University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law

Located in Sacramento, California, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law has plenty to offer. The academic program is solid, and the state-capital location presents invaluable opportunities for law students. Tuition is pricy, however, relative to starting salaries, and Pacific graduates are likely to be limited in their job search.

History

Located in the state capital of Sacramento, California, McGeorge School of Law has been an internationally renowned leader in legal education since its founding in 1924. Its commitment to public law, international law, and advocacy have earned an unmatched reputation for excellence.

The school's ability to offer degrees across various disciplines makes it an ideal choice for students seeking to develop a well-rounded skillset while specializing in one area. McGeorge's courses allow students to gain knowledge and practical experience in areas ranging from public law and international law to professional and clinical practice.

McGeorge School of Law is also dedicated to community service, preparing students to give back to their communities through public service projects and pro bono work. This commitment to social responsibility is reflected in its rigorous curriculum and extensive academic resources, providing students with the tools they need to become ethical, successful lawyers.

Overall, McGeorge School of Law offers a unique learning experience that combines theoretical and practical legal knowledge with a commitment to service and excellence. With its dynamic faculty, innovative curriculum, and opportunities for hands-on experience, the school is committed to helping students reach their highest potential.

Admissions

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	150 - 154 - 156	152 - 155 - 157
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.07 - 3.4 - 3.62	3.03 - 3.44 - 3.66
Acceptance rate	55.9%	53.6%
Applications received	970	942
Acceptances	542	505
Matriculants	44	44

At the University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge) School of Law, 942 applicants applied for admission to the 2022 class. Of those applicants, 505 were offered admission. With the 1L class size set at 170, 30.50% of those offered admission decided to attend the university.

The median LSAT score and GPA of those accepted were 155 and 3.44, respectively. The 25th percentile LSAT was 152, and the 75th percentile was 157; likewise, the 25th percentile GPA was 3.03, and the 75th percentile GPA was 3.66.

Overall, the University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge) School of Law is competitive, requiring applicants to have solid grades and LSAT scores to be considered for admission. Those who are accepted tend to be very successful in the legal field, as demonstrated by their ability to pass the bar exam at a high rate. As such, those interested in attending Pacific McGeorge should make sure that they are well-prepared to meet the school's admissions requirements.

Application Deadline

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law encourages prospective students to submit their applications for the fall 2023 semester by February 1 to have the best chance of being accepted on a rolling basis. Those who cannot meet this priority deadline will still be considered up until June 1; however, only test scores from the June 2023 LSAT exam will be accepted.

How to Apply

To apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, you must use the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) platform. It is important to remember that McGeorge does not accept hard-copy applications, and your application must be complete when submitted. The LSAC allows students to apply for admission and scholarship programs, housing, and other services to assist them in their law school application process.

To use the LSAC platform, you need to create an account and provide information such as name, email address, mailing address, and phone number. Once registered on the platform, students can access several resources, including their online application form.

Application Requirements

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers students a unique opportunity to pursue their legal aspirations. To apply for admission, prospective students must submit a completed application form, a personal statement, a resume, and two letters of recommendation through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Up to three letters of recommendation are accepted. Furthermore, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit their CAS report with all undergraduate transcripts, LSAT scores, and LSAC Writing Samples. Lastly, an email address is required to receive communication from the school.

Personal Statement

The statement should be four and a half pages, double-spaced, in 12 pt. font. An applicant's personal statement is a great chance to give an insight into who the individual is and what makes them stand out from other candidates.

Resume

Provide a Resume of full-time employment and other activities, starting with the most recent. Include dates, name(s) of an employer(s), and position(s) held. List the hours worked per week and academic honors received since entering college. List extracurricular activities, hobbies, and community service. Describe the nature and extent of employment during college and include volunteer work. Please include summers. Explain any periods after high school not accounted for by the preceding educational and employment history. However, all other high school information should be omitted.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants applying to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law must submit two letters of recommendation directly to LSAC, with a maximum allowance of three. It is wise for applicants to reach out to professors, administrators, and other college personnel who have had the opportunity to assess their academic skills, time management, research, and analysis abilities.

For those who have been out of school, letters of recommendation from employers, business colleagues, and mentors can be submitted instead. Letters from family members and close personal friends are discouraged since they usually need to accurately assess the applicant's skills and potential for success in law school. These letters should focus on the applicant's skills and abilities relevant to their potential success in law school.

Applicants must submit strong letters of recommendation that accurately reflect their academic capabilities and other attributes, as they can be a critical factor in the admissions decision process. Applicants should provide all necessary information to writers to craft effective letters of recommendation.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and LSAT

For anyone wishing to apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, it is necessary to register with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) for both their Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Applicants must provide official transcripts from prior college and university coursework directly to LSAC, and the scores from the LSAT must be from administrations within five years before the year of enrollment. Additionally, applicants whose undergraduate degrees are not from educational institutions within the United States, its territories, or Canada must use LSAC's Credential Assembly Service for international document authentication and evaluation. All application files will not be reviewed until a law school report, including an LSAT score, has been received by the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law.

Transcript

To apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, applicants must submit official transcripts from any college and university they attended. These transcripts should be sent directly to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Once received, LSAC will review each transcript and forward a report detailing their findings to the law school the applicant has designated.

Tuition and Financial Aid

2022-2023 Tuition Summary

Day Division 2022-2023 ($1,950 per unit)	Fall	Spring	Total
Block Rate (12 to 17 units) ¹	$28,679	$28,679	$57,358
Student Government Fee	$50	$50	$100
Health Insurance²	$1,793	$1,793	$3,586
Wellness Center Fee³	$165	$165	$330

Evening Division 2022-2023 ($1,950 per unit)	Fall	Spring	Total
Block Rate Unit (8 to 10 units) ⁴	$19,047	$19,047	$38,094
Student Government Fee	$50	$50	$100
Health Insurance⁶	$1,793	$1,793	$3,586
Wellness Center Fee⁷	$165	$165	$330
Summer School ⁵	varies	varies	varies

Grants

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers several grants and funding programs to help students cover the cost of their tuition. These grants are generally awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or performance. The Federal Pell Grant is one such program, assisting students with the highest levels of financial need. For 2020-2021, Pell Grants range from $639 to $6,345. The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another program providing additional funding for undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are also recipients of the Pell Grant. In such cases, Pacific students are typically awarded up to $1,000 annually.

Scholarships

At the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, an incredible community is committed to investing in students’ success by providing various scholarship opportunities. These scholarships are generously funded by donors who recognize how important it is to give back and support current students.

Scholarships can come in many shapes and sizes, from full-tuition awards to smaller stipends that can help cover some of the expenses associated with law school. Scholarship recipients are chosen based on academic achievement and financial need. They may be required to fulfill certain conditions, such as maintaining a minimum GPA or completing an internship, to continue receiving the award.

With the help of scholarships, students can reduce their out-of-pocket costs and focus on achieving academic success. At Pacific McGeorge, they take great pride in providing great scholarship opportunities to their deserving students as part of their commitment to helping you realize your dreams and reach your full potential.

Loans

Federal Direct Loans are available to students who submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, regardless of their income level. These loans can help offset the costs of attending the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, providing necessary financial support to enable students to achieve their academic goals.

The amount and type of loan you're eligible to receive are determined by the university each year, considering your Cost of Attendance, Expected Family Contribution (EFC), other financial aid, and current grade level. The types of loans typically available include subsidized, unsubsidized, or a combination of both.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law strives to ensure that all students have access to the financial assistance they need. Federal Direct Loans are an essential part of this equation. They provide clear information regarding loan eligibility and availability offered through the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, including Subsidized Stafford Loans, Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, and Graduate PLUS loans.

Employment Prospects and Bar Passage

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is a notable institution for legal education, with graduates from its program achieving impressive post-graduate successes. After completing their JD program, students often enter into the professional world, where they can expect to make an average median salary of $85,500 upon graduation if they take positions in a private sector setting. Public sector positions offer an average median salary of $67,000.

Regarding the type of jobs McGeorge law graduates take after school, 55.4% find employment in private law firms, and 3.6% go on to clerk for a judge. 14.3% enter public interest occupations, such as civil or human rights law.

The impressive academic offerings at McGeorge are also evident in the fact that 75.2% of its graduates pass their bar exams on their first attempt. This shows that students have received a well-rounded education that adequately prepares them for future professional pursuits. In addition, many of these same students pursue successful careers in law, business, and other fields.

For students considering a legal education at McGeorge School of Law, there is evidence that the school provides an excellent foundation for future success. With high first-time bar pass rates and excellent post-grad salary prospects, it's no wonder why many aspiring lawyers have chosen to attend this esteemed university.

Academics and Curriculum

The Princeton Review gives the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law an "Academic Experience Rating" of 79 out of 100. The same website lists the school's specialties as Criminal law, Environmental law, Government Services, International law, Property law, Taxation, and Intellectual Property law. The specialization in International law is particularly obvious, as the school was tied for the 17th spot (with Stanford and Cornell, of all schools) on the USNews ranking of programs in International law.

Aside from these specialties, McGeorge Law School students complement their classroom experiences with clinical experience (Community Legal Services Clinic, Immigration Law Clinic, Legislative-Process, Strategy and Ethics Clinic…), journal staffing (McGeorge Law Review, Pacific McGeorge Global Business & Development Law Journal, California Initiative Review…) and even dual degrees (JD/MPA, JD.M.Acc., JD/MBA…).

Not all is well at McGeorge, however, as the school sports a mediocre student/faculty ratio, a competitive student body, and facilities-including, the library, that are in dire need of renovation. The above-mentioned specializations and resources, however, as well as the school's state-capital location, which gives students access to numerous opportunities in both government and business settings, seem to outweigh the negatives of the McGeorge Law School academic experience.

Legal Clinics

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is highly committed to providing experiential learning opportunities for its students. Through their pioneering legal clinics, they offer quality pro bono representation to underserved community members and consistently help these individuals attain impressive victories in individual cases and across public policy areas. These clinics are beneficial not only for the clients but for the students as well. Through these clinics, student lawyers learn how to apply legal theory in practical contexts and develop professional lawyering skills that will serve them throughout their careers. Furthermore, they can grow as reflective practitioners who can keep learning from any situation.

The Community Legal Services (CLS) clinic at McGeorge has been serving the local community since 1974 and was even honored with the “Heroes of Human Services” award by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors in 2018. CLS offers various legal services, including immigration law, elder and health law, homeless advocacy, and bankruptcy. These clinics are invaluable to individuals who need legal assistance and students who get to hone their legal skills while providing an invaluable service. This is yet another example of how McGeorge is dedicated to producing qualified, compassionate, and ethical lawyers equipped to make a difference in today’s world.

Externships

Externships allow students to gain hands-on experience and academic credit through their internships. Although externships and internships require similar tasks, they differ in how it is recognized. Internships are not typically part of any educational curriculum and therefore do not offer credits. However, if a student has an existing internship that meets the criteria of an externship, they will obtain academic credit for their work.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers externships to help students gain real-world experience and network with experienced professionals. Their Externships Office ensures that its students get the most out of their externships – guiding academic policies and criteria and helping find the right program for them. They also offer their students access to various resources to help them prepare for their externships and fully use their experience.

The Mock Trial Competition Team Program

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law's Mock Trial Competition Team Program is focused on equipping students with the necessary skills to become top-notch trial lawyers. Through individualized instruction, participants are taught persuasive advocacy techniques and how to appropriately apply the Federal Rules of Evidence in a court of law. These litigators hone their craft by participating in numerous local, regional, and national competitions throughout the year.

In these competitions, teams act as trial counsel for a fictional client. They file pretrial motions, present opening and closing statements, conduct direct and cross-examination of witnesses, and make persuasive arguments to the jury or judge. Through this experience, students gain invaluable insight into the legal system and what it takes to be a successful trial lawyer. By competing at the highest level, they also make lasting connections that can open doors to internships and job opportunities.

At the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, they are proud to offer their students an unparalleled opportunity for growth and professional development through their Mock Trial Competition Team Program. Their program is dedicated to developing the next generation of trial lawyers, and they are confident that their participants will be ready for success in any courtroom.

Moot Court

McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific provides its students with an outstanding moot court program. In these moot court competitions, students must demonstrate their written and oral advocacy skills by representing a case on appeal before a court of last resort or intermediate appellate court. This competition allows students to hone their legal knowledge by diving deep into an array of subject areas, such as International law, Constitutional law, Criminal procedure, and Intellectual property.

McGeorge School of Law sends teams to about 12 or more moot court competitions annually. Day students are eligible to participate in the competition during their third year, while evening students can get involved during their third and fourth years. Additionally, second-year students can apply for the position of research assistant, in which they must conduct legal research on the issues at hand and analyze relevant case laws or statutes.

When applying for moot court competitions, applicants are judged based on several factors, such as their grades from written and oral advocacy courses, law review work, and overall GPA. Those who succeed in the selection process become members of the Moot Court Honors Board for the following academic year. As part of this, they are typically expected to compete in two competitions and fulfill committee work that helps achieve the board's goals. This includes organizing and running First Year Moot Court Competitions which all first-year students can participate in during the spring semester.

Quality of Life

The campus is in the Oak Park area, with high crime and poverty levels. However, the cost of living there is lower than in many other parts of Sacramento, which can be attractive for students on a budget.

McGeorge does not have the same sense of community as some other law schools due to its large student body. However, students still have plenty of chances to form close relationships and make connections as ample social opportunities are available. Unfortunately, the campus is not located on the leading University of Pacific campus in Stockton, so there is no opportunity for law students to mingle with undergraduates. Nevertheless, Sacramento still has plenty of social and recreational outlets to explore. With its excellent climate and diverse culture, McGeorge School of Law is an idyllic spot for law students who want to learn and grow in a vibrant city.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is located in bustling Sacramento, California. The Mediterranean climate is mild and pleasant, perfect for activities outside of studying law. With its multitude of bars, parks, music venues, restaurants, and more, there's no shortage of ways to be entertained in this city.

Unfortunately, McGeorge's campus is located in the Oak Park section of Sacramento, an area with a sadly high crime rate and poverty levels. However, the cost of living in Oak Park is lower than many other parts of Sacramento, which can be attractive for law students on a budget.

Although McGeorge does not have the same tightly knit community as some other law schools due to its size, there are still plenty of social opportunities to meet people and form close relationships. Additionally, students who want to avoid the higher cost of living in Sacramento can look into it.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is great for law students to learn and grow in a vibrant city. Its mild climate and ample recreational outlets make it an ideal spot for law students looking to explore and make connections while working towards their degrees. Despite its location in the Oak Park section of Sacramento, which has a high crime rate and poverty levels, there are still plenty of social opportunities to meet people and form close relationships. Additionally, students who want to avoid the higher cost of living in Sacramento can look into living nearby for an affordable option.

Synopsis

After all the weighing of pros and cons, the bottom line seems to be that McGeorge Law School is a great option for those who know they want to practice in the Sacramento area. Beyond that region, other schools may prove superior.

Contact Information

University of the Pacific
McGeorge School of Law
Stockton Campus
3601 Pacific Ave.
Stockton, CA 95211
Admissions: 209.946.2211

Sacramento Campus
3200 Fifth Ave.
Sacramento, California 95817
Admissions: 916.739.7105

San Francisco Campus
155 Fifth St.
San Francisco, California 94103
Admissions: 415.929.6491

https://www.pacific.edu/admission

Summary

Established	1924
Location	Stockton, CA
Dean	Michael Hunter Schwartz
2022 US News Ranking	133
LSAT Median Score	155
GPA Median Score	3.44
Bar Passage Rate	75% (2022)
Employment Rate	44% (2022)
Cost	full-time: $56,388 and part-time: $37,444
Average Debt	$140,918
Application Deadline	June1, 2023

Forum and Discussion

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Reference

https://law.pacific.edu/law
Rank #133
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