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Law School Application Process

I. Preparing for Law School

II. Admission Materials

III. Choosing a Law School

IV. Applying

V. Financing Your Degree

 

  • I. Preparing for Law School
    • Choosing a Major: There are no specific majors law schools prefer. Since communication and analytical skills are two important components to succeeding in law school, choose courses that develop reading, logical thinking, writing, and research skills. Choose a major which interests you and that you enjoy, therefore, leading to successful completion of the major.
    • Learning about the Profession: Explore the legal profession by conducting informational interviews, shadowing/volunteering, obtaining and internship, and talking to alumni through LinkedIn and the Career Advice Network (CAN)

  • II. Admission Materials

  • III. Choosing a Law School: What to Consider 
    • ABA Approval: Some law schools are not approved by the American Bar Association. Some non-ABA law schools in California are California bar approved. However, you may have difficulty sitting for the bar in another state. Be sure to research bar admission limitations.
    • Curriculum and Special Programs: What is the range and quality of courses? Are special programs or activities offered? Are courses offered in an area you may want to specialize (e.g., environmental or immigration law)?
    • Bar Exam/Job Placement: What is the success rate of graduates in passing the bar? Where are graduates finding jobs? 
    • Location: It will be easier to network and find a job after graduation if you attend a school in the vicinity you wish to work 
    • Financial Support: What types of financial support are offered by the institution?
    • Cost: What is the cost of the program and how much can you afford?
    • Chances of Admission: Research the average LSAT score and GPA of admitted applicants to the schools in which you are interested in

  • IV. Applying
    • Deadlines: Law school deadlines vary and may extend as late as April. Most schools have rolling admissions, e.g., they admit students as applications are received. It is to your advantage to submit your application as soon as possible (attempt to have all your application materials in by early November)
    • Application Materials: LSAT, All Undergraduate Transcripts, Personal Statement, Letters of Recommendation, and Resume
    • LSAT: All applicants must take the Law School Admission Test. It is recommended that you take the test in February or June of your senior year for admission for the fall after graduation. The LSAT is a half-day test consisting of five 35-minute multiple-choice sections with questions on reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical thinking. LSAT is scored 120-180 and 150 is the average score. Explore the LSAC for more info 
    • CAS Registration: It is required that all applicants must register for the Credential Assembly Service through LSAC. The CAS simplifies the admission process by collecting and sending application materials to law schools and it costs $185
    • Letters of Recommendation: Most law schools require 2-3 letters of recommendation. You may send your letters to CAS for processing
    • Dean’s Letter: Some schools require a Dean’s letter. This should be completed by your academic preceptor at your college and signed by the preceptor or provost.


V. Financing Your Degree

  • Most students apply for Federal Stafford Loans. In addition, some law schools have their own special scholarships and financial aid (be sure to check for early deadlines)

Below is a list of Scholarship opportunities: