Law Schools That Accept GRE: Your Complete Guide for 2026

As of December 2024, more than 100 ABA-accredited law schools accept GRE scores for their JD programs. This list continues to grow each year. Here’s the current roster, organized to help you find programs that match your goals.

14 Law Schools That Accept GRE

Every single T14 law school—the 14 elite programs that consistently top the U.S. News rankings—now accepts the GRE. This is a significant development for applicants targeting the most prestigious legal education in the country.

Beyond the T14, dozens of excellent law schools accept GRE scores. Here are notable programs ranked in the top 50:

• University of Texas at Austin School of Law
• University of California, Los Angeles School of Law
• Vanderbilt University Law School
• Washington University School of Law (St. Louis)
• University of Southern California Gould School of Law
• Boston University School of Law
• Boston College Law School
• University of Notre Dame Law School
• Emory University School of Law
• George Washington University Law School
• Fordham University School of Law
• University of Florida Levin College of Law
• Wake Forest University School of Law

One of the most common questions from applicants is: “What is a good GRE score for law school?” The answer depends on which schools you’re targeting.

GRE Score Ranges by School Tier

Law schools compare GRE and LSAT scores using percentile rankings. Here’s a general breakdown of competitive GRE scores:

For the most competitive T14 programs, you’ll want GRE scores that match roughly the 95th-99th percentile. Stanford Law, for example, reports that admitted students submitting GRE scores average around 328, with Verbal and Quantitative scores typically ranging from 164-170.

How Law Schools Compare GRE and LSAT Scores

Law schools use percentile rankings to equate GRE and LSAT scores. ETS provides a comparison tool that helps admissions committees make apples-to-apples comparisons. For example, if a school’s median LSAT is 167 (roughly 94th percentile), they’ll look for GRE scores in a similar percentile range—typically around 164-165 Verbal and 169-170 Quantitative.

Most law schools emphasize the Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing sections since these skills translate more directly to legal education. However, a strong Quantitative score won’t hurt your application—especially if you’re interested in areas like tax law, intellectual property, or corporate transactions.

Deciding between the GRE and LSAT requires honest self-assessment. Here’s how the tests compare:

When to Choose the GRE Over the LSAT

The GRE might be your better option if:

• You already have strong GRE scores: If you took the GRE for another graduate program within the past five years and scored well, you can use those scores without additional test prep.
• You’re pursuing a dual degree: JD/MBA, JD/MPP, and JD/PhD candidates often need GRE scores anyway. One test can cover multiple applications.
• You struggle with logic games: The LSAT’s Analytical Reasoning section (logic games) is notoriously difficult for some test-takers. The GRE doesn’t have an equivalent.
• You’re strong in math: The GRE includes a Quantitative section where math-oriented students can shine.
• You’re keeping options open: The GRE works for law school, business school, and graduate programs—giving you flexibility if your plans change.

When to Stick with the LSAT

The LSAT remains the better choice if:

• Any target school requires it: About half of ABA-accredited schools still require the LSAT. Check each school’s policy carefully.
• You’re not confident in math: The GRE’s Quantitative section covers algebra, geometry, and data analysis. If math anxiety is real for you, the LSAT might be easier.
• You’re aiming for maximum scholarship dollars: Some schools report that scholarship opportunities may be more limited for GRE applicants, though this is changing.
• You’re 100% committed to law school: If law is your only path, mastering the LSAT demonstrates commitment and tests skills directly relevant to legal reasoning.

Applying with GRE scores requires a few extra steps compared to the standard LSAT process.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Verify school acceptance: Confirm each target school accepts GRE scores and check for any special requirements or limitations.
2. Register with LSAC: Even if you’re not taking the LSAT, you’ll still need to use the Law School Admission Council’s (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS) for most applications.
3. Send GRE scores to schools: Request that ETS send your scores directly to each law school. This is separate from LSAC and must be done through your ETS account.
4. Complete your application: Submit all other materials (transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation) through LSAC as usual.
5. Indicate GRE submission: Most applications will ask which test you’re submitting. Select GRE and provide your score report information.

Important Considerations

If you’ve taken the LSAT: Many schools require you to submit all valid LSAT scores if you have any. You typically can’t “hide” an LSAT score by submitting only GRE results. Yale Law School, for instance, states that applicants cannot submit GRE scores if they have a reportable LSAT score.

Score reporting: Both the GRE and LSAT require you to report all scores from the past five years. Schools will see your complete testing history.