This check list is organized topically. Click here for the same list organized chronologically.
The Check List for Fall 2019 Admission is organized topically. Click here to get the same list organized chronologically.
This Check List assumes you have already made the firm decision to apply to law school after a thorough investigation of the law, legal careers and the financial implications/consequences.
The LSAT*
- Decide how you will prepare for the LSAT (Jan – Mar 2018)
- Prepare, study, practice! (Spring or Summer 2018)
- Register for LSAT (by early May for June LSAT, mid-June for July LSAT, or late July for September LSAT) – earlier registration means more choices of test centers
- Take the test (June, July, or September 2018)
*NOTE: As of July 2018, there are over 20 law schools that accept the GRE for admission. For most students, it’s still not quite viable to skip the LSAT, but each school has its own rules regarding applying with the GRE. Please check the relevant law school websites for more information.
Recommendations
- Identify possible recommenders (Spring 2018)
- Talk with recommenders to confirm (Spring 2018)
- Confirm recommenders’ Fall 2018 location (Spring 2018)
- Provide LSAC recommendation forms or links to recommenders (September 2018)
Transcripts
- Request transcripts from UMass registrar (September or October 2018)
- Request transcripts from other undergraduate institutions attended (September 2018)
Applications
- Start exploring schools through ABA/LSAC guide and other reliable sources (Spring 2018)
- Register for LSAC Credential Assembly Service (no later than September 2018)
- Draft personal statement(s) (September – October 2018)
- Spruce up resume (September - October 2018)
- Complete and submit online applications (by Thanksgiving-ish 2018)
Dean’s Letters
- Request Dean’s certification letters for all schools that require them—note that very few schools do require these (October 2018)
Financial Aid
- Fill out each school’s financial aid application (with online applications, or in January 2019, depending on school’s procedure)
- Complete the FAFSA online (January 2019)
Final Steps
- Do a lot of waiting (Spring 2019)
- Weigh admission and scholarship offers (April – May 2019)
- Make final choice (May 2019)
- Pay seat deposit (May 2019)