Applying to Law school is almost like applying to college: it takes studying, preparation and a lot of time. If attending law school has ever crossed your mind there are a lot of things that you should be aware of about when taking the LSAT and the application itself.
Most law schools have a Rolling Admissions process, meaning that the earlier one applies, the better. These law schools favor those students that apply as soon as applications come out. Ideally, applications should be submitted by late November.
An application is generally composed of LSAT scores, GPA, letter of recommendation, transcripts and a personal statement. If still attending undergrad, it is highly recommended to meet with an advisor as they can guide you in the right direction on what courses to take, prep courses and which law schools to apply.
One of the most important factor to get into a good law school is your LSAT scores. Most law schools require LSAT scores and require to take the test by December for admission to follow the next fall. Take into consideration how much time it’ll take to receive the scores before the applications are due. It is recommended to have a minimum of 4 months of preparation, meaning taking prep courses and practice exams before the actual exam.
It is also okay to apply and retake the LSAT if not satisfied with the score. Scores can be resent to the school and the application will be reconsidered. If denied, it is also okay to retake the exam and resubmit the scores.
Scholarships are also highly considered off of LSAT scores. The better the scores, the more likely a law school is to hand out scholarships to that candidate. The date when one applies also factors into scholarships. The earlier an application is submitted, the more money one could receive. As soon as schools start receiving applications and accepting, it also starts giving out scholarships and financial aid. The later a school receives an application the less money it is likely to give.
Sometimes applicants believe that LSAT scores will out favor GPA. Generally, if a candidate has really good LSAT scores and a decent GPA, they are still a strong applicant. However, schools do look at GPAs, if you’re still completing undegrad, it is important to maintain good grades and raise the GPA as much as possible.
The personal statement is an important part of the application. Unlike med school, most law schools don’t conduct interviews, this is the chance for applicants to distinguish themselves and tell their stories. Why do they want to attend law school? More importantly, why they want to attend that specific law school.
The statement should be error-free and it is recommended to have others review it but not have someone write the statement for you.
During the application process, schools allow candidates to submit a resume, diversity statement, and addendums.
Addendums are allowed when submitting an application. This is a chance to explain any anomalies in the application. For example, low grades or low LSAT scores. The Addenda should be short and should be an explanation for these anomalies rather than an excuse.
A diversity statement is a great way to stand out. Some topics could be about being bilingual, a business owner, investor, paralegal, or raised by a single parent. It is important to avoid anything written about in the personal statement. The statement should correlate to how diversity informs their desire to be a lawyer.
Lastly, the resume should include any and all extracurricular activities and anything that shows a well-rounded candidate. Activities can include being a part of an organization, community service, jobs, law-related programs such as the trial team.
The biggest advice on law school is to do as much research as possible to be fully prepare. It is not an easy process as law school is not easy. Decide if this is the right path and whether you are fully committed.