Michigan Law School sees record applications in 166 years: Why competition to get into US law schools is so fierce this year

US Law School Admissions 2025: The competition to get into law schools in the United States has reached unprecedented levels this year, with Michigan Law School experiencing more applications than ever in its 166-year history. The surge in applications is part of a broader trend affecting nearly 200 law schools across the country, making it one of the most competitive years in recent memory. According to The Wall Street Journal, the number of

law school applications

has risen by 20.5% compared to the previous year.
Economic uncertainty and a sluggish job market, especially in the white-collar sectors, are among the driving forces behind this increase in applications. Many students see law as a stable career option, particularly as corporate job opportunities become more limited. Michigan Law’s unprecedented application numbers are a reflection of this wider trend, making the admissions process more competitive than ever before.
Michigan Law's record-breaking surge
This year, the University of Michigan Law School has seen an overwhelming number of applicants. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Michigan Law received more applications than at any point in its 166-year history. The law school’s admissions dean, Sarah Zearfoss, recalled the moment when the faculty learned of the new numbers, describing it as a “gasp-worthy” experience.

The rise in applications to Michigan Law is not unique. Georgetown University Law Center, for example, received 14,000 applications for only 650 available spots. The sheer volume of applications has created a highly competitive environment, leaving many candidates anxiously awaiting decisions.
Economic factors fueling the surge
The slow corporate job market is one of the main drivers behind the record number of law school applications. Many laid-off workers from sectors such as technology are now considering law school as a pathway to career stability. As The Wall Street Journal reports, even candidates with advanced degrees like an MBA are finding it increasingly difficult to secure full-time employment in today’s job market.
Additionally, law has become an attractive career choice due to its perceived stability, particularly as many industries face the threat of AI advancements. The Wall Street Journal notes that the starting salary for lawyers at top corporate law firms has reached $225,000, which, despite the high competition, continues to draw many hopeful applicants.
Diversity and changing demographics
Another significant trend this year is the rise in applications from Black candidates. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Black applicants to law schools have surged by 30%. This shift reflects growing efforts to diversify the legal profession and address systemic disparities in law school admissions.
The fierce

competition for law school

spots in the US this year highlights the changing dynamics of legal education, driven by both economic pressures and a desire for greater diversity within the profession.