Admission Process at Law Schools

Every year, law schools across the country are flooded with applications from thousands of potential students. A law degree is sought for people entering different fields. Lawyers, judges, and district attorneys all require a law degree, but a JD can also be helpful in political positions. The first step in the process is a successful application.

General tips:

1. It is important to apply to numerous schools. You never know how many applications a school will get, or the competition you will be facing, so it is important to apply to at least ten schools. This can get expensive, as each application requires a fee. However, it is worth it to increase your chances of acceptance.


2. Get your applications in early. All law schools have a deadline, which may or may not be strictly adhered to. You have to assume it will be, and act accordingly.


3. Respond quickly to correspondence from a prospective law school. If they ask for additional information, maybe left out in your application or something in addition to what the application asked for, get it to them quickly.


4. Only apply to accredited schools, accepted by the American Bar Association. There are a number of un-accredited law schools. Some are working to get their accreditation, and others are not. However, it is a waste of time and money to go to an unaccredited law school. You will not be permitted to sit for the bar exam unless you graduate from an accredited law school. 

What you will need to apply:

1. A good GPA in college. The requirements for law schools differ, but most schools require at least a 3.2 GPA in college to be considered. Some schools will consider other factors, including a solid LSAT score.


2. Scoring high on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). This is a test that is required for admission to law school, and the higher your grade on this test, the better your chances of admission. Just as with the SAT, there are courses that can be taken to help you prepare for the LSAT.


3. Letters of recommendation. Most schools will ask for references in the form of letters of recommendation. Schools differ on how this can be sent in. Some require that the person send it in themselves, while others allow the prospective student to mail it in with their application. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the letter of recommendation. Naturally, if you know a judge, attorney, or politician willing to write the letter of recommendation, that will help your cause. 


4. Financial aid forms. Make sure to get these in quickly. Otherwise, you may get accepted into law school, but miss the deadline and not be able to attend on time, if at all.