Cardozo Law School – Must Know Facts
Cardozo Law School, established in 1976 as part of Yeshiva University, is a prestigious legal institution named after the esteemed Supreme Court Justice Benjamin N. Cardozo. With a focus on legal ethics, social justice, and professional responsibility, Cardozo School of Law offers a secular curriculum that prepares students for success in the legal profession.
Located in the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, the school provides a diverse and dynamic environment for students to pursue their legal education. This article will explore the Cardozo School of Law acceptance rate, the Cardozo Law School LSAT requirement, and much more.
Table of Contents
- Overview Of Cardozo Law School
- Cardozo Law School Programs
- Current Ranking And Reputation
- Academic Programs And Faculty
- Career Prospects And Bar Passage Rates
- Alumni And Networking Opportunities
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cardozo Law School
- Conclusion
Overview Of Cardozo Law School
The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University stands out for its innovative curriculum and commitment to social justice. Known for excellence in intellectual property, dispute resolution, and constitutional law, Cardozo combines academic rigor with experiential learning through clinics, externships, and real-world legal practice opportunities that prepare graduates for success in a changing profession.
In 2025, Cardozo ranks No. 63 (tie) out of 195 in Best Law Schools, reflecting its national reputation for quality education and strong career outcomes. With a student-faculty ratio of 6.6:1, the school fosters close mentorship, collaboration, and personal growth, offering students a supportive environment that emphasizes both professionalism and ethical responsibility.
Admission to Cardozo is highly competitive, with a 37.5% acceptance rate. The 2025 entering class holds GPAs between 3.6 and 3.88 (median 3.8) and LSAT scores ranging from 160 to 166 (median 164). These results reflect Cardozo’s dedication to academic excellence and its success in attracting intellectually driven, forward-thinking future attorneys.
Cardozo Law School Programs
J.D. Program
This is like becoming a “super expert” in law. Like you have different grades in school, people who want to be lawyers go to law school and work towards getting a J.D., which stands for Juris Doctor. It’s a fancy way of saying they’re learning all about laws and how to use them.
LL.M. Options
After someone gets their J.D. and becomes a lawyer, they might want to learn even more about a specific kind of law, like a special kind of study. That’s where the LL.M. comes in. It stands for Master of Laws, and it’s like getting an extra gold star for learning about law. Lawyers can choose to learn more about a specific area, like business law or human rights law.
Dual Degrees
Imagine if you could study two different subjects simultaneously, like math and science. Dual degrees are like that. At Cardozo, students can study law and other subjects simultaneously. This helps them to be really good in two different areas. For example, they could study law and business together.
Specializations
Just like you might have a favorite subject in school, lawyers sometimes like to focus on one particular area of law. Cardozo offers specializations, which means students can learn a lot about one part of the law, like learning a lot about the environment, technology, or how to help people solve disagreements.
Current Ranking And Reputation
| Category | Rating | Category | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Law Schools | 63 (tie) | Environmental Law | 134 |
| Dispute Resolution | 5 | Health Care Law | 80 |
| Law School Specialty Rankings | Rank | Intellectual Property Law | 6 |
| Business/Corporate Law | 51 | International Law | 67 |
| Clinical Training | 31 | Clinical Psychology | 103 |
| Constitutional Law | 47 | Tax Law | 41 |
| Contracts/Commercial Law | 35 | Trial Advocacy | 96 |
| Criminal Law | 21 | ||
Cardozo School of Law has achieved a commendable ranking of 63rd among the best law schools in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 rankings. This highly ranked law school’s excellence extends beyond its overall ranking, as it also excels in several specialty areas. Cardozo School of Law ranks 5th in Dispute Resolution, 6th in Intellectual Property Law, 31st in Clinical Training, and 67th in International Law. These high rankings reflect the school’s commitment to providing exceptional education and training in various legal disciplines.
The outstanding reputation of Cardozo School of Law extends beyond rankings, as it has received recognition from reputable publications and organizations. The Princeton Review recognized Cardozo School of Law as one of the best law schools for practical training and career placement in 2021. Additionally, in 2024, preLaw Magazine and The National Jurist recognized Cardozo School of Law among the nation’s best for its commitment to social justice and practical training. The school was ranked #7 for Racial Justice and earned an A+ rating for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), reaffirming Cardozo’s dedication to diversity, advocacy, and experiential legal education.
Academic Programs And Faculty
Cardozo School of Law offers a comprehensive legal education through various academic programs. The school’s curriculum covers diverse legal disciplines, allowing students to specialize in areas of interest.
Notable programs include the highly-ranked Dispute Resolution Program, which focuses on conflict resolution skills through negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. The Intellectual Property Law Program prepares students for legal matters related to patents, trademarks, copyrights, and technology law. The Clinical Training Program provides practical experience working on real cases under the guidance of experienced faculty, while the Part-time Law Program offers flexibility for students with other commitments.
With accomplished faculty members, this reputed law school ensures a rigorous and engaging academic experience, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The school’s programs and faculty contribute to its reputation as a leading institution that prepares students for success in the legal profession.
Admissions
Cardozo Law School is known for its selective and competitive admissions process, designed to identify students with the potential for excellence in the legal field. The admissions committee considers LSAT scores, GPA, personal statements, recommendations, and professional achievements. With an acceptance rate of 37.5% in 2025, Cardozo attracts talented applicants seeking rigorous academics, mentorship, and opportunities for hands-on experience in one of New York City’s most dynamic legal communities.
LSAT Score Expectations
The LSAT plays a key role in Cardozo’s evaluation process. For the 2025 entering class, admitted students achieved scores ranging from 160 to 166, with a median LSAT of 164. While scores below this range may still be considered, applicants aiming for a competitive edge should target 160 or higher. Cardozo values the LSAT as a reliable indicator of analytical reasoning and preparedness for the demands of its intellectually rigorous J.D. program.
GPA And Academic Prerequisites
Academic performance remains a central factor in Cardozo’s admissions decisions. For 2025, the school reported undergraduate GPAs ranging from 3.6 to 3.88, with a median GPA of 3.8. Strong academic credentials demonstrate readiness for Cardozo’s challenging curriculum, though the admissions committee also weighs leadership experience, community involvement, and professional accomplishments, ensuring a holistic review that identifies well-rounded and motivated candidates.
Acceptance Rate
Cardozo Law School maintains a 37.5% acceptance rate for 2025, reflecting a balance between selectivity and opportunity. Out of over 3,100 applications, approximately 1,172 students received offers of admission, with around 307 matriculating. This competitive process underscores Cardozo’s strong national reputation, robust programs, and prime location in New York City, which continues to draw diverse, high-achieving applicants from across the country and around the world.
Tuition And Financial Aid
Cardozo Law School understands the financial challenges of pursuing a legal education. The school strives to make its programs accessible through transparent tuition rates and a variety of financial aid options. Students can explore scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to help offset the costs of attendance. The financial aid office is dedicated to guiding students through the process of securing assistance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without undue financial stress.
Current Tuition Costs
For the 2025 academic year, full-time tuition at Cardozo Law School is $73,440, reflecting its position among leading private law schools. While tuition represents a significant investment, it supports access to top-tier faculty, experiential learning, and extensive professional opportunities. The average student debt among 2024 graduates who borrowed was $108,242, emphasizing the importance of financial planning. Despite the cost, Cardozo’s strong employment outcomes and location in New York City make it a valuable choice for students pursuing a distinguished legal education and meaningful career success.
Scholarships And Grants Offered
Cardozo Law School provides numerous scholarship and grant opportunities to help students manage tuition costs. These awards are based on merit, need, or a combination of both. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements or high LSAT scores, while need-based grants aim to support students facing financial challenges. Cardozo also offers specialized scholarships for students interested in specific fields of law, such as public interest or intellectual property.
Work-Study Opportunities
Work-study opportunities at Cardozo Law School allow students to gain valuable experience while earning income to support their education. Students can work in various roles, such as research assistants, administrative positions, or within the school’s legal clinics. Work-study programs are designed to be flexible, ensuring students can balance their academic workload with their responsibilities. These opportunities not only ease financial pressures but also enhance students’ professional skills and networks.
Campus And Facilities
Cardozo Law School offers a modern and well-equipped campus in the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood of New York City. The facilities are designed to provide a supportive and dynamic environment for legal education. From state-of-the-art classrooms to advanced legal technology, the campus promotes both learning and collaboration. Students benefit from resources that enhance their academic experience while preparing them for the practical demands of the legal profession.
Modern Classrooms And Libraries
Cardozo Law School’s classrooms are equipped with cutting-edge technology to facilitate interactive and engaging learning experiences. Moot courtrooms provide a realistic setting for students to practice advocacy skills. The law library is a cornerstone of the campus, offering an extensive collection of legal texts, journals, and online databases. With quiet study areas and group workspaces, the library supports both individual research and collaborative projects.
Access To Legal Tech Resources
The campus provides access to advanced legal technology that prepares students for the evolving demands of the profession. Students can utilize software tools for legal research, document management, and trial preparation. The school’s focus on technology integration ensures that graduates are adept at using modern tools essential for legal practice. Workshops and training sessions help students maximize the benefits of these resources throughout their academic journey.
Collaborative Study Spaces
Cardozo Law School offers a variety of collaborative study spaces to foster group learning and teamwork. Dedicated lounges, seminar rooms, and breakout areas provide comfortable environments for students to engage in discussions, prepare for mock trials, or work on group assignments. These spaces are designed to encourage interaction among peers and facilitate the exchange of ideas, contributing to a vibrant academic community.
Admission Process And Deadlines
Cardozo School of Law is a selective law school that admits students based on their academic performance, LSAT scores, personal statements, letters of recommendation, resumes, and other factors that demonstrate their potential for success in law school and beyond. For the 2025 entering class, the acceptance rate was 37.5%, with an average LSAT score of 164 and an average GPA of 3.8, demonstrating Cardozo’s academic rigor and competitive standards.
Application deadlines vary by program. For the J.D. program, the priority deadline is April 1 for fall entry, March 15 for the May/Summer start, and December 1 for early decision. For the LL.M. program, the priority deadlines are May 3 for fall admission and December 1 for spring. All applications are submitted through the LSAC website.
Tuition And Financial Aid
Regarding tuition fees, Cardozo Law School strives to provide a valuable legal education while considering many students’ financial constraints. For the 2025 academic year, full-time tuition is $73,440. As tuition rates may change annually, prospective J.D. and LL.M. students are encouraged to review the official Cardozo website for the most current and accurate tuition and financial information.
Cardozo School of Law understands the financial burden law school can impose and offers various financial aid options to eligible students. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance are available to help alleviate the financial strain and make legal education more accessible. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and engage with the school’s financial aid office for further guidance.
In comparison to other law schools in the same tier, this prestigious Law School remains competitive in terms of tuition fees. Its commitment to providing a high-quality legal education at a reasonable cost makes it an attractive option for many aspiring law students.
Want to learn about another law school? You can read the must know facts about Arizona Summit Law School.
Campus And Facilities
Cardozo Law School is situated in the heart of New York City, offering students a vibrant and dynamic environment for their legal education. The campus provides modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, moot courtrooms, and seminar spaces.
Additionally, the law school offers various student facilities such as study areas, lounges, and a dedicated career services center. The law library at Cardozo School of Law boasts an extensive collection of legal resources, research materials, and online databases. It is a valuable asset to students, providing them with a conducive environment for studying and conducting research. The library also offers specialized research assistance to support students throughout their academic journey.
Career Prospects And Bar Passage Rates
Cardozo Law School has consistently maintained impressive Bar passage rates, demonstrating its commitment to preparing students for successful legal careers. The Bar passage rate for graduates consistently exceeds the national average, with 83.9% of students passing the Bar exam on their first attempt. In terms of employment prospects, Cardozo graduates have a strong track record. Within ten months of graduation, 88.7% of students secure employment in various sectors of the legal industry.
Cardozo alumni often find employment in prestigious law firms, government agencies, public interest organizations, and corporate legal departments. The strong network and reputation of the law school open doors to diverse career opportunities for its graduates.
Interested in Albany Law School? If yes, then check out our blog.
Alumni And Networking Opportunities
Cardozo Law School boasts distinguished alumni who have significantly contributed to the legal field. Notable alumni include prominent judges, successful attorneys, legal scholars, and public figures who have excelled in their careers. These alumni serve as a source of inspiration and provide valuable networking opportunities for current students and fellow graduates. The law school actively fosters networking opportunities through various events, guest speaker series, and alumni gatherings. Students have access to an extensive network of legal professionals, allowing them to establish connections and seek mentorship within their desired practice areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardozo Law School
1. Is Cardozo Law School Hard?
Yes, Cardozo Law School is academically rigorous, requiring strong analytical and critical thinking skills. With a median LSAT of 164 and a median GPA of 3.8 for 2025, the program challenges students through intensive coursework, case analysis, and practical training, ensuring comprehensive preparation for legal careers.
2. What Is Cardozo Law School Known For?
Cardozo Law School is known for excellence in intellectual property, dispute resolution, and constitutional law. In 2024, preLaw Magazine ranked it #7 for Racial Justice and gave an A+ rating in ADR. Its 2025 ranking of #63 nationally reflects strong academics, diversity, and real-world learning opportunities.
3. How Strong Is Cardozo’s Intellectual Property Program?
Cardozo’s intellectual property program is one of the best in the country, ranked 6th nationally. It provides specialized courses, hands-on training, and expert faculty. The program covers areas like patents, copyrights, trademarks, and technology law, preparing students for successful careers in this field.
4. Is Cardozo Law School Part Of NYU?
Cardozo Law School is not part of NYU. It’s a separate school, part of Yeshiva University in New York City. It offers law degrees and has its own campus. NYU has its own law school, the NYU School of Law, which is different from Cardozo.
5. Is Cardozo Law Prestigious?
Yes, Cardozo Law School is prestigious and highly respected. Ranked #63 nationally in 2025, it offers top-tier legal education, strong employment outcomes, and a first-time Bar pass rate of 83.9%. Located in New York City, Cardozo combines academic excellence with professional access and innovation.
Conclusion
Cardozo School of Law has established itself as a leading legal institution with a strong reputation, distinguished faculty, and comprehensive programs. Its commitment to academic excellence, access to financial aid, and robust career prospects make it an attractive choice for aspiring law students. Through its rich history and dedication to providing a valuable legal education, Cardozo School of Law continues to shape the future of the legal profession.
Are you interested to know about Top Law Schools In West Region? Click the link to learn more.