Law School Resources

Our fact sheet for law school is compiled from reputable internet sources and based on our work with previous students in the field. We hope it helps you navigate and simplify the cryptic admissions process.

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Law School Resources

Central Application Website

Top 10 Schools (US News)

  • Yale University
  • Stanford University
  • Harvard University
  • University of Chicago
  • Columbia University
  • New York University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
  • University of Virginia
  • Duke University

Degree Duration (typical)

  • 3 years

Application Opens

  • ~September 1st

Application Deadline

  • Various - June 1 (following year)
  • Early Decision: November 1st through 15th

Standardized Tests Required

  • LSAT

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Profile of a Successful Applicant

Recommended Test Score

  • 160+

Average Test Score

  • 150

Recommended GPA

  • 3.5+
  • (3.0 minimum for many schools)

Course Requirements (varies)

  • Criminal Courts and Judicial Processes
  • Substantive Criminal Law
  • Constitutional Criminal Procedure
  • Sociology
  • General Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Introduction to American Government
  • Critical Reasoning
  • Philosophy of Law
  • Race, Ethnicity & Gender in American Law
  • Criminal Evidence and Trials (Mock Trial)
  • Law and Civilization
  • Fundamental Rights in American History

Letters of Rec

  • 2-3 letters required based on program
  • (letters often come from professors or work supervisors)

Recommended Experience

  • Work as a paralegal, legal assistant, research or policy analyst, investment banker, or management consultant
  • Participation in speech and debate, mock trial, Model UN, and/or student journalism
  • 1-2 leadership experiences (work/extracurricular)

Typical Essay Requirement

  • Personal Statement (2-3 pages)
  • Optional Diversity Statement (1 page)
  • Supplemental Essays (some schools)

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Timeline

6+ Months Before Applying

  • Decide whom to ask for letters of recommendation
  • Make a LSAT Prep Plan
  • Sign up for a LSAT test date
  • Last chance to boost your profile by getting additional exposure to the field, leadership positions, etc.

0-3 Months Before Applying

  • Write your personal statement (allow yourself at least six weeks if possible)
  • Identify a list of schools to apply to - 10-15 is ideal
  • Order official transcripts from all undergrad institutions to check for errors and help fill out LSAC
  • Fill out LSAC
  • Touch base with letter writers
  • Submit your application early - the earlier the better!

After Applying

  • Send official test scores to schools
  • Complete school-specific essay questions
  • Update schools with any developments in your grades, employment, or activities
  • Fill out financial aid paperwork
  • Send in deposit to schools of your choice

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Links

Programs List

Overview of the Profession

Application Overview

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