Law School Application Checklist

Spring

  • Open a free online account with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC)
  • Consider taking a free LSAT prep course (there are many and some student organizations provide this support)
  • Prepare and register for an LSAT administration that best fits your schedule (e.g., junior summer)
  • Inform yourself on what law school is really like/for (e.g., it’s more about developing skills than expertise and law students do not “major in” an subarea of law study)
  • Conduct research on law schools (prioritize your wants and identify admissions requirements)

Summer

  • Take the LSAT or prepare for later LSAT dates as needed
  • Subscribe to LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
  • Have official transcripts sent to the Credential Assembly Service 
  • Research, visit, and select law schools
  • Prepare personal statement
  • Talk with possible Letter of Recommendation writers
  • Request a Dean’s Certification for schools that require it

Fall

  • Take any of the Fall LSAT offerings, if necessary 
  • Request a Dean’s Certification for schools that require it (if not yet requested)
  • Attend Center for Career Design Law School Information Sessions with admission officers from various law schools
  • Attend the LSAC Law School Forum—participate in workshops and meet law school representatives
  • Apply to an appropriate range of law schools 
  • Request letters of recommendation to be mailed to LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS) 
  • Complete and submit your application materials as soon as possible. We recommend applying by December.

Winter

  • Complete and file your financial aid applications
  • Send an updated transcript with Fall term grades to LSAC

Spring

  • Pay your seat deposit by law school deadline.