Law Clinics
Student Organizations & Networking Events
NYLS offers J.D. (Juris Doctor) programs, LL.M. (Master of Laws) programs, and certificate programs. Before applying, decide which program best fits your academic and career goals.
For J.D. (Juris Doctor) Applicants:
Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
LSAT or GRE Score: The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required for J.D. applicants. Scores should be sent directly to NYLS via LSAC.
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum 90 iBT
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Transcripts: All transcripts must be submitted through LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS).
Personal Statement: A written statement explaining career goals, reasons for studying law, and why you chose NYLS.
Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters from academic or professional references.
Résumé/CV: An updated résumé detailing academic and professional achievements.
For LL.M. (Master of Laws) Applicants:
Law Degree: Applicants must have an LL.B. or equivalent law degree from a recognized institution.
English Proficiency (for non-native English speakers):
TOEFL: Minimum 90 iBT
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Transcripts: Must be evaluated by WES (World Education Services) or an equivalent service.
Personal Statement: Explaining career aspirations and why NYLS is the right choice.
Letters of Recommendation: At least two academic or professional letters.
Résumé/CV: A detailed résumé of legal experience, education, and skills.
J.D. applicants must apply through LSAC (Law School Admission Council) via the NYLS website.
LL.M. applicants can apply directly through the NYLS admissions portal or LSAC.
Pay the application fee (if applicable).
Some applicants may be invited for an interview (virtual or in-person) to discuss their qualifications and motivations for studying at NYLS.
Applicants typically receive a decision within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the program and application deadline.
If accepted, students will receive an offer letter and details on tuition deposits and next steps.
International students must apply for an F-1 student visa after receiving their Form I-20 from NYLS.
Proof of financial support is required for visa processing.
Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Pay tuition deposits to confirm enrollment.
Attend orientation programs for new students.
Register for courses and start your legal education at NYLS.
Fall Intake (Primary Intake): Applications open in September and close by March-April (Exact deadlines vary).
Spring Intake: Not available for the J.D. program.
Fall Intake: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but should be submitted by June-July for a Fall start.
Spring Intake: Available in January for certain LL.M. programs.
It is recommended to apply early as admissions are competitive, and financial aid opportunities may be limited for late applicants.
Educational Qualification:
A bachelor’s degree (in any field) from an accredited institution.
Entrance Exam Requirement:
LSAT (Law School Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination).
Scores should be submitted via LSAC (Law School Admission Council).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (Minimum 90 iBT) or IELTS (Minimum 7.0).
Other Requirements:
Personal Statement explaining career goals and reasons for choosing NYLS.
Two Letters of Recommendation (academic or professional).
Résumé (CV) with academic and professional background.
Transcripts (evaluated by LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) for international students).
Educational Qualification:
A first degree in law (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (Minimum 90 iBT) or IELTS (Minimum 7.0).
Other Requirements:
Personal Statement describing career goals and legal interests.
Two Letters of Recommendation from academic or professional references.
Résumé (CV) detailing legal experience and qualifications.
Transcripts evaluated by WES (World Education Services) or an equivalent agency.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dean’s Scholars Program |
Outstanding academic record & LSAT/GRE scores |
Partial to Full Tuition |
J.D. Program |
|
New York Law School Merit Scholarship |
High GPA, strong LSAT/GRE scores |
$10,000 – Full Tuition |
J.D. Program |
|
Public Service Scholarship |
Interest in public interest/government law |
N/A |
J.D. & LL.M. Programs |
|
The Wilf Scholars Program |
Leadership & commitment to social justice |
Full Tuition |
J.D. Program |
|
Center for Business and Financial Law Scholarship |
Strong academic background in finance or business law |
N/A |
J.D. & LL.M. Programs |
|
LL.M. Merit Scholarship |
High academic performance in prior law degree |
$5,000 – $15,000 |
LL.M. Programs |
|
Global Law Scholarship |
International students with excellent academic performance |
N/A |
LL.M. Programs |
|
Need-Based Grants |
Demonstrated financial need |
N/A |
J.D. & LL.M. Programs |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Library & Research Centers |
Mendik Library with extensive legal resources & study spaces |
|
Law Clinics & Centers |
Innovation Center, Business & Financial Law Center, Public Interest Law programs |
|
Moot Court & Mock Trial Rooms |
State-of-the-art courtrooms for legal practice |
|
Student Lounges & Study Areas |
Collaborative workspaces for students |
|
Technology & IT Services |
High-speed Wi-Fi, online legal databases, and tech support |
|
Cafeteria & Dining |
On-campus café and nearby restaurants |
|
Career Services |
Internship and job placement support |
Since NYLS does not offer on-campus housing, students typically rent apartments or stay in student residences in Manhattan and nearby areas. Below are common options:
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Cost per Month (USD) |
Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2–3 roommates) |
Tribeca, Manhattan |
$1,500 – $2,500 |
$18,000 – $30,000 |
|
Studio Apartment (Private) |
Manhattan, NYC |
$2,500 – $4,000 |
$30,000 – $48,000 |
|
Student Residence Halls (Private Dorm-Style) |
The Webster Apartments, EHS St. George Towers |
$1,400 – $2,200 |
$16,800 – $26,400 |
|
Homestay (with local families) |
Various NYC locations |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
$14,400 – $21,600 |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Brooklyn/Queens) |
Brooklyn, Queens |
$1,200 – $2,000 |
$14,400 – $24,000 |
Expense Type |
Estimated Cost per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Water, etc.) |
$100 – $200 |
$1,200 – $2,400 |
|
Food & Groceries |
$300 – $600 |
$3,600 – $7,200 |
|
Transportation (Subway, Bus, etc.) |
$127 (Monthly MetroCard) |
$1,524 |
|
Health Insurance |
$200 – $400 |
$2,400 – $4,800 |
|
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Personal Expenses, etc.) |
$300 – $500 |
$3,600 – $6,000 |
NYLS has a close-knit community of students, faculty, and legal professionals. The campus is modern, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms, a top-tier law library (Mendik Library), mock courtrooms, and collaborative study spaces. The school fosters an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to pursue their legal careers.
NYLS has over 30 student organizations that cater to various interests, including legal fields, cultural backgrounds, and social causes. Some popular student organizations include:
Student Bar Association (SBA) – The main governing body for students.
Moot Court Association – Organizes mock trials and national competitions.
Law Review & Journals – Offers students a chance to contribute to legal scholarship.
Black Law Students Association (BLSA) & Latino Law Students Association (LLSA) – Support diversity and inclusion.
Real Estate Law Association, Intellectual Property Law Society, and Public Interest Law Center – Provide specialized networking opportunities.
Students also participate in networking events, panel discussions, and law firm visits, connecting them with industry professionals.
NYLS provides hands-on legal training through clinics, externships, and pro bono work. Students can gain experience in areas like:
Immigration Law
Criminal Defense
Corporate & Financial Law
Civil Rights and Public Interest Law
The Innovation Center for Law and Technology and the Center for Business and Financial Law offer students opportunities to work on real-world cases.
The Office of Career Planning (OCP) helps students secure internships and job placements in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. NYLS has strong connections with New York’s top law firms, courts, and Fortune 500 companies, providing students with access to:
Internships & Clerkships in federal/state courts and private law firms.
On-Campus Recruiting Events where firms interview students.
Career Counseling & Resume Workshops to help with job applications.
Being in New York City gives students an advantage in terms of both professional networking and lifestyle. Students enjoy:
Networking events at law firms and courts across NYC.
Cultural attractions, including Broadway, museums, and concerts.
Restaurants, cafes, and social events in Tribeca and beyond.
Easy access to Central Park, Times Square, and Wall Street for relaxation and exploration.
NYLS offers comprehensive support services to help students succeed, including:
Academic Advising & Mentorship Programs
Mental Health & Counseling Services
Disability Services & Accessibility Support
Bar Exam Preparation Programs
Although NYLS does not provide on-campus housing, it offers housing resources to help students find apartments in Tribeca, Brooklyn, and other nearby areas. Many students choose to live in shared apartments, student housing facilities, or private rentals within commuting distance.
Students at NYLS balance their academic workload with social and recreational activities. With NYC’s parks, gyms, yoga studios, and outdoor spaces, students can maintain a healthy lifestyle while managing their rigorous law school schedules.
Overall Employment Rate: Approximately 90% of graduates secure jobs within 10 months of graduation.
Bar Passage Rate: Around 85% (varies by year).
Median Starting Salary:
Law Firms: $80,000 – $190,000 (Big Law firms pay higher salaries).
Corporate Sector: $75,000 – $120,000.
Government & Public Interest: $55,000 – $85,000.
NYLS graduates work in a variety of legal and non-legal roles, including:
Law Firms (Private Practice) – Litigation, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law.
Corporate Legal Departments – Compliance, Contracts, Mergers & Acquisitions.
Government & Public Sector – Federal & State Courts, District Attorneys’ Offices.
Public Interest & Nonprofits – Legal Aid, Human Rights Organizations.
Judicial Clerkships – Working with federal/state judges.
NYLS graduates have been hired by prestigious organizations, including:
Law Firms: Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP; Latham & Watkins LLP; Kirkland & Ellis LLP; Sullivan & Cromwell LLP.
Corporations: JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Google, Meta.
Government & Public Interest: U.S. Department of Justice, New York City Law Department, Legal Aid Society.
NYLS provides hands-on experience through internships and externships, allowing students to work at:
Top Law Firms (Summer Associate Programs).
New York State & Federal Courts (Judicial Clerkships).
Financial & Tech Companies (Legal Internships in Compliance, Corporate Law).
The Office of Career Planning (OCP) helps students secure internships through:
On-Campus Interviews (OCI).
Job Fairs & Networking Events.
Resume Workshops & Mock Interviews.
NYLS provides comprehensive bar exam preparation programs, ensuring students pass the New York Bar Exam and become licensed attorneys. The school partners with BARBRI, Themis, and Kaplan to provide bar review courses.
The acceptance rate at New York Law School (NYLS) is approximately 50% – 55%, making it a moderately competitive law school.
NYLS considers several factors when evaluating applicants:
LSAT or GRE Score:
Median LSAT Score: 153 – 157
Competitive Applicants: 158+
Undergraduate GPA:
Median GPA: 3.3 – 3.5
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation
Work Experience & Extracurricular Activities
Address:
New York Law School (NYLS)
185 West Broadway,
New York, NY 10013,
United States
Located in Tribeca, Manhattan, one of the most vibrant legal, financial, and cultural districts in New York City.
Close to major law firms, courts, corporate headquarters, and government offices, providing excellent networking and internship opportunities.
Easily accessible by subway, bus, and other public transportation.
