Applying to Law School Time Line

General Timeline

  • Freshman and Sophomore Years
    • Master the college academic environment and maintain a strong GPA. Limit course withdrawals but discuss with your academic advisor as needed.
    • Attend a required Pre-Law workshop and research the field of law. Explore possible internship opportunities.
    • Get to know faculty members and let them get to know you.
    • Pursue a well-rounded curriculum that develops skill sets that will be key for law school, such as strong writing skills, analytical and logical reasoning skills, and research skills.

 

  • Junior Year (Fall semester)
    • Begin to establish your personal criteria for law schools and investigate programs that meet your needs and interests.
    • Attend a Junior Application Timeline workshop.
    • Schedule a 1:1 advising appointment with the Pre-Law advisor.

 

  • Junior Year (Spring semester and Summer Break)
    • Attend Law School Fair and other Pre- Law workshops.
    • Create your LSAC account and plan your application timeline.
    • Plan when you will take the LSAT (June is the recommended test administration) and register accordingly. Give yourself between 3- 6 months of time to prepare, based on your level of comfort with standardized testing.
    • If applying to law school during senior year, register for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) through the Law School Admission Council in the summer following your junior year.

 

  • Senior Year (Fall semester)
    • Continue studying for LSAT if taking in September or December. Take the LSAT if registered for September date.
    • If applying as a senior, meet with the Pre-Law Advisor as needed to be sure you are on track with your applications.
    • Attend the events to meet and network with law school admissions representatives.
    • Complete the application process, preferably by mid-November.

 

  • Senior Year (Spring semester)
    • For December LSAT takers, evaluate your LSAT score and adjust lists of schools as needed.
    • Begin weighing admissions and financial offers as they are released. Also, decide which schools you will visit in person if possible.
    • Meet with Pre-Law Advisor regarding questions about waitlist, selecting a school and negotiating merit-based scholarships.
    • Pay your deposit by deadline to reserve your seat at your selected law school.
    • Celebrate graduation and your new journey as a law student!