Law school applications for 2025 are showing a notable increase, with early data from the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) reporting a 37.2% rise in applications compared to last year. This surge is a positive shift after several years of declining interest in US legal education. For international students considering law school in the US, this trend presents both increased competition and new opportunities.

Factors fueling the growth

The surge in law school applications can be attributed to several factors. First, the reopening of application windows earlier in 2024, after delays in 2023 related to changes in admissions policies, has given applicants a head start.

Additionally, the number of LSAT test-takers has increased by 18% compared to last year. And the August 2024 LSAT is the first test in the new format. This increase in test-takers is a strong indicator of growing interest in legal education, especially as professionals globally seek career stability in uncertain times.

The pandemic and subsequent economic shifts have prompted many students to reconsider their career paths. Legal education offers a route into a stable and high-demand field, especially in areas like corporate law, international law, and human rights. International students, in particular, continue to view US law schools as a top destination due to the global recognition of American legal programs.

Diversity is another key driver of the surge. The LSAC reports an uptick in applications from underrepresented groups, including a 43.5% increase in Black or African American applicants and a rise in first-generation college students.

The international perspective

For international students, the growth in applications means a more competitive admissions process. US law schools are attracting a more diverse range of applicants, which could make it harder to stand out in a crowded field. However, this is also an exciting opportunity to bring unique international perspectives to law schools, which are prioritizing global awareness in their programs.

International applicants should consider looking at programs that specialize in international law, human rights, or environmental law, all of which are seeing increased demand. Additionally, many law schools are expanding hybrid learning options, making it easier for students from abroad to access top US legal education without having to be physically present full-time.

What's next?

With law school applications on the rise, international students looking to apply for the next cycle should act quickly. The surge in interest means more competition, so applicants should focus on submitting strong applications, emphasizing their LSAT scores, personal statements, and any international experience or perspective they bring.

As US law schools continue to expand and adapt to the needs of a diverse international student body, applicants will find new opportunities to specialize in emerging areas of law.

Now is the time to explore these options, prepare thoroughly, and submit applications to programs that align with your career goals. The current surge in applications presents a chance for international students to secure a place in some of the world's most prestigious law schools.