Law School Application Process

Applying

The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) is a great resource to refer to when applying to law school. You can use their website to guide you through the entire application process and find resources on choosing a law school, taking the LSATs, financing law school, applying to law school, and more.

Standardized Tests

All students interested in law school are required to register for, and take, the LSAT. The test consists of five 35-minute sections of multiple choice questions and a 35-minute unscored writing sample. The LSAT is offered four times a year.

The following resources can help you prepare for the LSATs:

7Sage First Month Discount for URochester

7Sage is an LSAT Test Prep website that combines smart analytics with adaptive drills that target your weaknesses when preparing for the LSAT, so every hour of study actually moves your score. University of Rochester students receive 50% off their first month of 7Sage’s subscription! To receive the coupon, make a free 7Sage account using your University of Rochester email address, then email studentservice@7sage.com and ask to apply 50% off your first month through the discount for University of Rochester students.

7Sage also offers an unbeatable fee waiver discount. Students with an LSAC fee waiver can access 7Sage Core for just $1 per month and Live for $2 per month while their waiver is active. They also receive 50% off group courses, 30% off tutoring, and 10% off admissions services, making comprehensive LSAT prep genuinely affordable.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

You will need to register for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which will transmit your recommendations, transcripts, and LSAT score to the law schools. You cannot apply without registering.

Letter of Recommendations

Check the law school’s application for information on their requirements for your letters of recommendations. Many will request recommendations from faculty. If you are taking time-off or a gap year you can set up an online account through Interfolio to store your letters of recommendation.

Transcripts

Be sure to check your transcript for accuracy before submitting it. Information about requesting transcripts can be found on the Registrar’s transcript page.

Personal Statements, Statements of Purpose, or Essays

In general, a personal statement is a more comprehensive essay about you, your story, and your qualifications relating to a specific program or field of interest. A statement of purpose is usually more focused on the specific program.

Some general tips when crafting a personal statement:

  • Be sure to answer questions in a clear and concise manner.
  • Highlight your main qualifications related to the program
  • Tell them what makes you unique; share your story, your experience or special qualifications
  • Don’t use up your statement space explaining what the law is – this is not an academic paper, it is a personal statement
  • Let them know whey their program is appeals to you and what criteria you used in selecting the programs you applied to
  • Think about each part of your application as a spotlight where you clarify why you are applying and why you are qualified for the program
  • Have a writing tutor, faculty member, career advisor, or someone your trust review your statement
  • Be sure to proof your document carefully to ensure that it is well-written and free of errors

There may be aspects of your application that you may need to elaborate on. If this isn’t included in your other statements, you may opt to include an addendum. Addendums should be as brief and to the point as possible.

Resumes/CVs

Our resume page features a writing guide and industry-specific examples. We also suggest stopping by during our drop-in hours to have one of our career advisors critique your resumé.

Interviews

Not all law schools offer interviews as part of their application process. If you have an option for an interview, you can use that to your advantage to present your qualifications! We also suggest doing a mock interview, either with a friend, family member, WSAP speaking tutor or one of our career advisors.