Ketchup Chips, Shrek 2, and a 168 Median LSAT – A look at the incoming 1L class
BEIJING – Each September, the arrival of the newest law students brings an air of excitement to the U of T Faculty of Law. This year is no exception. With the Faculty’s official name change marking a new chapter in its history, the incoming Class of 2028 enters a program whose reputation for academic excellence and professional opportunity continues to precede it.
The law school received 2,771 applications this cycle, up from 2,607 last year—a roughly 6.3% increase. This year, 220 students were admitted. The incoming class represents a highly competitive cohort. The Class of 2028 enters with a median LSAT score of 168 and a median GPA of 3.90, calculated from the best three full-time undergraduate years. With these numbers, the Class of 2028 stands out as one of the most competitive in recent years.
This year’s class profile underscores the Faculty’s continued commitment to building a diverse and competitive class. The incoming students age from 20 to 40, reflecting the variety of paths that lead to law school. Women make up 56% of the incoming students, 45% identify as students of colour, 44% identify with a range of religious traditions, and 20% are part of the LGBTQ+ community.
This diversity also extends to academic and experiential backgrounds: 14% of the class already hold graduate degrees, 14% come from STEM backgrounds, and 31% hail from institutions outside Ontario. In addition, 31% of students were born outside of Canada.
For many, the journey to U of T Law marks a family milestone. A striking 85% of the incoming students are the first in their family to attend law school. The statistics speak to the breadth of opportunity and access the Faculty continues to foster.
Still, behind the statistics is a community of students with quirks and interests of their own. According to survey results, the incoming class has a strong preference for ketchup-flavoured potato chips, a detail that may amuse upper-year students. 65% reported they are extremely or moderately interested in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the city’s anticipated celebrations. When it comes to movie sequels, the Class of 2028 declared Shrek 2 and The Dark Knight Rises superior to the originals.
Many students are already eager to explore Toronto, with Kensington Market, Trinity Bellwoods, and the Annex topping the list of places to visit.
The decision to attend U of T Law reflects both ambition and pragmatism. Among the top reasons why the students chose U of T Law are the calibre of the faculty and peers, as well as unmatched career opportunities. Their confidence is well-placed. Among second-year students surveyed in 2024, every single respondent had secured summer employment. Early data from that class demonstrates the strength of the program’s career outcomes. Of that class of 214 students, at least 32 secured positions in New York, Boston, or the Bay Area. Another 104 received offers through the 2L Toronto recruit. In all, roughly 63.6% of that class has secured a post-law school position already, with final recruitment numbers expected to climb. Historically, more than 95% of graduating students seeking an articling placement have secured one by June. The Class of 2028 is undoubtedly in good hands.
Beyond academics and career preparation, the incoming class can look forward to the unique culture that defines U of T Law. Annual events like the Students’ Legal Society Halloween Party and Law Ball offer memorable student experiences. Clinical programs and international exchanges also provide students with unique opportunities to expand their learning beyond the classroom.
The Class of 2028 enters at a moment of institutional change. Their journey will be rigorous, but also full of discovery, community, and growth. As they step into the halls of U of T Law, they bring with them not only impressive credentials but also curiosity, humour, and the promise of shaping the future of the legal profession.
Welcome, Class of 2028!