Southern Illinois University School of Law
SIU Law School is a collaborative community that allows students to thrive. Through relationships, experiences, and connections, the law school opens doors for students to navigate their careers on their terms. The school has an affordable tuition rate for all domestic students, which allows students more freedom to chart their career paths. The faculty is nationally recognized for its legal scholarship and are known for its excellent teaching.
SIU is a nationally ranked public research university that is dedicated to access and opportunity, inclusive excellence, creativity, and student success. Their unique traditions help them to provide their students with the best possible education and prepare them for future careers. They also work to improve their communities and make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.
Contents
History
SIU Carbondale is a comprehensive university, Founded in 1869, focused on research and student-centered initiatives. The school has a strong commitment to service and outreach, and in 2013 alone, more than 237,000 residents of central and southern Illinois benefited from the school's 578 initiatives with community partners.
SIU Carbondale is a diverse school that has been around for many years. Minority students comprise 29% of the population, and the school offers many degrees to students of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The area surrounding the campus is also very beautiful, with plenty of parks and recreational areas nearby.
Admissions
The School of Law Admissions Committee will review every application holistically. This means they will consider many factors, including GPA and LSAT scores, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and work experience. They welcome applications from students with any academic background.
Statistics
| Admissions Stats | ||
| Class of: | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT | 146-149-152 | 144-148-152 |
| 25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA | 2.94-3.30-3.62 | 2.91-3.38-3.58 |
| Acceptance rate | 56.7% | 67.4% |
| Applications received | 549 | 582 |
| Acceptances | 332 | 392 |
| Matriculants | 107 | 107 |
For the 2024–2025 admissions cycle, Southern Illinois University School of Law reported an LSAT range of 144 to 152 for the 25th through 75th percentiles, with a median falling around 148. The corresponding undergraduate GPA range for admitted students spanned 2.91 to 3.58, reflecting a broad academic profile among applicants. The school received 582 applications, ultimately extending 392 offers of admission, resulting in a relatively high 67.4 percent acceptance rate. Despite the large number of offers, the entering class held steady, with 107 matriculants, matching the previous year’s incoming cohort.
2025 Application Checklist
To apply for admission to Southern Illinois University School of Law in 2025, you’ll need to complete the LSAC application and submit all required materials through the Credential Assembly Service. This includes official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended, your LSAT score, and a detailed personal statement that explains your motivation for pursuing a law degree. You’ll also need to provide a current resume outlining your academic history, employment experience, leadership roles, community involvement, and any gaps longer than six months. Most applicants submit two letters of recommendation, typically from professors or supervisors who can speak to their academic potential or professional readiness. An application fee is required unless you qualify for a waiver. Transfer applicants or students applying through a 3+3 accelerated program must include additional documents, such as a letter verifying good academic standing and, in some cases, course descriptions or syllabi.
2025 Application Deadline
For the 2025 admission cycle, applications open after September 1 of the year before you plan to enroll, and the final deadline to submit all materials for first-year JD consideration is July 1. Although the law school may review applications received after the deadline, submitting early increases your chances of admission and scholarship consideration. SIU Law evaluates applications only when all required items are received, meaning incomplete files won’t be reviewed. Preparing your materials early in the cycle can help ensure timely processing and keep you competitive within the applicant pool.
Application Requirements
The following is the content for an application for admission to law school. The application can be found online at lsac.org. In your own words, write a personal statement discussing your reasons for wanting to attend law school. Include your current resume, LSAT score, and transcripts from all institutions you have attended, including graduate work, if applicable. Additionally, include two letters of recommendation from people who know you well.
Qualifications For Admissions to the Bar
The following is the content for an application for admission to law school. The application can be found online at lsac.org. In your own words, write a personal statement discussing your reasons for wanting to attend law school. Include your current resume, LSAT score, and transcripts from all institutions you have attended, including graduate work, if applicable. Additionally, include two letters of recommendation from people who know you well.
2025 Tuition and Cost of Attendance
For the 2025 academic year, tuition and mandatory fees at Southern Illinois University School of Law total approximately $21,768. This rate applies to both Illinois residents and out-of-state students, making the cost structure relatively straightforward compared to other law schools that charge higher nonresident tuition. When you factor in additional expenses such as housing, food, books, transportation, and personal costs, the estimated total cost of attendance rises to about $37,842 for the year. These figures reflect average living and academic costs for a full-time law student, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your lifestyle and housing choices. It’s important to budget with the full cost of attendance in mind, since tuition represents only part of the financial picture.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attendance at Southern Illinois University School of Law reflects more than just tuition. It represents the full financial commitment required to pursue your JD in 2025, including academic expenses, living costs, and the day-to-day essentials that support your ability to study effectively. SIU Law is considered one of the more affordable public law schools in the country, but it’s still important to understand how the numbers come together so you can budget realistically and avoid financial strain during your studies. The estimated annual cost of attendance for a full-time 2025 student is approximately $37,842, a figure designed to capture the tuition rate alongside average living needs in the Carbondale area. While your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on lifestyle, employment status, and living arrangements, this estimate provides a reliable baseline for planning.
Tuition accounts for the largest portion of your expenses, totaling $21,768 for the academic year. Because SIU Law charges the same rate for residents and nonresidents, the tuition calculation is simple and consistent for all applicants. Beyond tuition, the university includes estimated costs for housing, food, books, transportation, personal items, and academic supplies. Many students underestimate these non-tuition expenses, but they’re a significant part of your yearly budget. Housing and food alone typically make up the majority of non-academic costs, and transportation can vary widely depending on whether you live close to campus or commute from a surrounding area. Books and supplies for law school tend to be higher than what many students experienced in undergrad, given the volume of casebooks, supplements, and legal research tools.
These estimates are not bills but planning tools, meaning the school isn’t charging you for housing or personal expenses directly. Instead, these categories help determine your financial aid eligibility so you can borrow enough to cover your real-world costs without exceeding federal limits. If you plan to live with family, work part time, or manage expenses carefully, you may be able to bring your total cost well below the estimated figure. On the other hand, if you live alone, rely heavily on ride-sharing, or purchase new books each semester, your personal costs could run higher. Understanding these categories early helps you build a realistic financial plan long before you step into your first law school classroom.
| Category | Estimated Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Mandatory Fees | $21,768 | Applies to both residents and nonresidents. |
| Housing and Food | $9,000 to $10,000 | Varies based on living arrangements; off-campus costs may be lower or higher. |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 to $1,800 | Casebooks and supplemental materials drive most of this cost. |
| Transportation | $2,000 to $2,500 | Depends on commuting distance and vehicle expenses. |
| Personal Expenses | $2,500 to $3,000 | Includes clothing, hygiene items, phone bill, and other essentials. |
| Total Estimated Cost of Attendance | $37,842 | Represents a typical full-time student's yearly budget. |
2025 Financial Aid Overview
Approximately half of SIU Law’s full-time students receive grants or scholarships, and the average award is around $9,500 per year. This amount covers a little more than forty percent of annual tuition, reducing the typical student’s out-of-pocket tuition burden significantly. When you apply this average financial aid amount to the overall cost of attendance, many students see their yearly estimated expenses drop from about $37,800 to closer to $28,300. SIU Law also offers access to federal student loans, merit-based scholarships, and potential work-study opportunities, all of which can help you manage educational costs more effectively. Because living expenses make up a substantial portion of the total budget, thoughtful planning around housing, books, and personal spending can further reduce the financial pressure of attending law school.
Scholarship and Award
At SIU School of Law, they offer competitive admissions scholarships that can cover the cost of tuition. These scholarships are awarded to students at the time of admission and are unconditional and guaranteed for all three years of legal education as long as the recipient remains in good academic standing. Some additional scholarships and awards enrolled SIU School of Law students may apply for.
- Endowed Admissions Scholarships
- Ameren Corporation Frankie Muse Freeman Trailblazer
- Rosemary T. Bickett Memorial Scholarship
- Beth and Darin Boggs Scholarship
- Pat Caporale Scholarship
- Class of 1994 – Outstanding Research Assistant
- Al H. and James A. Chesser Endowed Scholarship
- Howard B. Eisenberg Client Service Award
- Bessie Engram Community Service Award
- August L. "Gus" Fowler Scholarship
- Lisa Franke Scholarship
- Gilbert Family Memorial Scholarship
- Harold W. "Hank" Hannah Agricultural Law Scholarship
- Jackson County Bar Association Scholarship
- David C. Johnson Scholarship
- Julius A. and Norma H. Johnson
- Lincoln's Inn (Certificate Only)
- Thurgood Marshall Award
- Judge James O. Monroe, Jr. Award
- Scott H. Nichols Memorial Endowed Scholarship
- Andrew Range Scholarship
- Judge Richard E. Richman Ethics Scholarship
- Judge Richard E. Richman Endowed Scholarship
- Donny J. Schmeder Memorial Endowed Scholarship
- Edgar O. and Bonnie Zimmer Law Scholarship
- Competitive Apply To Scholarships
- Bar Exam Support Funds
International Students
The University of Illinois School of Law requires all applicants, regardless of their country of origin, to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to be considered for admission. To be admitted, applicants must have a minimum score of 600 (PBT), 250 (CBT), or 100 (IBT). If applicants do not meet the minimum TOEFL score, they will be required to retake the test. In addition, all international applicants must complete the Application Material Checklist and have their academic records sent directly to LSAC for translation and evaluation. Admitted international students who need an I-20 form to enter the United States must contact the SIU Center for International Education.
Transfer Applicants
Transfer students can usually transfer up to 30-semester credits from another law school. To be admitted as a transfer student, you must satisfy all graduation requirements of the SIU School of Law (90 semester hours). This may require taking a first-year course that you didn't take at your original law school, or one that the Associate Dean determines is different from your original school. Your official transcripts from your current law school must show all grades earned in all courses, and you must also provide a letter of good standing from your current law school dean or registrar. Admitted transfer students will be required to provide course descriptions for syllabi for all first-year law courses completed for a transcript evaluation of transfer credit.
Visiting Students
Students who wish to attend Southern Illinois University School of Law as visiting students must be in good standing at their home law school and have completed at least one year of law school. Visiting students are limited to taking 30-semester credits at SIU School of Law, and the credits earned can be transferred back to the student's home school to count towards graduation requirements. To attend SIU School of Law as a visiting student, the applicant must complete an Application Material Checklist and have an official law school transcript from their current law school showing grades earned in all courses sent to the Law School Admission Council. The applicant must also provide a letter of good standing from their law school dean or registrar certifying their good standing.
Employment Prospects
Southern Illinois University School of Law consistently reports solid employment outcomes for its graduating class, particularly for students seeking positions in Illinois, Missouri, and surrounding Midwest markets. Most graduates secure roles in small to mid-sized law firms, government agencies, public interest organizations, and judicial clerkships. SIU Law’s strong regional presence helps students connect with employers who value practical training and community-focused legal experience. A meaningful portion of graduates also obtain positions in corporate or business-related roles, often in compliance, human resources, or contract administration. While large national law firms are less common destinations, SIU graduates typically find stable employment in practice areas such as criminal law, family law, civil litigation, and administrative law. Employment outcomes generally reflect strong placement for students who actively pursue internships, clinics, and networking opportunities throughout their time in law school.
2025 Bar Passage
SIU Law’s bar passage performance is solid and consistently competitive within Illinois. Recent statistics show a first-time bar passage rate hovering around the mid-70 percent range, placing the school close to the statewide average for test-takers. This performance reflects SIU Law’s emphasis on doctrinal mastery, practical skills training, and bar preparation support that begins during the second and third year of law school. Many students participate in bar prep workshops, practice exams, and faculty-led review sessions designed to strengthen their understanding of highly tested subjects. Because a majority of graduates remain in Illinois or neighboring states, the curriculum aligns closely with the content and structure of the Uniform Bar Exam, which helps maintain performance reliability from year to year. Students who take full advantage of academic support services and bar prep resources tend to see stronger individual outcomes, and the school continues to invest in bar success programming to support each cohort.
Quality of Life
Student life at SIU is filled with many opportunities to get involved on campus. Housing, dining, and student center facilities are all top-notch and offer many amenities for students to take advantage of. There are also plenty of student recreation center options, including a climbing wall and an outdoor pool. The university calendars are jam-packed with events and activities for students to get involved in, and plenty of multicultural resources are available for students who want to connect with others from different backgrounds. Lastly, fraternities and sororities offer a great way for students to connect with other passionate students on campus.
Law Library
The law library provides access to a variety of electronic legal materials, as well as a rich print and microform collection. In addition, the law library has evolved to meet the changing nature of legal research and user expectations by providing wireless access. Law students also have virtual and physical access to the university's Morris Library, which houses a significant research collection. Law librarians are committed to teaching law students the fundamentals of legal research.
Housing
University Housing offers a variety of living options to fit all students' needs. Whether you are a freshman, a non-traditional student, married with children, or a graduate student, we have an option that will fit your lifestyle. Make sure to review the eligibility requirements for apartment living to see if you qualify.
Students who choose to live in our Residence Halls can choose between the West and East campus locations. They offer single and double occupancy options, living learning communities, and much more.
The three apartment complexes on campus have different options for housing. There is housing for singles, graduate students, and families.
LLCs are one of the many ways we support our residents' personal development and academic success. They offer students a chance to live with others with similar majors or interests. This can be a great way to get more out of your college experience, as you can connect with people who have similar passions and can help you navigate college life.
At University Housing, they work to provide their students with a variety of housing options that accommodate their needs. This includes gender inclusivity housing, veteran housing options, international student housing, and accessibility features. They want to ensure that all of their students feel comfortable and supported while living on campus.
Synopsis
SIU School of Law provides an excellent foundation for students to thrive in their legal careers. Through the Lawyering Skills and Professionalism Program, which the ABA has praised, students can apply their knowledge in the real world from day one. In addition, there are many opportunities for Field Experiences that give students practical experience. The alum network is also very powerful and can help recent graduates find jobs and externships. Carbondale is a great place to live, with plenty of opportunities for students to get involved on campus and in the community.
Contact Information
School of Law, Southern Illinois University
1150 Douglas Drive, Mailcode 6804
Carbondale, Illinois 62901
Admissions Office
Email: lawadmit@siu.edu
Phone: 618-453-8858
https://law.siu.edu/admissions/index.html
Summary
| Established | 1869 |
| Location | Carbondale, Illinois 62901 |
| Dean | Hannah Brenner Johnson |
| 2025 US News Ranking | 175th |
| LSAT Median Score | 148 |
| GPA Median Score | 3.38 |
| Bar Passage Rate | 65.7% (2025) |
| Employment Rate | N/A (2025) |
| Cost | "$21,768 (in-state, full-time),
$21,768 (out-of-state, full-time)" |
| Average Debt | $74,397 |
| Application Deadline | 1-Jul-2025 |
Forum and Discussion
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Reference
Southern Illinois University School of Law
Ranked #175
LSD Law
BCG Attorney's Advice for Associates
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
