Applying To Law School

CHECKLIST FOR APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL

  • Everyone applying to law school must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
  • Register to take the test by going to www.lsac.org. There is a fee to take this test.
  • The LSAT is offered four times: June, September/October, December, and February.
  • It is best to take the LSAT no later than the fall in which you are applying.
  • We do not endorse any specific prep course but encourage you to research them to determine which one, if any, is the best one for you.
  • The ThinkTank offers test prep services for the LSAT and GRE

  • You must register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) at www.lsac.org. There is a fee for this service to generate your Master Report.
  • You must purchase a copy of this report for each law school to which you are applying.
  • Your transcripts, LSAT score, and letters of recommendation are all sent to CAS.
  • You need to request an official copy of your transcript from every collegiate-level institution you have attended. This is accomplished by printing a transcript request form from LSAC and submitting it with your request to each of these institutions. They will send it to CAS.
  • When schools receive your application, they will contact CAS for a copy of your Master Report.
  • Send updated transcripts to CAS when new grades are posted.

  • You need to print out the LOR form from CAS and give one to each recommender. They, in turn, send their letter, with the form to CAS.
  • This process can also be completed electronically. Visit the LSAC website for details including the number of LOR each school requires/accepts as well as evaluations.

  • A resume should be sent with each application unless the law school states not to send one.
  • Submit your resume by attaching it to your electronic LSAC application.

  • The emphasis is on personal. This is the one area of your application over which you have control. This is your interview.
  • All other things being equal, you can write your way in or out of law school with this statement.
  • Law schools want to see commitment and follow-through. If they let you in, they want to know you will stay to earn your J.D.
  • Demonstrate why a law school should take you over all other applicants, what distinguishes you from the group, and what you will add to the class.
  • Requirements for the statement will vary by school.
  • Submit your personal statement by attaching it to your electronic LSAC application.

  • LSAC has compiled all the applications for every ABA-approved law school in the country on the web. Your CAS registration gives you access to this online service.
  • You can go online, click on a school, fill out their application, electronically attach your personal statement, resume, and any addenda, and submit your application. When LSAC receives it, they print out a copy and send it to each school.
  • Some schools have a “Dean’s Certification Form.” If needed, it will be indicated in the school’s application instructions and a form to print will be provided. Contact the UA Dean of Students Office for more information about this process.

Addenda should be attached to applications when there is a discrepancy that requires an explanation (e.g. your GPA does not reflect your true academic abilities).


Law School Application Timeline for Juniors and Seniors

This timeline is a typical schedule designed to assist you in applying for fall admission to law schools. It will need to be adjusted accordingly for summer or spring admissions. The application process should be started at least twelve months prior to beginning law school. It is best to prepare your own timeline based on the application deadline for the law schools to which you apply. 

Month to be Completed Task Date Completed
March – June Prepare for LSAT  
April/May Apply for June LSAT  
June Take LSAT  
July Receive LSAT score  
July – September Research law schools  
August/September Subscribe to CAS  
  Have official transcript(s) sent to CAS  
  Request information from law schools  
  Attend personal statement workshop  
  Draft personal statement  
September Receive CAS report and check for accuracy  
  Request letters of recommendation  
  Write personal statement  
October Attend UA’s Law Expo;
Meet with law school admission representatives
 
October – November Complete and submit applications  
November/December Check CAS report status on line  
January File financial aid applications including FAFSA  
March Visit law schools during spring break  
April – June Pay deposit by due date  
June – July Celebrate acceptance(s)!  

 

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