Are there Pre-Law Counselors at UCS?

We are here to assist and help you demystify the application process. To schedule an appointment please call 432.0800. Additionally, we host the Law School fair, workshops, and events relevant to your interests. To receive law related information via email we encourage you to sign up for the UCS Law distribution list through eRecruiting to get event information. The eRecruiting user guide will help you to activate your account and use our distribution lists.

Should I go to law school right after I graduate, or is it best to take some time off?

Law schools do not require you to wait a few years before applying, but many applicants feel more confident about their decision to attend law school if they have spent a few years away from school, such as traveling or working. Law schools also look favorably on work experience. What should you do if you decide to take a year off? Consider what you would do if law school were not an option, and spend a few years exploring that field. Do not worry if it is unrelated to law. Meet with your Pre-Law Advisor to discuss your options.

When should I apply for admissions? When is the deadline for applications?

Applications should be submitted in the fall of the year prior to when you plan to attend law school. Some schools have early admission policies, which allow students to apply in October and be notified about acceptance in December. Other schools have rolling deadlines. But all applicants should aim to complete their files before December. Individual school deadlines can be found in the Official Guide to U.S. Law School, which can be found in the UCS Library, or by visiting the website of each school.

When should I take the LSAT? When is the deadline? How many times should I take it?

The LSAT is usually offered four times per year in June, October, December and February. For specific dates/locations, check the LSAT registration book in the UCS library or visit the Law School Admission Counsel’s (LSAC) website. Once you've decided on your test date, register as soon as possible for the test site of your choice. Test sites fill up very quickly- you don't want to be locked out of your first choice site. Although we encourage you to take the test early, it is never advisable to take the LSAT unless you are adequately prepared. You should aim to take the test just once. The majority of schools will average multiple LSAT scores.

What are LSAC and LSDAS?

The Law School Admissions Counsel (LSAC) writes and administers the LSAT. The LSAC website provides information about the test and the application process. LSDAS is affiliated with LSAC and is the Law School Data Assembly Service that acts as a clearinghouse for information that will be included in a report submitted with your application. You must register with LSDAS before applying to law school. (Note: You are not automatically registered with LSDAS when you register for the LSAT.) When you register you must inform them of the number of reports you will need, based on the number of schools you will be applying, and pay the corresponding fee. However, you do not need to tell LSDAS which schools and additional reports can requested if necessary. Your LSDAS report will include your LSAT score, a copy of your LSAT essay, and copies of your official transcripts, which you are required to submit to LSDAS. In addition, if you opt to use the LSDAS recommendation service, your recommendation letters will also be a part of your file. It is important to monitor your LSDAS report to ensure that it is complete and accurate. When you submit an application to a law school, that school will contact LSDAS to obtain a copy of your official LSDAS report.

What are the typical components of a law school application?

The law school application consists of: the school application; the personal statement; the resume; official transcript(s); letters of recommendations; LSAT scores; Dean’s Certification; and additional essay’s if required.