Applying to law school
Applying to law school is a rigorous and difficult process. Law schools are competitive and looking for the strongest candidates. This website provides applicants a basic application time line and information on the different pieces of the application and application process.
Four-year academic time line
First and Second Years:
- Choose a balanced and challenging course of study, focusing on completing classes that include logical reasoning and writing skills.
- Develop a strong relationship with your Colloquium advisor and (once declared) your major advisor. These are potential letters of recommendation for the future.
- Meet with the Director of Academic Advising (Melrose 010) regularly to discuss your career plans and experiences.
- Work to build an excellent academic record with a strong GPA.
- Participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer in your community, and complete school-related internships.
Third Year:
- Complete informational interviews with practicing attorneys in fields you are interested in.
- Obtain LSAT and LSDAS Registration and Information booklet from Academic Advising (Melrose 010) or Career Development (Melrose 010).
- Register with the LSDAS.
- Order unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate institutions and review for mistakes or discrepancies.
- Decide who will write your letters of recommendation and discuss their plans and timelines.
- Investigate law schools and review admissions statistics and materials.
- Draft your personal statement.
- Plan to take the June LSAT, leaving 4-6 weeks to prepare for the exam. You will receive the score 2-3 weeks after sitting for the test.
Fall Term – Fourth Year:
- Complete September/October/December LSAT if necessary.
- Review law school applications in light of LSAT score.
- Order official transcripts.
- Request and submit final letters of recommendation.
- Finalize personal statement.
- Request financial aid information from law schools.
Spring Term – Fourth Year:
- Contact law schools to see if applications are complete.
- Assess admissions offers.
- Thank letter writers and inform them of your plans.