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As is the case with most
aspects of law school, the admissions process is relatively
similar for most schools. Below is a summary of the general
process, along with a list of the factors that are
considered in the process, as well as a brief description of
these factors and their relative importance. It is important
to note that this is a ‘general’ description. The weight
that a particular admissions committee attaches to certain
criteria will vary across law schools. However, the amount
of variation tends to be small.
Generally, there are two types of admissions decision
making processes, that I call the quantitative approach and
the holistic approach. The quantitative approach tends to
focus primarily on a combination of LSAT scores and
undergraduate GPA. Conversely, with the holistic approach,
LSAT score and GPA are two of many factors that the
admissions committees use to make decisions.
Economics is one of several majors frequently used to
prepare for law school, especially for those interested in
corporate or business law. Law schools look most favorably
on a traditional disciplinary major, as long as you do very
well in it .
Earn Excellent Grades.
Depending upon the quality of the law school, that
could well mean at least the top 10 percent of your
class.
Perform Very Well on the LSAT.
Performing very well on the LSAT is absolutely
essential to getting into any law school. Buy LSAT
preparation books early (in your sophomore year) and
test yourself repeatedly. Then seriously consider taking
one of the LSAT preparation courses either in the spring
of your junior or the summer before your senior year.
LSAT scores are averaged, so plan to take them early in
your senior year when you are feeling well and rested.
Do a Law-Related Internship.
Law schools say internships don't matter much on an
application, but they can help you decide whether law
school is worth all the struggle.
Choose the Right Courses.
Although law schools say there are no particular
courses in any discipline that will especially aid an
application, they often recommend courses that emphasize
comprehension, analysis, and writing. Certain courses
introduce you to different aspects of the law and can
help determine your area of interest; Business Law (BUS
222), Constitutional Law (POLS 363), and Civil Liberties
Law (POLS 364) are three examples. Courses in critical
thinking, logic, and mathematics are also suggested.
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