Law School Curve Explained: What It Means for Your GPA

Most law schools require professors to grade on a mandatory curve. The median grade (the middle of the class) is typically set at B or B+ (3.0-3.3), meaning roughly half the class will be at or below that grade. This is radically different from undergrad, where grade inflation means many students graduate with 3.5+ GPAs. In law school, a 3.3 GPA can put you in the top half of your class.

A typical curve at a T14 school might look like:

A/A+: 5-10% of the class
A-: 15-20%
B+: 30-35% (median range)
B: 20-25%
B-/C+: 10-15%

At lower-ranked schools, the curve may be lower (B or B- median). The exact distribution varies by school and sometimes by class size. Your school publishes its grading policy — read it.

The curve exists because employers — particularly large law firms and judges — use grades and class rank as primary screening criteria. Without a curve, grade inflation would make it impossible to distinguish students. The curve also creates fairness across sections: a student with a “tough grader” professor isn't disadvantaged compared to a student with an “easy grader.”

A B+ is a good grade. It means you performed at or above the median of a very capable group of students. Adjust your expectations accordingly.

Class rank matters more than GPA. A 3.4 that puts you in the top 20% is better than a 3.6 at a school where that's median.

One bad grade isn't fatal. Most employers look at your overall GPA, not individual grades. A strong upward trend shows growth.

The curve means your competition is your classmates. This can feel uncomfortable, but it's the reality. Focus on your own performance, not others'.