Is law school worth the debt?

Biglaw starting salaries ($215,000) justify T14 debt ($200,000-$250,000) within 5-7 years. Mid-tier law schools with median public sector salaries ($70,000) often do not.

What is the total cost of law school?

T14 law schools average $65,000-$75,000/year in tuition plus living expenses, for a total 3-year cost of $250,000-$350,000 including opportunity cost.

What percentage of law graduates work as lawyers?

Approximately 75-80% of law graduates work in legal positions within 10 months of graduation, though specific job types and salaries vary dramatically.

JD Opportunity Cost Analysis

Formula Definitions

The JD Opportunity Cost Analysis works by applying a well-defined formula to the values you enter. Understanding the formula behind the calculation helps you interpret the result and check that your inputs are correct. Below we break down the key components that drive the JD Cost Analysis.

The core formula used by this calculator is:

Result = f(inputs, settings)

Each variable in the formula has a specific meaning:

inputs — Values entered into the JD Cost Analysis.
settings — Options, units, or parameters that adjust how the calculation is performed.
Result — Computed output for the chosen inputs and settings.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the required values. Enter the required values into the JD Opportunity Cost Analysis input fields.

Adjust settings. Adjust any settings, select applicable options, or choose units as needed.

Calculate the result. Press Calculate to compute the result using the underlying formula.

Interpret the output. Review and interpret your result using the provided context, reference ranges, or explanatory notes.

Glossary and Definitions

Input

A value entered into the calculator to be processed.

Output

The computed result returned by the calculator for the given inputs.

Setting

An option that adjusts how the calculation is performed, such as unit selection or mode.

Law school ROI