Written by: Gloria Kosir

The University of Iowa College of Law welcomed its most academically accomplished incoming class ever.

The 180 students who comprise the 1L class come from 32 states and 90 different undergraduate institutions across the country. 73 of the entering students are Iowans, the largest number in more than a decade. With a median LSAT score of 165 and a median undergraduate grade-point average of 3.81, they also have the highest academic credentials.

“Statistically this class is outstanding, Tom Ksobiech, assistant dean for admissions and financial aid said. “But their numbers alone did not earn them their seats in this class. It was their experiences outside of the classroom as well."

Those experiences included working in law firms and in legal fields, the military, teaching, farming, banking, bartending, newspaper writing, and more.

Members of the Class of 2029 also donated time and effort to food pantries, political campaigns, substance abuse recovery centers, and animal shelters. They built houses for those in need and mentored youth.

“They are a group of individuals who care about their communities and chose Iowa Law as their next step,” Ksobiech added. “We are excited to see what they can accomplish with an Iowa Law education.”

While law schools saw a nationwide uptick in applicants of roughly 8%, Iowa Law noted an increase of more than 30%. These 180 students hold highly coveted positions as members of the Iowa Law Class of 2029—something 1,683 people applied to be.

Class of 2029 by the numbers: