Gonzaga University vs. Seattle University: Cost, Bar Passage & Outcomes Compared
Both are Washington law schools. On the most recent ABA Standard 509 data, Seattle University is the more selective admit (median LSAT 159 vs 155); Gonzaga University posts the higher first-time bar passage (79.7% vs 78.7%); Gonzaga University is cheaper on sticker tuition ($57,962 vs $59,769); Seattle University places more graduates in full-time JD jobs (82.8% vs 81.8%).
Side by side (ABA Standard 509)
| Metric | Gonzaga University | Seattle University | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions | |||
| Median LSAT | 155 | 159 | Seattle University |
| Median undergraduate GPA | 3.55 | 3.60 | Seattle University |
| Acceptance rate | 51.1% | 38.9% | Seattle University |
| Cost | |||
| Resident tuition | $57,962 | $59,769 | Gonzaga University |
| Non-resident tuition | $57,962 | $59,769 | Gonzaga University |
| Median grant | $32,000 | $30,000 | Gonzaga University |
| Bar passage | |||
| First-time bar passage | 79.7% | 78.7% | Gonzaga University |
| Two-year ultimate bar passage | 92.7% | 89.6% | Gonzaga University |
| Bar passage vs. state average | -1.6 pts | -3.5 pts | Gonzaga University |
| Employment | |||
| Full-time, long-term JD employment | 81.8% | 82.8% | Seattle University |
| Large-firm (250+) employment | 2.5% | 4.9% | Seattle University |
| Federal clerkships | 1.0% | 0.0% | Gonzaga University |
trajectory since 2011
Full profiles & related
Gonzaga University full profile · Seattle University full profile · Pin both on the interactive map → · All Washington law schools
FAQ
Is Gonzaga University or Seattle University harder to get into?
Seattle University is the tougher admit — its median LSAT is 159 against Gonzaga University's 155.
Which is cheaper, Gonzaga University or Seattle University?
Gonzaga University is cheaper on sticker: resident tuition of $57,962 versus Seattle University's $59,769.
Which has better bar passage, Gonzaga University or Seattle University?
Gonzaga University has the higher first-time bar passage, 79.7% against Seattle University's 78.7%.
Which has better job outcomes, Gonzaga University or Seattle University?
Seattle University places more graduates in full-time, long-term JD jobs (82.8% vs 81.8%).
Source: ABA Standard 509 Required Disclosures, most recent reported cycle. Last updated June 26, 2026.