Understand the Process

Targeting a career in the legal profession often times means you will be thinking about law school. There is not “one way” to get into law school but rather your way – an individual path that works for your lifestyle, career interests, and professional goals. Take some time to build a network of professionals, advisors, faculty, and others to help you in your legal journey.

Admissions Unmasked: Get Started

Are you interested in law school or a career in law but not sure where to begin? Admission Unmasked (free) provides the insights you need to strategically and effectively navigate the law school admission process, from putting together a strong application package to making informed choices about where to apply and attend. The Admission Unmasked program consists of live Q&A events and asynchronous learning modules organized by topical themes.

The timeline below is a template with key stages you need to consider to become a strong applicant for law school.

Year One
  • Research the role of a lawyer. Before you pursue a law degree, it is wise to thoroughly research the different aspects of being a lawyer. This includes the different types of law, the different career paths available to lawyers, and the different types of law schools. You can do this by talking to lawyers, reading books and articles about law, and visiting law schools.
  • Take challenging courses in college. While many graduate programs require the completion of certain prerequisite courses, law school programs do not. However, having a strong academic record from a reputable college or university is important for getting into law school. Make sure to take challenging courses that will demonstrate your academic abilities.
  • Get involved in extracurricular activities. Law schools look for well-rounded applicants who are involved in their communities. Participating in extracurricular activities can show the admissions committee that you are a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests.
  • Volunteer your time. Volunteering is another great way to show the admissions committee that you are a caring and compassionate person. You can volunteer for a variety of causes, such as legal aid, social services, or environmental protection.

Year Two
  • Start thinking about your LSAT strategy. The LSAT is a standardized test that is required for admission to law school. The test measures your critical thinking, reading comprehension, and analytical reasoning skills. You can take the LSAT up to three times per year.
  • Start networking with lawyers. Networking with lawyers is a great way to learn more about the legal profession and to get your foot in the door. Attend legal events, such as bar association meetings and CLEs, and reach out to lawyers in your area who work in areas that interest you.
  • Start thinking about your personal statement. The personal statement is an important part of your law school application. It is your chance to tell the admissions committee about yourself, your reasons for wanting to go to law school, and your goals for the future.

Year Three
  • Take the LSAT. The LSAT is a critical part of your law school application, so it is important to take the test early and to give yourself plenty of time to prepare. You can take the LSAT up to three times per year.
  • Start writing your personal statement. The personal statement is an important part of your law school application, so it is important to start writing it early and to give yourself plenty of time to revise and edit it.
  • Start researching law schools. Once you have taken the LSAT and written your personal statement, it is time to start researching law schools. Consider factors such as location, cost, and program strengths when making your decision.
  • Start drafting your law school applications. Law school applications can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to start drafting your applications early and to give yourself plenty of time to proofread and edit them.

Year Four
  • Submit your law school applications. The deadline to submit law school applications varies from school to school, so be sure to check the deadlines for the schools you are applying to.
    • Applications to law schools are processed through LSAC, and organization that serves as a clearinghouse for applications
    • Check out the detailed process
  • Wait for decisions. Law school decisions can take several months to arrive. In the meantime, you can relax and enjoy your senior year!
  • Celebrate your acceptance! Once you receive your acceptance letters, it is time to celebrate! You have made it through the law school admissions process and are one step closer to becoming a lawyer.