Law school applications typically open between August and September and remain available until early November. At this point, students can begin narrowing down their target and reach schools using criteria they compiled when developing their law school application search criteria.
Students should collect letters of recommendation from people familiar with their academic and professional achievements for law school admission, ideally through LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS).
Fall
Most law school applications open in August or September. At this point, prospective law students should begin crafting their applications and reaching out to potential referees to secure letters of recommendation for submission.
Some schools allow applicants to apply through early decision in November, which is an excellent option for serious law school applicants. But be warned – early decision is binding: if accepted, any other applications on file must be withdrawn immediately.
Regular admissions cycle application deadlines typically fall between December and February. Although late applications can still be submitted, seats in classes tend to fill quickly by February as scholarships become increasingly limited at this stage of the process. If applying later is absolutely necessary, exceptional LSAT and GPA scores (both combined) would help stand out amongst competitors – or consider waiting a year and applying earlier the following time around!
Winter
Law school application season traditionally kicks off each fall. At this point, you should create your list of schools and add their admissions requirements, deadlines, and enrollment timeline to your calendar. In addition, register with LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which will compile LSAT scores, transcript(s), and letters of recommendation for every institution that interests you.
Most top-ranked law schools operate on a rolling admissions cycle, meaning they review applications throughout the entire application season. Therefore, early application has many advantages over late applications, particularly for merit scholarships.
This timeframe is also ideal for taking or retaking the LSAT, revising your personal statement and optional essays, updating your resume, and securing recommendation letters from recommenders. Be sure to allow at least a month for them to respond. If applying through Early Decision (ED), take this opportunity to reach out to potential schools as quickly as possible- many ED programs are binding; so don’t wait too long before reaching out.
Spring
Many schools provide applicants with a “Priority Deadline,” or suggested application date, to apply by. Meeting this date could have a profound effect on admission outcome and merit scholarship availability.
Law schools frequently open their doors for spring and summer admissions, giving candidates an opportunity to gain acceptance prior to starting in September. Late applications may be less competitive and less likely to receive scholarships.
No matter when or how you apply, make sure that all of your application materials are complete – this includes letters of recommendation, supplemental essays and transcripts. Also attend admitted student open houses, orientation events and any other relevant functions before enrolling at your law school to tie up any loose ends and prepare yourself for life at your new law school.
Summer
Many law schools open their applications between August and September. As you start gathering your list of potential law schools for consideration, use LSAC’s guidebooks, databases and good old-fashioned internet research as your foundation.
As part of your application to law school, it is also advisable to request transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate institutions, which should then be sent directly to LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Finally, you may also consider taking or retaking the LSAT examination.
Admissions officers begin reviewing applications beginning in September. Admissions officers evaluate how your file compares to their forecast for your class and whether or not you add balance to overall student body composition. Therefore, applicants should aim to submit complete applications by September; doing so increases your odds of winning merit scholarships.