Application - Each law school will have their own application, which will consist of different questions and requirements for each individual law school. Generally, applications are released at the beginning of the application cycle (August-September). Applications are hosted on the LSAC website.

Admissions Tests (LSAT or GRE) - Law applicants are required to take an admission test. The most popular option is the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) because it is accepted at all American Bar Association accredited law schools. However, a growing number of schools also accept the GRE (General Record Exam). Students may wish to explore the differences between the two admissions test and select the test that is best for their aspirations.

Transcripts - Students must submit official transcripts to the LSAC after they have registered for the LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Students are required to submit their transcripts from every U.S. undergraduate institution in which you attempted to earn credit. To request transcripts, students must login into their LSAC account and print a transcript request form. See sending transcripts with attachments on the Registrar’s website.

Letters of Recommendation - Students need letters of recommendation for their law school applications. Each school sets their own requirements for letters of recommendation. A good general rule of thumb is that you will want at least one academic letter of recommendation and at least one professional letter of recommendation. Once a student registers for the CAS, they can begin collecting their letters of recommendation.

Personal Statement - Law schools require that applicants include a personal statement with their application. Again, each school sets their own requirements for topic and length of the personal statement that they require from applicants. Typically, law schools provide very little guidance about the content of the essay. However, the personal statement tells the Applicant’s unique story and may highlight experiences that are foundational to the applicant’s pursuit of an advanced degree.

Supplemental Essays - Law schools may also require and/or ask for additional essays. Again, each law school sets their own requirements. Students should be prepared to draft additional essays as part of their application.

Academic Resume - Some law schools may require that students submit an academic resume highlighting their professional and educational experiences leading up to the submission of their application.

Addendums - Some applicants will also need to draft an addenda/addendums. Addendums are an opportunity to explain a problem or setback that you may have encountered either personally or academically.  Issues involving academic integrity or anything that may result in character and fitness challenges when you sit for the bar exam. If you are considering writing an addendum, it is best to discuss the content with a pre-law advisor.