For students who want to hone their ability to conduct legal research, analyze and communicate complex issues, and advocate for and negotiate with people.
To practice law in the United States, lawyers must complete undergraduate school, matriculate to law school, obtain a Juris Doctor (J.D.), and pass the bar examination in at least one state. Obtaining an accredited J.D. degree is typically a three-year, full-time commitment. Law schools admit students from all academic backgrounds, and many law school applicants take at least one gap year between college and law school to build work and life experience.
Students considering a law career must assess how a law degree aligns with their values, interests, and goals. Connecting with alumni empowers pre-law students to learn more about a typical work day for practicing lawyers, the challenges and rewards of practicing law, qualities and skills that foster success in the profession, and the impact the profession may have on lawyers’ personal lives. Shadowing a lawyer on the job may also enable students to assess if their expectations for the profession align with the reality of legal practice.
Pre-Law Competencies
While no one academic pathway prepares students best for studying and practicing law, the ABA has identified 10 competencies that they expect to find in competitive pre-law applicants.
- Problem Solving
- Critical Reading Ability
- Writing and Editing
- Oral Communication and Listening
- Research
- Organization and Management
- Public Service and Promotion of Justice
- Relationship-building and Collaboration
- Background Knowledge
- Exposure to the Law
Standardized Tests
Application Timeline
Spring
- Ask at least two faculty members to write you letters of recommendation.
- Decide whether to take the LSAT and/or GRE.
- Create a two-page law school resume.
- Begin a personal statement draft in consultation with the writing center and your pre-law advisor.
Summer
- Register for a Credential Assembly Service (CAS) account by July.
- Request all completed transcripts be sent to CAS.
- Take the LSAT and/or GRE by October. (Register at least 6-9 weeks before your planned test date.)
- Research law schools and create a list of schools to which you will apply.
- Attend a free virtual LSAC Law School Forum.
Fall
- Finalize your list of schools in consultation with your pre-law advisor.
- Complete your personal statement, diversity statement, and supplemental essays.
- Aim to submit a strong CAS application by mid-November.
- Complete a FAFSA application.
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