Florida International University College of Law

FIU College of Law

The Florida International University College of Law is one of America's most respected law schools. Located in bustling Miami, Florida, the school provides students with an excellent education in both theoretical and practical aspects of law. The institution opened its doors to students in August of 2002 and has since been accredited by the American Bar Association. It was granted full accreditation on December 1, 2006. The inaugural class graduated on May 22, 2005. Today, the Florida International University College of Law is the only public law school in southern Florida. It is widely regarded as one of the best law schools in the country.

History

Florida International University College of Law has a long history, dating back to the 1986 appointment of Modesto A. Maidique as University president. The school worked towards creating the only public law school in South Florida for many years, meeting resistance from the Florida Board of Regents, which had several other Florida law school graduates. Maidique also opposed the opening of any new public law schools in Florida. When Governor Jeb Bush pushed the project through the state legislature, along with re-establishing a law school at Florida A & M University, the College of Law was finally realized in 2000.

Leonard Strickman was hired as the inaugural Dean. He brought a wealth of experience, having served as Dean of the Northern Illinois University College of Law and the University of Arkansas School of Law and having been a member of the American Bar Association Accreditation Committee during the 1990s.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg formally dedicated the law school building an Associate Justice for the United States Supreme Court on February 10, 2007. The event took place at the FIU Pharmed Arena and was preceded and followed by tours of the new law school building.

FIU Law was ranked in the third tier of the four tiers of law school in U.S. News & World Report's 2007 rankings, marking the first time a new law school has been so highly ranked in several decades. FIU Law graduates passed the Florida bar exam with a 94 percent passing rate, the highest in Florida, in December 2006.

Admissions

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	156 - 158 - 159	158 - 160 - 162
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.35 - 3.65 - 3.78	3.40 - 3.69 - 3.84
Acceptance rate	27.3%	20.6%
Applications received	1877	2365
Acceptances	513	480
Matriculants	133	168

Florida International University College of Law is an excellent choice for those pursuing a legal education. This college has an impressive acceptance rate of 34.16%, which means that out of the 2,364 applicants during the 2022 application cycle, 486 were offered admission, and 166 accepted this offer.

Regarding the academic performance of the 1L class, the median LSAT score is 160, with the 25th percentile at 158 and the 75th percentile at 162. The GPA also stands out, with a median GPA of 3.69, and 25th percentile at 3.4, and the 75th percentile at 3.84.

Florida International University College of Law is a great school to pursue a legal education. With excellent admission rates and top-notch academic performance, this college is worth considering for outstanding law school experience.

Application Process

All prospective students applying to Florida International University College of Law must submit their applications via the LSAC website. If you have any questions or need assistance completing your application, please get in touch with the Admissions Office at admitq@brooklaw.edu. The Credential Assembly Service (CAS) is an LSAC service, and for any technical assistance or related questions, please get in touch with LSAC directly.

In addition to submitting your application via the LSAC website, you will also need to submit several supplemental documents for your application to be considered complete: A resume outlining your educational and professional background; A personal statement between 1-3 pages in length; An explanation, if needed, to affirmative responses to Character and Fitness related questions; Dean's Certification Form (if necessary); Optional essay submissions; Letter of Good Standing. If you have attended another law school and are applying as a transfer student, or even if you attended another law school for a single day, you would be required to submit a Letter of Good Standing from that other law school. Provide any supplemental documents to ensure your application is completed and thus accepted by the University. They strongly encourage you to take great care and attention when submitting all components of your application, as it is essential for you to present yourself in the best possible light.

Application Deadline

Those applying to Florida International University College of Law should be aware that although a reportable LSAT or GRE score is not required when applying, no admission decision can be made until either score has been received. Applications are available beginning September 1 each year and are reviewed on a rolling basis. It is in the candidate's best interest to complete and submit all required application materials as soon as possible, keeping in mind the several weeks it may take for the CAS to process their Law School Report.

Applications completed by February 1 are given first consideration; however, those taking the LSAT administered in June may still be eligible for fall admission. There has yet to be a final deadline for regular J.D. Admissions.

Tuition and Financial Aid

At Florida International University College of Law, tuition and expenses vary depending on the program's chosen duration. All J.D. students must complete a minimum of 85 credits for graduation, but regular tuition includes an additional three credits, which are optional, making it a total of 88 credits. Thus, students who select the full-time three-year program would have to pay for 88 credits, while those opting for the part-time four-year program may need to pay more. Expenses such as books and supplies, health insurance, transportation, etc., can significantly add to the tuition expenses. Further, students who select joint degree programs or obtain certifications in specialized areas such as intellectual property, tax law, or international law may also incur additional expenses. To select the most suitable program, prospective students must consider the available tuition and other financial options.

FIRST YEAR

	Living Independently	Living with Parents
Tuition	$67,850	$67,850
General Fees (plus $25 for 1L students)	$471	$471
Total Tuition and Fees	$68,321	$68,321

Books	$2,000	$2,000
Housing	$16,200	$0
Living Expenses	$6,000	$6,000
Utilities	$1,575	$1,575
Transportation	$1,175	$1,175
Total Living Expenses	$26,950	$10,750

Cost of Attendance	$95,271	$79,071

Living independently at Florida International University College of Law can be costly, with the estimated total living expenses at $26,950 for the year. This amount includes everything a student needs to cover to live independently, such as rent, utilities, groceries, toiletries, and other necessities. For those who have the option to live with their parents, the number of expenses can be drastically reduced to an estimated $10,750. This amount covers basic school costs such as tuition, textbooks, food, and other necessary living supplies. Living with family or friends may also be an inexpensive alternative for students looking to cut down on living expenses while attending Florida International University College of Law.

Financial Aid

Financing your legal education is an essential step in attaining the degree of Juris Doctor (JD). Brooklyn Law School offers a variety of financial aid programs and sources to help students pursue their dreams. In the last year alone, an impressive 89.2% of enrolled students received some form of financial aid, which may include need-based grants, scholarships, and loans. Financial aid from federal and state resources is based on eligibility and financial need. Additionally, there are a variety of merit-based scholarships which can be used to help fund your education. At Florida International University College of Law (FIU), the Office of Student Financial Affairs works with students to develop a financial aid package tailored to their needs. The FIU Financial Aid Office is committed to providing students with the necessary resources to pursue their academic goals.

Scholarships and Grants

Brooklyn Law School provides access to merit-based scholarships, need-based, and public service grants. Click here for more details.

Federal Student Loans and Repayment

All admitted applicants and current students have extensive financial aid resources available on BLS Connect, including student loan debt management, student loan default, student loan interest rates/ fees repayment options, BLS LRAP (Loan Repayment Assistance Program), and Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Every admitted applicant can attend financial aid webinars and receive one-on-one financial aid counseling. Email Sissel.funaro@brooklaw.edu to participate in a webinar or to request a counseling appointment. Click here for more detail.

Yellow Ribbon Program

For eligible veterans, Yellow Ribbon allows law schools and other institutions of higher learning to partially or fully fund tuition and fees. It is designed to provide additional financial support with the Post 9-11/GI Bill. Click here for more details.

Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)

Florida International University College of Law was one of the first law schools to recognize and address the need for its graduates to pursue public interest careers. In 1990, the institution implemented its Loan Repayment Assistance Program, which has since awarded more than $2.4 million in loan forgiveness to those working in public service positions.

The College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 (CCRAA) has increased the options for graduates pursuing public service. By consolidating their loans with the federal Direct Loan Program, those who continue to work in public service for ten years can have their loans forgiven. This critical activity has been instrumental in providing financial assistance for law students committed to a career in public service.

Florida International University College of Law is proud to support its graduates who pursue public interest careers. The Loan Repayment Assistance Program and CCRAA have been instrumental in providing this assistance. With these two programs, FIU College of Law has empowered its graduates to decide to pursue public service and alleviate the financial burdens associated with their law degrees.

Academics and Curriculum

The International and Comparative Law Program at FIU Law is among the most unique and rigorous in the United States. All international students must take a course entitled "An Introduction to International and Comparative Law" during their first year. This is in addition to the other required first-year courses, which include Constitutional law, Torts, Contracts, Criminal law, Civil Procedure, and Property. Each substantive class also dedicates a portion of its discussion to international and comparative issues in that area of law.

Upper-level requirements for the program include an additional course relating to international law, an additional LSV class, a writing seminar, and a course in Professional Responsibility. The curriculum is designed to give students a comprehensive and practical education in international and comparative law, preparing them for a globalized career legal marketplace.

Foreign lawyers who wish to take advantage of the Comparative and International Law program at Florida International University College of Law can do so through the school's LL.M. program. The LL.M. program is a one-year, full-time law degree program designed for foreign lawyers who wish to understand American law comprehensively.

In-House Clinics

In this program, students take on the role of a lawyer and are responsible for making decisions, preparing legal documents, and performing other tasks associated with representing individuals or entities. Clinics have practical components (such as working on actual cases) and academic seminars. The in-house clinics are hosted at Florida International University College of Law by faculty members who guide and manage the program. Students benefit from the hands-on experience in the clinic and academic guidance provided by experienced faculty members.

At Florida International University College of Law, student lawyers can gain practical legal experience while learning from faculty in real-world scenarios. This is an excellent way for students to improve their legal skills while gaining a better understanding of the practical application of the law. Clinics also allow students to network with faculty and other professionals in the field. Whether it is working on actual cases or learning from seminars, clinics at Florida International University College of Law provide an invaluable experience for its student lawyers. ALL IN-HOUSE CLINIC

Externships

Florida International University College of Law (FIU Law) offers a unique opportunity for students to earn credit while gaining valuable real-world experience. The program allows students to work in an approved off-campus law office, such as a government agency, non-profit legal services organization, judicial chambers, private law firm, or corporate law department. Along with their fieldwork, students attend a companion seminar on campus led by experienced faculty who offer guidance and advice to maximize the educational value of the experience.

Civil Practice Externship
Criminal Defense Externship
Criminal Practice Externship
Health Law Externship
Health Law Practicum
Judicial Clerkship Externship
Real Estate and Community Development Externship

Faculty

At Florida International University College of Law, their students have access to a stellar team of renowned scholars and teachers who bring passion and dedication to their craft. These experts have devoted their lives to inspiring, educating, and preparing the next generation of lawyers for success.

Their faculty comprises distinguished legal professionals highly respected for their extensive knowledge and expertise in their respective fields. They provide invaluable guidance to students, teaching them to think critically, analyze complex legal issues and develop practical solutions for real-world problems. Their faculty also provides ongoing mentorship, helping students gain the skills they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

At FIU College of Law, they are committed to advancing knowledge and excellence in the study of law. Their faculty is dedicated to helping their students develop their professional skills, hone their legal acumen, and become responsible citizens who use their talents for the greater good. They strive to create a learning environment that fosters critical thinking, encourages collaboration, and cultivates an appreciation for justice.

The FIU Law offers an excellent education in the legal field, with experienced and knowledgeable faculty members teaching various courses. The college also has various visiting professors who teach subjects within their areas of expertise, providing students with a well-rounded education. With small class sizes, FIU Law students receive individualized attention and can get the most out of their education. If you're looking for a top-notch legal education, the FIU College of Law is a great choice. The notable faculty of FIU Law includes:

Thomas E. Baker, professor of Constitutional law and former Administrative Assistant to Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist
Jorge Esquirol, professor of International law, who had previously been Director of Academic Affairs in the Harvard Law School Graduate Program
Elizabeth Foley, professor of Civil procedure and former Legislative Aide to two U.S. Congressmen, Ron Wyden of Oregon and Michael Andrews of Texas
Aya Gruber, professor of Criminal law, had assisted Alan Dershowitz during the O.J. Simpson case before becoming a public defender in Washington, D.C.
Andrew J. McClurg, professor of Torts and author of several books, including a comedic take on the legal education process, The Law School Trip
Mathew C. Mirow, professor of Property law and legal historian
Ediberto Roman, professor of Contract law and author of numerous articles and a book on the disenfranchisement of residents of the United States inhabited insular possessions.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

The recent graduating class of FIU Law had the highest 10-month employment rates in the school's history, as the American Bar Association reported. Out of the 95% of employed students, 3% chose to pursue a master's degree in tax law or other graduate degrees.

Dean Antony Page stated that the graduates had found satisfying careers not just in South Florida but in various fields such as private law practice, government, public interest, business, and more. He continued to say that their success is due to their professional diligence and the excellent education from FIU Law.

Not only did the graduates do well in securing employment, but they also performed above the state average on the Florida bar exam. This is something that they have been consistently doing for the past 14 exams, often ranking first among all law schools in the state. Their cumulative first-time passing rate during this span is also 88%, again, first among all Florida law schools.

Assistant Dean of Bar Preparation Raul Ruiz congratulated the students on their success, saying that it was due to their hard work and dedication to preparing for the exam. He noted that they spent hours studying thousands of questions to achieve great results.

FIU is known for its excellent faculty and robust curriculum, which allows students to pass the bar on their first try at an impressive rate; 89.2% of FIU graduates have successfully done so. FIU alums are recognized in the legal world for their academic excellence, and the university is consistently ranked among the top law schools in Florida, according to US News & World Report. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and professional development, FIU students gain an invaluable head start as they begin their careers.

FIU's College of Law is an excellent choice for students looking to pursue a career in the legal profession. With its impressive job placement rate, strong faculty, and successful graduates, FIU will surely set you up for success as a law professional.

Quality of life

Florida International University College of Law is a premier educational institution located in the heart of Miami. Its proximity to the nearby beaches of South Beach, Miami Beach, and Coconut Grove make it an ideal location for students who want to take advantage of the area’s many attractions.

The College of Law boasts a newly remodeled library and an array of state-of-the-art technology and resources. The college’s diverse student body, which is 63 percent minority enrollment, has earned law school recognition from Hispanic Business Magazine for its inclusion initiatives.

Students also benefit from plentiful housing options both on and off campus. With so many options available in the area, it’s easy to find a place that suits your lifestyle. From beachfront condos to luxury apartments, the Miami area has it all. All of this combines to make Florida International University College of Law an excellent choice for aspiring law school students looking for an exceptional educational experience in a vibrant city.

In addition to its superb academic offerings, students can also participate in internships and clinics on campus, allowing them to gain real-world experience. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why Florida International University College of Law is one of the premier law schools in the nation.

Housing

The FIU College of Law is one of Florida's leading law schools. Florida International University College of Law is committed to providing affordable and convenient housing solutions for its students. All first-year students who apply by the May 1 deadline are guaranteed a place in one of the university's residences, making it easy to access the downtown Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights areas - two of the most sought-after residential neighborhoods in the US. The Law School also offers a Dining Hall and nearby cafes and restaurants offering diverse cuisine from around the world for students to enjoy during their breaks. Residents of the school's residences will find that their rental costs are below market rate for apartments in New York City - making FIU College of Law an excellent choice for those looking to save money while attending law school.

Housing Options

Dining Options

In-School Dining

The Florida International University College of Law's dining hall provides students, faculty, and staff with an inviting environment to gather and enjoy a meal or snack. Situated on the fourth floor of the main campus building, this spacious room features a mezzanine section perfect for studying, eating, or simply relaxing. The food station is the highlight of the dining hall. Here, their resident chef offers a variety of freshly prepared meals that change daily to reflect different themed cuisines from around the world. Enjoy everything from omelets and pasta to salads and sandwiches — all made while you wait! Their food station also serves vegetarian options and vegan and gluten-free items.

Brooklyn Neighborhood Cuisine

Brooklyn is a culinary paradise, boasting many restaurants for every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for an intimate dining experience or convenient take-out, there's something to suit your cravings. Yelp can help you find reviews of popular eateries in the area, GrubHub can provide easy delivery options, and food connoisseur Andrea Strong's blog, The Strong Buzz, can guide you to the best dishes Brooklyn has to offer. Florida International University College of Law students are lucky to have all these options within reach – so go out and explore! Bon appétit!

Contact Information

Florida International University
College of Law
Office of Admissions, RDB 1055
Miami, FL 33199
(305) 348-8006
lawadmit@fiu.edu
www.law.fiu.edu/admissions

Summary

Established	2000
Location	Miami, FL
Dean	Antony Page
2021 US News Ranking	98th
LSAT Median Score	160
GPA Median Score	3.69
Bar Passage Rate	89% (2022)
Employment Rate	40% (2022)
Cost	$22,098
Average Debt	$93,241
Application Deadline	March 31, 2023

Forum and Discussion

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References

Florida International University College of Law Website

Rank #98
LSD Law
LSAC Guide
How to Learn to Do Well on a Law School Exam
Success in Law School - A Unique Perspective
The Guide to Law School Loans
Guide to Fee Waivers
FIU Admission
FIU Faculty
FIU Student Life
FIU Student Careers
FIU Library

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Florida International University College of Law

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