University of Akron vs. Cleveland State University: Cost, Bar Passage & Outcomes Compared
Both are Ohio law schools. On the most recent ABA Standard 509 data, Cleveland State University is the more selective admit (median LSAT 155 vs 154); Cleveland State University posts the higher first-time bar passage (75.45% vs 72.09%); University of Akron is cheaper on sticker tuition ($22,359 vs $29,766); University of Akron places more graduates in full-time JD jobs (89.5% vs 80.3%).
Side by side (ABA Standard 509)
| Metric | University of Akron | Cleveland State University | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions | |||
| Median LSAT | 154 | 155 | Cleveland State University |
| Median undergraduate GPA | 3.51 | 3.50 | University of Akron |
| Acceptance rate | 58.5% | 34.5% | Cleveland State University |
| Cost | |||
| Resident tuition | $22,359 | $29,766 | University of Akron |
| Non-resident tuition | $22,359 | $29,866 | University of Akron |
| Median grant | $9,000 | $11,000 | Cleveland State University |
| Bar passage | |||
| First-time bar passage | 72.09% | 75.45% | Cleveland State University |
| Two-year ultimate bar passage | 95% | 93.13% | University of Akron |
| Bar passage vs. state average | -8.4 pts | -5.1 pts | Cleveland State University |
| Employment | |||
| Full-time, long-term JD employment | 89.5% | 80.3% | University of Akron |
| Large-firm (250+) employment | 5.3% | 12.1% | Cleveland State University |
| Federal clerkships | 0.8% | 0% | University of Akron |
15-year trajectory
Full profiles & related
University of Akron full profile · Cleveland State University full profile · All Ohio law schools
FAQ
Is University of Akron or Cleveland State University harder to get into?
Cleveland State University is the tougher admit — its median LSAT is 155 against University of Akron's 154.
Which is cheaper, University of Akron or Cleveland State University?
University of Akron is cheaper on sticker: resident tuition of $22,359 versus Cleveland State University's $29,766.
Which has better bar passage, University of Akron or Cleveland State University?
Cleveland State University has the higher first-time bar passage, 75.45% against University of Akron's 72.09%.
Which has better job outcomes, University of Akron or Cleveland State University?
University of Akron places more graduates in full-time, long-term JD jobs (89.5% vs 80.3%).
Source: ABA Standard 509 Required Disclosures, most recent reported cycle. Last updated June 26, 2026.