Timeline

There is no single path to law school but there are important skills, values, knowledge and experience that you can acquire prior to law school that will provide a sound foundation for a legal education. 

Source: ABA Pre-Law - Preparing for Law School

Freshman & Sophomore Years

  • Develop good study habits and earn good grades.
  • Develop a rapport with your professors.
  • Determine your major and work on becoming fully admitted into program.
  • Consider securing an internship related to the legal profession.
  • Research the legal profession on the internet, by shadowing attorneys, meeting with possible mentors that work in the profession, and learn more about the state of the legal profession in the Occupational Outlook Handbook as well.

Junior Year

Senior Year

June

  • If fully prepared, consider taking the LSAT (Plan A).

July and August

  • Research and visit law schools.

September to November

  • Register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS).
  • Take the October LSAT (if not taken in June or February or thinking of re-taking).
  • Forward all undergraduate transcripts to LSAC/CAS (must be official transcripts).
  • Request and complete law school applications.
  • Prepare your personal statement.
  • Identify and meet with professors to write letters of recommendation.
  • Submit Dean’s Certification forms if the law schools require them.

December

  • Take the December LSAT (if not taken in June or October or re-taking).
  • Mail law school applications or complete online when available.

January and February

  • Monitor your LSAC file to make sure all items have been submitted.
  • Complete and submit a FAFSA form online.

March to May

  • When accepted to the school of your choice, submit your deposit.
  • Send a final transcript (showing graduation) to your chosen law school.