Application Steps

Steps in the Application Process

  • Create an account on the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) .
  • for the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT).

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

Most law schools require a resume as part of the application process. It’s a history of your

  • honors and awards,
  • academic record,
  • work experience (internships),
  • volunteer experiences,
  • study abroad,
  • and competencies (such as language skills, computer skills, etc.).

Most prelaw resumes are two pages although page requirements vary by school. For more information on how to construct your resume, go to the .

Personal Statement

The personal statement is a writing sample that provides you an opportunity to make yourself memorable to the law school admissions committee. It should be uniquely you and what you want the admissions committee to know about you. Some schools give specific requirements for a personal statement so be sure to understand what each school wants from you. Here are some tips and samples:

  • Have an interesting first paragraph.
  • Be creative and unique but avoid gimmicks.
  • Keep it positive.
  • Explain how you matured through experiences (if applicable).
  • Discuss accomplishments in terms of obstacles you overcame.
  • Summarize well; don’t ramble.
  • Read, re-read, edit, contact the Pre-Law Advisor for suggestions.

Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3

Recommendation Letters

Considerations:
  • Well in advance, ask someone who knows you well and can attest to how your academic performance and professional competencies make you a good candidate for law school.
  • Provide your recommender with any supporting information they may request. This could include your transcript, resume, and personal statement.
  • Allow approximately three months as many recommenders are busy professionals.
  • The recommender can submit letters electronically or in writing. There is a form on the LSAC website which must accompany each written recommendation.
  • Monitor the submission of these letters on LSAC.
What does the recommender write about you?
  • How long they have known you and 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)