This check list is organized topically. Click here for the same list organized chronologically.
The Check List for Fall 2021 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 2020)
- Prepare, study, practice! (Spring or Summer 2020)
- Register for LSAT (by late April for June LSAT, late May for July LSAT, late June for August LSAT, late August for October LSAT) – earlier registration means more choices of test centers
- Take the test (June, July, September, or October 2020)
*NOTE: As of April 2020, there are 50 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 2020)
- Talk with recommenders to confirm (Spring 2020)
- Confirm recommenders’ Fall 2019 location/contact info (Spring 2020)
- Provide LSAC recommendation forms or links to recommenders (September 2020)
Transcripts
- Request transcripts from UMass registrar (September or October 2020)
- Request transcripts from other undergraduate institutions attended (September 2020)
Applications
- Start exploring schools through ABA/LSAC guide and other reliable sources (Spring 2020)
- Register for LSAC Credential Assembly Service (no later than September 2020)
- Draft personal statement(s) (September – October 2020)
- Spruce up resume (September - October 2020)
- Complete and submit online applications (by Thanksgiving-ish 2020)
Dean’s Letters
- Request Dean’s certification letters for all schools that require them—note that very few schools do require these (October 2020)
Financial Aid
- Fill out each school’s financial aid application (with online applications, or in January 2021, depending on school’s procedure)
- Complete the FAFSA online (January 2021)
Final Steps
- Do a lot of waiting (Spring 2021)
- Weigh admission and scholarship offers (April – May 2021)
- Make final choice (May 2021)
- Pay seat deposit (May 2021)