Kaplan Survey Reveals Shift in Perception of Law School Rankings

The Kaplan survey revealed that 62 percent of law school admissions officers believe that the U.S. News & World Report rankings have "lost some of their prestige over the last couple of years." This figure marks a considerable increase from 51 percent in a similar survey conducted in 2023, indicating a growing skepticism among admissions professionals about the rankings' credibility.

The survey captured a range of opinions from admissions officers, many of whom expressed concerns about the rankings' biases and their impact on prospective students. Comments included:

These sentiments reflect a growing awareness of the limitations of rankings in guiding students toward the law schools that best meet their individual needs.

Interestingly, the survey found a stark contrast between the views of admissions officers and those of pre-law students. While 62 percent of admissions officers expressed doubts about the rankings, only 26 percent of prospective law students agreed that it would be beneficial to abolish law school rankings altogether. Many students still view rankings as a valuable tool in determining which schools to apply to, despite acknowledging the pressures they create.

Opinions among students varied significantly. Some prospective law students argue that rankings add unnecessary pressure to an already competitive admissions landscape, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Others maintain that rankings serve a crucial purpose in simplifying the decision-making process for applicants.

The Kaplan survey results emerge amidst a notable increase in law school applications. According to the Law School Admission Council, applications for the current admissions cycle are up 20 percent compared to the previous year, with a 25 percent increase from two years ago. Experts speculate that this surge may be influenced by economic uncertainties and a heightened interest in fields such as politics and public policy.

Amit Schlesinger, executive director of legal and government programs at Kaplan, emphasized the high stakes involved in law school rankings. He stated, “The pressure surrounding law school rankings can be intense for both law school leaders and applicants, alike.” Schlesinger noted that while some admissions officers recognize the flaws within the ranking system, the majority still engage with it, underscoring its continued relevance in the admissions process. He advised applicants to focus on identifying law schools that align with their personal and professional aspirations rather than placing undue emphasis on rankings.

As Kaplan’s survey highlights a critical moment in the evaluation of law school rankings, both admissions officers and prospective students are re-examining the role these rankings play in the law school admissions landscape. With a growing sentiment that the rankings may no longer hold the same weight, stakeholders are encouraged to consider a more holistic approach to evaluating law schools that better reflects individual needs and aspirations. As the admissions landscape evolves, Kaplan’s findings serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in making informed decisions in legal education.