🎓 Introduction
For aspiring legal professionals seeking flexible and affordable education, Abraham Lincoln University (ALU) provides accessible law programs geared toward working adults. As of 2025, ALU offers non-ABA-accredited, California-registered legal education that allows graduates to sit for the California Bar Exam. This comprehensive guide covers ALU’s degree offerings, costs, bar eligibility, accreditation, and what students can expect in terms of legal careers.
Last Updated: June 23, 2025
Author: Nahyan | UsLawGuide.net
🔍 About Abraham Lincoln University (ALU)
- Location: Online; headquartered in Los Angeles, California
- Type: Private, distance-learning law school
- Accreditation: Registered with the California Committee of Bar Examiners (CBE); DEAC-accredited (Distance Education Accrediting Commission)
- Founded: 1996
ALU is designed for non-traditional students, including working professionals, military service members, and those seeking second careers. It’s known for flexible, part-time legal education online and provides a structured curriculum ideal for adults balancing career and study.
🏛️ Law Programs Offered (2025)
| Degree/Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Juris Doctor (J.D.) | 4-year part-time, online program; bar-eligible in California |
| Master of Laws (LL.M.) | Advanced legal study for licensed or international lawyers |
| Bachelor of Science (Legal Studies) | Undergraduate law foundation |
| Certificate in Paralegal Studies | Legal support certification |
All programs are delivered online with asynchronous content and live virtual support.
📅 Admissions & Requirements
- Application Fee: None (2025)
- Acceptance Rate: Open admission; estimated 100%
- Requirements: College transcripts, personal statement
- LSAT: Not required
- English Proficiency: Required for international applicants
ALU’s open admission policy makes legal education more accessible to those who may not meet traditional law school criteria.
💵 Tuition & Financial Aid (2025)
- J.D. Tuition:
$10,500/year ($42,000 total over 4 years) - LL.M. Tuition: ~$8,000 to $9,000 total
- Financial Aid: Not eligible for federal aid (due to non-ABA status), but ALU offers:
- Interest-free payment plans
- Military & veteran discounts
- Employer tuition partnerships
🎓 Bar Exam Eligibility
Graduates of ALU’s J.D. program are eligible to take the California Bar Exam. However, graduates should understand:
- ALU is not ABA-accredited, which significantly limits bar eligibility outside California.
- Most other states require graduation from an ABA-accredited institution.
- In rare cases, other states may accept applicants after years of practice in California.
Always consult state-specific rules if you intend to practice outside California.
💼 Career Outcomes & Considerations
- Typical Careers: California attorney, paralegal, legal analyst, compliance officer
- Bar Pass Rate (CA): ~38% (first-time takers, varies by year)
- Support Resources:
- Legal writing labs
- Online law library access
- Academic counseling
- Career guidance and job board
Note: While ALU provides legal training, graduates must clearly understand the licensing limitations associated with non-ABA accreditation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Abraham Lincoln University ABA-accredited?
➡ No. It is registered with the California Bar as an unaccredited law school.
Q: Can I become a licensed attorney outside California with an ALU degree?
➡ Rarely. Other states usually require ABA-accredited law degrees.
Q: Is ALU a good option for working professionals?
➡ Yes. The program is designed for adult learners and full-time employees.
Q: Does ALU offer federal student loans?
➡ No. But flexible private payment plans and discounts are available.
Q: What is the bar passage rate?
➡ Approximately 38% of first-time takers pass the California Bar Exam (varies each year).
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Abraham Lincoln University. For accurate, up-to-date information, visit ALU’s official website or speak with their admissions advisors.
🔗 Internal & External Links
External:
- https://www.alu.edu/
- https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Admissions/Law-School-Regulation/Registered-Unaccredited-Schools
Internal (uslawguide.net):