This check list is organized topically. Click here for the same list organized chronologically.
The Check List for Fall 2018 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 2017)
- Prepare, study, practice! (Spring or Summer 2017)
- Register for LSAT (by late April or early August 2017) – earlier registration means more choices of test centers
- Take the test (June or September 2017)
*NOTE: As of early August 2017, there are three law schools that will accept the GRE in lieu of the LSAT for this admission cycle—Harvard, the University of Arizona, and Georgetown. (Northwestern will begin accepting the GRE for Fall 2019 admission.) 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 2017)
- Talk with recommenders to confirm (Spring 2017)
- Confirm recommenders’ Fall 2017 location (Spring 2017)
- Provide LSAC recommendation forms or links to recommenders (September 2017)
Transcripts
- Request transcripts from UMass registrar (September or October 2017)
- Request transcripts from other undergraduate institutions attended (September 2017)
Applications
- Start exploring schools through ABA/LSAC guide and other reliable sources (Spring 2017)
- Register for LSAC Credential Assembly Service (no later than September 2017)
- Draft personal statement(s) (September – October 2017)
- Spruce up resume (September - October 2017)
- Complete and submit online applications (by Thanksgiving 2017)
Dean’s Letters
- Request Dean’s certification letters for all schools that require them—note that very few schools do require these (October 2017)
Financial Aid
- Fill out each school’s financial aid application (with online applications, or in January 2018, depending on school’s procedure)
- Complete the FAFSA online (January 2018)
Final Steps
- Do a lot of waiting (Spring 2018)
- Weigh admission and scholarship offers (April – May 2018)
- Make final choice (May 2018)
- Pay seat deposit (May 2018)