Invest in Your Future with
William & Mary
Degree Questions, Answered
Get more information.
How can we contact you?

By clicking "Get Program Brochure" and submitting this form, I agree to receive text messages, emails and other communication regarding educational programs and opportunities, and to be contacted by William & Mary and Everspring, its authorized representative. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. View our privacy policy and disclosures.
Thank you for your submission!
Oops, something went wrong.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Earning your Master of Legal Studies online from William & Mary is a strategic investment in your professional development. With a program designed to enhance your legal knowledge and advance your career, we are committed to helping you understand and manage the financial aspects of your education.

Tuition Overview

The tuition rate for the William & Mary Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program for the 2025–2026 academic year is $1,288 per credit hour. The program requires a total of 32 credit hours, bringing the estimated total tuition to $41,216.

In addition to tuition, students are responsible for a $100 university fee per semester.

Fall 2025 Term

Online MSLS2025-2026 Academic Year
Cost per credit$1,288
Total Estimated Tuition$41,216
Registration Fee$100 per semester
TimelyCare$12 per semester
Graduation Fee$150

*Tuition and costs effective as of May 16,2025. Tuition rates are not inclusive of textbooks and fees. Tuition and costs are subject to change and should be confirmed on the University’s official tuition listing at wm.edu/admission/tuition/graduate.

Program Details

  • 100% online
  • 32 credits
  • $41,216 Total Estimated Tuition
  • 4 concentrations
  • 4 semesters to completion, about 16 months (part-time)
  • 8 week courses, 2 courses per semester
  • Completely asynchronous courses
  • Final Fall Application Deadline: August 8
  • Fall Start Date: August 25

Download the Application Checklist

The application checklist is a one-page document outlining the application process and requirements. It can help you stay on track to complete your online MLS application.

Download the Application Checklist

Financial Aid

There are a variety of options available to help you fund your MLS education:

  • Federal Student Aid: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens may qualify for federal loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is required for federal loan eligibility and can be filed electronically at www.fafsa.gov. To ensure we receive your FAFSA submission details, please include our federal school code: 003705.
    • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available to eligible graduate students regardless of financial need. Interest begins accruing at the time of disbursement. *Eligibility: Student must be enrolled for a certain period of time at participating schools.
    • Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans: Credit-based loans that can be used to cover additional costs not met by Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These loans may require a credit check or endorser. Since this is not a subsidized loan interest accrues while you are enrolled.
  • Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or education assistance programs. Contact your HR department to learn more about available benefits.
  • Private Loans: A variety of private lenders offer education loans to graduate students. Be sure to compare terms such as interest rates, repayment options, and borrower protections when evaluating private financing options.

For help navigating your financial aid options, contact the William & Mary Office of Financial Aid.

Military Benefits

William & Mary proudly supports active-duty military personnel and veterans. If you are eligible for military education benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program, or other VA benefits, our admissions and financial aid teams can assist you in understanding and accessing these resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuition and Financial Aid

What is the total cost of the William & Mary Online Master of Legal Studies program?

The tuition rate for the William & Mary Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program for the 2025–2026 academic year is $1,288 per credit hour. The program requires a total of 32 credit hours, bringing the estimated total tuition to $41,216 plus any applicable fees.

Are scholarships or grants available for MLS students?

While institutional scholarships for the online MLS program are currently limited, students are encouraged to research outside scholarships and legal studies funding opportunities. You may also be eligible for federal student aid or private loans.

Can I use federal financial aid for this program?

Yes. Federal financial aid is available to eligible students enrolled in the online MLS program. To apply, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using William & Mary’s school code: 003705. We recommend applying as early as possible to ensure timely processing.

Are military education benefits accepted?

Absolutely. William & Mary welcomes active-duty military members, veterans, and eligible dependents. You may be able to use benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program, or other VA-supported aid. Our admissions and financial aid teams are available to guide you through the application and certification process.

Are payment plans available for MLS students?

William & Mary offers payment plans for some academic programs, but availability for students in the online MLS program may vary. We recommend reaching out to the Office of Financial Aid to explore your options and determine whether a payment plan or alternative financing method is available for your situation.

What is the cost for textbooks and course materials?

The program minimizes textbook and course material costs as much as possible with many courses not requiring a textbook at all.

William & Mary MLS Application Deadlines for Fall 2025

Jul
9
Priority Deadline
July 9
Fall 2025
Aug
8
Final Deadline
August 8
Fall 2025
Aug
25
Start Date
August 25
Fall 2025