Once you have solidified your plan to go to law school school, then comes the application process. This can be a daunting undertaking as there are several different components of the application. You should start the process early, which will allow plenty of time to complete all components of the application as well as submit your applications as early as possible. Early application completion can lead to early admission decision opportunities as well as greater consideration for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance.  It is always better to be early than late when it comes to law school applications.   

The formal law school application process should ideally begin about a year and a half to 2 years before you intend to start law school. The first hurdle of the process is the LSAT. Determining when to take it and how to prepare can be challenging. At this point, you will also want to consider who you might ask for letters of recommendation and where you might apply. Considering these aspects of the application from the beginning will help ensure you’re well positioned to submit your applications in time. Other elements of your application include transcript(s), the personal statement, additional essay(s) and addenda, your resume and the individual school application forms themselves (generally completed online through the LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service). Check out LSAC’s Law Admission Checklist if you would like to view a sample timeline for navigating the application process.

Law school applications are generally submitted through the LSAC and they typically open beginning in September and remain open in the spring with deadlines varying depending on the school. Most schools review and extend offers on a rolling basis, as soon as applications are received. It’s wise to apply earlier in the cycle, but also make sure you are not rushed and you’re submitting a strong application. If you apply by: October- you’re early, December- you’re on time, Anything after – you’re late. Admissions decisions and offers typically come anytime from September through August.

Guidance on Application Materials

Transcripts

Send to LSAC in the summer before applying. Students can request official UMass Lowell transcripts online through SIS. LSAC will process the transcript and produce a GPA that will be used in the application process. Note that sometimes the LSAC GPA differs from the school’s GPA due to the conversion process.

Resume

Can be two pages (unless law school requests otherwise). Should focus on experience gained during college. Descriptions should focus on skill sets gained. Focus on skills especially valued in the legal profession (writing, analytical reasoning, communication, problem-solving, etc.). Legal experience is not required, but can be attractive if you have the opportunity to add it.

Personal Statement

Generally speaking, your personal statement should provide insight on who you are and why you are choosing a career in law, which helps schools understand your motivation for applying. You should also always check with the schools to see if there is a particular essay prompt. The personal statement also gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your writing ability. Don’t expect to write your essay in one sitting. It can take many drafts, so be patient with the natural writing process and give yourself time to write a thoughtful essay. The most important thing to remember is to be authentic (and please don’t read other people’s essays as this will make it harder!) Ideas: Describe something interesting about you that isn’t demonstrated in other aspects of your application. Describe a personal challenge or hardship you’ve had to overcome and how it shaped you. Describe the moment or circumstance that made you decide to pursue a career in law (it’s not necessarily a moment in time for everyone, so don’t stress about this).  

Diversity Statement

This essay gives you the opportunity to talk about elements of your identity that can add value. Diversity of thought, geography, faith, ethnicity, background, etc. It should be different than your personal statement.

Optional Essays

Additional essays where you answer a specific prompt. If you have something meaningful to add, this is a great opportunity to enhance your application.

Addendum

This allows you to explain any weaknesses in your application such as low grades, multiple LSAT scores, leave(s) of absence from school. Be clear and concise. Explain what happened, only giving the facts.  

Character and Fitness Addendum

This portion of the application requires the applicant to reveal negative past behavior (may include criminal record, academic misconduct, disciplinary actions, or civil proceedings/lawsuits). When in doubt, disclose! Be honest and provide important details. Take responsibility for your actions; don’t make excuses. Law schools are not looking for people who have never made a mistake; they are looking for people who can understand why and how they made the mistake and how they have learned and grown since. 

Letters of Recommendation

Most law school applications require 2-3 letters of recommendation. In order to ensure that your recommenders are able to write strong letters with thoughtful detail, it’s important to start building these relationships with your professors as soon as possible. Make sure you are participating in class discussions, attend office hours (come prepared with questions!), find ways to engage with your professors one on one through opportunities such as a research project or independent study, etc. It is not necessary for your recommenders to have any background in law. The strongest letters of recommendation come from individuals who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Give your professors at least two months to write their letters!