Applying to law school can be a complex task that requires precise timing. This article offers general application season timelines as well as specific considerations regarding your LSAT, GPA, and letter of recommendation preparation.
Start searching schools based on your narrowed criteria by using law school databases, guides and forums. Update your resume as necessary and request additional letters of recommendation as necessary.
Fall
Law school applications typically open during the fall; however, each school varies on this. Some accept applications until late October while others until early November.
If you’re serious about applying to law school, it is recommended to begin the application process as early as the summer of your junior year or during fall semester in your senior year. This allows ample time for research, considering various schools and making connections with admissions officers as well as fulfilling required steps like ordering transcripts and letters of recommendation before filling out your Credential Assembly Service (CAS) application.
As part of your application process, it’s crucial that you keep in mind your goals and motivations for attending law school. Doing this can help narrow down the schools you apply to so that they align with what’s right for you, as well as understanding application deadlines such as taking or retaking the LSAT to improve your score; additionally, allow yourself enough time to submit an application package you are proud to present regardless of whether you are applying to one school or multiple. Being organized and prepared will reduce stress when applications come flooding in!
Spring
As soon as it begins to warm up in spring, you should begin soliciting recommendation letters and compiling your law school list. Now would be an ideal time to study for the LSAT (if not already done so). By application season opening up, you should have a firm grasp on which schools you want to apply to as well as their deadlines and required materials.
As well as selecting a school list, finalize supplemental application materials including resume, law school personal statements and optional essays. Be sure to carefully edit and proofread each of these pieces of writing before sending in an early deposit for law schools that provide financial aid in springtime.
Although law schools may accept applications on an ongoing basis, those who submit early generally receive their admission decision quicker and are more likely to receive scholarship offers. Furthermore, applying again the following year might put your credentials at a disadvantage when competing against new applicants; furthermore, many students from prior years may reapply too; creating a highly competitive environment among accepted students come fall semester.
Summer
Timeliness in applying is ultimately up to each applicant; however, applicants should aim to submit applications by early March as schools will start filling up quickly after this point and your chances of acceptance and scholarships decrease significantly. You may wish to consider Early Decision if there is one school you absolutely must attend – its admissions during Early Decision are binding so if accepted you will withdraw applications to other schools.
Noticing that every school has unique application requirements and deadlines is crucial, as each one may have their own distinct set. Therefore, it’s advisable that you fully familiarise yourself with their requirements so as to effectively budget your time accordingly. If any queries arises regarding any school specific application processes or deadlines it is advisable that you reach out directly to their admissions team directly for guidance.
Your months leading up to your chosen submission date should be spent researching schools, preparing for the LSAT, and registering with Credential Assembly Service (CAS). When this task has been accomplished, take one or two months afterward to tie up loose ends and prepare for attending law school – this might include finding housing close by campus, submitting final transcripts and immunization records, attending open houses and orientation events and attending orientation.
