University at Buffalo (SUNY) School of Law
Description
1. Introduction
The University at Buffalo (SUNY) School of Law is the public law school of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, located in Buffalo, New York. Founded in 1887, it is SUNY’s only law school and is known for its commitment to legal education, practical training, public service, and a diverse, inclusive academic environment. UB Law prepares students for a variety of legal careers while offering strong value through competitive tuition and hands-on experience.
2. Important Details and Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | University at Buffalo (SUNY) School of Law |
| Founded | 1887 |
| Location | Buffalo, New York, USA |
| Type | Public Law School (SUNY) |
| Accreditation | ABA-accredited |
| Parent Institution | State University of New York (University at Buffalo) |
| Campus | North Campus, John Lord O’Brian Hall |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Low (small classes) |
| Focus Areas | Traditional JD, cross-border legal studies, clinical education |
| Best Value Recognition | Ranked #18 in nation for best value (National Jurist) |
3. Law Courses / Study Programs & English Language Requirements
University at Buffalo Law School follows the U.S. legal education system and does not offer five-year integrated law degrees like B.A.LLB, B.Com. LL.B., or BBA LL.B. Instead, it offers graduate-level law degrees.
Programs & English Language Requirements
| Program | Duration | Focus / Specialisations | English Tests Accepted | Typical Score Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Juris Doctor (JD) | 3 years | General law curriculum, clinical experience | TOEFL / IELTS (Intl.) | TOEFL iBT 90 (preferred 100) / IELTS 7.0 (preferred 7.5) |
| Advanced Standing / 2-Year JD | 2 years | For eligible transfer students | TOEFL / IELTS (Intl.) | TOEFL iBT 90 / IELTS 7.0 |
| Master of Laws (LL.M.) | 1 year typical | Post-first law degree specialization | TOEFL / IELTS | TOEFL iBT 90 / IELTS 7.0 |
| Doctor of Juridical Science (J.S.D.) | 3–5 years | Scholarly legal research | TOEFL / IELTS | Institutional requirements apply |
English testing may be waived for applicants with prior education in English-medium institutions.
4. Name of Entrance Exam
| Program | Required Entrance Exam |
|---|---|
| Juris Doctor (JD) | LSAT or GRE accepted for JD applicants |
| LL.M. / J.S.D. | No LSAT/GRE required (must hold prior law degree) |
| International Applicants | TOEFL/IELTS (if applicable) |
5. Top 5 Reasons Why Choose This Institution
Strong Practical Legal Training – Emphasis on clinics, externships, and real-world legal experience.
Affordability & Best Value – Ranked among the nation’s best for law school value.
Competitive JD Program – Solid median LSAT and GPA for an accessible yet rigorous legal education.
Diverse & Inclusive Community – Strong support for international students and diverse perspectives.
Strategic Location – Situated in Buffalo with access to legal markets in New York State and cross-border legal opportunities.
6. Grade and Ranking of the University
| Ranking Authority | Rank / Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report (Law) | 94 (2025) | National ranking of JD program |
| ILRG Composite Ranking | LSAT Rank ~#105 | Admission competitiveness data |
| Best Value Recognition | 18 in U.S. | National Jurist value ranking |
| Bar Passage / Employment | 87%+ Bar Passage | Strong professional outcomes |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Among lowest | Small class benefits |
7. Documents Required for Admission
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Application Form | Applied through LSAC (JD/LL.M.) |
| Official Transcripts | All undergraduate and graduate transcripts |
| LSAT / GRE Scores | Required for JD applicants |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL / IELTS for Intl. applicants |
| Letters of Recommendation | Typically 2–3 professional/academic |
| Personal Statement | Reflects motivations and goals |
| Resume / CV | Education and work history |
| Application Fee | Non-refundable (fee waiver available) |
8. How to Apply for Admission
| Step | Process |
|---|---|
| 1 | Review program requirements on UB Law website |
| 2 | Register with LSAC (JD/LL.M. as applicable) |
| 3 | Complete online application |
| 4 | Upload transcripts & test scores |
| 5 | Submit essays & recommendations |
| 6 | Pay application fee or request waiver |
| 7 | Track application status via LSAC |
| 8 | Respond to offer and enroll |
9. Contact Details – University at Buffalo School of Law
| Department | Phone Number | Email Address |
|---|---|---|
| Office of Admissions | +1-716-645-2907 | law-admissions@buffalo.edu |
| General Law School Info | +1-716-645-2052 | Law-Deans@buffalo.edu |
| Address | John Lord O’Brian Hall, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA |
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