FIVE STEPS TO APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL
1. DECIDE TO APPLY
Making the decision to apply to law school is a significant commitment and should not be done alone. Applicants pursuing a law degree are encouraged to speak to their college counselors, mentors, or legal professionals to decide whether to apply to law school.
2. RESEARCH LAW SCHOOLS
Conduct thorough research on different law schools in California. Consider factors such as American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school, California Accredited Law Schools (CALS), location, faculty, programs, areas of specialization, LSAT or GRE scores, and GPA requirements.
LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION COUNCIL (LSAC) FORUMS
The Law School Admission Council hosts forums across the United States. These events are unique because multiple law schools are under one roof. You can speak with admission representatives, gather pamphlets, request application fee waivers, and even score some swag items.
WEST COAST CONSORTIUM (WCC) EVENTS
The West Coast Consortium of private law schools hosts events to share information with prospective law students about attending private law schools. You can speak with admission representatives, gather pamphlets, and request application fee waivers.
CAMPUS VISITS
Finding the right law school for you may require visiting the campus. Schedule campus visits and, if possible, attend a 1L course (Criminal Law, Contract Law, Tort Law, Property Law, or Civil Procedure Law). These experiences will give you a taste of attending law school and learn more about campus culture.
3. TEST PREP
Based on your chosen law schools, you may be required to register for either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), or other standardized testing formats. Research test preparation programs that will help you with reaching your goals. You have options from self-study, online, or in-person class sessions.
STANDARDIZED TEST RETAKES
If you are unsatisfied with your LSAT, GRE, or other standardized scores, check in with the law schools you plan to apply to and understand their policies or views on multiple test scores. Consider whether retaking the test may improve your chances of admission.
4. APPLICATION PREPARATION
This step requires time management. Remember that each law school may have specific requirements. Pay attention to the application instructions provided by each institution. To be successful, break down assignments into small tasks.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION (LOR)
As you enter an academic setting, request letters of recommendation from professors who will speak to your academic qualities. You can also ask for letters of recommendation from previous internships, employers, and more. However, the purpose of the letter of recommendation is to add more content as to your qualifications for law school.
PERSONAL STATEMENT
As you start your law school application, read each application's instructions regarding the personal statement. Each law school application can have one or more prompts regarding a personal statement.
ADDENDUMS
Include any addendums to explain specific aspects of your application, such as academic challenges, educational gaps, or disciplinary issues.
TRANSCRIPTS AND ACADEMIC RECORDS
Request official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions you have attended. Ensure your academic records are up-to-date and sent directly to the LSAC or law schools' admissions offices.
5. SUBMIT
Submit your applications to the chosen law schools before their respective deadlines.
FOLLOW UP
After submitting your applications, follow up with the admissions offices to confirm they received all your materials. Also, address any timeline questions or concerns regarding admissions decisions.