Law schools in Canada: A complete list of schools, tuition, and admission requirements

Canada has a total of 24 schools offering law degrees, spread out over five regions. But which one is the best? While rankings are available, the answer really depends on the aspiring lawyer’s personal preferences from location, subjects taught, tuition, and even faculty. Here’s an overview of each school to help you decide which one is the best for your education. 

Law Schools in Ontario 

Ontario is home to six law schools, each one devising a curriculum designed to meet the requirements set by the Law Society of Ontario. 

1. Lakehead University – Bora Laskin Faculty of Law  

Located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Lakehead University – Bora Laskin Faculty of Law is named after Bora Laskin who served as the 14th Chief Justice of Canada from 1973 to 1984. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Lakehead is currently not accepting international student applications. Rather, applicants must be citizens, permanent residents, or those who are already within the country. Tuition rates for the University are: 

A complete breakdown of the university’s rates is available from its website. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Ryan Alford 
• Dr. Martin-Joe Ezeudu 
• Mariette Brennan 
• Tenille E. Brown 
• Frances E. Chapman 

More information: 

The Bora Laskin Faculty of Law has a fairly low acceptance rate of just 7.8 percent in 2024. It’s a small law school, admitting only around 65 students per year. Despite that, the school is known for producing great legal minds, including alumni Angelique EagleWoman, a scholar of Indigenous Law and was also a Dean in the same school. 

The school hosts a legal clinic which helps the marginalized across different regions. The school is also well known for its three curriculum mandates. These are: Sole/Small Town Practice, Natural Resources and Environmental Law, and Aboriginal and Indigenous Law, with the Integrated Practice Curriculum (IPC). 

2. University of Ottawa – Common Law 

uOttawa is ranked top five among law schools in Canada and 69th in the world, according to the latest World University Rankings from Times Higher Education (THE). Common Law offers specializations in different fields, including Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, International Trade, Technology Law, and others. 

Law degrees offered: 

More precise data is on the Recruitment and Admissions page.  

Tuition rates: 

Tuition rates of uOttawa depend on whether the student is living inside or outside Ontario. Rates for international students are also different since the Canadian government requires certain fees associated with their stay in the country. An online calculator is available where aspiring students can compute their tuition per term: 

• Citizens residing in Ontario 
• Citizens residing outside Ontario 
• International students 

Notable faculty members: 

• Jeremy de Beer 
• Adam Dodek 
• Rosemary Cairns Way 
• Julie Ynes Ada Tchoukou  
• Vern Krishna 

More information: 

Located within walking distance of Parliament Hill and the Supreme Court of Canada, the Common Law Section provides an opportunity for aspiring lawyers to study common law, civil law, and Indigenous legal traditions. 

The school also has five applicant categories, allowing students who meet specific criteria to apply and take advantage of any offered benefits. These are:  

• general applicants 
• general applicants with special circumstances 
• access applicants 
• mature applicants 
• Indigenous applicants 

3. University of Ottawa – Droit civil 

The University of Ottawa offers two different legal programs: civil and common law. Civil law is being taught in the French language only. However, the more important difference between the two is that the civil law section teaches civil law in Québec. 

Law degrees: 

Tuition rates:  

Like the common law section, tuition fees are based on the status of the student. The university’s fees page allows for more precise calculation. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Céline Castets-Renard 
• Audrey Ferron Parayre 
• André Bélanger 
• Jennifer Quaid 
• Pascale Cornut St-Pierre 

More information: 

The Civil law section of the University of Ottawa has produced excellent minds of the legal profession today. Its products include Supreme Court judges, ministers, cabinet ministers, and even Stanley Cup champions.  

Student life in the University is rich with over a hundred student clubs and organizations that they can join to learn and network. There are also spaces meant to foster community and culture among students. Existing and active communities on campus include members of the Indigenous group and persons with disabilities. 

Explore the top law schools in Ottawa, Canada. Learn about the programs, admission requirements, and student life. A perfect overview for aspiring law students.

4. Queen’s University – Faculty of Law 

Queen’s University takes the seventh spot among the top Canadian law schools in THE's rankings. Globally, it ranks among the top 125. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition is calculated on a per-term basis and depends on the student's residency status. For those who want to obtain Certificate of Law, the fees are computed on a per-unit basis. 

The University offers a step-by-step guide on how to pay these tuitions. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Colleen Flood (Dean) 
• Ashwini Vasanthakumar 
• Lisa Kerr 
• Lindsay Borrows 
• Grégoire Webber 
• Sharry Aiken 

View the full list of faculty members. 

More information: 

Students at Queen’s University are given multiple avenues to explore international opportunities through the International Law Program. Community services are also rendered through clinical internships, public interest internships, and pro bono legal clinics serving low-income residents of Kingston, Napanee, and surrounding areas. 

The school also has an available Career Development Office. This prepares students for a future in the legal profession. Students who want to take things slow can enroll with the Certificate in Law program. This provides a foundational overview of Canadian legal system through distance learning. 

5. Western University – Western Law 

Located in London, Ontario, Western Law hangs in the 11th spot of Canadian law school rankings. In the global rankings, it’s currently within the top 200 schools. 

Law degrees offered: 

They also offer the following: 

Those looking for degrees with built-in exchange partners can also enroll in the following: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition varies depending on whether the student is Canadian or an international student.  

Tuitions are estimates only and further information is available on the university registrar page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Erika Chamberlain (Dean) 
• Christopher Nicholls 
• Valerie Oosterveld 
• Wade Wright 

More information: 

Western Law’s acceptance rate is fairly low. In 2021, only 190 people out of 2,779 applicants were actually admitted into its halls. This leads to an admission rate of just 6.8 percent! Established in 1959, the school managed to produce some of the best minds in the profession – despite their low admission. 

Some of the most well-known alumni of the school include the Honourable Daniel Didier who is the Presiding Judge for the Superior Court of Orange County. There’s also the Honourable Ross Johnson who is a Senator of the California State Senate. 

6. University of Windsor – Windsor Law 

Windsor Law is among the most popular law schools in Canada. It’s a fairly competitive school with around 2,000 applications for their JD program each year. Other than JD though, the school offers other programs for those seeking a career in law. 

Law degrees offered: 

More information about their program offerings is available on the university’s admission page. 

Tuition rates: 

The University offers a fee estimator that allows students to compute expenses on a per-term basis. Approximately, students taking the LLM program will pay $10,000 of tuition for three semesters if they’re domestic. International students will pay around $23,000 in tuition. Windsor Law also offers funding opportunities for students who meet their criteria. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Jasminka Kaljadzic 
• Danardo Jones 
• Mary Anne Vallianatos 
• Valarie Waboose 

View the full list of faculty members. 

More information: 

Windsor Law is a sought-after institution with around 700 applications per year. Their faculty is composed of legal professionals who are recognized experts in the areas of commercial law, fiduciary law, international law, tax law, human rights law, and more.   

The law school also has an array of services designed to create well-rounded students. For example, they have clinical and placement opportunities with the intention of inspiring community among members. The university also hosts several student clubs and organizations like the Black Law Student Association and Women and the Law.  

Canadian law schools in Western Canada 

Western Canada refers to four provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. 

7. University of Alberta – Faculty of Law 

Located in Edmonton, the University of Alberta, Faculty of Law prepares their students to meet the licensure requirements required to practice in the province. In THE's 2025 rankings, the school is placed ninth in best Canada law schools and within the top 150 globally. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Rates from the University of Alberta haven’t been updated for 2025. For 2024, estimates for Canadian JD first year students are: 

The University also has a cost calculator that can help students get a clearer idea of the costs associated with the JD program. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Timothy Caulfield 
• Erin Nelson 
• Hadley Friedland 
• Tamar Meshel 
• Ubaka Ogbogu 

More information: 

The University is widely known for its Health Law Institute and the Centre for Constitutional Studies. Established in 1908, one of its most notable graduates include the Chief Justice of Alberta, The Honourable Madame Catherine Fraser. Aspiring students will be glad to know that there’s a Student Service Centre specifically designed to assist in university life. 

Students are exposed to in-class instruction as well as experiential learning, allowing for a well-rounded approach to legal education. They also facilitate Student Legal Services where law students can help people from low-income communities with their legal concerns. The school also has wellness support and financial support for students who meet preset criteria. 

8. Thompson Rivers University – Faculty of Law 

Situated in Kamloops, Thompson Rivers University – Faculty of Law prepares its students for many aspects of the legal profession. Other than setting them up to meet licensure requirements of British Columbia, the school also takes great pride in producing high calibre students in the practice. 

Law degree offered: 

Juris Doctor (JD) 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition rates are subject to change but based on their official website, current tuition rates are: 

This is exclusive of any ancillary fees, administrative fees, student union fees, or other payments required by the university. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Craig Jones 
• Nicole Schabus 
• Katie Sykes 
• Seán Patrick Donlan 
• Chris Hunt 

More information: 

The law school prepares its students for on-site practice through various efforts like the Community Legal Clinic or the Pro Bono Students Canada. Through these, students can help their surrounding community by providing free legal advice to a marginalized portion of the population. 

There are also multiple student associations such as the Society of Law Students and Indigenous Law Student Association where aspiring lawyers can network. Those seeking financial aid can also take advantage of the school's awards and prizes to help with associated fees. 

Other than the general Canadian laws, the university also offers electives like digital media law and video gaming law for anyone seeking to practice in a digital sphere. 

9. University of Victoria – Faculty of Law 

The University of Victoria (UVic) prepares its students to pass and meet the licensure requirements under the Law Society of British Columbia. As of 2025, UVic is tied at the ninth spot with the University of Alberta when it comes to the top Canadian law schools. Globally, it sits within the top 150 law schools. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

For the 2025-2026 fall and winter sessions, UVic offers an approximation of their rates: 

Aspiring students can also estimate their tuition fees using the university’s tuition and costs page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Robert Lapper, KC 
• Jamie Cassels 
• Deborah Curran 
• Victor V. Ramraj 
• Val Napoleon 

A complete profile of faculty members is also available through the faculty and staff page. 

More information: 

Admission rates in UVic are competitive at just around 9 percent to 11 percent. The law school has research centres. Not surprising since this is one of the top law schools in the country, producing cabinet ministers, attorney generals, and even a justice of the Supreme Court of Canada. 

Students can choose between different clinical programs such as the Business Law Clinic, Environmental Law Centre, and the Law Centre Clinical Law Program. These programs give students the opportunity to connect with the community, especially the law centre, which caters to low-income members of the region. 

Various student organizations are also established within the school, giving students the chance to network with peers.  

10. University of Calgary – Faculty of Law 

Situated in Alberta – University of Calgary prepares its students to practice law in Canada and meet the licensure requirements of Alberta Law Society. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

First time JD students studying full-term will have 18 units. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Jennifer Koshan 
• Catherine Anne Brown 
• Gideon Christian 
• Shaun Charles Fluker 
• Emily Laidlaw 

More information: 

The school admits around 130 students for each batch of first year. With applications of around 1,300 each time though, this makes the acceptance rate in University of Calgary at around 10 percent. Counted among its top alumni include politician Roderick Neil Brown and Linda Taylor, a human rights and international law jurist. 

Students at the University can expect early exposure to the community through various programs and societies available on campus. There’s the Canadian Institute of Resources Law and the Student Legal Assistance (SLA), which offers free legal information among low-income members of the community. 

Financial assistance is also available through different awards and scholarships. Internship-wise, the school presents various opportunities such as the London Corporate Law Summer Institute and the Innovation Internship Program. 

Discover top law schools in Alberta, Canada. Learn about the programs offered, admission requirements, and tuition costs to help you choose the right one for you.

11. University of British Columbia – Peter A. Allard School of Law 

The University is named after Peter A. Allard, a businessman, lawyer, and medical philanthropist. He is a graduate of the University of British Columbia (UBC) which currently ranks third among the top Canadian law schools in the World University Rankings.   

Globally, UBC is in the top 50 law schools for 2025. Located in Vancouver, the school sets up many of its students to meet BC’s licensure requirements. 

Law degrees offereed: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition is on a per-credit basis and varies depending on whether the student is domestic or international. 

Note that tuition is subject to change and reviewed yearly by the Board of Directors.  

Notable faculty members: 

• Ngai Pindell 
• Brenna Bhandar 
• Margot Young 
• Erez Aloni 
• Dr. Carol Liao 

More information: 

It's estimated that the University of British Columbia law program has an acceptance rate of around 13.3 percent. Counted among its most notable alumni is David A. Anderson, Minister of Environment and Stuart Douglas Boland Smith, a former BC politician. 

The school offers access to numerous opportunities for growth, practical learning, and networking. To start, there’s the experiential learning opportunities where students can work with Indigenous law, business law, and family law. 

Explore law schools in British Columbia. Discover the best options and learn about admission requirements for Canadian students pursuing a legal career.

12. University of Manitoba – Faculty of Law 

Located in Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Law prepares its students to meet the licensure requirements of the Law Society of Manitoba. 

Law degrees offered: 

The University has three categories of first-year students accepted. These are the regular students which comprise around 80 percent of the acceptance per year. There is an individual consideration category for mature students or those over 26 years of age. Finally, there’s the Canadian Indigenous category. 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition rates depend on whether the student is domestic or international. Note that the tuition and fees page of the University hasn’t been updated yet and reflects the tuition for SY 2023-2024. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Donn Short 
• Lorna Turnbull 
• Dr. Bryan Schwartz 
• Laurelle Harris K.C. 
• Katie Szilagyi 

More information: 

Established in 1914, the University of Manitoba produced some of the most distinguished legal minds, including the 15th Chief Justice of Canada, Brian Dickson. It also counts among its alumni three Puisne Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada: Albert Hudson, Marshall Rothstein, and Charles Holland Locke. 

The University extends help to its students through need-based financial aid and merit-based awards. Students can also take advantage of the experiential learning avenues through clinical opportunities or clerkship for academic credit. In addition, there are mooting competitions and publications where students can participate in more rounded learning. 

More information about the University’ offerings can be found on the student experience page. 

13. University of Saskatchewan – College of Law 

The University of Saskatchewan holds the 16th place for the top law schools in Canada for 2025. In the world, it falls within the top 300 schools. The University prepares its students to meet the licensure requirements of the Law Society of Saskatchewan. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition estimates are available on the University’s website and are given depending on whether the student is domestic or international. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Martin Phillipson (Dean) 
• Dwight Newman 
• Barbara von Tigerstrom 
• Dr. Clayton Bangsund 
• Dr. Dwight Newman 

More information: 

Counted among the university’s alumni are some of the most respected names in the legal profession. These include Justice of the Alberta Court of Appeal, Constance Hunt and John Diefenbaker, the 13th Prime Minister of Canada. The university also offers multiple opportunities for financial aid, including the J. Barrie Thomson Scholarship. 

Students can get comprehensive help through the university's student service programs. There’s the Career Development section and Experiential Learning where students can plan their prospects and get the experience needed before graduating. They’ also have a well-being coordinator which is great for students who might need help with the program. 

Canadian law schools in Toronto 

Even though Toronto is located in Ontario, a separate list for Toronto-based law schools is often necessary. Being the capital, Toronto boasts of a large population and amenities. This often makes it more attractive to students. 

14. Lincoln Alexander School of Law at Toronto Metropolitan University 

Established in 2020, Lincoln Alexander School of Law is the youngest law school in Canada. Named for the first black Canadian to serve in the house of commons, Lincoln Alexander had a long and impressive career. 

Law degree offered: 

Juris Doctor (JD) 

Tuition rates: 

An itemized document is available for aspiring students at Lincoln Alexander School of Law who want to find out how much studying there would cost. Rates are subject to change but for the school year 2025-2026, here’s what to expect: 

Notable faculty members: 

• Hilary Evans Cameron 
• Christopher Campbell-Duruflé 
• Alexandra Mogyoros 
• Uchechukwu Ngwaba 
• Ed Béchard-Torres 

View the University’s full list of faculty members and practitioner co-instructors 

More information: 

Being the youngest law school in Canada, Lincoln Alexander only started its legal clinic in 2023. Through this, students will tackle legal matters with the supervision of experienced professionals. The legal clinic will focus on community projects, including housing and social assistance. 

Currently, the school has a very low acceptance rate of just 5 percent. Just in 2023, they produced the first batch of law graduates with the intent of creating a mark in Canada’s legal landscape. 

Photo alt text: University of Toronto, Jackman Law Building 

15. University of Toronto – Faculty of Law 

The University of Toronto offers a variety of law degrees, combined JD programs, and even collaborative programs. They’re ranked number one among Canadian law schools and holds the 22nd place globally in THE's 2025 World University Rankings.  

Law degrees offered: 

They also offer the following programs: 

Combined JD programs are also available: 

Finally, the university also offers collaborative programs: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition for SY 2025-2026 depends on factors such as residency and status as a student. Here’s a breakdown of the tuition for first-year students. 

The University has an available tuition payment summary for new JD students who are confused about the process. They also have a JD Financial Aid Office that aspiring students can contact for inquiries. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Ran Hirschl 
• Gillian Hadfield 
• Trudo Lemmens 
• Connor Ewing 
• Douglas Sanderson 

More information: 

The university produced some of the best legal minds in Canada today. In fact, some of its faculty have authored books that are being used in teaching programs. It also has a distinguished visitors program where short-term professors impart their knowledge to interested students. 

Student life is also more rounded thanks to programs and activities encouraged by the Faculty of Law. These include multiple student organizations dedicated to mooting, journals, and a Student’s Law Society. The university also has a sector for assisting the health and wellness of its students. 

Get to know the law schools in Toronto. Discover the best options, and learn about admission requirements for Canadian students pursuing a legal education.

16. York University – Osgoode Hall Law School 

York University occupies the fourth spot in Canada’s top law schools in the 2025 THE list. This is a two-step improvement from last year's sixth position. Globally however, the school remains within the top 100 law schools, occupying 63rd position. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Fees associated with JD programs are based on the residence of the students. Here are the rates for SY 2025-2026 according to the school’s tuition and fees page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Obiora Chinedu Okafor 
• Deborah McGregor 
• Jinyan Li 
• Valerio De Stefano 
• Dayna Scott 

More information: 

Estimates suggest that Osgoode Hall Law School has an acceptance rate of just 8 percent. This is computed based on the 290 students admitted into the school after sifting through 3,600 applicants. Unsurprisingly, the law school has produced brilliant minds in the legal landscape, including Supreme Court of Canada judges Malcolm Rowe and Bora Laskin. 

Community legal services and clinical programs are also available to students who want to build their network. First-year students can choose to join an array of activities, including The Investor Protection Clinic, the Osgoode Mediation Clinic, and the IP Innovation Clinic. 

Canadian law schools in Québec 

There are currently five law schools in Québec, each one offering students the opportunity to learn law while getting hands-on experience in the practice. Students who graduate from these universities and wish to practice in the province must meet the licensure requirements under the Law Society of Québec. 

17. McGill University – Faculty of Law 

Established in 1848 at Montréal, McGill University is the oldest university in Canada. It ranks second among the top law schools in the country with an impressive global score of 33 in THE's World University Rankings. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

For the 2025-2026 academic year, tuition in the university is subject to a 3 percent increase compared to the previous year. Previous year’s rates are as follows: 

The Student’s Accounts page offers more accurate tuition rates in case of change. 

Notable faculty members: 

• François Crépeau 
• Colleen Sheppard 
• Andrea Bjorklund 
• Allison Christians 
• Daniel Weinstock 

More information: 

McGill University has an estimated acceptance rate of around 11.9 percent. The school has a reputation for producing graduates that end up occupying clerkship positions in Canada’s Supreme Court. In fact, the Faculty of Law has produced several Supreme Court Justices like Louis-Philippe de Grandpré and Marie Deschamps. 

The university also offers a well-rounded clinical legal education that students can participate in. There’s competitive mooting, international human rights internship programs, and even possible internships in France. A complete list of the school’s legal clinic offerings is available on their Clinical Legal Education page. 

18. Université de Montréal – Faculté de Droit (UdeM) 

Located in Montréal, the Université de Montréal is tied at the number seven spot when ranking the best law schools in Canada. In the world, it’s within the top 125 law schools, producing around 15,000 legal professionals since it was founded. 

Law degrees offered: 

There are also short graduate programs and specialized graduate diplomas where students can focus on specific areas of law like information technologies law, international law, or business law. 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition rates vary depending on whether the student is a resident of Québec or not. International students are also welcomed in the school, with additional admission policies. 

Fees for SY 2025-2026 aren’t available yet. However, it is expected to be slightly higher compared to the 2023 fees.  For Québec residents, this was around $1,400 per semester while non-Québec residents pay approximately $4,400 per semester. For international students, the rate is around $9,600 each semester.  

Note that these figures are approximations, and more accurate fees may be available through the university’s cost of studies page. There’s also a cost calculator made available by the university. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Jean-François Gaudreault-DesBiens 
• Catherine Régis 
• Marie Annik Grégoire 
• Gilles Trudeau 
• Geneviève Saumier 

More information: 

Established in 1892, this law school is declared the best French-speaking law school in the world according to Times Higher Education. Its longstanding reputation comes out of decades of producing excellent legal minds who helped shaped Canada. Some of its alumni include Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada from 1968 to 1984. 

Over the years, UdeM has developed well-rounded offerings to its students. This helps build not just theoretical but also practical experience in the legal profession. The school’s legal clinic lets students connect with the community while providing free legal service to those who need it. 

19. Université de Sherbrooke – Faculté de droit (UdeS) 

The Université de Sherbrooke is among Canada’s best law schools. Founded in 1954, the school’s acceptance rate is estimated to be around 45 percent. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Estimated total of tuitions for 2025 are based on the status of the student: 

Specific rates for French students and French-speaking Belgian students are also available. Most recently, there’s been an announced exemption for international students when it comes to tuition fee increases, which can be found on the school’s tuition page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Mathieu Devinat 
• Vanessa Tanguay 
• Catherine Choquette 
• Marie-Pierre Robert 

More information: 

The University has produced several distinguished alumni, including Vincent Chiara who was awarded the title of Honourary President of CHU Foundation Québec. There’s also Monique Gagnon-Tremblay who was the Liberal Leader for the Opposition in the National Assembly of Québec. 

The UdeS community is designed to provide its students with the best possible network to start their legal career. Health and personal assistance and resources are always available for those who are still transitioning to university life. For international students, there’s a dedicated support system that guides them through common issues like income taxes. 

20. Université Laval – Baccalauréat en Droit 

 Located in the city of Québec, Université Laval holds the 13th place among the top law schools in Canada. In the world rankings, it is among the top 200 law schools. Acceptance rate to the school is anywhere from 50 to 59 percent and mostly dependent on academic performance. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

The 2024-2025 tuition rates for law programs in the Laval University are categorized depending on the residence of the student or if they are international students. 

A more detailed explanation is available through the university’s fees and budgeting page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Richard Ouellet 
• Kristin Bartenstein 
• Eugenie Brouillet 
• Fannie Lafontaine 
• Louise Langevin 

More information: 

The law school is one of the French-speaking universities in Canada. It’s speculated that the acceptance rate in the university is around 50 percent since the school doesn’t release actual numbers. Since it was established, Laval produced some of the most notable legal minds, including previous Canada Prime Ministers Brian Mulroney and Jean Chrétien. 

Laval University itself promises students a balanced and healthy avenue to learn and create connections. A dynamic student life is promised through practical training, student associations, and even a sports center! 

21. Université du Québec à Montréal – Faculté de science politique et de droit 

Ranked 11th best law schools of Canada in THE's list, the Université du Québec à Montréal – Faculté de science politique et de droit (UQAM) is also in the top 200 in the world. The university itself came into existence in 1969 and has an overall acceptance rate of around 45 percent. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

Tuition approximations depend on the student. Here’s what the rates look like for a full-time, first-year student of UQAM: 

UMAC also offers a tuition estimation tool for students looking for a more precise overview of associated costs. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Hélène Piquet 
• Bernard Duhaime 
• Jean-Pierre Beaud 
• Alejandro Lorite Escorihuela 
• Pierre Bosset 

More information: 

The law school aims to provide its students with well-rounded exposure to the legal profession. As a way of building networks and creating communities, students are encouraged to take part in different groups and associations on campus. Here, students have the chance to create connections and get psychological guidance in their studies. 

Hitting that balance between learning and self-care, UQAM also has a sports centre where students can work out any stresses accumulated during the week. Activities include swimming, basketball, bodybuilding, climbing, and various other activities every semester. 

For students who are interested in specific law practices, there are targeted legal clinics like the Mobile Legal Clinic and the UQAM Pro Bono. 

Canadian law schools in Atlantic Canada 

Atlantic Canada encompasses four provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. There are currently three law schools in this area. 
 

22. Université de Moncton – Faculté de Droit 

Established in 1978, Université de Moncton – Faculté de Droit prepares its students to practice law according to the licensure requirements of the Law Society of New Brunswick. Classes are conducted in French, allowing students to become familiar with the language during their practice. Currently, it is ranked among the top 50 law schools in Canada. 

Law degrees: 

Tuition rates: 

Rates for academic year 2025-2026 

More information about the costs of a university year is available on the university page. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Érik Labelle Eastaugh 
• Karine McLaren 
• Micheline, Gleixner 
• Adrien Habermacher 
• Serge Rousselle 

More information: 

Université de Moncton – Faculté de Droit is the first common-law faculty being taught in the French language. Among its graduates include the 31st premier of New Brunswick, Bernard Lord and the 33rd, Brian Gallant. 

The school takes great pride in being a university that encourages diversity. Students are given different avenues to pursue not just legal education but also activities that promote overall well-being. For example, they offer recreational and sports activities that can help community members de-stress after a hard day. 

Academic-wise, the school is also linked to different organizations such as the CTTJ - Center for Legal Translation and Terminology and the International Observatory of Linguistic Rights. 

23. Dalhousie University – Schulich School of Law 

Schulich School of Law prepares students to meet the licensure requirements stated in the Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society. In the 2025 rankings, it is the sixth top law school in Canada while placing within the top 100 in the world. 

Law degrees: 

Tuition rates: 

The Board of Directors has approved the law school’s tuition for the academic year 2025-2026. 

Rates may also vary depending on whether the student is a resident of Nova Scotia, a resident of another province, or an international student. Dalhousie University has an online calculator to help students better figure out the precise cost of studying in the community. 

Notable faculty members: 

• Olabisi Akinkugbe 
• Aldo Chircop 
• Camille Cameron, KC 
• Sheila Wildeman 
• Robert J. Currie, KC 

A complete list of the school’s faculty can be found on the faculty page. 

More information: 

Estimates of the school’s admission rate are around 14.2 percent, which is just around 173 students admitted each year. Established in 1883, the school counts among its alumni several Supreme Court justices, including Hon. Edmund Leslie Newcombe and Roland Ritchie, CC. 

Currently, the school provides students with multiple opportunities to learn, practice, and network through various clinics and organizations. This includes the Initio Technology and Innovation Law Clinic for commercial and intellectual property law.  Students can also join the Dalhousie Legal Aid Service that caters to low-income residents. 

24. University of New Brunswick – Faculty of Law (UNB Law) 

Becoming a lawyer in New Brunswick as an alumnus of UNB takes dedication. The Faculty of Law has an approximate acceptance rate of around 13 percent, making it a competitive school. It ranks among the top 700 law schools in the world and boasts of notable faculty members teaching their students. 

Law degrees offered: 

Tuition rates: 

UNB Law also offers different financing opportunities in the form of scholarships and bursaries. 

More information: 

Aspiring students of UNB law have three categories for application. There's the regular category, which is where most applicants fall into. Next is the discretionary category, which promotes the application of students from diverse groups or those who had significant non-academic achievements.  

Those coping with physical, sensory, or learning impairment are also encouraged to apply under the third category. The school’s legal clinic is also active and gives students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in dealing with matters associated with employment law, small claims, human rights, and tenancy issues. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best law schools in Canada? 

As of 2025, the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia constantly rank as the top law schools in Canada. Their ranking isn’t just based on the quality of graduates but also the quality of the faculty and the research environment. The ranking even considers the international outlook of the school. 

Do I need to take the LSAT to apply to Canadian law schools? 

Generally, yes. The Law School Admission Test is a requirement for all aspiring lawyers who are enrolling in one of Canada’s law schools – except Québec. This is because the LSAT is a requirement of the Law School Admission Council of which all other law schools are members. The LSAT score will be a factor when law schools consider admission. 

Note though that while LSAT is not a requirement, it may still be considered if submitted during the application process. For example, McGill University would consider your LSAT score if it's included in the documents submitted upon application. 

How long does it take to complete a law degree in Canada? 

Three years for the Juris Doctor degree is required to become a lawyer in Canada. Students can also take the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which will need the same number of years. The distinction between the two is mainly the nomenclature, although JDs typically have more practical courses in their curriculum. 

Both LLB and JD are considered undergraduate degrees even though you already need to have completed an undergraduate course to take them. Postgraduate law degrees include the Master in Law Degree (LLM) and the Master in Legal Studies (MA). These will take one or two years to complete and are often taken after securing an LLB or a JD. 

To practice law, however, all you need is an LLB or JD in Canada combined with passing the bar exam. An LLM or an MA on its own will not let a person practice law. 

Do all law schools in Canada require an admissions interview? 

No. Admission interviews are internal requirements of schools that want to better sift through their applicants. However, it’s not an admissions requirement and is simply a university policy. Hence, it can be taken out or added into the admission process, depending on the institution's preferences. 

Of course, aspiring students are still advised to prepare for an interview just in case there are changes. Some schools may selectively interview applicants to better find out if they suit the community. 

What are the cheapest law schools in Canada?  

Québec-based universities are typically the cheapest although this only applies to Canadians who are also residents of the province. Tuition is subject to change, especially for out-of-province students and those who are considered international. Typically, tuition costs can increase by 3 to 5 percent or more per year. 

Is it difficult to get into law school in Canada? 

Yes. Getting into law schools in Canada is competitive especially when it comes to top institutions like the University of British Columbia or University of Toronto. Thousands of applications are typically received by these schools every year, but only a handful of spots are available. Some schools have an acceptance rate of less than 10 percent. 

What is the easiest law school to get into in Canada? 

All law schools in Canada are difficult to get into and heavily considers merit in their admission process. However, some law schools have lower requirements in terms of LSAT and GPA scores, allowing for better chances of entry. Often, the University of Windsor and the University of New Brunswick are cited to have an easier barrier to entry. 

Can I graduate from one school but practice in a different province? 

Yes. It’s possible to graduate from a law school based in Toronto and then practice in another country. Note though that additional steps must be taken to meet the requirements of the province where you intend to take the bar and practice. This is especially true for Québec, which requires its lawyers to speak French. 

Can I apply to law school in Canada with a degree in a field other than pre-law or political science? 

Yes. Aspiring students at Canadian law schools can take any undergraduate degree they want before enrolling into a law school. The undergraduate degree does not matter as long as the LSAT test is taken. For Québec-based universities that do not require the LSAT, any undergraduate degree is also accepted. 

What undergraduate degree is best for law school in Canada? 

Law schools have no precise undergraduate degree requirement. Students are therefore free to choose whatever degree they want. However, certain degrees may give first year law students a competitive edge. These are humanities, economics, and political science. 

Can I take the bar exam in Canada without going to law school? 

No. A qualifying degree is a must before you can take the bar exam in Canada. This means having either an LLB or a JD from a recognized school. 

Can I take the bar exam in Canada if I graduated law school from another country? 

Yes. However, additional steps must be taken before a person can take the bar exam. This includes an assessment of the school where you completed your LLB or JD course. The school must undergo checking by the National Committee on Accreditation, which will then determine what other requirements must be met. 

What is the average age to go into law school in Canada? 

The average age for entering law school in Canada is around 25 or 26 years. Note though that schools happily accept students of all ages. In fact, some schools have a category specifically for mature applicants, increasing their chances of getting accepted under this classification. 

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