How to Get Into Law School

If you've successfully navigated the admissions process for undergraduate classes, you've already got a good foundation for creating a successful law school application package.  However – don't think you're off the hook.  The law school admissions process requires a few extra steps you need to be aware of:

The LSAT Test

The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is a critical part of your application package. The exam composed of five 35 minute sections and is given several times each year.  The test measures complex trains of logical thought and comprehension skills that are designed to predict how well you'll do in law school.  If you haven't taken the test yet, do so as soon as possible – it will take time for your scores to be processed.

Personal Statement Essay

For many people, this is the most difficult part of the law school applications process.  Depending on the college you're applying to, you may be asked to address a specific question in essay form or reflect on why you're interested in a law career.  The personal statement is meant to take the place of a face to face interview, so it's important to represent yourself as well as possible.

Letters of Recommendation

Typically, you'll be asked to provide letters of reference in order to be considered as a candidate for law school.  Depending on the college, you may receive specific forms that your recommenders must fill out and return directly to the school, or a simple letter may suffice.  The law school may also specify how many of the letters must come from academic instructors and how many can come from other sources.  In most cases, you won't be able to read what's written about you as each letter is held in confidence by law school admissions counselors.

Undergraduate Performance

If you've been preparing to enter law school, you know that your ability to achieve good grades in your undergraduate studies will be carefully evaluated by admissions counselors.  Before you begin applying, you may want to review the literature offered by different law schools to find out what GPA range they're looking for.  A GPA above or below that range won't automatically disqualify you, but it will decrease your chances of admission to certain law schools.

Filing with the LSDAS

Before a law school will review your application, you must send a complete application to the Law School Data Assembly Services (LSDAS).  The LSDAS provides a uniform platform and summary that admissions counselors can use to assess your skills compared to other applicants from around the world.  Once you register with the LSDAS, you may also be able to file your law school application electronically with a number of universities.

Even though the process for getting into law school can be time consuming, it's well worth the effort to prepare correctly.  Mistakes on your part can mean costly delays in the admissions process, which can prevent you from gaining admission to some of the top law schools.  Take the time to do it right – the admissions counselors will thank you for it!