Steps in the Application Process
- Create an account on the LSAC, Law School Admissions Council, website, www.lsac.org
- Sign up to take the LSAT, which is offered four times a year. Once you enter your zip code, you will find the site locations in your area.
- Research law schools
- You will find information on the LSAC website and in many publications including the ABA·LSAC Official Guide to ABA-Approved Law Schools. Specific law school websites and catalogues are also helpful.
Resume
Many law schools require a resume as part of the application process. It’s a history of your:
- honors & awards
- academic record
- work experience (internships)
- volunteer experiences
- study abroad
- competencies, such as language skills, computer skills, etc
Most resumes for the purpose of law school applications are generally two pages, although some are three pages. For more information on how to construct your resume, go to the LSAC website: www. lsac.org
Personal Statement
What is it?
- the opportunity to market yourself to law school admissions
- a writing sample
- a snapshot of you, when you don’t have the opportunity to visit in person
What should I say?
It should be uniquely YOU, what you want the admissions committee to know about you.
- have an interesting first paragraph
- be creative and unique but avoid gimmicks
- keep it positive
- explain how you matured through experiences (option)
- discuss accomplishments in terms of obstacles you overcame
- summarize well; don’t ramble
- read, re-read, edit, contact your prelaw advisor for suggestions
Some schools give specific requirements for a Personal Statement. Understand what each school wants from you.
A Personal Statement should be approximately 500 words, (approximately two pages).
Sample Personal Statements are available in the office of the Prelaw Advisor (108D Clements Hall).
Recommendations
Considerations:
- Ask someone who can support you as a good candidate for the rigorous regimen of law school, someone who can support your academic history. Provide recommenders with an updated resume or sample of work you have completed.
- Do not wait until the last minute to ask. Allow approximately three month’s time, as many recommenders are busy with work related tasks.
- You might have to remind recommenders to supply the data. Check periodically to see if they need additional information.
- There is a form on the LSAC website, which must accompany each recommendation. You, as the candidate, must print off the form and send/take it to the person who will be supplying the recommendation. An address where the recommendation is to be sent is given on the form.
What does the recommender write about you?
- How long they have known you & in what capacity
- Your academic strengths, such as writing, research, problem solving
- What you might bring to law school
- Your potential
- Motivation, maturity, judgment (qualities you possess)
In addition, recommenders may want to see your transcript and Personal Statement, if you have already created one, and information on how the recommender can contact you, if necessary.