FAQ - General Questions
Which major should I choose?
Law schools want students who can think critically, write well and possess good interpersonal skills. As long as you receive an education including critical analysis, logical reasoning and written and oral expression, you can pursue ANY undergraduate major. Select something you find interesting, challenging and enjoyable. Work hard to earn good grades.
Do I have to take any pre-requisite courses before applying to law school?
No, there is no set of prescribed courses for law school. However, you should meet regularly with the Pre-Law Advisor and your departmental advisor to discuss appropriate course selection.
What does a law school focus on for admission purposes?
Your Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score, undergraduate grade point average, letters of recommendation and personal statement are the primary factors used to determine law school admission. Secondary factors include work experience and extra- curricular activities.
How important are extra-curricular activities for law school admission?
Law schools are looking for ‘well-rounded’ applicants and involvement in campus and community activities can be beneficial. However, you need to keep in mind your grades are important, so never sacrifice your academic performance over-extending yourself. Your college experience will be enriched by your participation in addition to the leadership skills that are essential for success in Law School. Law schools will be impressed if you have been able to achieve a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
Is work experience in the field of law required?
Law schools do not require applicants to have work experience in the field of law. However, students intending to attend law school should definitely consider interning or volunteering in a law related position, so they have a better understanding of law as a professional career.
How do I learn more about individual law schools?
One source to find links to home pages of law schools is through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) web site. The LSAC also holds ‘Law School Forums’ at major cities across the country. The forums are free of charge and include a law fair and workshops on various topics. Informational law school catalogs are also available for viewing in the Pre-Law Resource Center (108 Norton Hall).
How do I evaluate the rankings of law schools?
There are many types of rankings for law schools, ranging from personal rankings to the US News and World Report Standings that are available online: U.S. News & World Report. However, it is very important to understand all rankings are subjective and there is a large problem with the methodology in most rankings. Therefore, it is best for you to visit law schools, talk to law school representatives and make an informed decision about which schools best meet your individual needs and interests.
Which schools do I have a good chance of being accepted into?
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) provides access to materials such as the Official Guide to US Law Schools which contains admission profiles for law schools. Also, the Boston College Online Law School Locator provides a matrix by median GPA and median LSAT score as reported by law schools. You just click on the category in which your scores fit and view the schools that fall within your range.
To how many schools should I apply?
If possible, apply to at least six to eight schools. You should plan on applying to schools in these categories: Safe schools (where you appear to be over qualified), Reality schools (where your LSAT/GPA are in the middle range), and Dream schools (where your LSAT/GPA may fall below the middle range).
When and how often should I take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)?
Ideally, the LSAT should be taken in June prior to the year you plan on attending law school. However, if you are not fully prepared, you should take the LSAT at a later date. You should plan on taking the LSAT only once. Repeat only if your score is low and you feel it is not an accurate reflection of your true ability. Normally, scores vary by no more than a few points. Schools now report only your higher LSAT score to the American Bar Association.
What is the Law School Data Assembly Service (LSDAS)?
The LSDAS provides a means of centralizing and standardizing undergraduate academic records to simplify the law school admission process. All students applying to law school must register with the LSDAS. When you register, your biographical and undergraduate academic records will be standardized into a uniform LSDAS Law School Report. The LSDAS Report includes: your official college transcripts, LSAT score, and letters of recommendation (if you choose to use the LSDAS Letter of Recommendation Service). When you apply to law schools, they in turn request a copy of your Law School Report from the LSDAS.
Who should I ask to write letters of recommendations?
Choose at least two faculty members who know you well and can attest to your academic abilities and strengths. It is acceptable to have a letter from a professor outside of your major. You can also request a letter of recommendation from a person for whom you have worked, interned or volunteered.
What is a Dean’s Certification and who completes the forms?
The Dean’s Certification primarily seeks information regarding a student’s
academic and disciplinary record. The forms are completed by the Pre-Law Advisor and should be brought to 108 B Norton Hall.
None of these topics answer your question? Use the Instant Messaging box on the right and ask the Pre Law Advisor right now!