Application Requirements for Top Law Schools (2022–2023)
We've taken these requirements word for word from each school's application on LSAC, and we'll continue to update this page as new requirements become available.
For charts and some extra data, check out our companion Coda doc.
T14 Schools
- 1 Yale University
- 2 Stanford University
- 3 University of Chicago
- 4 Columbia University
- 4 Harvard University
- 6 University of Pennsylvania
- 7 New York University
- 8 University of Virginia
- 9 University of California—Berkeley
- 10 University of Michigan
- 11 Duke University
- 12 Cornell University
- 13 Northwestern University
T15–T30 Schools
- 14 Georgetown University
- 15 University of California—Los Angeles
- 16 Washington University in St. Louis
- 17 Boston University
- 17 Vanderbilt University
- 17 University of Texas at Austin
- 20 University of Southern California
- 21 University of Florida (Levin)
- 21 University of Minnesota
- 23 Brigham Young University
- 23 University of North Carolina
- 25 George Washington University
- 25 University of Notre Dame
- 25 University of Alabama
- 28 University of Iowa
- 29 University of Georgia
T31–T50 Schools
- 30 Emory University
- 30 Arizona State University
- 30 William & Mary Law School
- 30 George Mason University
- 30 Ohio State University
- 35 Washington and Lee University
- 35 University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign
- 37 University of Utah
- 37 Wake Forest University
- 37 Fordham University
- 37 University of California—Irvine
- 37 Boston College
- 37 University of California—Davis
- 43 Indiana University - Bloomington
- 43 University of Wisconsin
- 45 University of Arizona
- 46 Texas A&M University
- 47 Florida State University
- 47 University of Maryland
- 49 University of Colorado—Boulder
- 49 University of Washington
T51–T70 Schools
- 51 University of California (Hastings)
- 52 Pepperdine University
- 52 University of Richmond
- 52 Yeshiva University (Cardozo)
- 55 Tulane University
- 56 Villanova University
- 56 University of Tennessee
- 58 Wayne State University
- 58 Baylor University
- 58 Southern Methodist University
- 58 Pennsylvania State - Dickinson Law
- 58 University of Houston
- 63 Temple University
- 64 University of San Diego
- 64 Pennsylvania State - Penn State Law
- 64 University of Connecticut
- 67 University of Kansas
- 67 University of Oregon
- 67 Loyola Marymount University—Los Angeles
- 67 University of Missouri
- 67 University of Nevada—Las Vegas
- 67 University of Kentucky
T71–T90 Schools
- 73 American University
- 73 Northeastern University
- 73 Seton Hall University
- 73 Loyola University—Chicago
- 73 University of Miami
- 78 Drexel University
- 78 Case Western Reserve University
- 78 Georgia State University
- 78 University of Pittsburgh
- 78 University of Nebraska
- 78 University of Denver
- 84 St. John's University
- 84 University of South Carolina
- 86 Rutgers University (merged)
- 88 Lewis And Clark College
- 88 University of Cincinnati
- 88 University of Oklahoma
T90+ Schools
- 91 University of New Mexico
- 91 Michigan State University
- 94 Catholic University Of America
- 94 Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent College of Law)
- 94 University of Buffalo—SUNY
- 94 University of Louisville
- 98 Florida International University
- 98 Howard University
- 98 Brooklyn Law School
- 98 Saint Louis University
- 103 Syracuse University
- 105 Texas Tech University
- 105 Marquette University
- 105 Louisiana State University
- 105 DePaul University
- 105 Washburn University
- 105 University of New Hampshire
- 111 University of Mississippi
- 111 Drake University
- 114 University of Maine
- 114 University of Missouri—Kansas City
- 116 Seattle University
- 116 Gonzaga University
- 118 West Virginia University
- 118 University of Tulsa
- 118 Hofstra University
- 122 Suffolk University
- 122 Albany Law School Of Union University
- 122 University of Dayton
- 127 University of St. Thomas (Minnesota)
- 127 Cleveland State University
- 129 Duquesne University
- 129 University of Wyoming
- 129 New York Law School
- 133 Loyola University—New Orleans
- 133 Belmont University
- 133 University of South Dakota
- 133 University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge)
- 139 Samford University
- 139 University of Detroit Mercy
- 139 Creighton University
- 142 Vermont Law School
- 142 University of Idaho
- 142 Regent University
- 142 University of Memphis
- 147–192 John Marshall Law School
- 147–192 St. Thomas University (Florida)
- 147–192 Texas Southern University
- 147–192 Touro College
- 147–192 Western New England University
- 147–192 Atlanta's John Marshall Law School
- 147–192 Northern Kentucky University
- 147–192 Western State College Of Law
- 147–192 Charleston School Of Law
- 147–192 University of North Dakota
- 147–192 Quinnipiac University
- 147–192 New England Law | Boston
- 147–192 Campbell University
- 147–192 California Western School Of Law
- 147–192 Northern Illinois University
- 147–192 Ohio Northern University
- 147–192 University of Toledo
- 147–192 Capital University
- 147–192 University of the District of Columbia
- 147–192 Southern Illinois University—Carbondale
- 147–192 Faulkner University
- 147–192 University of Akron
- 147–192 Widener-commonwealth
- 147–192 Roger Williams University
- 147–192 Nova Southeastern University
- 147–192 Widener University—Delaware
- 147–192 Elon University
- 147–192 University of San Francisco
- 147–192 Mississippi College
- Unranked University of Puerto Rico
Table of Contents
Filter the table with the text box, then click on a school to see its full requirements.
Rank | School | Fee | Deadline | Medians |
---|---|---|---|---|
00011 | Yale University | $85 | 02/15/23 | 175/3.94 |
00022 | Stanford University | $85 | 02/15/23 | 172/3.91 |
00033 | University of Chicago | $90 | 03/01/23 | 172/3.91 |
00044 | Columbia University | $85 | 02/15/23 | 173/3.87 |
00044 | Harvard University | $85 | 02/20/23 | 174/3.92 |
00066 | University of Pennsylvania | $80 | 03/01/23 | 172/3.90 |
00077 | New York University | $85 | 02/15/23 | 172/3.88 |
00088 | University of Virginia | $85 | 03/01/23 | 171/3.94 |
00099 | University of California—Berkeley | $75 | 02/15/23 | 170/3.83 |
001010 | University of Michigan | $75 | 02/28/23 | 171/3.83 |
001111 | Duke University | $80 | 02/15/23 | 170/3.85 |
001212 | Cornell University | $80 | 03/01/23 | 171/3.86 |
001313 | Northwestern University | $75 | 02/15/23 | 171/3.86 |
001414 | Georgetown University | $85 | 03/01/23 | 171/3.86 |
001515 | University of California—Los Angeles | $75 | 02/01/23 | 171/3.90 |
001616 | Washington University in St. Louis | $0 | 08/18/23 | 170/3.93 |
001717 | Boston University | $85 | 04/01/23 | 169/3.77 |
001717 | Vanderbilt University | $70 | 04/01/23 | 169/3.89 |
001717 | University of Texas at Austin | $70 | 03/01/23 | 169/3.80 |
002020 | University of Southern California | $75 | 04/01/23 | 168/3.87 |
002121 | University of Florida (Levin) | $0 | 07/15/23 | 169/3.90 |
002121 | University of Minnesota | $60 | 06/01/23 | 168/3.83 |
002323 | Brigham Young University | $0 | 05/02/23 | 168/3.92 |
002323 | University of North Carolina | $75 | 05/01/23 | 166/3.77 |
002525 | George Washington University | $0 | 03/01/23 | 167/3.83 |
002525 | University of Notre Dame | $75 | 03/15/23 | 168/3.81 |
002525 | University of Alabama | $40 | 08/01/23 | 165/3.94 |
002828 | University of Iowa | $0 | 05/01/23 | 163/3.69 |
002929 | University of Georgia | $50 | 06/01/23 | 168/3.87 |
003030 | Emory University | $85 | 03/15/23 | 168/3.80 |
003030 | Arizona State University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 167/3.85 |
003030 | William & Mary Law School | $85 | 03/01/23 | 165/3.75 |
003030 | George Mason University | $0 | 03/01/23 | 166/3.83 |
003030 | Ohio State University | $60 | 07/01/23 | 163/3.79 |
003535 | Washington and Lee University | $0 | 07/01/23 | 164/3.66 |
003535 | University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign | $0 | 03/15/23 | 164/3.66 |
003737 | University of Utah | $60 | 03/10/23 | 163/3.87 |
003737 | Wake Forest University | $75 | 03/01/23 | 165/3.72 |
003737 | Fordham University | $75 | 03/15/23 | 166/3.70 |
003737 | University of California—Irvine | $0 | 03/31/23 | 167/3.72 |
003737 | Boston College | $75 | 03/31/23 | 165/3.69 |
003737 | University of California—Davis | $0 | 03/16/23 | 165/3.70 |
004343 | Indiana University - Bloomington | $50 | 07/15/23 | 164/3.81 |
004343 | University of Wisconsin | $60 | 04/03/23 | 164/3.65 |
004545 | University of Arizona | $0 | 07/15/23 | 163/3.76 |
004646 | Texas A&M University | $0 | 05/31/23 | 164/3.93 |
004747 | Florida State University | $30 | 07/31/23 | 165/3.83 |
004747 | University of Maryland | $70 | 08/01/23 | 163/3.71 |
004949 | University of Colorado—Boulder | $65 | 04/01/23 | 164/3.72 |
004949 | University of Washington | $60 | 03/15/23 | 164/3.67 |
005151 | University of California (Hastings) | $0 | 06/01/23 | 160/3.59 |
005252 | Pepperdine University | $0 | 02/01/23 | 164/3.85 |
005252 | University of Richmond | $0 | 06/01/23 | 163/3.75 |
005252 | Yeshiva University (Cardozo) | $0 | 04/01/23 | 164/3.74 |
005555 | Tulane University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 161/3.60 |
005656 | Villanova University | $0 | 07/01/23 | 163/3.76 |
005656 | University of Tennessee | $0 | 08/09/23 | 160/3.76 |
005858 | Wayne State University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 161/3.75 |
005858 | Baylor University | $0 | 03/15/23 | 162/3.64 |
005858 | Southern Methodist University | $0 | 03/01/23 | 163/3.76 |
005858 | Pennsylvania State - Dickinson Law | $0 | 06/30/23 | 161/3.54 |
005858 | University of Houston | $0 | 03/15/23 | 161/3.70 |
006363 | Temple University | $65 | 03/01/23 | 163/3.60 |
006464 | University of San Diego | $0 | 06/01/23 | 161/3.74 |
006464 | Pennsylvania State - Penn State Law | $60 | 03/31/23 | 162/3.76 |
006464 | University of Connecticut | $60 | 04/30/23 | 159/3.54 |
006767 | University of Kansas | $55 | 03/01/23 | 158/3.74 |
006767 | University of Oregon | $0 | 08/01/23 | 159/3.54 |
006767 | Loyola Marymount University—Los Angeles | $0 | 05/15/23 | 161/3.64 |
006767 | University of Missouri | $60 | 03/15/23 | 160/3.70 |
006767 | University of Nevada—Las Vegas | $50 | 03/15/23 | 160/3.70 |
006767 | University of Kentucky | $50 | 04/15/23 | 157/3.62 |
007373 | American University | $0 | 03/01/23 | 162/3.62 |
007373 | Northeastern University | $0 | 03/01/23 | 163/3.70 |
007373 | Seton Hall University | $65 | 04/01/23 | 160/3.58 |
007373 | Loyola University—Chicago | $0 | 05/01/23 | 159/3.46 |
007373 | University of Miami | $60 | 07/31/23 | 161/3.69 |
007878 | Drexel University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 158/3.59 |
007878 | Case Western Reserve University | $0 | 04/01/23 | 160/3.61 |
007878 | Georgia State University | $0 | 06/01/23 | 160/3.55 |
007878 | University of Pittsburgh | $65 | 05/01/23 | 160/3.51 |
007878 | University of Nebraska | $50 | 03/01/23 | 158/3.64 |
007878 | University of Denver | $65 | 03/01/23 | 160/3.60 |
008484 | St. John's University | $0 | 03/15/23 | 162/3.66 |
008484 | University of South Carolina | $60 | 07/01/23 | 159/3.61 |
008686 | Rutgers University (merged) | $0 | 07/01/23 | 158/3.41 |
008888 | Lewis And Clark College | $50 | 03/15/23 | 162/3.54 |
008888 | University of Cincinnati | $0 | 07/15/23 | 158/3.73 |
008888 | University of Oklahoma | $50 | 03/15/23 | 158/3.59 |
009191 | University of New Mexico | $50 | 07/13/23 | 156/3.61 |
009191 | Michigan State University | $60 | 04/30/23 | 156/3.59 |
009494 | Catholic University Of America | $0 | 06/30/23 | 158/3.50 |
009494 | Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent College of Law) | $0 | 03/15/23 | 159/3.56 |
009494 | University of Buffalo—SUNY | $85 | 03/01/23 | 156/3.61 |
009494 | University of Louisville | $0 | 04/15/23 | 156/3.56 |
009898 | Florida International University | $20 | 06/30/23 | 160/3.69 |
009898 | Howard University | $60 | 02/28/23 | 154/3.47 |
009898 | Brooklyn Law School | $0 | 08/19/23 | 159/3.50 |
009898 | Saint Louis University | $0 | 07/31/23 | 156/3.50 |
0103103 | Syracuse University | $75 | 06/30/23 | 157/3.55 |
0105105 | Texas Tech University | $60 | 05/02/23 | 157/3.56 |
0105105 | Marquette University | $0 | 04/01/23 | 155/3.63 |
0105105 | Louisiana State University | $50 | 06/15/23 | 156/3.56 |
0105105 | DePaul University | $0 | 04/01/23 | 156/3.57 |
0105105 | Washburn University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 155/3.53 |
0105105 | University of New Hampshire | $0 | 07/15/23 | 158/3.50 |
0111111 | University of Mississippi | $40 | 04/01/23 | 156/3.56 |
0111111 | Drake University | $0 | 04/01/23 | 155/3.50 |
0114114 | University of Maine | $0 | 07/15/23 | 158/3.57 |
0114114 | University of Missouri—Kansas City | $60 | 04/01/23 | 154/3.48 |
0116116 | Seattle University | $65 | 07/15/23 | 157/3.44 |
0116116 | Gonzaga University | $0 | 04/15/23 | 154/3.51 |
0118118 | West Virginia University | $50 | 07/31/23 | 154/3.56 |
0118118 | University of Tulsa | $30 | 07/31/23 | 154/3.38 |
0118118 | Hofstra University | $0 | 06/30/23 | 156/3.48 |
0122122 | Suffolk University | $60 | 07/01/23 | 154/3.48 |
0122122 | Albany Law School Of Union University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 154/3.42 |
0122122 | University of Dayton | $0 | 08/01/23 | 154/3.58 |
0127127 | University of St. Thomas (Minnesota) | $0 | 08/01/23 | 155/3.48 |
0127127 | Cleveland State University | $0 | 07/01/23 | 155/3.48 |
0129129 | Duquesne University | $0 | 04/01/23 | 155/3.43 |
0129129 | University of Wyoming | $50 | 04/30/23 | 154/3.32 |
0129129 | New York Law School | $0 | 06/30/23 | 155/3.53 |
0133133 | Loyola University—New Orleans | $0 | 07/21/23 | 153/3.35 |
0133133 | Belmont University | $50 | 05/01/23 | 158/3.71 |
0133133 | University of South Dakota | $35 | 07/01/23 | 150/3.44 |
0133133 | University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge) | $0 | 06/01/23 | 155/3.47 |
0139139 | Samford University | $0 | 05/02/23 | 154/3.54 |
0139139 | University of Detroit Mercy | $0 | 08/01/23 | 154/3.32 |
0139139 | Creighton University | $50 | 07/01/23 | 153/3.39 |
0142142 | Vermont Law School | $60 | 04/15/23 | 154/3.40 |
0142142 | University of Idaho | $0 | 06/30/23 | 153/3.26 |
0142142 | Regent University | $65 | 07/31/23 | 156/3.64 |
0142142 | University of Memphis | $0 | 03/15/23 | 154/3.36 |
147–192147–192 | John Marshall Law School | $0 | 07/21/23 | 152/3.31 |
147–192147–192 | St. Thomas University (Florida) | $40 | 07/01/23 | 152/3.32 |
147–192147–192 | Texas Southern University | $55 | 07/28/23 | 151/3.32 |
147–192147–192 | Touro College | $0 | 08/02/23 | 150/3.15 |
147–192147–192 | Western New England University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 150/3.47 |
147–192147–192 | Atlanta's John Marshall Law School | $0 | 07/21/23 | 151/3.13 |
147–192147–192 | Northern Kentucky University | $40 | 07/31/23 | 153/3.37 |
147–192147–192 | Western State College Of Law | $0 | 07/15/23 | 150/3.11 |
147–192147–192 | Charleston School Of Law | $0 | 03/01/23 | 152/3.41 |
147–192147–192 | University of North Dakota | $35 | 07/15/23 | 150/3.39 |
147–192147–192 | Quinnipiac University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 152/3.46 |
147–192147–192 | New England Law | Boston | $0 | 04/01/23 | 154/3.28 |
147–192147–192 | Campbell University | $0 | 05/01/23 | 154/3.40 |
147–192147–192 | California Western School Of Law | $0 | 07/31/23 | 153/3.26 |
147–192147–192 | Northern Illinois University | $0 | 07/31/23 | 148/3.20 |
147–192147–192 | Ohio Northern University | $0 | 08/01/23 | 150/3.43 |
147–192147–192 | University of Toledo | $0 | 08/01/23 | 152/3.42 |
147–192147–192 | Capital University | $0 | 07/15/23 | 151/3.30 |
147–192147–192 | University of the District of Columbia | $0 | 05/01/23 | 149/3.08 |
147–192147–192 | Southern Illinois University—Carbondale | $0 | 07/15/23 | 149/3.36 |
147–192147–192 | Faulkner University | $0 | 07/15/23 | 150/3.23 |
147–192147–192 | University of Akron | $0 | 03/31/23 | 153/3.39 |
147–192147–192 | Widener-commonwealth | $0 | 07/01/23 | 148/3.29 |
147–192147–192 | Roger Williams University | $60 | 04/01/23 | 150/3.17 |
147–192147–192 | Nova Southeastern University | $0 | 07/01/23 | 153/3.26 |
147–192147–192 | Widener University—Delaware | $0 | 05/15/23 | 150/3.19 |
147–192147–192 | Elon University | $0 | 07/15/23 | 152/3.31 |
147–192147–192 | University of San Francisco | $60 | 02/01/23 | 155/3.42 |
147–192147–192 | Mississippi College | $0 | 07/15/23 | 150/3.24 |
UnrankedUnranked | University of Puerto Rico | $30 | 03/31/23 | 149/3.75 |
1 Yale University
L50: 175 | G50: 3.94 | Deadline: February 15, 2023
Yale’s app requires a 250-word essay along with semi-narrative rundowns of both your college and post-college activities.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a personal statement that helps us learn about the personal, professional, and/or academic qualities you would bring to the Law School community. Applicants often submit the personal statement they have prepared for other law school applications.
This is an open-ended prompt, and Yale encourages you not to make the PS school-specific.
Diversity Statement & Addenda
You may use this attachment slot to include a diversity statement and optional addenda to your application if any are necessary for a full representation of your candidacy.
Yale Law School welcomes, but does not require, a diversity statement, which many applicants submit to help us learn more about them and how they would contribute to our community. Other applicants choose not to include diversity statements, especially if they have otherwise covered key aspects of their backgrounds and experiences in their applications. One way to decide whether to include a diversity statement is to consider those aspects of your identity that are core to who you are, and make sure they are represented in your application.
Separate from a diversity statement, you may include optional addenda, for example, explanations related to test scores or transcripts. It is not necessary to include any, and many applicants do not include addenda.
Yale dislikes addenda about why your LSAT score went up.
250-Word Essay
In no more than 250 words, write about an idea or issue from your academic, extracurricular, or professional work that is of particular interest to you. Although there are many ways to approach this essay, one option is to write about a time when you changed your mind about an idea or issue that is of interest to you. The idea or issue you choose does not have to be law-related; this is simply another opportunity for faculty readers to learn more about how you would engage in the Law School community.
Yale encourages you to write about a time you changed your mind; many students also make an argument. E.g., the first paragraph makes the case against and the second the case for your position.
Assistance
We know that the law school application process requires significant effort. It is helpful for us to understand the application preparation resources that were available to you so that we can more fully understand the context in which you prepared your application.
- Did you receive any unpaid assistance in preparing this application?
- If your answer to Question 13.1 is yes, please indicate who assisted you (e.g., prelaw advisor, family member) and the nature of the assistance (e.g., proofreading, generating essay ideas). (maximum characters 1000)
- Did you pay for any assistance in preparing this application?
- If your answer to Question 13.3 is yes, please specify who assisted you and the nature of the assistance (e.g., proofreading, generating essay ideas). (maximum characters 1000)
- Did you take an LSAT or GRE preparation course or work with a tutor?
- If your answer to Question 13.5 is yes, please very briefly provide additional details, including when you received this assistance. (maximum characters 1000)
Yale prefers it if applicants don’t use an admissions consultant, but using one is not disqualifying. (7Sage has worked with dozens of applicants who got into Yale after disclosing our help.)
Character & Fitness
Please note that your answers to the following questions and any information included in your Character and Fitness attachment may become part of the character and fitness review of the bar in the states in which you intend to practice. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If your answer to either of the following Character and Fitness questions is yes, include an attachment describing the circumstances.
C&F Criminal
- Are there any felony or misdemeanor charges pending against you, or have you ever been convicted of, or pled guilty or no contest to, a felony or misdemeanor? You may answer “no” if your record has been expunged or sealed, if your conviction has been vacated, or if you have been pardoned.
If you answered yes to Character and Fitness question 14.1, please include an attachment describing the circumstances and, if you wish, provide information that will help us understand the context of your behavior and the outcome of this experience for you and others. The Admissions Office understands that excellent applicants may have made mistakes, and answering “yes” does not disqualify you from consideration for admission to the Law School. Please note that the information included in your Character and Fitness attachment as well as answers to the Character and Fitness questions may become part of the character and fitness review of the bar in the state(s) in which you intend to practice. Admission to the practice of law depends in part on satisfaction of the requirements of the particular jurisdiction as to proof of good character. These requirements differ from state to state, and applicants should inform themselves of the requirements of the jurisdictions in which they are interested.
C&F Academic
2. At any educational institution you have attended, have you ever been found responsible for misconduct of any kind or deficient scholarship, or are there any charges pending?
If you answered yes to Character and Fitness question 14.2, please include an attachment describing the circumstances and, if you wish, provide information that will help us understand the context of your behavior and the outcome of this experience for you and others. The Admissions Office understands that excellent applicants may have made mistakes, and answering “yes” does not disqualify you from consideration for admission to the Law School.
Please note that the information included in your Character and Fitness attachment as well as answers to the Character and Fitness questions may become part of the character and fitness review of the bar in the state(s) in which you intend to practice. Admission to the practice of law depends in part on satisfaction of the requirements of the particular jurisdiction as to proof of good character. These requirements differ from state to state, and applicants should inform themselves of the requirements of the jurisdictions in which they are interested.
Résumé
Please submit a résumé. You must answer the College and Post-college Activities questions separately from this included résumé. Generally, résumés should be 1 to 2 pages in length.
Yale prefers that applicants keep their resume brief—one page, if possible—and then use the activities sections to provide further elaboration on matters. Be careful not to signify your privilege in the résumé with an interest like golf or lacrosse (these are actual examples from a Yale info session, not 7Sage opinions)—and consider leaving your interests off of your Yale résumé altogether, since Yale has a dedicated question for this.
Post-college Activities
This section is optional.
If it has been more than three months since you attended college, describe what you have been doing in any format you choose. You should include graduate or professional education, paid or unpaid employment, as well as any other activities that you consider relevant. Please answer this question separately from any information provided in your résumé. Please note that we anticipate significant duplication between this section and your résumé; the purpose of this section is to present your post-college activities in a manner and order that is helpful to our review of your application. This section should be brief, and, in general, applicants should be able to provide this information in no more than one page, unless they have extensive post-graduate or professional experience.
For each activity (aside from additional education), please:
- provide a brief description;
- state the approximate start and end date;
- estimate your time commitment; and
- note whether it was paid or unpaid.
College Activities
Please answer a, b, and c separately from the included résumé and in any format you choose. Please note that we anticipate significant duplication between this section and your résumé; the purpose of this section is to present your activities in a manner and order that is helpful to our review of your application. This section should be brief, and, in general, applicants should be able to provide this information in no more than 1–2 pages.
(a) It is helpful for us to understand what you did during those terms when you were not in school during your undergraduate education (including summers and any other term(s) when you were not in school). This should include, for example, paid or unpaid employment or internships and study abroad. Please list these activities in order of relative importance to you. For each activity, please:
- provide a brief description;
- state the approximate start and end date;
- estimate the hours per week you committed; and
- note whether it was paid or unpaid.
(b) Please list those activities you participated in during the terms while you were also taking classes as part of your undergraduate education. This should include, for example, extracurricular activities and paid or unpaid employment or internships. Please list these in order of relative importance to you. For each activity, please: - provide a brief description;
- state the approximate start and end date;
- estimate the hours per week you committed; and
- note whether it was paid or unpaid.
(c) Please list and very briefly describe any other activities during your undergraduate education (in or out of school) that you consider relevant if not otherwise described above. This may include, for example, a significant thesis or capstone project; or significant personal or familial responsibilities.
2 Stanford University
L50: 172 | G50: 3.91 | Deadline: February 15, 2023
Stanford has conveyed at an info session that they look for a “cohesive story” which makes everything click (although everyone kind of does that?). Stanford’s app has short, quirky, optional-but-kinda-not-optional supplemental essays that encourage you to show your personality.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please attach a statement of about two pages describing important or unusual aspects of yourself not otherwise apparent in your application.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Diversity Essay
This section is optional.
Although admission to Stanford Law School is based primarily upon superior academic achievement and potential to contribute to the legal profession, the Admissions Committee also considers the diversity (broadly defined) of an entering class as important to the school's educational mission. If you would like the committee to consider how your background, life and work experiences, advanced studies, extracurricular or community activities, culture, socio-economic status, sex, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expressions, or other factors would contribute to the diversity of the entering class (and hence to your classmates' law school educational experience), you may describe these factors and their relevance in a separate diversity essay.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Optional Short Essays
This section is optional.
If you think these optional short essays could help us get a better sense of who you are, we encourage you to consider submitting your responses to no more than two of the following questions. Note that there is a 100 to 250-word limit for each question.
- If you could sit and chat with anyone, living or from any time in history, what's one question you'd ask? Why?
- You're given the opportunity to teach a one-day class to your fellow students at Stanford Law School. Based on your particular skills and talents, what would you teach?
- The library in the town where you grew up has been destroyed. Choose three books to contribute to rebuilding the library's collection.
- Music has a way of setting tone and mood for any occasion. With this in mind, pick three songs or musical works to be playing in the background as the Admissions Committee reviews your materials.
We strongly encourage you to respond to one of these essays; responding to two won't necessarily put you in a better position than responding to one. If you choose the last prompt, don't just name three songs—explain why they're important to you and why the admissions committee should listen to them!
Optional Addenda
This section is optional.
If you wish to provide additional and relevant information that is not explained in the required application materials, please attach a brief statement.
Stanford is reportedly “addendum friendly” (based on a 7Sager who went to an info session).
Character & Fitness
*If your answer to any of these questions below is "Yes," please attach an explanatory statement with your electronic application. Prior to matriculation, you will be required to submit documentation from each school attended attesting to your good standing.
1. Have you ever at any college or university been in other than good standing because of academic deficiencies, been sanctioned for misconduct, or been the subject of disciplinary proceedings?
2. Have you ever been convicted of, or is any charge now pending against you for any crime other than a traffic violation?
3. Have you ever been subject to discipline by a professional organization?
Résumé
Please attach a one-to-two page résumé describing your academic, extracurricular, and professional activities.
Stanford is okay with two-page résumés, and encourages you to add lots of detail.
3 University of Chicago
L50: 172 | G50: 3.91 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
Note that Chicago’s application has three short-answer questions that cover “Why X” territory.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please use the personal statement to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee and to help the Committee get to know you on a personal level. It should demonstrate your potential contribution to the Law School community beyond simply academics and should demonstrate your ability to communicate your thoughts effectively. The Admissions Committee generally finds that a statement that focuses on a unique personal attribute or experience is usually the most informative (as opposed to a restatement of your qualifications or résumé).
While there is no page or word limit on the personal statement, please note that the Admissions Committee values an applicant's ability to communicate thoughts in a clear and concise manner. The Admissions Committee typically finds that 2-4 pages is a sufficient length for most personal statements.
Chicago is very open to statements that are more personal than professional. The prompt is open-ended.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Describe how your background or experiences will enhance the diversity of the University of Chicago Law community (e.g., based on your culture, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ideology, age, socioeconomic status, academic background, employment, or personal experience).
This is an open-ended diversity statement.
Optional Addendum 2
This section is optional.
Please use the additional addendum options to provide any additional information that you believe is important to the Admissions Committee's evaluation of your application. For example, you may use an addendum to discuss how your background or experiences will enhance the diversity of the University of Chicago Law community, a disparity in multiple LSAT scores, any weaknesses or significant trends in your undergraduate record, a gap in education or work, or any other questions or issues that you believe may arise as the Committee is reviewing your record. Please note that it is not necessary to attach an addendum. Please do so only if you think it is necessary to the review of your file.
Optional Addendum 1
This section is optional.
Please use the additional addendum options to provide any additional information that you believe is important to the Admissions Committee's evaluation of your application. For example, you may use an addendum to discuss how your background or experiences will enhance the diversity of the University of Chicago Law community, a disparity in multiple LSAT scores, any weaknesses or significant trends in your undergraduate record, a gap in education or work, or any other questions or issues that you believe may arise as the Committee is reviewing your record. Please note that it is not necessary to attach an addendum. Please do so only if you think it is necessary to the review of your file.
Both addendum prompts are open-ended. We encourage you to submit separate statements if you have two issues you wish to address.
Academic Interest (2)
- If you are interested in learning more about student organizations at UChicago Law, please indicate up to three that interest you. (maximum characters 200)
We recommend that you answer this why-X-like optional question.
Academic Interest (3)
- If you are interested in our clinics, student-edited journals, or other topics, please list up to three here. (maximum characters 200)
We recommend that you answer this why-X-like optional question.
Academic Interest (1)
- Please identify up to three areas of academic interest you would like to learn more about at the University of Chicago Law School. (maximum characters 200)
We recommend that you answer this why-X-like optional question.
Doctoroff Statement
If you answered "yes" to the Doctoroff Program question: "If you are admitted to the Law School, do you want to be considered for the Doctoroff Business Leadership Program", please attach a statement of interest describing in 250 words or less why you want to participate in the Doctoroff Program and how earning the Doctoroff Program Certificate will help you achieve your career goals.
Character and Fitness
Note about Character and Fitness: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. State Bar Associations may request a copy of your application, materials, and record, including answers to the Character and Fitness questions in this application, in determining your admission to the bar. An affirmative response to any portion of the Character and Fitness questions will not automatically disqualify a candidate from admission.
Once your application is submitted, you have a continuing obligation to update us if you have an affirmative answer to any of the Character and Fitness questions. If you have an affirmative answer to one of the Character and Fitness questions after you submit your application, please email admissions@law.uchicago.edu with your updated Character and Fitness answer in PDF form.
Character and Fitness Q1
- In connection with your enrollment at any college, university, or other institution of higher education, have you ever been placed on academic probation or found to be guilty of or responsible or accountable for any misconduct, including but not limited to any matter for which you were suspended, dismissed, expelled, banned, restricted, placed on probation, or subject to any other probation, sanction, or penalty? If so, please provide all material facts and an explanation of the circumstances. Please title your explanation: Character and Fitness 1. NOTE: Misconduct includes but is not limited to academic and non-academic matters. You must also disclose disciplinary matters that are pending at the time of your application.
If you answered "yes" to Character and Fitness Question 1, please attach a complete and detailed description of the circumstances.
Character and Fitness Q2
2. Have you ever been charged with or convicted of any crime or offense other than a minor traffic violation? This includes any charges, complaints, or citations that were filed against you as a juvenile or as an adult, formal or informal, pending or closed, dismissed, expunged, sealed, or subject to a diversionary program, and includes any charges, complaints, or citations that you reasonably expect to be brought against you. If so, please provide all material facts and an explanation of the circumstances. Please title your explanation: Character and Fitness 2.
If you answered "yes" to Character and Fitness Question 2, please attach a complete and detailed description of the circumstances.
Character and Fitness Q3
3. Have you been discharged or dismissed from the armed forces, other than by honorable discharge, or sentenced in a court-martial proceeding? If so, please provide all material facts and an explanation of the circumstances. Please title your explanation: Character and Fitness 3.
If you answered "yes" to Character and Fitness Question 3, please attach a complete and detailed description of the circumstances.
Resume
Please submit a résumé describing your educational history, extracurricular and community activities, academic honors and experiences, and any full- or part-time work experience. Indicate the number of hours per week spent on each activity or job and please include approximate dates for each activity. Make sure your résumé is current at the time of submitting your application. If your education or work has been interrupted for more than a normal vacation period, please describe your activities during that time in your résumé or in a separate addendum.
Please note the request for “hours per week” for each activity/job.
JD/PhD Essay
This section is optional.
If you have obtained a PhD, are completing a PhD, or if you are concurrently applying to a PhD program, we invite you to submit a one-page, optional essay explaining your research and academic interests, your professional goals, and how completing a JD would help you improve your research and achieve your professional goals.
We encourage PhD grads and/or potential dual degree students to submit this statement unless otherwise addressed in the PS.
4 Columbia University
L50: 173 | G50: 3.87 | Deadline: February 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
Columbia likes a one-page Why CLS, though they don’t ask for one. Note Columbia’s “fun facts” short-answer question, which is a chance to say something quirky about yourself. (Looking at you, hot-dog-eating-contest winners and ocarina players.)
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Candidates to Columbia Law School are required to submit a personal statement supplementing required application materials. We are curious about your interests, goals, and aspirations and how the J.D. program at Columbia can help you achieve these. You are encouraged to think about the contributions you hope to make to both the Columbia community and the legal profession while considering your personal, intellectual, and professional background and any relevant information that you may not have otherwise conveyed through your other application materials. Please note that the personal statement should be double-spaced and approximately two pages in length. This statement should be attached electronically.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay. If you’re not writing a separate Why X essay—which Columbia likes—you should include a “Why CLS” in the PS.
Supplementary Statement
This section is optional.
Optional: A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia’s diverse and collaborative community.
Candidates may add additional brief supplementary statements they believe will enable the Admissions Committee to make a fully informed decision on the application. Should you have multiple addenda, please combine (on separate pages, if necessary) these into one document and upload here.
This is a broad diversity statement prompt that invites candidates to send in an essay even if they aren’t “diverse” in a traditional sense. It’s also an open-ended call for addenda. Note: don’t feel compelled to submit a diversity statement.
Additional Information #7
Optional: In the space below, feel free to share any "fun facts" about yourself (hobbies, interests, special talents, and accomplishments, etc.) that the Admissions Committee may not be able to glean otherwise from your application. Please note that whether you choose to answer the question or not, there will be no impact on your admissions decision.
This is an open-ended hobbies/interests question that students should feel welcome to submit.
Character & Fitness
If you answer "Yes" to questions 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, or 9.6 in the "Character and Fitness" section, you must attach a detailed, complete, and truthful written explanation in the "Attachments" section of the application. Please answer honestly, irrespective of any advice you may have received to the contrary. Should you have questions about whether or not to report an infraction, you are strongly encouraged to contact the Office of Admissions for clarification. If you answer "Yes" to question 9.1 and/or 9.2, please have the dean or administrative officer in charge of student records forward a detailed explanation of the incident to the Columbia Law School Office of Admissions at deanscerts@law.columbia.edu. Please read the application instructions for additional information.
Question 9.1
Have you ever been on academic probation or subjected to disciplinary action for scholastic or other reasons by any college, university, graduate school, or professional school you have attended? This should include matters that have been expunged. In addition to attaching a written explanation in the "Attachments" section of the application, kindly have the Dean or administrative officer in charge of student records forward a detailed explanation of the incident.
Question 9.2
Are there any disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you? In addition to attaching a written explanation in the "Attachments" section of the application, kindly have the Dean or administrative officer in charge of student records forward a detailed explanation of the incident.
Question 9.3
Have you ever been cited, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, except minor parking violations? Please note that you should have available and be prepared to submit or exhibit copies of police and court records regarding any matter you disclose in reply to this question. You may answer "no" if your record has been expunged or sealed; if your conviction was vacated; if you were the subject of a juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding; or if you have received a pardon. If you answered "yes," you must attach a detailed, complete, and truthful explanation, including a statement of the charge(s), the disposition thereof and the underlying facts. Please answer honestly, irrespective of any advice you may have received to the contrary.
Question 9.4
Are there any criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you?
[From attachments page:] If you answered "Yes" to question 9.4, you must attach a detailed, complete, and truthful written explanation. Please answer honestly, irrespective of any advice you may have received to the contrary.
Question 9.5
Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action or discharge by a professional organization, e.g., an employer, certifying agency, or accreditation board?
[From attachments page:] If you answered "Yes" to question 9.5, you must attach a detailed, complete, and truthful written explanation. Please answer honestly, irrespective of any advice you may have received to the contrary.
Question 9.6
Will you be enrolled in an undergraduate program on or after August 1, 2023?
[From attachments page:] If you answered "Yes" to question 9.6, you must attach a detailed, complete, and truthful written explanation. Please answer honestly, irrespective of any advice you may have received to the contrary.
Resume
In addition to answering the preceding questions, please also submit a copy of your résumé via electronic attachment.
4 Harvard University
L50: 174 | G50: 3.92 | Deadline: February 20, 2023
Harvard provides you with a section to elaborate upon a research project or publication.
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement provides an opportunity for you to present yourself, your background, your ideas, and your qualifications to the Admissions Committee.
Please limit your statement to two pages using a minimum of 11-point font, 1-inch margins, and double spacing. We expect applicants to use the full two pages in crafting their statement.
The personal statement is intended as an opportunity to give the Admissions Committee a better sense of who you are as a person and as a potential student and graduate of Harvard Law School. In many instances, applicants have used the personal statement to provide more context on how their experiences and strengths could make them valuable contributors to the Harvard and legal communities, to illuminate their intellectual background and interests, or to clarify or elaborate on other information in their application. Because applicants and their experiences differ, you are the best person to determine the content of your statement.
Optional Statement
This section is optional.
The Admissions Committee makes every effort to understand your achievements in the context of your background and to build a diverse student body. If applicable, you may choose to submit an optional additional statement to elaborate on how you could contribute to the Harvard Law School community.
Please limit your optional statement to one page using a minimum of 11-point font, 1-inch margins, and double spacing.
If an optional statement runs over one page, it will be read. However, we ask that you use your best judgment to determine whether or not your optional statement should exceed the one-page expectation.
This statement serves as Harvard’s diversity statement and defines diversity broadly.
Addenda
This section is optional.
We encourage you to provide any relevant information that may be helpful to us in making an informed decision on your application. Examples of information that may be relevant to individual cases include: unusual circumstances that may have affected academic performance, a description or documentation of a physical or learning disability, or a history of educational or sociological disadvantage. If a close relative has attended HLS, you may submit this information in this section.
If you have an addendum, please attach it here.
Some subject areas that may be appropriate for a diversity statement (such as physical or learning disabilities and socioeconomic class) are mentioned here as possible subject areas. That allows students to cover those subjects in the Addenda and leave the Optional Statement open for other subjects.
Writing
Have you produced a significant piece of writing under the direct supervision of a faculty member or employer? Examples include but are not limited to: a thesis, a peer-reviewed and/or published article, or a white paper. If yes, please briefly describe the piece of work and the nature of the supervision. (maximum characters 300)
This is an opportunity to elaborate further on a significant research project. You may then wish to condense the description of said project on your resume.
Character and Fitness
PLEASE ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS.
If you answer “yes” to any of the questions below, you must provide details in the space provided.
- At any educational institution, have you ever been found responsible for behavioral misconduct that resulted in anything more than a verbal reprimand or are any such charges pending?
- At any educational institution, have you ever been found responsible for academic misconduct or are any such charges pending?
- In a professional setting, have you been subject to disciplinary sanctions, or are any charges pending?
- Have you ever been convicted of, or pled guilty or no contest to, any felony or misdemeanor, other than:
- an arrest or other detention that did not result in a conviction, or in which a conviction was vacated;
- a first conviction for any of the following misdemeanors: drunkenness, simple assault, speeding, minor traffic violations, affray or disturbance of the peace; or
- any misdemeanor conviction that occurred more than five years before your application for admission, unless you were also sentenced to imprisonment, or were convicted of any additional offense within the five year period.
Note that you are not required to answer “yes” to this question, or provide an explanation, if the criminal adjudication or conviction has been expunged, sealed, annulled, pardoned, destroyed, erased, impounded, or otherwise ordered by a court to be kept confidential.
- Are you currently deferring enrollment at a law school that requires a commitment not to apply elsewhere?
- Have you ever attended a law school?
- If you answered yes to any of the above questions, please explain here. (maximum characters 500)
Resume
We require a resume as part of the application. Please limit your resume to one or two pages. Please visit the HLS J.D. Admissions website for samples.
6 University of Pennsylvania
L50: 172 | G50: 3.90 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: January 7, 2023, November 15, 2022
Penn groups their DS, addendum, and supplemental prompts together. We do recommend that you write at least one of their two supplemental essays.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee requires that every applicant submit an original example of written expression. The purpose of this personal statement is to provide you with as flexible an opportunity as possible to submit information that you deem important to your candidacy. You may wish to describe aspects of your background and interests--intellectual, personal or professional--and how you will uniquely contribute to the Penn Carey Law community and/or the legal profession. Please limit your statement to two pages, double spaced and label it as "Personal Statement" with your name and LSAC account number on each page.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Penn in particular by the end of the essay.
Optional Essays
If you wish, you may write an additional essay on any of the following topics. These optional essays allow you an opportunity to provide the admissions committee with additional relevant information that you were not able to include in your personal statement. Please include the essay with your application by electronically attaching it to your application before submission through LSAC. You may answer more than one essay topic if you so choose. Include your name and LSAC account number on each page. Please limit any optional essay to one page, double spaced and title it appropriately.
- Describe how your background or experiences will enhance the diversity of the Penn Carey Law community (e.g., based on your culture, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ideology, age, socioeconomic status, academic background, employment, or personal experience).
- These are the core strengths that make Penn Carey Law the best place to receive a rigorous and engaging legal education: genuine integration with associated disciplines; transformative, forward-looking faculty scholarship; highly-regarded experiential learning through urban clinics and our pro bono pledge; innovative, hands-on global engagement; and a manifest commitment to professional development and collegiality. These qualities define Penn Carey Law. What defines you? How do your goals and values match Penn Carey Law’s core strengths?
- What do you find valuable (or challenging) about a collaborative environment?
- If you do not think that your academic record or standardized test scores accurately reflect your ability to succeed in law school, please tell us why.
Our advice: write the core-strengths or collaborative-environment essay; only include the diversity statement and addendum if they will add value to your application. Note that “core strengths” is sort of a “Why X” in disguise.
Additional Info
Please upload any additional explanations needed for the Application Questions.
This is an open-ended addendum which can be used to address any issue with previously asked questions.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, you must provide an explanatory statement. If you do not, the processing and review of your application will be delayed. We caution you to err on the side of full disclosure. If you need additional space for your explanation, you may upload it in the Character and Fitness section in Attachments.
1. Has your academic experience ever been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason? (This does not include the time period between high school and college or between college and law school, etc.)
2. Study Interrupted Explanation: (maximum characters 500)[A text box follows]
3. Have you ever been issued academic or disciplinary warnings, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, suspended, dropped, expelled, or been required to withdraw from any post-secondary education you have attended, or are any such proceedings now pending against you? (This should include matters that have been expunged.)
4. Academic and Disciplinary Action Explanation: (maximum characters 500) [A text box follows]
5. Have you ever, either as an adult or a juvenile, been arrested, charged, cited or convicted of a crime (including misdemeanors), or cited for an infraction (including moving violations), or is any charge now pending against you? (This should include matters that have been expunged or subject to a diversionary program.)
6. Crime Explanation: (maximum characters 500)[A text box follows]
7. Have you ever been or are you currently enrolled in another law school?
8. Prior Law School Matriculation Explanation: (maximum characters 500) [A text box follows]
Resume or CV
Please submit a résumé or CV as an electronic attachment with your application. In addition to your professional experiences, please include any academic and/or non-academic honors you have received as well as any extracurricular and/or community activities in college and since graduation. Please account for all time periods.
7 New York University
L50: 172 | G50: 3.88 | Deadline: February 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
NYU has a bunch of named scholarship essays.
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
While the Committee on Admissions does not use interviews as part of the regular selection process, we would like to give you the opportunity to include more information about yourself than the application form conveys. Because people and their interests vary, we leave the content and length of your statement to your discretion. You may wish to complete or clarify your responses to items on the application form, bring to our attention additional information you feel should be considered, describe important or unusual aspects of yourself not otherwise apparent in your application, or tell us what led you to apply to the NYU School of Law.
This prompt is open-ended. Since NYU Law does not have a school specific statement, students may wish to include such information in their PS.
Underrepresented Group
Optional: New York University School of Law seeks to enroll a student body from a broad spectrum of society, including members of groups underrepresented in the profession as well as persons who have experienced socioeconomic and/or educational disadvantage. Please indicate here any such groups in which you would include yourself. Also attach a brief statement describing aspects of this identity that are relevant to your application. You may do so by uploading the statement in the attachment section of the application.
Please attach a brief statement describing aspects of your identity, as indicated in section 7 (Underrepresented Group), that are relevant to your application.
Please clearly label all attachments and include your name and LSAC Account Number.
This prompt calls for a diversity statement about being a member of an underrepresented or disadvantaged group.
Additional Information
This section is optional.
Optional Additional Information
The Committee on Admissions encourages you to provide any information that may be helpful to us in reaching a thoughtful decision on your application. While the choice as to whether and what information to submit to the Committee is entirely yours, any information you provide will be used to give you full credit for your accomplishments, to help the Committee reach an informed decision on your application, and to aid the Committee in selecting a diverse student body.
Information that has been helpful in the past includes, but is not limited to, documentation of overcoming adversity, a history of underperforming on standardized tests, unusual circumstances which may have affected academic performance, or personal/family history of educational or socioeconomic disadvantage. This list is not all-inclusive, but we offer it for you to think about as you consider whether such information might be relevant in your case, and to assure you that including it is quite appropriate.
You may attach a brief statement including any such information. Please clearly label all attachments and include your name and LSAC Account Number.
Application materials and all supporting documents submitted in connection with an application for admitted students who enroll at NYU School of Law become part of the student's law school records and are subject to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
This is an open-ended addendum prompt.
Root-Tilden-Kern Essay
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the Root-Tilden-Kern Scholarship, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1.
Applicants to the Root-Tilden-Kern Scholarship automatically are considered for the Lindemann Family Public Service Scholarship; Jacobson Public Service Scholarship for Women, Children and Families; Filomen M. D'Agostino Scholarship for Women or Children's Rights; and Filomen M. D'Agostino Scholarship in Civil Rights, Civil Liberties, and Criminal Justice. Applicants who wish to be considered for the Sinsheimer Service Scholarship must indicate their interest in the scholarship on their application.
All Root-Tilden-Kern Scholarship applicants must submit a short public service essay not to exceed 750 words. Discuss your public service commitment and goals, and the factors that have most significantly influenced them, or any other aspects you consider relevant to your qualification for the scholarship(s). If your personal statement directly addresses your public service commitment, you may choose not to submit a separate essay and instead indicate on the personal statement that you would like it also to serve as your public service essay. At least one letter of recommendation must address your public service commitment.
For more information about the Root-Tilden-Kern Program, please visit: http://www.law.nyu.edu/financialaid/jdscholarships/rootscholarship.
Law and Business Essay
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the Jacobson Leadership Program in Law and Business and/or the Nordlicht Family Scholarship, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1. Please indicate your specific scholarship interest(s) in your essay. You are also required to submit an additional essay (no more than 500 words) with the JD application. The essay should address your interest in the area of law and business or law and social entrepreneurship.
If you are applying for the Nordlicht Family Scholarship which supports social entrepreneurship through legal studies, your essay should address your interest in pursuing a career in social entrepreneurship. The Nordlicht Family Scholarship is limited to applicants with financial need as determined by the Law School financial aid application process. If you do not qualify for need-based financial aid, your Nordlicht Family Scholarship application will be considered for the Jacobson Leadership Scholarship.
For more information about the Jacobson Leadership Program in Law and Business, please visit: http://www.law.nyu.edu/leadershipprogram and http://www.law.nyu.edu/centers/grunin-social-entrepreneurship.
Latinx Rights Essay
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the Latinx Rights Scholars Program, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1. You are also required to submit an additional essay (no more than 500 words) with the JD application that addresses your interest in serving the needs of Latinx communities.
For more information about the Latinx Rights Scholars Program, please visit:http://www.law.nyu.edu/financialaid/jdscholarships/latinx-rights-scholarship.
Public Policy Essay
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the Furman Public Policy Scholarship, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1. You are required to submit with the JD application an additional essay (no more than 500 words) that describes your interest in public policy, and what specific public policy areas you wish to pursue with your law school training. You are also required to submit a recommendation letter that speaks to your interest or experience in public policy.
For more information about the Furman Public Policy Scholarship, please visit: http://www.law.nyu.edu/financialaid/jdscholarships/furmanpublicpolicyscholarship
Furman Academic Materials
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the Furman Academic Scholars Program, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1.
The Furman Academic Scholarship Committee also requires the following:
• An additional essay (up to approximately 1000 words) with the JD application that describes why you wish to pursue a career in legal academia, gives some sense of the field of legal scholarship you hope to pursue, and includes a statement on diversity in academia. Potential topics of discussion for the latter point include how an applicant’s background, identities, or experiences have or will contribute to diversity in academia; or how to overcome specific challenges in fostering diverse academic communities. Finally, you should explain why NYU School of Law is the right place for you to pursue your legal studies.
• For this program in particular, we request that you ask individuals submitting recommendation letters on your behalf to include a few sentences about your suitability for the program.
Selections are based on the strength of a candidate's record and recommendations. At the conclusion of the selection process, some applicants will be asked to interview with faculty, students, and committee members.
For more information about the Furman Academic Scholars Program, please visit: http://www.law.nyu.edu/furmanprogram/furmanacademicscholarsprogram
CSS Essay
This section is optional.
The Cybersecuirty Service Scholarship (CSS) provides full-tuition scholarships for students who are dedicated to government service and passionate about national security, cybersecurity, and information security (no previous technical background is necessary). For more information, please visit: https://www.law.nyu.edu/financialaid/jdscholarhips/Cybersecurity-Service-scholarship.
As an applicant for the CSS, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1. You are required to submit, as an addendum to the JD application, a statement (no more than 500 words) that describes your interest in cybersecurity and in public service. You are also required to submit at least two references that may be contacted during the interview process.
AnBryce Essay
This section is optional.
As an applicant for the AnBryce Scholarship, you are strongly encouraged to submit your JD application and have a complete CAS report to be requested by our office by the priority programmatic scholarship deadline of December 1, and no later than January 1. You also must submit an additional essay (500-750 words) with the JD application. The essay should address how you have embodied the attributes of an AnBryce Scholar in overcoming personal obstacles, how your legal education will enable you to promote the ideals underlying the program in your career, and the circumstances surrounding any challenges you have in encountered in your life that qualify you to receive this scholarship.
For more information about the AnBryce Scholarship Program, please visit: http://www.law.nyu.edu/financialaid/jdscholarships/anbryce
Character and Fitness
Please answer the following questions. You must answer these questions fully and truthfully regardless of any contrary advice that you may have received from others. If you are unsure whether a particular event must be revealed in answer to any of these questions, please contact the Office of Admissions.
Answering “yes” to any of the questions below does not preclude admission to the Law School. NYU Law strives to ensure that students in its incoming class bring with them a diversity of experience. All individuals, including those with previous criminal convictions and other prior involvement in the criminal justice system, are encouraged to apply.
Please note: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. Applicants who expect to practice in New York State also are encouraged to review Are You Fit to Be a Lawyer, published by the New York State Lawyer Assistance Trust. For more detailed information about the impact of past criminal convictions on the job search and bar passage, please visit our website.
*If you answer yes to questions 4 and/or 5, you are required to ask the dean or administrative officer in charge of student records at the school at which the incident occurred to provide an explanation. The explanation should be submitted directly to NYU School of Law, via email at law.moreinfo@nyu.edu.
- Has your undergraduate or graduate course of study been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason?
- Have you ever enrolled in a J.D., LL.B., or other first law degree program?
- Are you currently deferring enrollment at a law school that requires a commitment not to apply elsewhere?
- Have you ever been placed on academic probation or been required to withdraw from any academic institution above elementary school level for academic reasons, or did you withdraw from any academic institution above elementary school level while an investigation of academic policy violation(s) was pending?
- Have you ever been found responsible for any misconduct that resulted in academic or other disciplinary sanctions, or are charges pending, at any academic institution above elementary school level, or did you withdraw from any academic institution above elementary school level while academic or other disciplinary charges were pending?
- Are there any felony or misdemeanor charges pending against you, or have you ever been convicted of, or pled guilty or no contest to, a felony or misdemeanor? You are entitled to answer “no” if: your record has been expunged or sealed; or your conviction has been vacated or resulted in a juvenile adjudication; or you have been pardoned.
- Have you ever been found responsible for any misconduct that resulted in discipline in any professional setting or by a professional organization, or are any charges pending, or did you resign from employment or a professional organization while charges were pending?
- If you have ever served on full-time military active duty, was your discharge under conditions other than honorable?
Resume
Please attach your resume in this section.
8 University of Virginia
L50: 171 | G50: 3.94 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: March 1, 2023
Many students send “Why X” essays to UVA, and it seems to be effective.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Your personal statement should provide information, in your own words, you believe relevant to the admissions decision not elicited elsewhere in the application. The statement is your opportunity to tell us about yourself; it may address your intellectual interests, significant accomplishments or obstacles overcome, personal or professional goals, educational achievements, or any way in which your perspective or experiences will add to the richness of the educational environment at the Law School. Please upload your personal statement to your e-application via LSAC.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Addenda
Should you wish to address topics (or other aspects of yourself or your application) that are not addressed elsewhere in your application, this section can be used to attach as many topics as you wish. If multiple topics are addressed, we prefer that you separate topics and upload each separately, and as descriptively labeled as possible.
This is an open-ended addendum, but please note the request to upload multiple topics separately and with descriptive labels (e.g., LSAT Addendum, GPA Addendum, etc.).
Experience & Interests
Law school and the practice of law are both rewarding and challenging. Among the qualities it takes to succeed in both is resilience. Please describe how you have exhibited this quality in school, work, or life experience. (maximum characters 1700)
This is an open-ended prompt asking you to reflect on a time when you have had to overcome a challenge. Don’t feel compelled to share a trauma, though, and consider sharing an anecdote in which you accomplished something you’re proud of.
Character & Fitness
If the answer to any of these questions is "yes," attach an addendum explaining the circumstances. After submitting this application, you have an ongoing obligation to notify immediately the Office of Admissions of new or additional information pertaining to these questions. Note that the existence of a criminal history will not, by itself, disqualify an applicant for admission.
ABA STANDARD 504 STATEMENT: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
As you provide responses to the questions set forth in this section, please do so carefully and be mindful that in the future, when you seek admission to one or more state bars, you will be required to respond to similar conduct questions. For this reason, please pay careful attention to provide detailed, complete and accurate responses both on this application, as well as in response to similar questions that are posed to you in the future. Failure to provide complete, accurate and consistent responses, or to omit information that is requested, can cause serious problems for you when you are seeking bar admission.
1. Have you ever been subject to verbal or written discipline (informal or formal, and of any type, such as but not limited to warning, reprimand, suspension, dismissal, and/or detrimental impact to any benefit/privilege) for scholastic or other reasons in any of the colleges, universities, graduate or professional schools you have attended (including organizations you have participated in at these institutions), or by any employer?
2. Have you ever been cited for, charged with, taken into custody for, arrested for, indicted for, tried for, pled guilty to, or convicted of, the violation of any law, excluding minor traffic or parking violations? Note: incidents involving alcohol or drug possession, driving while intoxicated or impaired, damage to property, injury to person(s), driving without insurance, leaving the scene of an accident, driving on a suspended license, and/or reckless driving are NOT considered minor offenses for the purposes of this section and should be disclosed here. This question does NOT require you to disclose information concerning any arrest or criminal charge that has been expunged at the time you submit this application. This question does NOT require you to disclose incidents that were the subject of a juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding.
3. Are there any charges pending or expected to be brought against you?
4. Are you aware of any charges, discipline and/or accusations pending or expected to be brought against you of any kind that would satisfy any of the foregoing character & fitness-related questions?
Resume
Attach a current and professional resume.
9 University of California—Berkeley
L50: 170 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: February 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
Berkeley likes a long application. They have a “Why X” prompt and a very broad diversity prompt on top of that.
LORs: 0 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please provide more information about yourself in a written personal statement. The subject matter of the essay is up to you, but keep in mind that the reader will be seeking a sense of you as a person and as a potential student and graduate of Berkeley Law.
Berkeley Law seeks to enroll a class with varied backgrounds and interests. If you wish, you may discuss how your interests, background, life experiences, and perspectives would contribute to the diversity of the entering class. If applicable, you may also describe any disadvantages that may have adversely affected your past performance or that you have successfully overcome, including linguistic barriers or a personal or family history of cultural, educational, or socioeconomic disadvantage.
Your personal statement should be limited to four double-spaced pages. The thoughts and words contained therein must be your own and no one else should assist in its creation beyond basic proofreading and critiquing. Please include your name and LSAC account number on each page of the statement.
Berkely loves a looooong essay. This is an open-ended prompt, but consider discussing your diversity factors if you can weave them in. Berkeley also offers a diversity statement.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
How will you (your perspective, experience, Voice) contribute diversity in our classrooms and community? Feel free to address any factors or attributes you consider important and relevant. In the past, applicants have included information about characteristics such as: race/ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, socio-economic background, first generation college or professional school student, student parent, re-entry student, geographic diversity, ideological diversity, and others. (350 word maximum)
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addenda
This section is optional.
You may attach any other supplemental materials or addenda to your application here.
This is an open-ended addendum. Please note that Berkeley has a specific question regarding test scores so such information should not be provided here.
Prior Law School
This section is optional.
If you have ever been or are currently registered at another law school, please attach an addendum explaining the circumstances.
Standardized Tests
This section is optional.
If you do not believe that your standardized test score(s) or academic record accurately reflect your ability to succeed in law school, then you may tell us why and share what you believe indicates your potential. (250 word maximum). You may attach a copy of your SAT or ACT score report(s) to this essay, and we reserve the right to request score reports to verify statements made in this optional essay.
Why Berkeley Law
Tell us more about your interest in Berkeley Law. What makes our school a good fit for you in terms of academic interests, programmatic offerings, and learning environment? This essay is required if you are applying to the Public Interest Scholars Program. (350 word maximum)
Scholarship Essays
The Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship (BLOS) and the Hyundai-Kia Scholars Program both require an additional essay. You should submit the essay(s) below.
If you are applying for the Public Interest Scholars Program, please attach your Why Berkeley Law statement in the appropriate section for that attachment.
Misconduct
If you answer "Yes" to any of the questions below, we require that you attach an addendum explaining the circumstances. Note that an affirmative answer to any of these questions does not necessarily preclude or even prejudice admission to Berkeley Law. Your answer will be reviewed on an individual basis in relation to all aspects of your experience, academic achievement, and potential.
If your answer to any of the following questions becomes affirmative after you submit your application, you are required to notify the Admissions Office in writing. Failure to disclose and/or notify us will result in the revocation of your offer of admission.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been convicted of any offense, excluding minor traffic and parking violations, or is any such charge now pending against you?
2. Have you ever been subjected to a dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic sanction by any college, university, or professional school (including university/college housing)?
3. Have you ever been subject to discipline by a professional organization?
4. As part of your Moral Character application to the Bar, you may be required to disclose information about arrests. If you do not disclose them to the law school, your Bar application may be delayed. You are not required to provide arrest information on your application to Berkeley Law. However, should you be admitted, please consider disclosing any arrests to the law school at that time. Please click the button to show that you have read and understand this.
Résumé
You are encouraged to include a résumé of any length. If necessary, you may also provide an addendum that focuses on any particular aspect(s) of your application that you wish to highlight. Please provide the following information on a separate attachment or provide a résumé which includes this information:
- List academic and non-academic honors and awards received, including fellowships, prizes, and memberships in honor societies.
- List your extracurricular activities since entering undergraduate school, the hours per week devoted to such activities, and the dates of the activities.
- List your positions of employment since high school (either full- or part-time), the number of hours per week devoted to each position, and the dates of employment.
- List your care of dependents (children and adults) while in undergraduate, graduate, or professional school, the number of hours per week devoted to dependent care, and the dates of such care.
Please note the requests for hours per week and also for dependent care.
10 University of Michigan
L50: 171 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: February 28, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
Michigan likes applicants who evince a communal spirit. They look for applicants who seem warm, generous, and interested in Michigan in particular.
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
As you prepare to write your personal statement, please keep the following in mind. First, we do not have a fixed checklist of particular attributes we seek in our students, and you will have the best insights into what is most important for us to know. Second, there is no set convention for communicating the information you choose to share. A successful essay might involve writing directly about expansive themes such as your goals or philosophy or background or identity, or very differently, might be a vignette that reveals something significant about you. Thus, there is no formula for a successful personal statement, and different individuals will find different topics to be well-suited to them. Applicants have, for example, elaborated on their significant life experiences; meaningful intellectual interests and extracurricular activities; factors inspiring them to obtain a legal education or to pursue particular career goals; significant obstacles met and overcome; special talents or skills; issues of identity, such as gender, sex, race, or ethnicity; particular political, philosophical, or religious beliefs; socioeconomic challenges; atypical backgrounds, educational paths, employment histories, or prior careers; or experiences and perspectives relating to discrimination, disadvantage, or disability. Any of these subjects, and many more, could be an appropriate basis for communicating important information about yourself that will aid us in reaching a thoughtful decision. In other words, think broadly about what you might wish to convey and how you might best convey it.
While we do not impose a page or word limit for the personal statement, we value clear and concise writing; most personal statements are between two and four pages. For ease of reading, please use double-spacing and at least an 11-point font.
This prompt is open-ended, but Michigan likes personal statements that mention other people. Don’t write your essay about someone else—just show them that you care about others. Please also note the formatting requests.
Supplemental Essays
Supplemental essays allow you an opportunity to provide us with relevant information that you were not able to include elsewhere in your application materials. If you think writing on any of the topics below would help us get a better sense of who you are, we encourage you to consider submitting your responses to one or two (but no more) of the following topics. Each essay should be between one and two pages. For ease of reading, please use double-spacing and at least an 11-point font. Please be sure to include the number of the prompt you are addressing at the top of your essay.
Essay One
Say more about your interest in the University of Michigan Law School. What do you believe Michigan has to offer to you and you to Michigan? How do you think getting your JD from Michigan might affect your future career and life?
Essay Two
Describe a challenge, failure, or setback you have faced, whether long-term and systemic (e.g., socioeconomic, health, or complex family circumstances) or short-term and discrete (e.g., a workplace scenario or a particularly demanding course). How did you confront or overcome it? What, if anything, might you do differently?
Essay Three
Describe an experience that speaks to the problems and possibilities of diversity in an educational or work setting. As a lawyer, what measures might you take to develop diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Essay Four
Describe a quality or skill you have and discuss how you expect it will help you in your legal career.
Essay Five
Tell us about a group that you are or have been a part of and how you contribute(d) to it.
Essay Six
Describe your educational experiences so far. What kinds of learning environments, teaching methods, student cultures, and/or evaluation processes lead you to thrive, or contrariwise, thwart your success?
Essay Seven
How might your perspectives and experiences enrich the quality and breadth of the intellectual life of our community or enhance the legal profession?
Essay Eight
Think of someone who knows you, but doesn't know you well (i.e., not a family member or a close friend). How would they describe you? Would their description be accurate? Why or why not?
Essay Nine
If you could have dinner with any prominent person, who would it be and why? What would you discuss?
We strongly encourage you to respond to at least one of these essays; responding to two won't necessarily put you in a better position than responding to one.
Please note that Question 1 serves as their Why Michigan statement.
Addendum
If there is any information in your application you wish to clarify—for example, particular grades; a history of standardized testing that under-predicts your academic performance; gaps in employment—you may submit that information here. You may submit as many addenda as you need.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit anything you couldn’t cover in the supplemental essays.
Conduct
While answering the two questions below, when in doubt, err on the side of full disclosure, as the failure to fully answer any question may result in exclusion from law school or denial of the opportunity to take a state bar examination. Note that an affirmative answer to either question does not necessarily preclude or even prejudice admission. Your answer will be reviewed on an individual basis in relation to all aspects of your experience, academic achievement, and potential. (Please be aware: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners at http://www.ncbex.org/#maincontent.) You must submit a supplementary statement with any affirmative responses; provide complete details, including dates and resolution.
If, following your completion of this application but prior to matriculation, matters arise that would require you to answer yes to either question, supplement your application with complete details.
1. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action for academic or other reasons in any of the colleges, universities, graduate or professional schools you have attended, or are such charges pending or expected to be brought against you?
2. Have you ever been convicted of a crime (following a jury or bench trial, a guilty plea, or a nolo contendere plea), or charged with a criminal offense that was later dismissed as a result of a plea bargain or alternative sentencing arrangement, or are such criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you? Include misdemeanors and criminal infractions, as well as any interaction with a law enforcement agency that resulted in payment of a fine or order of community service. Your answer should include matters that have been expunged. Do not include minor traffic violations or civil infractions or citations for which jail time was not a potential penalty.
Experience
Please provide a résumé showing: (A) full-time or significant part-time employment, paid or unpaid, beginning with your most recent, including the name and location of your employer, your job title, and the dates you held the position, along with any other information you think will be useful; (B) significant extracurricular/non-work-related activities; (C) academic and non-academic honors and awards received, including fellowships, prizes, and memberships in honor societies; and (D) hobbies or special areas of interest or academic pursuits. If you are not presently enrolled in an educational institution, we would find it particularly helpful to know what you are doing now; whether you are working, volunteering, traveling, seeking employment, or anything else, please be sure to tell us your current and planned activities prior to enrolling in law school.
Please note their specific request for hobbies, areas of interest, and current information even if you are not presently working.
11 Duke University
L50: 170 | G50: 3.85 | Deadline: February 15, 2023 | ED: January 6, 2023, November 4, 2022
Duke has an optional (but not really) “Why X” statement.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
You must submit a personal statement with the application. The statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and should include (1) what you think have been your significant personal experiences beyond what may be reflected in your academic transcripts and on your résumé, and (2) your personal and career ambitions. If your personal statement does not directly address your interest in attending law school and practicing law, we strongly encourage you to write Optional Essay 1. There is no required length or page limit.
The personal statement, optional essays, and all other writing samples must be your own work. This means that the ideas and expressions originated with you, and you wrote all drafts and the final product. It does not preclude asking family members, friends, pre-law advisors, and others for proofreading assistance or general feedback.
Please note the specific requests for significant personal experiences and personal and career ambitions.
Optional Essay 2
This section is optional.
You are invited to supplement your personal statement with either or both optional essays. The topics are helpful in forming a full picture of our applicants so we encourage you to provide any relevant information (it is not necessary to duplicate information in both places). There is no required length or page limit.
Optional Essay 2: Our admission process is guided by the view that a student body that reflects the broad diversity of society contributes to the implementation of the Law School’s mission, improves the learning process, and enriches the educational experience for all students. In reviewing applications, we consider, as one factor among many, how an applicant may contribute to the diversity of the Law School based on the candidate’s experiences, achievements, background, and perspectives. This approach ensures the best and most relevant possible legal training and serves the legal profession by training lawyers to effectively serve an increasingly diverse society. You are invited to submit an essay that describes your particular life experiences with an emphasis on how the perspectives that you have acquired would contribute to Duke Law School’s intellectual community and enhance the diversity of the student body. Examples of topics include (but are not limited to): an experience of prejudice, bias, economic disadvantage, personal adversity, or other social hardship (perhaps stemming from one’s religious affiliation, disability, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity); experience as a first-generation college student; significant employment history (such as in business, military or law enforcement, or public service); experience as an immigrant or refugee; graduate study; or impressive leadership achievement (including college or community service).
The personal statement, optional essays, and all other writing samples must be your own work. This means that the ideas and expressions originated with you, and you wrote all drafts and the final product. It does not preclude asking family members, friends, pre-law advisors, and others for proofreading assistance or general feedback.
This prompt serves as Duke’s Diversity Statement, and defines diversity very broadly.
Miscellaneous Addendum
This section is optional.
You are welcome to use this attachment to submit an addendum or additional information not included elsewhere in your application.
The personal statement, optional essays, and all other writing samples must be your own work. This means that the ideas and expressions originated with you, and you wrote all drafts and the final product. It does not preclude asking family members, friends, pre-law advisors, and others for proofreading assistance or general feedback.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt.
Optional Essay 1
This section is optional.
You are invited to supplement your personal statement with either or both optional essays. The topics are helpful in forming a full picture of our applicants so we encourage you to provide any relevant information (it is not necessary to duplicate information in both places). There is no required length or page limit.
Optional Essay 1: You may submit an essay providing additional information about why you have chosen to apply to law school in general and Duke in particular. We are interested in the factors that have prompted your interest in a legal career and the ways in which you think Duke can further that interest.
The personal statement, optional essays, and all other writing samples must be your own work. This means that the ideas and expressions originated with you, and you wrote all drafts and the final product. It does not preclude asking family members, friends, pre-law advisors, and others for proofreading assistance or general feedback.
This statement serves as Duke’s Why School X statement.
Character and Fitness
Duke Law requires that you reveal knowledge of all disciplinary charges, arrests, criminal charges, or criminal convictions (except arrests, criminal charges or criminal convictions that have been expunged from your record). When in doubt, you should err on the side of full disclosure as subsequent discovery of a failure to fully and accurately answer these questions may have serious consequences. You have an ongoing obligation to report any conduct that would require you to answer "Yes" to any of the questions in this section during the pendency of your application. If you are admitted, the obligation to report conduct applicable to the questions in this section continues until your first day of class at Duke Law School.
1. Have you ever been placed on academic probation or received a warning at any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school for poor academic performance, underenrollment, or other reasons related to satisfactory academic progress?
2. Have you ever been warned, dropped, suspended, placed on disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, requested or advised to resign from any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school?
3. Have you ever (i) been arrested, charged or cited for a crime or (ii) been convicted of any offense other than a minor traffic violation? You are not required to report any matter that has been expunged by a court of law.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
You must submit a current résumé with the application. Provide complete information and include your significant work experience, educational history, college and community activities, honors and awards you have received, any prior Duke affiliation, and dates for all items listed. There is no required length or page limit.
Please note the specific request for any prior Duke affiliation.
JD/LLM or JD/LLMLE
This section is optional.
Applying to the JD/LLM or JD/LLMLE dual degree program does not require a separate statement of purpose; however, we encourage you to address your interest in international and comparative law or law and entrepreneurship, in your personal statement or in this attachment. There is no required length or page limit.
The personal statement, optional essays, and all other writing samples must be your own work. This means that the ideas and expressions originated with you, and you wrote all drafts and the final product. It does not preclude asking family members, friends, pre-law advisors, and others for proofreading assistance or general feedback.
12 Cornell University
L50: 171 | G50: 3.86 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: January 8, 2023, November 1, 2022
Cornell requires all applicants to state their interest in attending the school. Students who wish to do so may submit a more detailed Why Cornell statement as an addendum.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to discuss anything that you believe will be relevant to your admission to Cornell Law School. Attach your personal statement here (required).
This prompt is open-ended, but note that Cornell asks you to limit your PS to two pages in the Instructions section.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
In making admissions decisions we give consideration, among other things, to diversity factors (including but not limited to racial or ethnic group identification; cultural, linguistic or economic group identification; sexual orientation; or other factors), obstacles that you have overcome, and/or discrimination that you have experienced. If you choose to submit a diversity statement (in addition to the required personal statement), discuss any or all of these issues to the extent they apply to you.
This is an open-ended diversity statement, but please note the focus on how these issues “apply to you” (i.e., reflect on your own experiences).
Prior Law School
This section is optional.
If you attended another law school and did not leave in good standing, explain the details of your departure.
Study Interrupted
This section is optional.
Has your attendance in college, university, graduate school, or professional school been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason?
Addenda
This section is optional.
If there is anything additional you believe would be helpful to us when reviewing your application, you may include it here. If you are providing multiple addenda, provide a separate description header for each statement.
This is an open-ended addendum. Please note that Cornell does not have a specific Why Cornell statement, but students may attach such documents to their applications here.
Interest in Cornell
Why have you chosen to apply to Cornell Law School? This section does not preclude you from submitting a separate Why Cornell Law statement. (maximum characters 600)
Cornell requires all applicants to address this question in their application. Students who plan to submit an additional and supplemental Why Cornell statement in the addenda section may address their interest briefly in this field and then direct the admissions offices towards their supplemental statement.
Character and Fitness
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, submit an explanatory statement in the attachments section.
1. Have you ever been the subject of disciplinary proceedings or been warned, placed on probation, dropped, expelled, been asked, advised, or permitted to withdraw, suspended for academic, nonacademic, or any other reasons, by any college, university, graduate school or professional school you have attended, or are any such proceedings pending? If yes, describe the incident(s) below.
2. Have you ever, either as an adult or a juvenile, been cited, ticketed, arrested, taken into custody, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, or been the subject of any juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding? Traffic violations that occurred more than ten years before the filing of this application need not be reported, with the exception of alcohol or drug-related traffic violations, which must be reported in all cases irrespective of when they occurred. Do not report parking violations. If yes, describe the incident(s) below.
Although a conviction may have been expunged from the records by an order of a court, it nevertheless should be disclosed in the answer to this question. For example, if you were charged with shoplifting, only received a fine, and the charge was expunged, you must disclose; or, if you were charged with, but not convicted of, possession of an illegal substance, you must disclose; or if you received a traffic violation as a minor for possession of alcohol, you must disclose. Also, you should have available and be prepared to submit or exhibit copies of police and court records regarding any matter you disclose in reply to this question.
Note: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
In a résumé, provide the following (required):
a) Education
b) Work experience, including full-time, part-time, summer
c.) Scholastic honors you have received
d.) Extracurricular and community activities while in college and/or since graduation
Joint-Degree Essays
JD/LLM: Attach a statement describing your interest in the JD/LLM degree program.
JD/Master en Droit: Attach a statement describing your French language background.
13 Northwestern University
L50: 171 | G50: 3.86 | Deadline: February 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
Northwestern encouraged students at an info session to send “Why Northwestern” essays for students who are “seriously considering” it. We also encourage applicants to interview for NU via video.
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Include a typed personal statement (recommended length: one to three pages, double-spaced). Please look upon this essay as an opportunity to introduce yourself to members of the Admissions Committee. In doing so, keep in mind that the committee evaluates applicants in many areas beyond test scores. We encourage you to discuss personal and professional goals that are important to you and to include information about your achievements. Feel free to comment further about your education, background, community involvement, and strengths and weaknesses in certain courses or activities. Please type your name and LSAC account number on the top of each page. The statement should be electronically attached.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider describing your personal and professional goals.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
The following question provides you with an additional opportunity to give the Admissions Committee relevant information that you were not able to include in your personal statement. While you are not required to answer it, if you choose to do so, please limit your response to two typed pages or less. The optional essay should be electronically attached. You can only attach one document to this section.
- Optional Essay:
- The students at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law come from many different backgrounds. Please describe any aspects of your background that you feel would allow you to contribute uniquely to the school and/or your classmates.
This prompt serves as Northwestern’s Diversity Statement, and defines diversity very broadly.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you have any additional information you would like to share with the Admissions Committee, you can electronically attach your addendum here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt. Northwestern said at an info session that they would welcome a “why Northwestern” supplement, either attached here, as an addendum, or sent via email.
Character and Fitness
- Have you ever been suspended, expelled, placed on probation, or otherwise disciplined by any college or university for academic or other reasons?
(If yes, explain on a separate sheet or electronic attachment.) - Have you ever, either as an adult or a juvenile, been cited, arrested, taken into custody, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, except minor parking or traffic violations, or been the subject of any juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding? (If yes, explain on a separate sheet or electronic attachment.)
Please note that although a matter may have been expunged from the records by an order of a court, it nevertheless should be disclosed in the answer to this question. Also, you should have available and be prepared to submit or exhibit copies of police and court records regarding any matter you disclose in reply to this question.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Information about the requirements for admission to the bars of various states is available from the American Bar Association, 321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60610, website www.abanet.org.
Resume
Please submit a copy of your current résumé. The résumé should be electronically attached.
Admissions Interview
All applicants have the option of including an evaluative interview with their application. All interviews are conducted online. The interview is optional for regular decision applicants.
If you indicate that you intend to interview, your application will NOT be reviewed until your interview has been submitted in our online portal. If your plans to interview change, you must notify the Office of Admissions in writing. Failure to contact the Admissions Office via email (admissions@law.northwestern.edu) that you have decided to opt into the interview process after initially declining to interview may result in your interview not being considered in the initial evaluation of your candidacy.
Upon submission of your application, the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid will send an email to you with a link to our online interview portal and detailed instructions. You will have 30 days from the day of the invitation to complete your online interview. After 30 days, your application may be moved forward in the application process provided that all other required application materials are on file.
Northwestern allows students to opt in to a video interviews via a service called Kira. We encourage students seriously considering Northwestern to do these interviews.
14 Georgetown University
L50: 171 | G50: 3.86 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: March 1, 2023
Georgetown’s Optional Response section is optional ... but we encourage students to submit this! At an info session, Georgetown reportedly said that reapplicants are at a disadvantage.
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
You may write your personal statement on any subject of importance that you feel will assist the Admissions Committee in their decision. Please double-space.
This is an open-ended prompt. GULC’s admissions office has said in information sessions that they like it if applicants can incorporate Why GULC into the finale of their personal statement.
Optional Statement
Georgetown Law is proud of its strong community of students from diverse backgrounds. We encourage you to attach a brief statement to help the Admissions Committee understand the contribution your personal background would make to our community.
This prompt serves as Georgetown’s Diversity Statement, and defines diversity very broadly.
Optional Response
In the Office of Admissions, we take great pride in dispelling the myth that the admissions process is strictly a numbers game. While numbers are important, the Admissions Committee would like to give you the opportunity to express yourself, and us the opportunity to get to know you, in another way. Please feel free to choose ONE of the following 5 optional responses.
When we say optional, we really do mean optional. The Committee will in NO way hold it against you if you choose not to answer any of these questions.
250 words maximum
- Tell us about something that seemed small but turned out to be huge.
- Describe a time when your reaction to something surprised you.
- What opinion of yours would your friends least expecct?
- Share a top ten list with us.
- Prepare a one-minute video that says something about you. Upload it to an easily accessible website and provide us the URL. (If you are using YouTube, we strongly suggest that you make your video unlisted so it will not appear in any of YouTube’s public spaces.) What you do or say is entirely up to you. Please note that we are unable to watch videos that come in any form other than a URL link.
We encourage students to submit one of these supplemental responses with their Georgetown application.
Optional Addendum
Please attach any addendums you would like included in the review of your application here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt.
Character & Fitness
If your answer to any of these questions is "yes," please explain fully and submit as an attachment or email directly to the Office of Admissions at lawadmis@georgetown.edu. Your application is incomplete until receipt of applicable explanations.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been the subject of any disciplinary action taken by any college or university? Yes/No
2. Have you ever been placed on academic probation? Yes/No
3. Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense, or is any charge now pending against you for any crime other than a traffic violation? Yes/No
4. Have you ever been separated from a branch of the armed forces of the United States under conditions other than favorable? Yes/No
5. Has your college, university, graduate, or professional school course of study been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason? Yes/No
Resume
Please attach your résumé describing schools attended, dates of attendance, and degree(s) awarded; work experience; extracurricular/community activities, including nature and length of involvement; and scholastic honors, including academic awards, scholarships, or fellowships.
15 University of California—Los Angeles
L50: 171 | G50: 3.90 | Deadline: February 1, 2023 | ED: December 15, 2022, November 15, 2022
Note the programmatic contribution question, which is sort of a stealth “Why X” opportunity. You can ignore this question if you write an actual “Why X.”
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Please upload a separate essay not to exceed two double-spaced typed pages, and no less than 11-point font. In this essay, you may discuss any matters relevant to your ability to succeed in law school and the practice of law and any attributes, experiences, challenges or interests that would enable you to make a distinctive contribution to the law school and/or the legal profession.
Note: Your application will not be transmitted to UCLA Law without an attached personal statement.
UCLA loves the old “show, don’t tell” dictum. In an info session, they showed two example essays which each began with scene setting. They also said that personal statements should be like videos that capture the applicant’s life: “If we could watch a video of each of your lives, we would do it.”
Programmatic Contribution
This section is optional.
If you believe you can make a distinctive contribution to a specific UCLA School of Law Specialization, Academic Program, Joint Degree, Law Review/Journal, Institute or research in a particular subject area (as described on the website: www.law.ucla.edu), please identify one such specific area and explain your prior academic training, work, or extracurricular activities that enable you to make that distinctive contribution.
We recommend that you write this essay. This can take the place of a “Why UCLA” statement if that statement would focus exclusively on academics.
Explanation Grades/Scores
If applicable, please describe any circumstances that negatively affected the extent to which your academic record or standardized test score(s) reflect your ability to succeed in law school: (maximum characters 999)
Students should utilize this question to explain lower grades or test scores in lieu of providing an addendum.
Optional Addendum
This section is optional.
If there is additional information you would like to include in your application, please attach an addendum.
This is an open-ended addendum.
Disability Statement
This section is optional.
If you wish, you may upload supplemental information concerning your disability.
There is some overlap here with the Challenges Statement. If relevant, students should consider submitting just one or the other.
Challenges Addendum
This section is optional.
Please share any information about adversity or challenge that you would like us to consider about your personal life experiences. This may include socio-economic challenges; educational challenges; health issues; disability; immigration status; surviving abuse; or complex family circumstances like an incarcerated parent, homelessness, living in foster care, or others. This is not an inclusive list, but simply an opportunity, if you wish, to share any additional aspects of your background that may give us a deeper sense of your strengths and who you are.
Some of the suggested content for this piece overlap with a traditional Diversity Statement (such as socio-economic challenges, disabilities, immigration, and health issues). Please note that this statement also ties in to Question 21.12.
Public Interest Essay
This section is optional.
In order to apply to the Epstein Program, you must submit a brief supplemental Public Interest Essay not to exceed 1500 words. Your Public Interest Essay should discuss your vision for your future as a public interest lawyer. How do you hope your public interest career will develop? How do you expect to achieve your public interest goals? Your vision can be grounded in personal, academic, or professional background and experience; past public interest work; your philosophy of social justice and social change; or whatever else inspires you.
Your application will not be transmitted to UCLA Law without an attached Public Interest Essay.
Achievement Fellowship
This section is optional.
To apply to the UCLA Law Achievement Fellowship Program, applicants are required to submit a one page essay describing in detail the obstacles they have overcome in life and why they are a strong candidate for the program.
The application deadline for the UCLA Law Achievement Fellowship Program is December 15, 2021. Applicants must also take the LSAT or GRE no later than November 30, 2021.
Please note that by applying to the Achievement Fellowship Program you are agreeing to have your application materials released to members of the Achievement Fellowship selection committee, which includes UCLA faculty, staff, alumni and students.
After completing your essay, save it to your computer and attach it to your application by following the steps below.
Note: Your application will not be transmitted to UCLA Law without an attached essay.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
An affirmative answer to any of the following questions will not necessarily preclude or prejudice your admission to UCLA School of Law.
1. Are there any misdemeanor, felony, or other criminal charges pending against you?NOTE: You must promptly inform the Admissions Office in writing if any misdemeanor, felony, or other criminal charges are brought against you between your submission of this application and your registration at UCLA School of Law. In addition, should you enroll at UCLA School of Law, you must promptly inform the Dean of Students in writing if any misdemeanor, felony, or other criminal charges are brought against you during your time as a student through graduation.
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Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony (or the equivalent in a juvenile court)? This includes sealed convictions and all convictions where you entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere. You need not report traffic violations unless conviction for the violation(s) would constitute a misdemeanor or a felony.
NOTE: You must promptly inform the Admissions Office in writing if any such conviction occurs between your submission of this application and your registration at UCLA School of Law. In addition, should you enroll at UCLA School of Law, you must promptly inform the Dean of Students in writing if any conviction occurs during your time as a student through graduation. -
Have you ever been subject to a warning, dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic sanction by any college, university, professional school, or professional association?
NOTE: You must promptly inform the Admissions Office in writing if any such warning, dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic sanction occurs between your submission of this application and your registration at UCLA School of Law. In addition, should you enroll at UCLA School of Law, you must promptly inform the Dean of Students in writing if any such warning, dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic sanction occurs during your time as a student through graduation. -
Has your college, university, or professional school attendance been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason?
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If you have previously applied to UCLA School of Law, indicate the most recent month and year:
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If you have previously been admitted to UCLA School of Law, indicate the most recent month and year:
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If you have previously registered at UCLA School of Law, indicate the most recent month and year:
Resume
Please provide a current résumé.
Joint-Degree Statement
This section is optional.
If you checked the box for the J.D./Ph.D. in Philosophy in the Joint-Degree Programs question, please provide a brief statement (not to exceed two double-spaced typed pages, and no less than 11-point font) concerning your interest in law and philosophy and in the joint-degree program.
16 Washington University in St. Louis
L50: 170 | G50: 3.93 | Deadline: August 18, 2023 | ED: August 18, 2023
Wash U does not - technically - require a personal statement, resume, or letters of rec to apply ... but we encourage you to submit all of those documents!
LORs: 0 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement, approximately one to three pages in length, is not required during application submission and may be sent as an email attachment directly to the Washington University School of Law Admissions Office at applylaw@wustl.edu. Successful applicants have written about significant experiences and sources of personal motivation.
This prompt is optional but we highly encourage students to submit a Personal Statement with their application.
Diverse Perspectives
Diverse perspectives improve classroom discussion, education experience, and overall community. The committee invites you to share as much as you are comfortable about yourself and your experiences. Your answers help us better understand the variety of perspectives you may bring to WashULaw. Your answers will in no way negatively impact the admissions decision.
Please describe any diverse perspectives, experiences, and background you bring to the classroom and community. You may also choose to submit a brief addendum if the 500 character limit is not sufficient. (maximum characters 500)
Washington University asks a series of questions to learn more about your diverse perspectives. These fields are character-limited.
Other
Please attach any additional addendums.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addendum, gap in employment addendum, diversity statement, or "why X" essay, among others.
Character and Fitness
The following questions must be answered. If your answer to any of these questions is "yes," please provide an explanation (as an electronic attachment). Applicants do not need to disclose speeding tickets.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.
1. Have you ever been denied admission to a law school on grounds of fraud, immorality, or improper or dishonorable conduct? Yes/No
2. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action for scholastic, judicial/code violation, or any other reason by any college, university, graduate or professional school, or trade or professional organization? Yes/No
3. Have any disciplinary charges ever been brought, are currently pending, or are expected to be brought against you by any college, university, graduate or professional school, or trade or professional organization? Yes/No
4. Have you ever been charged with and/or convicted of a criminal offense, including any matters that may have been expunged, or received anything other than an honorable discharge from the military? (Applicants do not need to disclose speeding tickets.) Yes/No
5.Have you been a party to any noncriminal legal proceeding, including but not limited to any civil, administrative, family court, or domestic abuse proceeding, or any arbitration? Yes/No
6. Were you ever investigated for misconduct, suspended, formally reprimanded, disciplined, fired, asked to resign, or allowed to resign in lieu of discipline or discharged by an employer? Yes/No
- The answers and statements contained in this application are true to the best of my knowledge and belief and I understand that a misrepresentation or omission may be grounds for revocation of an offer of acceptance or for dismissal. Confirm
2. I agree to report in writing to the Admissions Office any changes in my responses that may occur after the filing of this application. Confirm
3. If I am offered admission and I accept, I will have an official transcript from my degree-granting undergraduate institution, showing the degree earned and its date, sent directly to the Admissions Office by August 1, preceding the start of my entering fall term. Confirm
4. If I am offered admission and accept, I also accept the responsibilities imposed by the Honor Code and abide by those principles. Confirm
5. Washington University School of Law is committed to upholding the highest level of personal and professional integrity. If I am offered admission and accept, I understand that my actions represent my school, fellow classmates, the alumni coming before and after me, and the legal profession as a whole. The legitimacy and integrity of the legal profession begins with law students. If I accept an offer of admission, I agree to behave in a manner consistent with the conduct and integrity required of legal professionals. I understand that actions or conduct adverse to this standard may result in a withdrawal of my offer of admission. Confirm
Resume
A résumé is not required during application submission and may be sent as an email attachment directly to the Washington University School of Law Admissions Office at applylaw@wustl.edu.
The resume is optional but we highly encourage students to submit a Resume with their application.
17 Boston University
L50: 169 | G50: 3.77 | Deadline: April 1, 2023 | ED: January 5, 2023, November 10, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please include a statement that explains the significant personal, social, or academic experiences that have contributed to your decision to study law. There is no required length, however most personal statements are approximately two pages long. Please double-space your personal statement.
Via an info session: The ‘why law’ component is crucial for BU. You personal statement needs to directly answer the question, ‘What happened to you that made you certain you want to pursue law, and why now?’ But note that ‘why law’ in your personal statement does not necessarily mean ‘what kind of law’. Nor does it mean ‘Why BU’. The info session leader said they often see a single ‘Why BU’ line shoe-horned into a personal essay and it tends to feel awkward.
Optional Essay
In addition to your personal statement, you may wish to provide another essay. This essay is your opportunity to discuss any aspect of your background or life experience that you believe will enhance your ability to contribute to the diverse BU classroom experience and community. BU Law values and recognizes the importance of diversity. BU Law continues its long-standing tradition of providing opportunities for persons of all backgrounds and providing the excellent training to which a diverse classroom is indispensable.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Military Discharge
This section is optional.
If you have been separated from any branch of the armed forces of the United States, the Peace Corps, Teach for America, or any other service organization under conditions other than honorable please include copies of all relevant discharge documents.
Other Addenda
This section is optional.
Please use this attachment to upload any other information you would like considered by the Admissions Committee.
Public Interest Essay
This section is optional.
If you wish to apply for the Public Interest Scholarship, please attach an essay (2 page maximum) describing your public interest career goals and focus. The selection committee will have access to your personal statement and the rest of your application for admission, so you should use the scholarship essay as an opportunity to provide additional evidence of your commitment to public service. Do not repeat your personal statement. The committee aims to award the scholarship to applicants who will become leaders in the BU Law public interest community, and who will pursue public interest career paths. This commitment can be demonstrated through prior public service work experience (not necessarily legal in nature), engagement in public service during your undergraduate education, and post-graduate service and volunteer work. Applicants who have chosen to apply for the ASPIRE: Antiracist Scholarship may not apply for the Public Interest Scholarship.
ASPIRE
This section is optional.
If you wish to apply for the ASPIRE: Antiracist Scholarship, please attach one document with separated responses to the two prompts:
- What does antiracism mean to you, and how have your life experiences shaped your commitment to antiracism? In your answer, in addition to professional experiences (if any) please draw from your lived experiences, whether as a member of an underrepresented or marginalized group, as an advocate, and/or as an ally. (Word limit: 350 words)
- How do you envision using your antiracist education and training in your legal career, whether it be in the private, governmental, or public interest sectors? (Word limit: 250 words)
Do not repeat your personal statement. The committee aims to award the scholarship to applicants who demonstrate a commitment to antiracism, social justice, and racial equity, with preference given to those underrepresented in the legal field. Applicants who have chosen to apply for the Public Interest Scholarship may not apply for the ASPIRE: Antiracist Scholarship.
17. Character and Fitness III
- Have you ever been separated from any branch of the armed forces of the United States, the Peace Corps, Teach for America, or any other service organization under conditions other than honorable? If yes, please include an explanation along with copies of all relevant discharge documents electronically (please provide an explanation in the box below and upload relevant documents in the Military Discharge attachment section).
16. Character and Fitness II
If the answer to any of the following questions is yes, please provide a detailed explanation, including a summary of the allegations and any sentence imposed. The Admissions Committee may require copies of court documents in addition to your explanation. NOTE: Bar examiners may require other information that we are not permitted to seek under Massachusetts statutes.
1. Have you ever been convicted, without such conviction being vacated, of a misdemeanor for which the sentence was imprisonment?
2. Have you ever been convicted, without such conviction being vacated, of a felony?
3. Have you been convicted of any misdemeanor within the past five years?*
*Other than a first conviction for drunkenness, simple assault, speeding, minor traffic violations, affray, or disturbance of the peace.
15. Character and Fitness I
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Answer the following questions “yes” or “no” (use “no” if not applicable). If your answer is “yes,” provide an explanation of the circumstances surrounding the event in the space provided.
- Has there ever been an interruption of one or more terms in your education for any reason?
- Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action or proceedings for academic misconduct, or subject to any action for academic insufficiency, at any college or university you have attended? * You should answer yes to this question even if no record of disciplinary action exists.
- Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action or proceedings for personal misconduct at any college or university you have attended? * You should answer yes to this question even if no record of disciplinary action exists.
Resume
A current résumé is required of all applicants. Your résumé should reflect all full-time and part-time employment, both paid and unpaid, and all extracurricular activities and honors. Please format your résumé in reverse chronological order, with the most recent employment at the top. Please do not include high school activities or awards in your résumé. Please include your current activities, whether you are currently employed or unemployed. A gap of three months or more in the timeline of your résumé should be explained with an addendum. There is no required length for the résumé.
17 Vanderbilt University
L50: 169 | G50: 3.89 | Deadline: April 1, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022
Vanderbilt Law offers alumni interviews, but you have to apply by Nov 15 to be eligible.
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please present yourself to the Admissions Committee by writing a personal statement. You may write about your background, experiences, interest in law, aspirations, or any topic that you feel will help readers of your application get a sense of you as a person and prospective law student. Please limit your statement to two pages.
This prompt is open-ended.
Diversity
In addition to listing diversity characteristics on the application form, we welcome diversity statements that describe any aspect of your background or experience that you would like to provide.
We strongly encourage students to submit this statement if relevant.
Other
You are welcome to use this attachment to provide any other information that you would like to make available to readers of your application
This is an open-ended addendum.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
You must answer the following questions fully and truthfully regardless of any contrary advice that you may have received from others. If you answer "yes" to any of the questions below, please explain in the text box. If you are unsure whether a particular incident should be disclosed, you should contact the Admissions Office.
1. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action for scholastic or other reasons at any academic institution? This should include matters that have been expunged or dismissed. Yes/No
2. Have you ever, either as an adult or minor, been charged with or convicted of any crime, or charged with or found to have committed any offense (whether or not defined as a crime), or received anything other than an honorable discharge from the military? This should include matters that have been expunged or dismissed. Yes/No
3. Are any charges pending or expected which would require you to answer "yes" to either question above? Yes/No
Resume
In addition to your employment responses on the application form, we encourage you to submit a résumé.
We strongly encourage students to submit a resume.
17 University of Texas at Austin
L50: 169 | G50: 3.80 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022
Texas has separate optional questions for academic and test performance rather than one singular Addendum section.
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell the Admissions Committee more about your interests, as well as the important experiences and aspects of yourself not otherwise apparent from your résumé and academic record. Your personal statement demonstrates to the Admissions Committee not only how you write - a skill fundamental to success in the legal profession - but also how you think and how you have reflected upon and derived meaning from your life experiences. Although there is no specific topic or question for the personal statement, your narrative should at some point address your decision to pursue a legal education.
Your personal statement may not exceed two (2) double-spaced pages with a minimum 11-point font size and 1-inch margins.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay.
Personal Background
This section is optional.
Statement of Economic, Social, and/or Personal Background: Texas Law is interested in specifically learning about an applicant’s economic, social, and/or personal background that may not be apparent in the rest of the application or shared in the applicant?s personal statement. The committee recognizes that ordinary predictive measures for academic success might be of less value if prior performance has been partly the result of other contributing factors. An applicant may choose to describe the challenges as a first-generation college graduate; an applicant's struggle with a serious physical or mental disability; an applicant's encounter with discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or national origin; or an applicant's limited educational opportunities due to geographical or other restrictions; or whatever the applicant believes is appropriate and relevant. The committee believes factors such as these may contribute to an applicant's academic potential and how they will enhance the richness and diversity of the learning environment.
Your statement may not exceed one (1) double-spaced page with a minimum 11-point font size and 1-inch margins.
This prompt suggests that you write about traditional diversity factors (race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, etc.).
Dishonorable Separation
This section is optional.
Have you ever been separated from any branch of the US armed forces under less than honorable conditions? If you answer "yes", please explain fully on a separate sheet, and upload the attachment.
Test Performance
This section is optional.
Candidates sometimes seek to establish that their academic potential is inaccurately reflected by standardized tests or that one LSAT or GRE score is more representative than another. If you believe this to be true in your case, please explain.
Your statement may not exceed one (1) double-spaced page with a minimum 11-point font size and 1-inch margins.
Undergrad Performance
This section is optional.
If your academic performance for one or more semesters was markedly different from that of other semesters, please explain. Please make any other comments about your college transcript(s) or your preparation for college that you believe will help the Admissions Committee in evaluating your application.
Your statement may not exceed one (1) double-spaced page with a minimum 11-point font size and 1-inch margins.
Character and Fitness
Please read carefully. In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Admissions Office of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the Law School, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
Although an affirmative answer to either question below does not necessarily preclude or even prejudice admission to The University of Texas School of Law, persons who have been convicted of offenses other than minor traffic violations may have difficulty in gaining admission to the Bar. The Texas Board of Law Examiners and state bar organizations often require that you include your law school application as part of your application for admission to the Bar.
1. Have you, within the last 10 years, been arrested, cited or ticketed for, charged with any violation of the law; or, have you ever been convicted of an offense, placed on probation, or granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion; or, are you currently the target or subject of a grand jury governmental agency investigation? If you answer "yes," please provide a full explanation that includes a narrative description, cause, and outcome of each reported event, and upload the attachment.
You must report:
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any such offenses involving alcohol or drugs.
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any failure to appear conviction resulting from an offense.
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any conviction for failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance).
You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations. While an applicant does not need to disclose information about a juvenile or criminal record that has been sealed or expunged, it is up to each applicant to ensure that their offense is in fact expunged and/or sealed under the relevant state law. If an applicant fails to disclose information that is not in fact expunged or sealed, the applicant may be subject to disciplinary action by the University.
Please note: according to Rule IV(d) of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas, an individual “who has been convicted of a felony in Texas or placed on probation for a felony with or without an adjudication of guilt in Texas, or who has been convicted or placed on probation with or without an adjudication of guilt in another jurisdiction for a crime which would be a felony in Texas” shall not be permitted to file a Declaration of Intention to Study Law or application to the Texas Bar for a period of five years after the completion of the sentence and/or period of probation. The rules and further information are available through the Texas Board of Law Examiners.
2. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, requested or advised to resign from any postsecondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school? If you answer “yes”, please provide a full explanation that includes a narrative description, cause, and outcome of each reported event, and upload the attachment.
Resume
Please provide a résumé detailing any significant vocational, avocational, extracurricular, or community activities; graduate work or degree; honors and awards; any service in the Armed Forces; job descriptions and major areas of responsibility, along with location (city and state) and dates of employment; publications, or other information that you believe the Admissions Committee should consider in evaluating your application.
Your résumé may not exceed three (3)pages.
20 University of Southern California
L50: 168 | G50: 3.87 | Deadline: April 1, 2023 | ED: November 20, 2022
Exceptional candidates who consider USC to be one of their top choices should consider applying for the Rothman Scholars Programs.
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
You are required to submit a personal statement. Your statement should be between 2-3 pages, double-spaced, and at least 12 point font.
Of the qualitative or "soft" factors of the application, the personal statement is of critical importance to the admissions committee. This is your primary opportunity to discuss who you are beyond the quantifiable components of your application. While there is no prompt and we encourage you to approach the personal statement with an open-mind, we are particularly interested in how your background (academic and otherwise) has led to your decision to study law. Please note, the personal statement is not the place to repeat items on your resume.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but students should explain why they’re going to law school by the end of statement.
Diversity Statement
An applicant who believes that their background or experience can contribute to USC Gould's goal of diversity and educational enrichment - and who wishes to have this considered in the admissions process - should provide written detailed information about their background or experience as part of the application. Providing such information is voluntary.
USC Gould is firmly committed to a policy against discrimination based upon but not limited to ethnicity, national origin, disability, race, religion, political beliefs, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and age. The primary goal of the admissions process is to enroll students who demonstrate outstanding academic and professional promise and whose background and experience will enhance the diversity of the student body or the profession, or will enrich USC Gould's educational environment. USC Gould's admissions process is guided by the view that a student body that reflects the broad and rich diversity of our society provides a superior educational environment for all law students.
An applicant will be regarded as potentially contributing to student diversity if their background or experience would not ordinarily be well-represented in the student body or the profession. Examples of applicants' backgrounds or experiences, which may be considered for diversity purposes, include (but are not limited to) the following: an applicant who has struggled against prejudice, economic disadvantage, family or personal adversity, or other social hardships (perhaps as a result of disability, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation); an applicant who has lived in a foreign country or who spoke a language other than English at home; an applicant who possesses unusual career goals, employment history (perhaps military or law enforcement experience), or educational background (including graduate study); or an applicant who demonstrates unusual extracurricular achievement (including school or community service).
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Public Interest Statement
The application is a requirement to be considered for the program. Scholars will be notified of selection beginning in March or April.
This program honors the commitment of both USC Gould and our students dedicated to working and serving the public interest.
The benefits of being a Public Interest Scholar include:
- Access to public interest certificate mentoring opportunities
- Guaranteed public interest based summer employment after 1L summer
- Guaranteed summer grant for 1L summer employment
- Opportunity to secure a PILF summer grant for 2L summer employment
- Opportunity to serve as a future mentor to subsequent groups of Public Interest Scholars
Public Interest Scholars are selected on the basis of merit and demonstrated commitment to public interest work. Selection criteria include strong academic indicators (standardized test score and undergraduate cumulative gpa) and significant achievements in the fields of public interest or government service. The committee will give priority to applicants with a history of full-time non-profit or public interest focused work. Public Interest Scholars will be required to complete a minimum of 25 hours of pro bono service each year and participate in programming including nonprofit career fairs. For more information, please visit the Public Interest Scholars page: http://gould.usc.edu/academics/degrees/jd/financial-aid/public-interest/. This statement should be unique from your Personal and Diversity Statements.
PROMPT: In one to two pages, please highlight your public interest or government service background and your commitment to a career in public service.
USC Statement of Interest
Please share with the Admissions Committee more about your specific interest in USC Gould. While optional, the Why USC statement allows you to speak in more detail about your interest in specific aspects of the program of legal education at Gould. Please remember that we know the details of our faculty, programs, and community. This is an opportunity to share more about you and your interest in USC Gould.
The Why USC statement should be no more than one page, double-spaced and in at least 12-point font. The Admissions Committee values essays that are clear, concise and compelling. The WUSC statement of interest is a writing sample, and you should pay particular attention to the details of your composition. The statement must be attached electronically.
While optional, we strongly encourage students to submit this statement.
Rothman Statement
This application is a requirement to be considered for the program and should be different than your Personal Statement. Finalists will be selected for an initial round of interviews and notified in late February.
The program honors the late Frank Rothman '51, one of the nation's most respected sports and entertainment lawyers.
The benefits of being a Rothman Scholar are quite extraordinary:
- Full-tuition scholarship guaranteed for 3 years (estimated at $200,000+)
- $4,000 stipend each year for 3 years
- Paid 1L summer fellowship at one of the top law firms in the world - Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in Los Angeles
Frank Rothman was known for his influence in the halls of corporate America and across the entertainment and sports industries. He infused his practice of law with a spirit of always doing the very best he was capable of. One Frank Rothman Scholar is selected each year to continue that legacy. The successful applicant will be selected based upon strong academic indicators including LSAT score, undergraduate cumulative GPA across a rigorous course selection, and writing ability. In addition, past recipients successfully conveyed the ideals of Frank Rothman via extra-curricular accomplishments such as running a successful business, inventing useful devices, engaging in cutting edge medical research, and publishing books and articles. Many Frank Rothman Scholars have gone on to become successful lawyers, and business entrepreneurs. To learn more about the Rothman Scholars Program, please visit http://gould.usc.edu/academics/degrees/jd/financial-aid/rothman/.
PROMPT: In one to two pages, please share what you know about who Frank Rothman was, what his accomplishments were, and how that resonates and/or is relevant to you, as well your goals and your aspirations. Be specific.
Conduct Information
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.
If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, you are required to submit an explanatory statement below. If you need additional space, please submit your explanatory statement via the Attachments section of the electronic application and indicate that in the box below.
1. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, or requested or advised to resign from any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school? Yes/No
2. Have you ever been convicted of the violation of a misdemeanor or felony, or pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to a violation of a misdemeanor or felony, whether or not the charges were dismissed, the court entered a judgement of conviction, or the court imposed a sentence? Yes/No
3. Are there any charges pending against you? Yes/No
4. Have you ever been or are you currently registered at another law school either foreign or domestic? Yes/No
Resume
You are required to submit a résumé. Please indicate hours per week for each activity where applicable. Please limit your résumé to no more than two pages, but one is preferred.
21 University of Florida (Levin)
L50: 169 | G50: 3.90 | Deadline: July 15, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022, February 15, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
UF Law seeks to enroll a class with varied backgrounds and academic skills. Such diversity contributes to the learning environment of the law school and historically has produced graduates who have served all segments of society and become leaders in many fields of law. To better assess such qualities, UF Law requires each applicant to submit a Personal Statement.
Diversity/Need Statement
Optional: UF Law values and seeks a diverse student body to achieve its mission of excellence in education, research, and service. Diversity encompasses life experience, socioeconomic background, ethnicity and race, gender, and other attributes, and provides multi-cultural learning opportunities that prepare students for success in an increasingly diverse society.
Candidates may submit one statement describing their diverse life experience, attributes, and skills, including relevant specific experiences. Candidates should also address how such skills and experiences would advance diversity and foster an inclusive environment at UF Law. The statement should focus on unique interests, abilities, and personal experience including, but not limited to, information about socioeconomic background, first-generation status, gender, ethnicity and race, and other attributes. Text from the Personal Statement should not be repeated in the Diversity/Need Statement.
Other Addend/Explanation
If you wish to upload another Addendum or Explanation, you may do so here.
Why UF Law?
Optional: We would like to know why you have chosen to apply specifically to UF Law. Most candidates can share these interests in one or two short paragraphs. You may also include connections to UF or UF Law through alumni, professors, or other ways.
Char. and Fit. Addendum
Before responding to questions 1-5, please review the "Character and Fitness" (C&F) and "Need for Full Disclosure" section of the Admissions Instructions on the UF Law website.
Candidates answering Yes to any C&F question must provide a written account of the incident(s) and corresponding official documentation from the college/university, court or agency regarding the final disposition of each occurrence.
Official documents must clearly identify the entity that is providing the disposition of the incident. Official documents obtained from an online source must include a web link.
If possible, please combine your explanation and all official documents in one attachment to this application. Official documents that cannot be submitted as an attachment may be submitted to the Levin College of Law via email, mail, or fax.
After submitting the application, candidates are obligated to immediately notify UF Law of any changes to character & fitness questions that occur prior to a decision or matriculation and must provide related explanations and documentation when applicable.
If your records have been expunged pursuant to applicable law, you are not required to answer Yes to question 3, 4, or 5 with respect to that particular charge. It is your responsibility to know whether your records have been expunged. You should be aware that a state Board of Bar Examiners investigation into your fitness to practice law can extend beyond the scope of these questions (as well as questions 1 and 2), and you might be required to disclose expunged records. If you are unsure whether to answer Yes, we strongly recommend answering Yes and fully disclosing all incidents. By doing so, you may avoid risk of disciplinary action and/or revocation of an admission offer.
1 Have you ever been charged with or subject to disciplinary action (of any type such as, but not limited to warning, reprimand, suspension, dismissal) at any institution of higher education?
2 Have you ever been subject to academic probation(s), including warnings, suspension(s), and/or dismissal at any institution of higher education?
3 Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of, or pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to, a crime or traffic violation (other than a traffic violation resulting in a fine of $200 or less that did not result in revocation or suspension of your driver's license)?
4 Are there any criminal charges pending against you?
5 Are you currently on probation or parole, in a deferred prosecution program, required to perform community service obligations, or required to pay restitution or a fine in any criminal matter?
Resume/CV
Applicants are required to submit a current and complete resume or curriculum vitae (CV), which should include specific factual information about education, honors and awards, extracurricular or community activities, publications, work history, military service and/or foreign language proficiencies. We suggest time frames be clearly defined and descriptions be detailed.
ACT or SAT score
Needed only if applying through the Gator Scholars option. Attach a copy of your official ACT or SAT results here.
Your ACT composite score or SAT mathematics and critical reading total score must be at or above the 85th percentile for the administration of the exam that you took.
21 University of Minnesota
L50: 168 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: June 1, 2023 | ED: December 31, 2022
Minnesota has an optional interview process but contacts you about it via email *after* you submit your application. Per their instructions - “watch your inbox.”
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement is required and should be two pages, double-spaced. Through this statement, applicants have the opportunity to introduce themselves to the Admissions Committe and articulate significant achievements, professional goals, and reasons for pursuing a law degree. It is also helpful to the Admissions Committee to discuss your interest in the University of Minnesota Law School specifically.
Strong writing skills are paramount to being a successful attorney. Therefore, the personal statement (as well as any other essays included in the application) may be used to evaluate writing skills, judgment, passions, and analytical abilities.
This prompt is somewhat open-ended, but you should explain why you're applying to law school in general and to this school in particular.
Supplemental Statements
This section is optional.
Applicants may attach additional statements to highlight diversity perspectives, explain absences or breaks in education, or present other matters that may be of importance to the Admissions Committee. Each additional statement should be no more that one-page, double spaced.
Character and Fitness
When applying for a license to practice law, prospective attorneys must submit full and complete disclosures of past criminal or academic misconduct to state bar authorities, even if they did not result in formal sanction or conviction, or if records have been lost, sealed, or expunged. Bar authorities will also request a copy of this law school application and will compare it to disclosures made on the bar application; failure to fully and consistently disclose may impact bar authority’s character and fitness assessment.
Applicants to the University of Minnesota are also subject to a continuing obligation to report any criminal or academic misconduct, whether it took place before or after submission of this application. Carefully review the Law School’s Character & Fitness Disclosure Policy, at: www.law.umn.edu/current-students/rules-policies/administrative-policies before completing this section. If you are unsure, err on the side of full disclosure.
If you answer “Yes” in either section below, attach a narrative Supplemental Statement which provides details for all incidents being disclosed (see Attachments).
1. Have you ever in your entire life been charged with, or arrested for, the violation of any law? This includes moving violations (traffic tickets), misdemeanors, felonies, and administrative charges. You must disclose the requested information even if the charges were dismissed or you were acquitted, the conviction was stayed or vacated, the record was sealed or expunged, or you were told at the time that you would not need to disclose in the future.
2. Have you ever been investigated, warned, placed on probation, disciplined, dropped, suspended, or expelled from a post-secondary college, university, graduate school, professional school, or law school for academic or non-academic reasons?
Resume
Please attach a detailed résumé containing the following:
a. Work history during college and since college graduation.
b. Extracurricular activities and community service, including the extent of your involvement.
c. Other relevant information, including academic honors and prizes, hobbies, and other special interests, abilities, or accomplishments.
Please note the request for hobbies, special interests, and abilities.
23 Brigham Young University
L50: 168 | G50: 3.92 | Deadline: May 2, 2023 | ED: March 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Instructions to the applicant: A personal statement is required of each applicant. This should include additional information that is not reflected in other parts of your application, including the résumé or academic records. The purpose of the statement is to provide insight into personal traits and experiences that have affected your life and to allow the Admissions Committee to learn more about you. Motivations for attending law school, unique perspectives and ideas, and significant life experiences are all excellent topics for consideration. Please limit statements to two (2) typed (11-point font minimum), double-spaced pages with conventional margins.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
Instructions to the applicant. The students at BYU Law come from many different backgrounds. Please describe an aspect of your background (e.g., culture, religion, academic background, employment, age, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, physical or mental disability, or other factors) that you feel will allow you to contribute uniquely to BYU Law and/or your classmates. Please limit essay to one (1) typed (11-point font minimum), double-spaced page with conventional margins.
Addendum
This section is optional.
Please attach additional information to be considered, only if necessary.
8. Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
IN ADDITION TO A BAR EXAMINATION, THERE ARE CHARACTER, FITNESS, AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS FOR ADMISSION TO THE BAR IN EVERY U.S. JURISDICTION. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO DETERMINE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH THEY INTEND TO SEEK ADMISSION BY CONTACTING THE JURISDICTION. ADDRESSES FOR ALL RELEVANT AGENCIES ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF BAR EXAMINERS.
Please note: Failure to answer the questions below will leave your application in an incomplete status. The Admissions Committee will not admit anyone with an incomplete application.
You should respond fully and carefully to every question in this section. While an answer of "Yes" to any of these questions will not by itself result in a denial of admission, a false answer may result in revocation of your admission and sanctions by the bar of the state in which you seek to practice. When in doubt, always err on the side of full disclosure. If you have answered "Yes" to any of these questions, you must submit an addendum that explains the extent of your involvement or alleged involvement and the final disposition of the situation. You have an ongoing obligation to report any conduct that would require you to answer "Yes" to any of the questions in this section from the date of your application to your matriculation. Failure to report any new information may also result in revocation of your offer of admission and sanctions by the applicable bar.
1. Academic Probation: Have you ever been on academic probation for any reason at any post-secondary school, college, university, or professional school?YesNo
2. Academic Sanctions/Suspension/Dismissal: Have you ever been sanctioned by, suspended by, dismissed by, or required or advised to withdraw from any post-secondary school, college, university, or professional school for academic reasons?YesNo
3. Honor Code: Have you ever been reported to, sanctioned by, suspended by, dismissed by, placed on probation by, or required or advised to withdraw from any post-secondary school, college, university, or professional school for a violation, or reported violation, of an honor code/ethical code/or student conduct code?YesNo
4. Nonacademic Sanctions: Have you ever been censured for misconduct by, placed on disciplinary probation by, dismissed for nonacademic reasons by, or required or advised to withdraw for nonacademic reasons by any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or place of employment? Are disciplinary charges now pending or expected to be brought against you at any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or place of employment?YesNo
5. Criminal Sanctions: Are there any criminal charges now pending or expected to be brought against you? Have you ever been arrested, cited, or convicted of any felony, misdemeanor, or other violation, excluding minor traffic offenses, or had a warrant issued for failure to appear, even for minor traffic offenses? Include charges to which you may have pleaded guilty or no contest or for which you have been placed on probation or granted deferred adjudication, even if the incident occurred when you were a juvenile and/or the record is/has been sealed. Although a conviction may have been expunged from your record by an order of the court, it nevertheless should be disclosed in answer to this question.YesNo
6. Has there ever been an attempt, whether successful or not, to revoke your driver's license based on an offense involving drugs and/or alcohol?YesNo
7. Are you currently or have you ever been involved in any civil litigation, including domestic disputes?YesNo
Resume
Please attach your résumé to your application. The resume should be no more than one (1) page with conventional formatting and font size. The resume may include awards, honors, publications (with citation information), service opportunities, athletic involvement, significant work experience, clubs, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, or any other relevant information.
23 University of North Carolina
L50: 166 | G50: 3.77 | Deadline: May 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Topic 3 and 4 (optional)
This section is optional.
These personal statement questions allow you the opportunity to present yourself as an actual person and not just the sum of numbers or what you are able to write on a résumé. The answers to these questions allow the Admissions Committee to gain insight into who you are as an individual applicant and thus add more breadth to the experiences and viewpoints of our incoming classes. It is this breadth of viewpoints that greatly enhances the educational environment of the first-year classes and ultimately that of the UNC School of Law. Your answers should speak to any personal experiences, characteristics, and life circumstances that have informed or shaped your perspectives.
Topics Three and Four are optional but must be answered individually within the same document. Attach the document to “Topic 3 and 4 (optional).”
All essays should be double-spaced and no less than 10 point type. No additional addenda is permitted within personal statements.
Topic Three
The University of North Carolina School of Law seeks to enroll a wide variety of students (including individuals from groups underrepresented in the legal profession as well as those who have experienced economic, social, or educational disadvantages because of their personal circumstances or characteristics). We find that a breadth of experiences and viewpoints enriches the educational environment for everyone. Please write a statement discussing what you might contribute to the diversity of experiences and viewpoints of the student body.
Topic Four
The School of Law is committed to a full evaluation of your credentials. Please set forth any circumstances you believe may have negatively affected your cumulative undergraduate grade-point average, your performance on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and/or your participation in service or extracurricular activities.
Statement Topic 1 and 2
These personal statement questions allow you the opportunity to present yourself as an actual person and not just the sum of numbers or what you are able to write on a résumé. The answers to these questions allow the Admissions Committee to gain insight into who you are as an individual applicant and thus add more breadth to the experiences and viewpoints of our incoming classes. It is this breadth of viewpoints that greatly enhances the educational environment of the first-year classes and ultimately that of the UNC School of Law. Your answers should speak to any personal experiences, characteristics, and life circumstances that have informed or shaped your perspectives.
All applicants are required to answer Topic One and Topic Two. Topics Three and Four are optional. Topics One and Two may be answered as a single 3-4 page response, or as individual responses within the same document. In either event, the maximum number of pages for answering the two questions is four pages. Attach the document to “Statement Topic 1 and 2”.
Topics Three and Four are optional but must be answered individually within the same document. Either attach the document to “Topic 3 and 4 (optional),” or include in the same document with topics One and Two. The maximum number of pages for the answers to these two questions is four (two pages each).
All essays should be double-spaced and no less than 10 point type. No additional addenda are permitted within personal statements.
Topic One
The legal profession plays a vital role in the pursuit of justice and in sustaining the institutions of society, including governments, private corporations and organizations, nonprofit organizations, families and individuals. Please write a statement discussing why you want to become a member of the legal profession and why you think you are prepared for the ethical, professional, and time demands of the profession.
Topic Two
What is your reason for choosing the University of North Carolina School of Law? How does the institution meet your educational and/or your professional goals?
Character and Fitness
- (Please read carefully.) You are applying to UNC School of Law and other law schools with the likely goal of becoming licensed to practice law in some state after graduation. When a law school graduate applies to take a bar examination in any state, the bar examiners of that state ask the applicant's law school to provide an evaluation of the student's character and fitness to practice law. Most states are interested in character and fitness issues that include, but by no means are limited to, prior criminal conduct. Typically, state bar examiners compare a student's answers to conduct questions on the applicant's law school application to information provided by the student on the student's bar application when assessing the applicant's character and fitness to practice law. We recommend that as soon as you know the state in which you intend to practice, you contact that state's Board of Bar Examiners to determine its requirements. The Board of Bar Examiners of a particular state might ask you for information on an application to sit for its bar exam that is not asked for in an application for law school admission. This may include criminal records that have been sealed or expunged by order of a court.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, failing to disclose an act or event is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Similarly, in applying to Carolina Law, we encourage open disclosure of any matters that might bear on an assessment of your character and fitness to practice law. Thus, as part of the admissions process, all applicants to Carolina Law are required to answer the questions below as accurately and completely as possible. If you answer yes to any of the questions below, you must submit a completely factual explanation of the circumstances and disposition of the event(s) referred to.
If the School of Law determines that your answers are incomplete or inaccurate, your application will be considered incomplete and will not be sent to the Admissions Committee for review until it is complete. When completing this application for admission, all applicants are required to disclose ALL THE DETAILS AND RESULTS of any criminal charges (except for minor traffic violations, which include parking tickets and/or original charges of speeding less than 10mph over the speed limit). Even if charges were dismissed, or a conviction reversed, set aside, or vacated, the matters must be disclosed to the School of Law. Contrary advice by legal counsel does not exempt an applicant from this requirement. Records that have been sealed or expunged by order of a court need not be disclosed on this application.
Your answers to the questions are confidential, except as may be required by Bar Examiner disclosure, a court order, or other legal process. All applicants are under a continuing obligation to notify the Office of Admissions of any changes in their applications up until the time of enrollment, and to notify the Assistant Dean for Student Services of any changes in their answers to these questions after enrollment. As part of the Honor Code for the University of North Carolina, a student who is found to have falsified or withheld information from answers to an admissions application is subject to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from the School of Law. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, include a statement providing dates and a complete explanation and description of the circumstances and resolution of each incident. - Have you ever been expelled, dismissed, suspended, placed on probation, or otherwise subject to any disciplinary sanction by any high school, college, university, graduate or professional school? (This includes information listed in your academic records as "FOR INFORMATION ONLY.") If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Have you ever received a citation for, been arrested for, charged with, convicted of, or pled guilty, no contest, nolo contendere, entered an Alford plea, or otherwise accepted responsibility for a crime, or have you received a deferred prosecution or prayer for judgment continued, for any criminal charge other than speeding? This would include any charges of driving under the influence or any other drug or alcohol-related offenses. (Records that have been sealed or expunged need not be disclosed.) If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Are there any criminal charges pending against you or are you presently under investigation for a crime of any kind? (This includes any charges of driving under the influence or other drug or alcohol-related charges.) If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Have you ever been involuntarily separated from a job, internship, externship, or as a volunteer for a nonprofit organization, as a result of an accusation that involved dishonesty or moral turpitude? If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Have you ever been sued for a non-criminal act that was alleged to have been intentional? If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action by a professional association or state licensing board, or had a professional license suspended or revoked? If yes, please include an attachment explaining the circumstances.
- Do you have any adverse financial history, including but not limited to, bankruptcy, foreclosure, or loan default?
- Please address any other incident involving questions of your character that are not covered by the above questions. You should not include responses from the questions above in this space. Please include those responses in an addendum.required (maximum characters 500)
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
Please include a résumé of your academic, employment, community service, leadership and professional activities, accomplishments and awards. Your resume can be up to three pages in length. Please make sure you use larger than 10 point type when creating the resume.
Letters of Recommendation
This section is optional.
Although we require two letters of recommendation, we will accept an optional third letter. We require that recommenders submit their letters through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), but will accept school-specific letters directly, if the recommendation is particularly relevant to our institution or from our alumni.
25 George Washington University
L50: 167 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: February 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement (two pages, double-spaced) is required and may include additional information you believe will be of assistance to the Admissions Committee in considering your application. Please use an electronic attachment.
This prompt is open-ended.
Identity Statement
We are proud of the diverse perspectives brought to the GW Law community by individuals from around the country and the world. We strive to be a community that acknowledges and celebrates our differences, welcomes challenging dialogues, and provides a space where unique individual and group values are shared and honored. Through our many student groups and committees, GW Law works together to create an atmosphere that accepts all perspectives and champions increased knowledge and care for one another.
The Admissions Committee makes every effort to understand your achievements in the context of your identity and to build a diverse student body in the most expansive sense of the word. You are welcome to submit an optional one-page identity statement to elaborate on how you could contribute to the diversity at GW Law.
This is an open-ended diversity statement.
Addendum
An applicant who wishes to provide context for an element of their academic history that otherwise would not be apparent to the Admissions Committee may do so by attaching an addendum to their application. An addendum may be included in the same document containing the personal and/or optional identity statement; this section must be clearly titled as an addendum. An applicant should exercise good judgment about whether an addendum is necessary.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If you respond "yes" to any part of the questions in this section, please attach a detailed response(s) on a separate page.
If you have any doubt concerning how to answer any of the following questions, feel free to contact the Associate Dean for Admissions at (202) 994-7230. Any discussion with the Associate Dean will be confidential and will not impact the decision of the Admissions Committee.
1. Has any college, university, graduate school, or professional school you attended ever brought a disciplinary action against you (including honor code charges), issued you a warning or reprimand, placed you on academic or social probation, suspended you, or asked you to withdraw? You need not disclose any matter that has been expunged or removed from your permanent record or file. Yes/No
2. Have you ever been convicted of or pled guilty or no contest to a criminal charge (felony, misdemeanor, or other), including any charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but not including minor traffic charges? You need not disclose any charge or conviction that has been expunged or sealed by order of a court, a copy of which order you have in your possession. Yes/No
3. Are there any criminal charges (felony, misdemeanor, or other) pending against you? Yes/No
4. Has your college or university, graduate, or professional school course of study been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason? Yes/No
5. If you have ever served in the military and were discharged, was your discharge under conditions other than honorable? Yes/No
Resume
Please include a copy of your résumé.
25 University of Notre Dame
L50: 168 | G50: 3.81 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee gives considerable emphasis in its evaluation of the personal statement. The statement should provide the Admissions Committee with insights about the applicant and the applicant's interest in pursuing both a legal education and career. The most effective personal statements also typically provide further insight into the writer's personality, background, professional interests, or matters that are not fully present in other parts of the application.
The personal statement must be the applicant's original work in their own words. It should be no more than two double-spaced pages. The personal statement must be included with the application at the time of submission. The personal statement's header must include the student's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "NDLS Personal Statement."
For further information regarding formatting preferences of the Admissions Committee, please consult the Frequently Asked Questions page here.
This prompt is open-ended.
Different Kind of Lawyer Statement
The mission of Notre Dame Law School is to educate a "Different Kind of Lawyer" - one who sees the law as more than just a profession, but as a service to others. Notre Dame students are encouraged to explore not only the moral and ethical dimensions of the law but also their unique roles in furthering the cause of justice.
Following the murder of George Floyd, Dean G. Marcus Cole wrote an open letter to the Notre Dame Law Community in June 2020 in which he stated the following:
One thing that each and every one of us can do is to end the cycle of hate by ending the separation that leads to it.... Each of us needs to get to know people who differ from us. We must all make a conscious decision and effort to expand our circles.
Given the mission of Notre Dame Law School, Dean Cole's open letter, and his call to action, please provide a response to one or both of the following:
- What is the unique voice you will lend to the class? How will you expand your classmates' circles and improve their education because of your presence in the class?
- What do you hope to achieve either in law school or through your professional work that will further the cause of justice?
The "Different Kind of Lawyer" statement must be the applicant's own work in their own words. It should be no more than two double-spaced pages. If an applicant plans on providing this statement, it must be included with their application at the time of submission. The statement's header must include the applicant's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "DKL Statement."
For further information regarding formatting preferences of the Admissions Committee, please consult the Frequently Asked Questions page here.
This is effectively a Diversity Statement but is asking the applicant to reflect two specific questions. Students should be sure to address those questions rather than submit a generic Diversity Statement.
Why Notre Dame Law School Statement
Applicants are highly encouraged to submit this statement and use it to express why they wish to attend Notre Dame Law School specifically. If Notre Dame is the (or a) top choice for the applicant, it can be noted in this essay. Applicants may address how their background, experiences, personal character, and/or career aspirations align with the legal education NDLS provides, and how NDLS can assist their professional and personal formation.
NDLS is a community that values and strives for inclusion, belonging, cultural humility, and dialogue; where all individuals can feel positively engaged and be respected for who they are regardless of identity or background. Any response to this prompt should also address how the applicant’s background, experiences, and/or personal character will support these values.
The "Why Notre Dame Law School?" statement must be the applicant's own work in their own words. It should be no more than two double-spaced pages. If an applicant plans on providing this statement, it must be included with their application at the time of submission. The statement's header must include the applicant's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "Why NDLS Statement."
For further information regarding formatting preferences of the Admissions Committee, please consult the Frequently Asked Questions page here.
This prompt asks the student to reflect on specific aspects of the school’s mission/values.
Addendum
If the applicant believes the Admissions Committee would benefit from additional information about their candidacy that is not specifically and/or fully expressed elsewhere in the application, the applicant is welcome to provide further notes via the Addendum. Examples of information typically provided in this section of the application include, but are not limited to:
- explanations of specific circumstances impacting the applicant’s academic record or LSAT/GRE score (Applicants may also want to include how these circumstances were resolved and point to other measures which demonstrate their potential for success in law school.)
-further information regarding specific items on an applicant's resume or about the applicant's background
-explanations of grading policies from the Spring 2020 semester
-eligibility for various veterans educational benefits such as the Yellow Ribbon program
Applicants should double-space the Addendum. The Addendum's header must include the applicant's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "Addendum."
This prompt is open-ended but provides specific examples of information students may wish to provide.
Murphy Statement
Notre Dame Law School’s Program on Church, State & Society is proud to offer its distinguished Edward J. Murphy Fellowship beginning in 2022. The Murphy Fellows, in addition to a generous scholarship, will have opportunities to meet with judges and visiting speakers, as well as access to special programming focused on religious freedom and church-state relations. Interested students may participate in Notre Dame Law School's Religious Liberty Clinic.
To apply for this Fellowship, students must:
- Submit a complete application to Notre Dame Law School by December 1, 2022.
- Submit a separate statement outlining their specific interest in the Murphy Fellowship.
The Murphy Fellowship statement must be the applicant's original work in their own words. It should be no more than two double-spaced pages. The Murphy Fellowship statement must be included with the application at the time of submission. The statement's header must include the student's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "Murphy Statement."
Polking Statement
The Polking Family Fellowship aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders who understand that law and public policy are essential elements in building a sustainable culture of life. Recipients of this fellowship will receive a scholarship along with the opportunity to work closely with the deNicola Center for Ethics and Culture. Polking Fellows will be invited to attend and participate in special Center events, work with its visiting fellows, interact with speakers and guests of the Center, conduct scholarly research, and receive special career mentoring and summer internship opportunities.
To apply for this Fellowship, students must:
- Submit a complete application to Notre Dame Law School by December 1, 2022.
- Submit a separate statement outlining their specific interest in the Polking Family Fellowship.
The Polking Family Fellowship statement must be the applicant's original work in their own words. It should be no more than two double-spaced pages. The Polking Family Fellowship statement must be included with the application at the time of submission. The statement's header must include the student's name, LSAC account number, and be titled "Polking Statement."
Character and Fitness
Notre Dame Law School requires truthful, accurate, and complete reporting of all requested character and fitness information. Past relevant conduct, particularly if isolated and/or not recent, may not necessarily result in a denial of admission to NDLS. Thus, applicants should not presume a prior record of conduct relevant to character and fitness will necessarily be disqualifying. A failure to truthfully, accurately, and completely respond to this Character and Fitness inquiry, however, may be disqualifying, and more detrimental to admission prospects.
Please check "Yes" or "No" for each question. If you answer "Yes" to either question, you must submit a full explanation of circumstances involved and resolution of the situation(s) for each question so answered as an electronic attachment. Please double-space your explanation and label the attachment with your name, LSAC account number, and use the title "Character and Fitness" in the header.
You have a continued requirement to report any updates to your Character and Fitness information through the application process as well as post-enrollment at Notre Dame Law School:
- If you apply and - prior to admission or enrollment at NDLS - later engage in an action that would have led you to answer "Yes" to either of the Character and Fitness questions, you must immediately update the Office of Admissions regarding the incident. Please send updates to bulletin@nd.edu, subject line "Character and Fitness Update."
- If you apply and - after admission and enrollment at NDLS - later engage in an action that would have led you to answer "Yes" to either of the Character and Fitness questions, you must immediately update Jenny Fox, the Law School Registrar, regarding the incident. Please send updates to jenniferfox@nd.edu, subject line "Character and Fitness Update."
Because every U.S. jurisdiction requires certain character and fitness standards be met for bar admission eligibility, in addition to other qualifications for admission, the NDLS Office of Admissions uses this information not only to assess an applicant's fitness for admission to NDLS, but also the likelihood of the applicant’s eligibility to practice law upon graduation. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been formally accused of or been suspended, dismissed, expelled, asked to withdraw, disciplined, or placed on probation for any academic, scholastic, disciplinary, or other misconduct by any school, college, or university? Yes/No
2. Have you ever been arrested, charged with, or convicted of a misdemeanor, felony, or other crime? This includes charges that are pending, or to which you have plead "guilty" or "no contest." Yes/No
Resume
An applicant's resume should highlight their educational, professional, leadership, and service experiences. The applicant may also wish to highlight honors, awards, or special skills. An applicant may note full-time vs. part-time or hours per week and weeks per year when applicable. There is no page limit for the resume but 1-2 pages is typical. The most important/relevant information should appear on the first page.
For further information regarding the resume preferences of the Admissions Committee, please consult the Frequently Asked Questions page here.
25 University of Alabama
L50: 165 | G50: 3.94 | Deadline: August 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Essay
Provide a personal statement that includes any information that you wish the Admissions Committee to consider when evaluating your application. This statement also might describe your interest in attending law school at The University of Alabama. (Approximately two pages.)
[From Instructions section:] The School of Law is especially interested in learning about you and how you will contribute to your class and the law school community. Your essay should not speak in generalities, and it should not simply repeat your résumé. You should describe events or character traits that are not obvious from the other information in your application. Your essay might address adversities you have faced and how you overcame them, an experience or person that impacted your life, or specific goals for your legal career.
This prompt is somewhat open-ended, but you should explain why you're applying to law school in general and to this school in particular.
Addendum No. 2
This section is optional.
Please attach an addendum if you feel it is important for the Admissions Committee to consider other information.
Addendum No. 1
This section is optional.
Please attach an addendum if you feel it is important for the Admissions Committee to consider other information.
16. Disciplinary/Crim History
- Interests of the University and the School of Law. The University of Alabama has vital interests in the safety of its campus and the fitness of its students to be members of the University community. The School of Law shares these interests, and, as a professional school, it has a heightened concern for the behavior, honesty and integrity of its students. Therefore, the School of Law may deny admission to, or revoke admission of, any applicant whom it deems to be detrimental to these interests. To assist in that consideration, the School of Law requires applicants to provide certain information about their disciplinary or criminal history. A criminal or disciplinary history is not an automatic bar to admission. Any admission decision relating to a criminal or disciplinary disclosure is made on a case-by-case basis considering the entirety of the file.
Qualifications for Bar Admission. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners at https://ncbex.org. A JD degree from the University of Alabama School of Law, an ABA-accredited law school, satisfies the degree requirement needed to sit for the bar exam in any U.S. jurisdiction. However, the bar of each jurisdiction may impose other requirements to practice law, such as character and fitness qualifications, a passing score on a bar examination, and/or specific coursework. Admission to or a degree from the School of Law does not guarantee that an applicant will satisfy the other requirements of a state bar.
Conduct Questions. If you answer YES to any of the following questions, please attach an additional statement providing complete details, including the dates, circumstances, and any resolution. If there are multiple reasons for you to answer YES to any of the following questions (e.g. multiple suspensions, multiple convictions, etc.) please identify and provide details for each of those situations. Please also include any information describing how you believe you can positively contribute to the campus community despite any prior issue(s) disclosed below (e.g. evidence of rehabilitation, reflection, community service, etc.).
In answering the questions below, “convicted” means a judge or jury has found you guilty of the crime(s) charged against you in a court of law, following a trial, guilty plea, or no contest or nolo contendere plea. If your conviction has been sealed, expunged, or overturned, you do not have to disclose the conviction associated with that situation.
Code of Conduct 2
Have you ever been placed on probation, suspended, dismissed, removed (by trespass warning or otherwise), or expelled from any college, university, or other postsecondary institution or are you currently the subject of any pending or expected disciplinary action by any academic institution?
Code of Conduct 3
Have you ever been convicted of any felony?
Code of Conduct 4
Have you ever been convicted of an offense involving physical harm to another person or animal (whether a felony or not)?
Code of Conduct 5
Have you ever been convicted of a sexual offense (whether a felony or not)?
Code of Conduct 6
Have you ever been convicted of stalking or have you ever received a restraining order, protective order or similar directive to avoid or to limit contact with a group or individual?
Code of Conduct 7
Are you currently the subject of pending charges or an indictment, or subject to arrest, for any of the offenses listed above in questions 3-6?
Appeal. The School of Law will notify an applicant if he or she is denied admission based solely on the conduct questions 3-7 above. In that particular case, the applicant may appeal the denial by providing a written statement of appeal to the School of Law within seven calendar days from when the denial was received. The appeal statement should be directed to the Associate Dean of Admissions at the School of Law.
Resume
Please submit a résumé that includes at least your last three positions of full-time employment, including summer employment. The résumé also may include your scholastic, extracurricular, and community activities and honors.
28 University of Iowa
L50: 163 | G50: 3.69 | Deadline: May 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Attach a personal statement (limited to two or three pages) that addresses the following questions. This is your opportunity to tell us what you really want us to know and remember about you.
Why do you want to study law?
Why do you want to study at The University of Iowa College of Law?
What has been your most significant accomplishment?
How would you contribute to our law school community and the legal profession?
Describe any life experiences that would indicate unusual drive, determination, motivation, or leadership characteristics.
We recommend that you take these instructions literally, though you don't have to answer them one at a time.
Educational Development
This section is optional.
(Your response to this item is optional. If you choose to reply, please do so in a separate electronic attachment.) If you feel that any circumstances have played a substantial role in your educational development and if you would like the Admissions Committee to weigh the factors involved, please describe your situation and tell us why these circumstances should be considered. Examples of circumstances that could merit consideration are significant economic, social, physical, or cultural factors in your background or any of the following:
a) You have a history of outperforming standardized tests. Indicate the scores you received on the ACT, SAT, or any other standardized test taken before entering college or graduating (see instructions).
b) Your undergraduate grade-point average does not reflect your academic ability. Specify the conditions that interfered with your performance.
c) Describe the importance of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation in your life and educational development.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
If you answer "yes" to any of the following Character and Fitness questions, in an electronic attachment, describe each instance and/or circumstance. In your statement, please explain the impact (if any) this experience has had on you, and, in particular, on your decision to pursue a legal degree. Contact the College of Law Admissions Office if you have any questions about your responses to this question or what should be included in your statement. Please attach any relevant documentation.
Applicants for admission to a State Bar will undergo an extensive evaluation to determine whether they have the character and fitness required for the practice of law. For this reason, both the College of Law and the American Bar Association (ABA) encourage all applicants to determine what those requirements are in the state(s) in which applicants intend to practice before they matriculate to law school. (ABA Standard 504(a).)
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever (either as an adult or juvenile) been cited or arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of the law? (You must disclose each instance, even if you were granted any type of pretrial diversion, even if filed charges were dismissed; even if such charges resulted in a deferred adjudication; even if you were acquitted of such charges; or even if such charges resulted in a conviction that was reversed, set aside, vacated, or expunged. You need not, however, disclose speeding or parking violations.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been disciplined in any way by any educational institution for any reason, whether academic or non-academic? This includes, but is not limited to, letters of reprimand, warning notices or findings of misconduct.YesNo
Resume
Submit an attachment on a separate sheet of paper that lists the following information (where applicable). A résumé is acceptable.
a) scholastic honors;
b) significant extracurricular activities and community service since entering college (including the number of hours per week devoted to each activity and dates of participation)
c) jobs you have held since entering college (including the number of hours per week devoted to each job and dates of employment).
29 University of Georgia
L50: 168 | G50: 3.87 | Deadline: June 1, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Provide a personal statement as an electronic attachment. You may write about anything you deem relevant to your application for admission to the University of Georgia School of Law. Transfer and visiting applicants should state the reason(s) for desiring to attend the University of Georgia School of Law.
This prompt is somewhat open-ended, but you should describe why you’re applying to this law school in particular by the end.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
The School of Law believes the overall educational environment of the law school may be enhanced by life experiences or personal characteristics that significantly add to the academic, cultural, ethnic, geographic, racial, or socioeconomic diversity of the student population. You are invited to explain how your life experiences or personal characteristics would significantly add to the diversity of the student population and enhance the educational climate of the law school. This may also include discussion of your status as a first-generation college graduate or veteran.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Supplemental Statement
This section is optional.
Law is a field of study that offers students a wide range of career options. If you have an idea of what you would like to do with your law degree after graduation, please feel free to share with the Office of Admissions. Likewise, please share if you have a specific area of legal interest including any specific desire to participate in experiential learning programs or clinics offered at the School of Law. It is not required that an incoming student have a clear career path in mind but this information will assist the School of Law in matching students with alumni/alumnae in our mentor program.
If you explain why you want to attend this school in your PS, it's okay not to answer this question.
Additional Information
If there is any additional information you wish to call to the attention of the Admissions Committee, please do so in this attachment.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
13. Character & Fitness
Answer each of the following questions. If the answer to any question is "Yes," please give complete details on a separate attachment. Please put your name and LSAC account number on the attachment. Applicants who intend to practice law should be aware that in addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners at www.ncbex.org.
1. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on scholastic or disciplinary probation, expelled or requested to resign from any college, university, or law school, otherwise subjected to discipline by any such institution, or requested or advised by any such institution to discontinue your studies therein?Have you ever been formally charged with cheating, lying, or otherwise taking unfair advantage of fellow students at any college, university, or law school you attended or are presently attending?Regardless of whether the record has been expunged, cancelled or annulled, or whether no record was made, have you ever been subject to proceedings before a school honor court or council (or any similar body)?YesNo
2. Excluding only parking violations, have you ever been detained, arrested, formally accused, cited, or prosecuted for the violation of any law? You must disclose each instance, even if the charges were dismissed; you were acquitted; you pled nolo contendere; adjudication was withheld; your conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated; or the record was sealed or expunged.YesNo
3. Have you ever been discharged from the armed forces other than honorably or are charges pending, which could result in such an outcome? (Check "No" if you have never been in the armed forces.)YesNo
4. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary sanctions while holding a professional license or are charges pending, which could result in such an outcome? (Check "No" if you have never held a professional license.)YesNo
Resume
Submit a resume detailing your education, employment, skills, honors, awards, leadership positions, and accomplishments. Upload document as an attachment to the application form.
30 Emory University
L50: 168 | G50: 3.80 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: March 15, 2023
Emory cares about your “Why Emory.” You can include it in your PS or attach it as a separate “Why Emory” statement of one page to half a page in length. They also note that they *don’t* want an LSAT addendum about a score jump.
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
You may choose to write about any topic(s) you believe would be most helpful to the Admission Committee. The Personal Statement should not exceed two pages (typed, double-spaced). Applicants will disadvantage themselves by disregarding this limit.
Lawyers are professional writers. In our experience, virtually all employers are looking for graduates with superior legal writing skills. Emory devotes substantial resources to teaching legal writing, and all students receive significant individualized attention. Students who come to law school with solid writing skills are in the best position to take advantage of this training. Accordingly, in making admission decisions, Emory looks carefully at writing ability as evidenced by the personal statement.
In an info session, Emory suggested a basic structure of “Who I am, why I want to be a lawyer, why Emory.” They also noted that they prize “brevity” and “concision.”
Other Information
If there is additional information you wish to share with the Admission Committee that could not be addressed in other sections of your application, please attach it here. This attachment is entirely optional, and we do not encourage unnecessary addenda.
(Emory Law considers your highest LSAT score. It is unnecessary to submit an explanation about your scores.)
The addendum prompt is open-ended. You could use it as a diversity statement, since Emory doesn’t have a separate one, but you should only send the DS is very strong or if you’re an under-represented minority.
Character and Fitness
- American Bar Association Character and Fitness Statement: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Please note our fitness and character questions may differ from other schools to which you apply. Consider them carefully and answer each question honestly and completely. Failure to do so may result in the denial or revocation of your admission, suspension or dismissal after matriculation, withdrawal of certification of graduation, or revocation of your degree.
We understand that these fitness questions are both unique to the admission of law school, and in some instances, unique to Emory Law. We have provided additional guidance and explanation regarding these questions at end of the instructions to this admission application. We require that you review this guidance before you submit your application to provide a more complete understanding on the fitness requirements of Emory Law and to assist in answering any concerns you may have. The guidance is located in the instruction section of this application.
By initialing here, you certify that you 1) read the additional guidance in the instructions to this application; and 2) understand that you have a continuing obligation to ensure that these responses are correct (and amend, if and when necessary), until graduation from Emory Law.
Academic Conduct
Please see the instructions to this application for additional guidance on the following question. When in doubt, please disclose.
Have you ever been subject to any academic disciplinary action while in college, or any educational setting since high school, regardless of the outcome of the action? This includes academic probation, warning, reprimand, suspension, expulsion or dismissal, or any type of academic discipline.
If yes, submit an addendum titled "Academic Conduct" to explain the situation.
If you answered "Yes" to the Academic Conduct question in the Character and Fitness section, please submit an addendum titled “Academic Conduct” to explain the situation. Please see the instructions to this application for additional guidance on this question. When in doubt, please disclose.
Social Conduct
Please see the instructions to this application for additional guidance on this question. When in doubt, please disclose.
Have you ever been accused of, reprimanded for, detained for, or charged with any criminal offense or school conduct violation, regardless of the outcome? This includes any criminal accusations, including traffic offenses, except for parking violations. This also includes any reprimands or social actions while in college, or any educational setting since high school (such as noise violations).
Please disclose even if any charges were dismissed, or if you were acquitted or allowed to plead nolo contendere, or if the conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated, or if the record was sealed or expunged. You must disclose regardless of whether you have been told you need not disclose any such instance.
If yes, submit an addendum titled “Social Conduct” to explain the situation, including the background and circumstances of the situation as well as the outcome and resolution.
If you answered "Yes" to the Social Conduct question in the Character and Fitness section, please submit an addendum titled "Social Conduct" to explain the situation. Please see the instructions to this application for additional guidance on this question. When in doubt, please disclose.
[From Instructions section:] GUIDANCE ON BAR CHARACTER AND FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
The Character and Fitness questions on Emory Law’s application sometimes provide a bit of anxiety for applicants. This guide is intended to ensure your answers are complete and accurate, which will greatly assist you when you apply to be a licensed lawyer in your chosen state after graduation from law school.
When you apply for Bar licensure to practice law, you will undergo a rigorous character evaluation from the Bar Admission’s Character and Fitness Committee in the state(s) in which you wish to practice. As part of the Bar application, many states ask you to submit a copy of your law school application. The committee will compare your answers to its questions with those provided in your school application.
If your answers are inconsistent, the Bar Committee will initiate a more intensive review of your file. For example, it may contact your law school to question whether you would have been admitted in light of this new information. You may suffer sanctions and revocation of law school admission for failing to disclose.
The Bar Committee may schedule an in-person hearing to ask you why you failed to disclose information earlier. In some instances, the committee may delay your certification of fitness, which in turn may prevent you from becoming a lawyer as soon as you may like.
Each state’s character and fitness questions are unique to that jurisdiction. Emory Law’s questions capture as much information as possible to assist you when you apply to be a licensed lawyer in your chosen state(s) and when you undergo the evaluation by the state’s Bar Admission Character and Fitness Committee.
Below is specific guidance on the character and fitness questions found on Emory Law’s application for admission. Three principles govern you while completing this part of the application:
- When in doubt, disclose.
- You have a continuing obligation to ensure that these responses are correct (and amend, if and when necessary), until graduation from Emory Law.
- If you have any questions, please email us at
- jdadmission@emory.edu
- .
We understand that our character and fitness questions may be more rigorous than other schools to which you apply. As with all aspects of the Emory Law experience, your integrity, honesty, and character in answering these questions completely is fundamental to the community we strive to maintain.
1. Guidance on Academic Misconduct Question:
Have you ever been subject to any academic disciplinary action while in college or any educational setting since high school, regardless of the outcome of the action? This includes academic probation, warning, reprimand, suspension, expulsion, dismissal, or any type of academic discipline.
This question concerns any sort of academic misconduct or allegations of misconduct with which you may have been involved. Regardless of the resolution, you must disclose. Examples of academic misconduct include—but are not limited to—accusations of using Internet research inappropriately in a class assignment, allegations of inappropriate collaborations on a take-home exam, accusations of misbehavior during an assignment or exam, academic probation, academic suspension, expulsion, or any other academic irregularities.
You must disclose these allegations regardless of what an adjudicator, dean of students, professor or anyone else told you. We understand that at some schools allegations and sanctions may be removed from your file after a certain time. However, you still must disclose that they did occur. If you were found responsible/guilty, describe any sanctions levied against you (failing grade, grade reduction, community service, expulsion, etc.)
- When in doubt, disclose.
- If you have any questions, please contact us at
- jdadmission@emory.edu
- .
Sample Scenario: During his freshman year, Alex attended orientation at State University. During the program, he had to write an essay about the school's history. He and a friend worked together on their papers and shared research. The orientation coordinator discovered similarities in the papers and initiated academic proceedings against them. The dean of students met with Alex, verbally reprimanded him and sent Alex on his way. The dean said he would not make a notation on Alex’s file and that this event would be between them unless Alex repeated the offense. Alex graduated four years later with a 3.9 GPA with no further issues.
Alex should report this incident to Emory Law.
2. Guidance on Social Misconduct Question:
Have you ever been accused of, reprimanded for, detained for, or charged with any criminal offense or school conduct violation, regardless of the outcome? This includes any criminal accusations, including traffic offenses, except for parking violations. This also includes any reprimands or social actions while in college or any educational setting since high school (such as noise violations). If yes, submit an addendum titled Social Conduct to explain the situation, including the background and circumstances as well as the outcome and resolution. Disclose even if any charges were dismissed, or if you were acquitted or allowed to plead nolo contendere, or if the conviction was reversed, set aside or vacated, or if the record was sealed or expunged.
This question should be viewed in two parts.
First, have you ever been accused of or sanctioned for any criminal conduct, regardless of when it occurred? This includes allegations of juvenile criminal conduct. It does not matter if the situation was sent to a diversion program or any other alternative resolution forum, was dismissed before court, was removed from your record after community service was performed, was expunged or otherwise removed from your record. You must disclose the allegations. In addition, if you were punished, you must also explain the sanctions, including whether they were probation, incarceration, community service, curfew, or other punishment.
We understand that at the time of the allegations and dispute resolution, a judge, lawyer, adviser, or someone else may have told you the matter would be removed from your record or that your record would be sealed. You still must disclose the incident. The underlying point of this question is to disclose any interaction you have had with the criminal system, regardless of the outcome.
Emory Law requires that you submit information on traffic tickets as well. A simple recitation of the ticket, approximate date, background on the situation and resolution—including any fines or other sanctions—will suffice.
The second part of this question relates to social conduct allegations or violations. This deals with incidents that occurred while in college or other post-secondary education such as noise violations, alcohol citations, disruptive behavior, or other incidents that violated your school’s conduct policy. Even if the allegation, violation, citation, or other reprimand was removed from your record, and regardless of whether someone told you otherwise, you must disclose it to Emory Law.
Sample Scenario 1: Georgette shoplifted from a store when she was 13 years old. As part of the county’s juvenile justice program, she was sent to an alternative juvenile court where a jury of high school peers sentenced her to write a letter of apology. All records of the incident were destroyed, and the incident never appeared on Georgette’s criminal record. Moreover, the supervising attorney coordinating the juvenile court specifically told Georgette she would never need to tell anyone about this incident.
Emory Law requires Georgette disclose this incident.
Sample Scenario 2: During orientation, Sam was cited for playing his radio too loudly in the dorm. The floor RA told Sam never to do it again and required Sam write an e-mail of apology.
Sam should disclose this incident.
Résumé
Please describe your pertinent employment history, extracurricular, and community service activities, including any leadership positions held. A one or two page résumé is the preferred format for submitting this information. A summary titled "Activities" is also acceptable.
30 Arizona State University
L50: 167 | G50: 3.85 | Deadline: August 1, 2023 | ED: March 1, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Attach a personal statement of no more than two double-spaced, typed pages with a font size no smaller than 11 point. The admissions committee seeks a dynamic group of individuals that will provide an engaging learning environment. The personal statement should give the committee a better picture of who you are beyond your academic achievements and resume. It should be compelling, show off your writing skills, and include some discussion of why you want to go to law school. It is also an opportunity to highlight specific reasons for your interest in ASU Law.
ASU wants it all—tell a story, explain why you want to go to law school, and say why you want to go to ASU in particular.
Diversity Statement
Please explain how you would bring a diverse perspective to ASU Law. (no more than one double-spaced, typed page with a font size no smaller than 11 point).
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Optional Addendum 2-Standardized Test Performance
If you took the LSAT more than one time and received significantly different scores, you may wish to provide an explanation for that difference. Candidates sometimes seek to establish that their academic potential is not accurately reflected by scores on standardized tests or that one LSAT score is more representative than another. If you claim this to be true in your case, please explain, and, if applicable, submit appropriate documentation (e.g., ACT or SAT scores). (maximum one double-spaced, typed page with a font size no smaller than 11 point)
The last addendum prompt might be used to describe a gap in employment, to talk about a disability, or to write anything else you didn't cover.
Optional Addendum 1-Undergraduate Performance
If your college transcripts reveal that your grades for one or more semesters were markedly different from those in the other semesters, please explain. You may also wish to address significant breaks in your academic career or multiple moves among colleges. Please make any other comments about your college transcripts or your preparation for college that you believe will help the admissions committee in evaluating your application. (maximum one double-spaced, typed page with a font size no smaller than 11 point)
IndianLaw Leadership Statement
Please note: Statement is only required for those applicants applying to the Indian Law Leadership Program. All other applicants may skip this section.
Please attach a statement of no more than two double-spaced, typed pages with a font size no smaller than 11 point discussing any of your leadership experience in and ties to Indian Country and your future goals.
Character and Fitness
PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the admissions office of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission, revocation of a law degree, or disciplinary action by the College of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission. Although an affirmative answer to any or all of questions 1 through 9 does not necessarily preclude or even prejudice admission to the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, persons who have been convicted of offenses other than minor traffic violations may have difficulty gaining admission to the bar. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. State Bar Organizations and Boards of Law Examiners often require that you include your law school application as part of your application for admission to the bar. Accordingly, your answers to these questions will often be part of your record.
If you answer "yes" to any of the questions in this section, you must include a separate statement or electronic attachment providing a complete description of your actions and full details of the charges and sanctions against you. For example, to be complete, the statement must include a description of all charges or adjudications, including the level of degree and whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. You also must include the date(s) of the matter(s), the status or final disposition of the charge(s), (with the type of plea if any, such as, not guilty, no contest, Alford, or guilty) including your current status with the disciplinary or criminal authorities (for example in a criminal matter, the status of your probation or parole), and the name and address of the authority in possession of those records. You must answer "yes" whether or not it has been expunged, sealed, or set aside, even if told you do not need to by a judge or attorney. If you participated in a deferment program for any criminal activity you will also need to include that information. You will be contacted by email if the admissions committee requires additional information from you.
Additionally, please provide your personal account of the events that led to the charges or discipline.
- Have you been subject to an investigation, sanction, or discipline by any academic institution for any reason?
http:2. Are any actions arising from allegations of academic dishonesty, plagiarism, cheating, or any form of behavioral misconduct currently pending against you?
http:3. Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, convicted of, pled guilty, or pled no contest to a crime other than a minor traffic violation? (A violation that includes the use of drugs or alcohol is not considered a minor violation.)
http:4. If you answered "yes" to question #3 above, were any of the instances felonies?
http:5. Are any actions arising from allegations of criminal charges other than a minor traffic violation (as described in question #3) currently pending against you?
http:6. If you answered "yes" to question #5 above, were any of the instances felonies?
http:7. Have you ever been separated from any branch of the US armed forces or foreign military under less than honorable conditions?
(If you have never enrolled or served in any branch of the armed forces, please check "no.")
http:8. Have you previously matriculated in a JD program at any US law school?
If you answer "yes," please upload a statement under the Character & Fitness Stmt. section explaining the circumstances under which you left the other law school. - Have you ever been subject to sanction or discipline by any professional or commercial licensing organization, such as but not limited to, license revocation, suspension, or censure? (i.e. real estate, commercial pilot license, etc.)
30 William & Mary Law School
L50: 165 | G50: 3.75 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Required Essays: 2 page maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font. You will be required to submit two essays: a personal statement, and a Why W&M Law statement. Please attach both documents.
- Personal Statement:
- The statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and should include why the JD degree is essential to your future.
Explain what you would contribute to the law school community and why you need a JD.
Optional Addenda
This section is optional.
Applicants may attach optional addenda with whatever additional information they wish to have considered as part of their application for admission.
Why W&M Law Statement
Required Essays: 2 page maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font. You will be required to submit two essays: a personal statement, and a Why W&M Law statement. Please attach both documents.
- Why W & M Law Statement:
- This statement is your opportunity to provide information on why you selected to apply to William & Mary Law School. How your background, goals, experiences, etc. will benefit our community and how the Law School can support your pursuit of a legal career.
14. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Earning a law degree does not guarantee you the right to practice law. Becoming licensed to practice requires you to meet the character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar of the state in which you intend to practice. We encourage you to determine what those specific requirements are in each state where you intend to apply for a license. A good resource to begin with is The Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements, published annually and available at www.ncbex.org.
Most states will either request a copy of your law school application directly from the law school or require you to provide a copy as part of your application to sit for the state bar examination. Accordingly, it is very important that you disclose ALL information that may, in any way, reflect on your character and fitness to practice law, including but not limited to, disciplinary and criminal proceedings. You must disclose each instance even though the charges may have been dismissed or reduced, you were acquitted, adjudication was withheld, a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE ANY EXPUNGED OR SEALED RECORDS. You must disclose both the original charge or citation and the ultimate disposition, including any reduced charges or lesser included offenses. If you have any question as to whether a given incident should be disclosed, you should opt for full disclosure.
Your duty to disclose continues after you file this application and up through your graduation. This CONTINUING DUTY means you must TIMELY disclose matters that arise which would have required you to answer “yes” to one or more of the following questions. To make a timely disclosure after you file this application and before you enroll in law school, contact the Dean of Admissions. Once enrolled, contact the office of the Registrar to make such a disclosure.
1. Have you ever been suspended, warned, placed on academic or any other type of probation, expelled, disciplined, excluded, or requested or advised to withdraw by ANY post-secondary school, college, university, or other similar institution?YesNo
2. If yes, provide all documentation pertinent to the incident and provide a complete explanation: (maximum characters 3000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Are there any academic or employment related disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
4. If yes, provide all documentation pertinent to the incident and provide a complete explanation: (maximum characters 3000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Are there any criminal proceedings pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
6. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE ANY EXPUNGED OR SEALED RECORDS. You must provide official copies of both the original charge or citation and a complete and accurate explanation of the incident. We recognize that in limited situations, records cannot be obtained. In the event that you are unable to obtain official documentat a detailed explanation of the charge/arrest is acceptable; however, the Board of Bar Examiners in the state in which you seek licensing may still require official documentation of the charge/arrest. (maximum characters 3000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
7. Have you EVER IN YOUR ENTIRE LIFE been arrested, charged, convicted, warned, taken into custody for the violation of a law, court order, or for any offense, including, without limitation, all traffic offenses (e.g. DUI/DWI/OWI offenses, speeding, improper equipment, expired registration or inspection tags, failure to maintain proof of insurance, failure to wear a seat belt, etc.), or formally accused of, charged with, or indicted for such violations? You may NOT omit offenses that were dropped, dismissed or reduced. But you may omit (i) offenses that were either expunged or sealed and (ii) parking violations. Even if you perceive a matter to have been minor or to have happened a long time ago, you MUST disclose the information.YesNo
8. If yes, you MUST disclose and fully and accurately describe each instance even though the charges may have been dismissed or reduced, you were acquitted, adjudication was withheld, a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE ANY EXPUNGED OR SEALED RECORDS. You must provide us with official copies of both the original charge or citation and the ultimate disposition, including any reduced charges or lesser included offenses. (maximum characters 3000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Resume
Attach a résumé with your application, including your work experience, educational history, extracurricular/community activities, and any awards or honors received.
Domicile Form
This section is optional.
Applicants claiming entitlement to Virginia in-state educational privileges must complete the Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Privileges. Download the Domicile Form. After completing the form, attach to your application. If you need to supply additional information, please attach additional documents to the application. Alternatively, you may send the completed domicile application and supporting documents via email to domicile@wm.edu, via fax to 757.221.2151, or mail to:
Office of the University Registrar
William & Mary
PO Box 8795
Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
30 George Mason University
L50: 166 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: January 15, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Your application requires submission of a personal statement not to exceed two pages, double-spaced. This is the opportunity for the you to provide the Admissions Committee with insights into yourself as an individual, over and above what is reflected in the other parts of the application. Apart from basic proofreading, no others may assist in the creation of the personal statement.
You must submit your personal statement as an electronic document uploaded to your LSAC electronic application.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Scalia Law fosters an environment that encourages meaningful and robust discourse among students and faculty, both in and outside the classroom. We believe that viewpoint diversity, as well as cultural, racial, religious, ethnic, socio-economic, and gender diversity is critical to a rich and excellent legal education. We value the variety of backgrounds and experiences that each student brings to Scalia Law. We are committed to increasing representation in a way that clearly reflects our pluralistic society. In working toward greater representation, we embrace the same charge we give our students: Learn. Challenge. Lead.
If applicable, you may submit an optional statement to elaborate on how you could contribute to Scalia Law's environment.
Mason Statement
Your application requires submission of an additional statement not to exceed two pages, double-spaced, that discusses your interest in Scalia Law. You must submit your Mason statement as an electronic document uploaded to your LSAC electronic application.
Addenda
This section is optional.
Please attach any addendum to your application that you would like considered by the Admissions Committee.
Character and Fitness
- In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners at www.ncbex.org.
Scalia Law requires all applicants to answer questions pertaining to character and fitness. If an applicant answers yes to any of these questions, the applicant must provide an explanation that reflects on the time, place, and facts underlying the reported conduct. All applicants have an ongoing duty to disclose matters that arise after completing this application to the Admissions Office. All applicants who are admitted and matriculate at Scalia Law must disclose matters to the Associate Dean for Administration and Student Affairs and the Director of Bar Support. Omissions or failure to accurately disclose matters requested on this application may result in denial or delay of bar licensure. An applicant should err on the side of full disclosure.
I have read and understand the above information including my ongoing duty to disclose matters that arise after completing this application. - Have you ever been dismissed from; placed on academic warning, academic probation, or conduct probation at; or subjected to any academic or conduct disciplinary action; or violated any misconduct requiring a review by the school or any of its boards in any of the colleges, universities, or graduate or professional schools you have attended?
- Have you ever been charged with convicted of, arrested, and/or pleaded guilty or no contest to any violation of the criminal laws (misdemeanors and felonies) including expungement?
- Are there any criminal charges, felony, misdemeanor or other accusations, pending against you which, if you were convicted, would require you to answer "yes" to the previous question? Answer yes even if directed by an attorney not to disclose.
- Have you ever been cited for any traffic infractions (including traffic camera infractions), regardless of disposition? Do not include parking tickets.
Resume
You must include an up-to-date resumé. There are no format or content requirements, however, it should be a professional resumé. Scalia Law does not have a page limit for the resumé and so you should use their best judgement to decide the proper length.
Flex-JD Public Interest
This section is optional.
Students applying for the Flex-JD Public Interest Discount should attach their form here.
Mason2Mason - ACT/SAT
This section is optional.
If you are applying under the Mason2Mason Program, please attach a copy of your ACT or SAT score report here. While PDFs of your score report are helpful aids to our Admissions Committee, you will still need to send an official score report to Scalia Law.
GRE Score
This section is optional.
If you are applying with a GRE score, please attach copies of your score reports here. While PDFs of your score reports are helpful aids to our Admissions Committee, you will still need to send official score reports directly to Scalia Law by ETS.
In-State Tuition Form
This section is optional.
If you are applying for Virginia in-state tuition privileges, please attach a completed copy of the Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Rates (https://www.law.gmu.edu/assets/files/admissions/instate_form.pdf?ver=3.0). Please also include a copy of your Virginia driver's license. If we do not receive documentation, you will be classified as an out-of-state resident.
Scalia Scholars Agreement
This section is optional.
If you are applying through the Scalia Law Scholars Program, please attach a signed copy of the Scalia Law Scholars Program Agreement Form.
(https://www.law.gmu.edu/assets/files/admissions/Scalia-Law-Scholars-form.pdf)
Early Decision Agreement
This section is optional.
If you are applying through the Early Decision Program, please attach a signed copy of the Early Decision Program Agreement Form (https://www.law.gmu.edu/assets/files/admissions/early_decision_form.pdf).
30 Ohio State University
L50: 163 | G50: 3.79 | Deadline: July 1, 2023 | ED: November 30, 2022, November 18, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a personal statement of two to three typewritten, double spaced pages that use at least 10pt font. You may choose to write about any topic(s) that you believe would be most helpful to the Admissions Committee as they review your application for admission. Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following: your motivation for the study of law and entrance into the legal profession; professional goals you have established for yourself; leadership goals you have established for yourself; particular challenges and obstacles you have confronted and which you believe are relevant to your past academic performance and/or to your potential for success in law school.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end or conclude with a lesson that will help you succeed.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
The Moritz College of Law is committed to enrolling highly motivated individuals with strong academic potential who bring to the College a broad range of personal backgrounds and intellectual experiences. The College seeks to assemble a class that is both academically qualified and broadly diverse. The Admissions Committee may consider diversity of thought, background, and experience in making admissions decisions. Examples of diversity factors that the Committee may consider include: age, disability, race, ethnicity, international status, geographic region, gender, gender identify, sexual orientation, work experience, cross-cultural experience, cultural competency, current or past military service, exceptional or unique talents, socio-economic background, first generation citizen, first generation college student, and a commitment to public service. By its very nature, a standard cannot be articulated to embrace all of the positive manifestations of diversity that applicant files may reflect. And the examples above are intended to be illustrative, not exhaustive.
In an attachment, up to two pages, you may provide any information about yourself you believe will assist the College in enrolling a diverse class.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Public Service Statement
This section is optional.
The Moritz College of Law has a strong history of preparing students for careers in the public interest and in public service. Many of our students have, prior to entering law school, already devoted a significant amount of time, resources, and talent to work in the public interest or public service. These scholarships may be awarded to students with a demonstrated record of engagement in public interest and public service activities. Examples include, but are certainly not limited to, members of the military, Peace Corp, AmeriCorps, Teach for America and a wide range of other programs or activities.
Supplemental Addendum
This section is optional.
Please attach any supplemental information you feel would be helpful in the admissions process. Common supplemental addenda include, but are not limited to, explanations for unsatisfactory grades and/or LSAT scores, interruptions in education, or an explanation of a learning disability.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Leadership Statement
This section is optional.
Each year, the Moritz College of Law awards Leadership Scholarships to students who demonstrate strong leadership potential. The scholarships are based on leadership qualities, professional and personal life accomplishments, past academic achievement, and commitment to making a difference in communities and organizations. Applications for this award are not required, though applicants are encouraged to submit an essay (not to exceed two pages) that speaks to their leadership abilities.
16. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY! In order to practice law in the United States, a student must pass a state bar examination in the state or states in which he or she wishes to practice law. The bar examination evaluates an applicant’s knowledge of specified areas of substantive law, as well as the individual’s character and fitness to be a member of that state’s Bar. Approval of an applicant’s character and fitness is one of the most important components of the admissions process to the Bar, whether in Ohio or elsewhere. For example, no one may take the Ohio bar examination without first receiving character and fitness approval. Each applicant to law school is strongly encouraged, prior to matriculation to law school, to determine the specific character and fitness requirements of each state in which the applicant intends to practice. Applicants may determine the specific requirements in the state or states in which he or she intends to practice by consulting with the website of the National Conference of Bar Examiners at http://www.ncbex.org/.
After a law student applies to take a bar examination, the respective bar examiners have the law school provide an evaluation of that student's character and fitness to practice law. An essential part of assessing a student's character and fitness to practice law must be completed when an applicant is considered for admission. The following questions have been narrowly tailored to reflect only those issues that need early consideration. If you answer any of these questions affirmatively, you must provide an explanation, which needs to include essential information (e.g., the date, the specific nature of the charge, the COMPLETE version of the facts that lead to the charge, and the disposition) in your own words. Simply providing court documents does not satisfy this requirement. See Attachments section.
Central to determining one's character and fitness to practice law is the act of voluntary disclosure. If the school learns that your answer to one or more of these questions was not accurate, your acceptance may be revoked or, if you are already enrolled, you may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. You need to disclose details of the result of any criminal charges. Even if the charges were dismissed, adjudication was withheld, a conviction was reversed, a conviction was set aside, a conviction was vacated, a conviction was expunged, or the record sealed, you must provide disclosure. Contrary advice by legal counsel does not exempt you from this requirement. The charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under the influence of drugs, and reckless driving must be disclosed as criminal charges.
Your answers to these questions are confidential and are limited to a determination of your character and fitness to practice law. You are under a continuing obligation to notify the Office of Admissions of any changes in your answers to these questions up until the time of your enrollment. Once enrolled, you are under a continuing obligation to notify the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs of any changes in your answers to these questions:
1. Were you ever on academic or disciplinary probation; have you ever been charged with, penalized for, or adjudicated guilty of a violation of a college or university honor code; or have you ever been suspended or dismissed from any educational institution?YesNo
2. Are there any academic or disciplinary charges from any educational institution pending against you?YesNo
3. Except for minor traffic and parking violations, have you been formally charged, cited, fined, posted bail, subject to a restraining order, or ordered to do community service for the violation of any law? This means the original charge and not the negotiated or plea bargained charge. This also includes juvenile, expunged, or dropped charges. YesNo
4. Are there any criminal charges pending against you?YesNo
5. Have you ever been the subject of a court martial hearing, dishonorably discharged from military service, or administratively separated from military service with other than an honorable discharge?YesNo
6. Have you ever been involuntarily separated from a job as a result of an accusation that involved dishonesty?YesNo
7. Have you ever been sued for a non-criminal act that was alleged to have been intentional?YesNo
8. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action by a professional association or State Licensing Board, or had a professional license suspended or revoked?YesNo
9. Did you answer yes to one or more of the character and fitness questions? PLEASE READ CAREFULLYIf you answered affirmatively to any question in the Character and Fitness section, you must provide a COMPLETE explanation, which needs to include essential information (e.g., the date, the specific nature of the charge, the facts of the incident(s) that led to the charge(s), disposition, etc.) in your own words. Simply providing court documents does not satisfy this requirement. Additional information may be requested by the Admission Committee.YesNo
Resume
The Moritz College of Law requires each applicant to submit a résumé as part of the application process. Résumé should include present and past employment history, provide information regarding volunteer, service, and/or extracurricular activities (including sports) with which you have been involved in, and list any honors and/or awards you have received. If you have hobbies you enjoy, please feel free to include them. The resume can be a maximum of three pages long and we encourage more detail than less.
35 Washington and Lee University
L50: 164 | G50: 3.66 | Deadline: July 1, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
You must electronically attach a personal statement with your application. Your personal statement should give the Admissions Committee a sense of the person behind the objective credentials presented in your application and supporting documents and should not be a restatement of your résumé in narrative form. Your statement should be no longer than 3 pages of double-spaced, Times Roman 12-point text. We regularly receive outstanding personal statements that fill only a single page; a lengthy statement is not required.
This is an open-ended prompt.
Diversity Statement
We seek to enroll students representing a wide spectrum of society, including members of groups underrepresented in the legal profession. You may electronically attach a short statement discussing how your diversity is relevant to your application. Choosing not to submit this optional essay will have not negatively effect your application.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Informational Addenda
Explanatory or informational addenda in addition to those required by this application may be submitted, but must be included as attachments when you submit your application. Subsequent submissions of additional information for inclusion in your application file are strictly limited to (a) any required document or answer omitted from your original submission; (b) disclosure of any new information as required by the ongoing duty to disclose set forth in this application (Section 15, Certification 1); and (c) additional letters of recommendation.
16. Character and Fitness
- In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Though Washington and Lee University is prohibited by Virginia statute from requiring disclosure of information concerning arrests or charges that have been officially expunged (See Virginia Code 19.2-392.4), state bar examiners may require that bar applicants disclose such information and closely compare disclosures on law school applications with disclosures on applications for bar admission. We therefore encourage full, voluntary disclosure.
Each incident or circumstance that requires an affirmative answer of any of the following Character and Fitness questions must be described in detail in an attachment.
Disclosure pertaining to a speeding ticket or other moving violation under Question 2 must include the date of the incident; the violation with which you were charged; any reduction in the charge (whether at a court hearing, as a result of attendance at an instructional class, or by other means); and the fine or other penalty imposed.
Disclosure pertaining to an arrest, prosecution, or charge under Question 2 or an agreement or arrangement under Question 3 must include (1) a detailed description of the incident, event, and/or circumstances leading to such arrest, prosecution or charge, (2) the original charge(s), and (3) the ultimate disposition of the matter. Mark this box to confirm your understanding of the information in the foregoing paragraphs.
-
Have you ever been cited, ticketed, taken into custody, arrested, or prosecuted for, or charged with, any violation of law other than (a) citations for parking violations and (b) arrests, charges, prosecutions, or convictions that have been officially expunged in accordance with applicable statutory provisions?
-
Have you ever entered into a plea agreement or any arrangement to avoid prosecution other than agreements or arrangements specifically involving arrests, charges, prosecutions, or convictions that have been officially expunged in accordance with applicable statutory provisions?
-
Are you now the subject of a criminal or administrative investigation?
-
Have you ever been the subject of or a party to a civil or administrative proceeding?
-
Have you ever been reprimanded, suspended, expelled, placed on probation, or been the subject of any other disciplinary action by any college or university, or were you required or permitted to withdraw in order to avoid academic or disciplinary action?
-
Have you ever been found to have committed any honor violation?
-
Are you now the subject of an honor investigation, or are allegations of an honor violation pending against you?
-
Have you ever been denied admission to any profession or had any type of license revoked?
-
Do you know of any other matter that might adversely affect your admission to law school or to the bar of any state?
Each incident or circumstance requiring an affirmative answer to any of the previous Character and Fitness questions (Section 15, Questions 1-10) must be described in full detail in an attachment. Applicants are strongly encouraged to disclose any and all incidents.
Resume
You are encouraged to attach a résumé detailing any scholastic honors, extracurricular activities, work experience, or other significant accomplishments or activities you believe are relevant to the consideration and evaluation of your candidacy. Though not required, a résumé is helpful as we seek to gain a deeper sense of you and your credentials.
35 University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign
L50: 164 | G50: 3.66 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Include a typed personal statement of 2 to 3 pages, double-spaced. There is no formula for a successful personal statement, and different applicants will have different approaches and topics for their essays. At Illinois Law, we look beyond test scores and grades to find the applicants that are best suited for success. We encourage you to discuss significant life experiences; meaningful extracurricular activities; why you have chosen to pursue a career in the law; significant obstacles met and overcome; particular political, philosophical, or religious beliefs; prior careers; or experiences relating to disadvantage, disability, or discrimination. Any of these subjects, and countless others, could be appropriate for your personal statement and will assist the committee in selecting the best individuals to study at Illinois Law.
Supplemental Statement
This section is optional.
If you have additional documents for your application file, attach them here.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
When answering the questions below, if you are unsure whether an incident in your past requires an affirmative response, you are advised to contact the Office of Admissions at (217) 244-6415 to request clarification. Failure to respond candidly and completely to one of these questions is a serious matter in itself. Answering "yes" to any of the questions below will not automatically bar you from admission to the College of Law. If, following your completion of this application, matters arise that would require you to answer "yes" to any of the questions below, you are required to supplement your application with complete details. Your answer will be reviewed on an individual basis in relation to all aspects of your experience, academic achievement, and potential. You must submit a supplementary statement with any affirmative responses providing complete details, including dates and resolution.
1. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary proceedings or actions for academic or other reasons in any of the colleges and universities, graduate, or professional schools you have attended, or are such charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
2. Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense, either as a juvenile or as an adult, or is there now pending against you any indictment, criminal information, or criminal complaint? This includes matters that have been expunged or sealed.YesNo
3. Have you ever served in the military?YesNo
4. If you did serve in the military, did you receive less than an honorable discharge (other than discharge based solely on sexual orientation)? If your response is "no," a supplementary statement is not required. If your response is "yes," attach your explanation in the Supplementary Statement Attachment.YesNoClear answer
5. Did you answer "yes" to any of questions 1, 2, or 4 in this Character & Fitness Section?YesNo
Resume
Please identify:
(A) positions of full-time or significant part-time employment, paid or unpaid, including the name and location of your employer, your job title, and the dates you held the position, along with any other information you think will be useful;
(B) significant extracurricular/non-work-related activities;
(C) academic and non-academic honors and awards received, including fellowships, prizes, and memberships in honor societies; and
(D) hobbies or special areas of interest or academic pursuits.
37 University of Utah
L50: 163 | G50: 3.87 | Deadline: March 10, 2023 | ED: October 28, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Candidates are required to submit a personal statement of no more than (2) two pages in length, with one (1) inch margins, and a font size no smaller the 10-pt. The personal statement is viewed as a document demonstrating your writing ability; therefore, the personal statement must be written by you. The Admission Committee's goal is to assemble an intellectually stimulating community of students composed of individuals who have diverse backgrounds and perspectives. In addition to outstanding academic ability, we seek students whose life experiences, backgrounds, and interests will enhance our educational community. This includes, but is not limited to, qualities such as leadership, maturity, organization, knowledge of other languages and cultures, sincere commitment to community service, a history of overcoming disadvantage, extraordinary accomplishment, or success in a previous career. The subject matter of your personal statement is up to you. The personal statement should let the Admission Committee know more about you as a person and should address the above qualities if that information is not presented in other areas of your application. Issues addressed in your personal statement may include the background, experiences, and events (positive or negative) that have affected you. You may address the perspectives and experiences you will bring to classroom discussions and the law school community or your motivations for seeking a legal education.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in University of Utah in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
If you chose to provide information relevant to our diversity policy, please submit a statement describing the ways in which you will contribute to the life and diversity of the college, if not discussed in your personal statement. You may provide additional or more specific information than what is requested in the Personal Background and Demographics sections of the application form in your Diversity statement. Information will not adversely affect consideration of your admission and will be maintained in confidence.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you would like any additional information not included in your Personal Statement, Résumé, Leadership Positions, Diversity or Misconduct.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below may result in revocation of admission, disciplinary action by the S.J. Quinney College of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek bar admission.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If the answer is "yes" to any question, you must provide a detailed explanatory statement in an electronic attachment. The statement must give full details, including the date(s), facts, location, and disposition of the matter.
1. Have you ever been enrolled at any other law school?YesNo
2. Have you ever been convicted of a crime or are charges pending against you? A conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, a plea in abeyance or deferred adjudication if it is in its period of probation, or a verdict or finding of guilt regardless of whether a sentence was imposed. All drug and/or and alcohol-related offenses must be reported. All convictions must be report even if expunged from your records. You are not required to report minor traffic offenses.YesNo
3. Have you ever been convicted of a juvenile offense that was classified as felony, or equivalent to a felony? You are not required to report juvenile infractions or misdemeanor juvenile offenses.YesNo
4. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, or requested or advised to withdraw from any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school - including campus housing?YesNo
5. Have you ever been disciplined in connection with any misconduct matter related to any educational, personal, professional, military, business, or employment behavior or activity? Being disciplined includes, but is not limited to, being sanctioned, placed on probation, suspended, dismissed, resigning in lieu of termination, surrendering a professional license, or having a civil judgment obtained against you.YesNo
Resume
Candidates are required to submit a résumé that includes your employment history and/or activities for the previous five years, including dates, employer or affiliation, activity or title, and location. Also, include a brief description of your involvement with public service organizations or activities, and list academic honors and memberships in scholastic societies.
37 Wake Forest University
L50: 165 | G50: 3.72 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Upload a personal statement that shares an insight into your life and experiences that may not be readily apparent from your academic record and resume. Your personal statement should be about you.
Examples of personal statement topics include, but are not limited to:
- Notable achievement or accomplishment
- Challenge you overcame
- Transformative life event that has shaped who you are
- Aspect of your background or experiences that is illustrative of your character and perspective
Formatting requirements: - Double-spaced
- One-inch margins
- Text-only (do not include images or visuals)
- Accessible font (
- e.g.
- , Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Verdana)
- Black font color
- 10-point font size or greater
- 750 words or less
LSAT / GRE / GPA Addendum
You may upload an optional addendum explaining why you believe your LSAT score(s), GRE score(s), and/or under/graduate GPA are not reflective of your ability and potential to succeed academically in law school.
This optional addendum can also be used to explain any significant increases or decreases in your LSAT or GRE scores.
Uploading an optional LSAT / GRE / GPA addendum is not required.
Formatting requirements:
- Double-spaced
- One-inch margins
- Text-only (do not include images or visuals)
- Accessible font (
- e.g.
- , Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Verdana)
- Black font color
- 10-point font size or greater
- 500 words or less
Optional Statement
You may upload an optional statement describing any other information or details about yourself that you wish to share.
This may include, but is not limited to:
- how your background and experiences will contribute to the diversity, equity, and inclusion of the Wake Forest Law community;
- any discrimination you may have faced or experienced in your life; and
- interest or preference in attending Wake Forest Law specifically versus other law schools.
Uploading an optional statement is not required. There is a separate optional upload for an addendum related to test scores and academic performance.
Formatting requirements: - Double-spaced
- One-inch margins
- Text-only (do not include images or visuals)
- Accessible font (
- e.g.
- , Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Verdana)
- Black font color
- 10-point font size or greater
- 750 words or less
Character & Fitness
Read the following question very carefully. If your answer to the following question is "yes" (including sub-parts of the question), you will be required to attach an explanatory addendum.
1. Have you ever engaged in any conduct that:
- resulted in arrest, discipline, sanction, or warning;
- resulted in termination or suspension from school or employment;
- resulted in loss or suspension of any license;
- resulted in any inquiry, any investigation, or any administrative or judicial proceeding by an employer, educational institution, government agency, professional organization, or licensing authority, or in connection with an employment disciplinary or termination procedure;
- endangered the safety of others, breached fiduciary obligations, or constituted a violation of workplace or academic conduct rules (including honor code, academic probation, social/behavioral probation, and good standing policies);
- resulted, during the past five years only, in being given a written warning, or taken into custody, or accused, formally or informally of the violation of a traffic law or ordinance, other than parking offenses;
- resulted in failure to file any required personal federal, state, or local income tax return, or failure to pay any taxes due;
- involved being a named party to any legal action, including, but not limited to civil, equitable, family law, probate, guardianship, bankruptcy, or special proceedings; or
- involved having organized or helped organize or become a member of any organization or group of persons which, during the period of your membership or association, you knew was advocating or teaching that the government of the United States or any state or any political subdivisions thereof should be overthrown or overturned by force, violence, or any unlawful means?
This question reflects information requested by the North Carolina Board of Law Examiners for the Bar Exam General Application. Answer "yes" if the answer to any of the above-numbered questions is "yes" with the following exceptions.
You may omit any arrest, charge, or conviction that has been expunged by a duly entered order of expunction. You may omit any non-criminal violations of traffic law or ordinance which occurred more than five years ago, if the non-criminal traffic violation did not involve driving under the influence of alcohol or another impairing substance and did not result in arrest or suspension/revocation of a driver's license. You may omit all non-criminal parking offenses, regardless of when such offenses occurred.
If you are unsure, you are advised to answer "yes" and explain in your addendum. An affirmative "yes" answer to this question does not automatically preclude you from admissions consideration. All information presented in your Character & Fitness Addendum will be considered.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If you answered "yes" to the earlier Character and Fitness question, upload a complete explanation/addendum.
Include all relevant facts and details. For criminal-related matters, this includes the charges filed, relevant dates, pleas, convictions, and final disposition (sentence, fine, penalty, court costs, community service, etc.). For education-related matters, this includes the violation(s) alleged, relevant dates, and final disposition (sanction, probation, course, community service, etc.). For all other matters, this includes a recitation of the facts, relevant dates, and final disposition/outcome. If a final disposition/outcome is not yet available, describe the current status of the matter and when a final disposition may be expected.
You have a continuing duty to disclose any character-and-fitness matters after submitting this application and throughout your enrollment as a law student. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, and may affect the evaluation of an applicant by a board of law examiners.
Formatting requirements:
- Double-spaced
- One-inch margins
- Accessible font (
- e.g.
- , Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Verdana)
- Black font color
- 10-point font size or greater
If you are attaching copies of reports or other records, you may leave the formatting in its original state.
Resume
Upload your current up-to-date resume. Your resume may include extracurricular and volunteer work.
If you are not currently employed or enrolled as a student, your resume should also list your current activity/activities which occupies a substantial portion of your time (e.g., volunteering, travel, taking care of a family member, etc.) and any relevant details.
Formatting requirements:
- Accessible font (
- e.g.
- , Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Verdana)
- Black font color
- 10-point font size or greater
- Two pages or less
Applicant Information
- Have you received, or will you receive, paid assistance with your law school admissions cycle, including any paid assistance with completing this application, as well as any attachments/uploads?
Paid assistance includes:
- Paying someone, multiple people, or an organization for assistance with any of your responses to any of the application questions, personal statement, optional statement, and addendums;
- Paying a law school admissions consultant or group for advice or assistance;
- Assistance for which you are expected to submit payment at a future date, even if you have not made any payments to date;
- Assistance for which you have already paid but have been refunded in part or full; and,
- Assistance for which a typical law school applicant would normally pay but for which you have received a partial or full discount or waiver of payment, including a "pro bono" or "scholarship" discount.
Paid assistance excludes: - Assistance received from a faculty or staff member, including a prelaw advisor or writing center tutor, employed at an accredited not-for-profit institution of higher education, when the faculty/staff member is serving in their capacity as an employee of that institution, and to whom you have not and will not submit payment; and,
- LSAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS preparation, if assistance is limited solely to test preparation.
If unsure, answer "yes." Providing an inaccurate response to this question is considered equivalent to providing false or misleading information on this application.
37 Fordham University
L50: 166 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: October 15, 2022
Fordham notes at their info sessions that the Diversity Statement, a “Why Fordham” statement, and all addenda are *truly* optional. “Do not fear” to omit these.
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Every year we receive many applications with similar academic credentials. In order to get a better sense of our applicants, we require a "personal statement" on a topic of your choosing. This allows you to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and concisely through your writing ability. Sharing this information provides another opportunity for us to get to know you beyond your academic record. Your personal statement should not exceed two pages, double spaced, using a standard 11 - 12 sized font.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Statement
This section is optional.
In addition to your personal statement, you may include any background or experiences that you believe contribute to the diversity of our class. Some examples may include, but are not limited to, any unique skills and experiences including language fluency, professional accomplishments, talents, hardships overcome, educational or socioeconomic disadvantages, descriptions of any disabilities, or any other aspects that have not already been addressed in your application.
Optional Statement 2
This section is optional.
In addition to your personal statement and optional statement, you may include any additional information you would like to share with us.
Scholastic Honors
This section is optional.
You may submit an addendum listing your scholastic honors and achievements.
Activities
This section is optional.
If you need more space outisde the application or resume, you may include an attachment.
14. Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
The American Bar Association (ABA Standard 504) advises applicants that there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admissions to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction.
Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.
Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. For more information, contact the American Bar Association, 750 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611 or at (312) 988-5000 or at www.abanet.org.
If you answer yes to any of the questions below, you must provide a detailed explanation. If you need more space than the application provides, you may submit an electronic attachment.
1. Have you ever been placed on probation, dropped, suspended, expelled, or otherwise been subjected to discipline by any institution of learning above elementary school level for conduct which might reflect upon your character?YesNo
2. Please explain the circumstances. Note: If you need more space to provide a detailed account you may include an electronic attachment.(maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Have you ever, either as an adult or a juvenile, been cited, ticketed, arrested, taken into custody, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, or been the subject of any juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding? Traffic violations that occurred more than ten years before the filing of this application need not be reported, except alcohol - or drug - related traffic violations, which must be reported in all cases, irrespective of when they occurred. Do not report parking violations. Note: Although a conviction may have been expunged from the records by order of a court, it nevertheless should be disclosed in the answer to this question. YesNo
4. Please explain the circumstances. Note: If you need more space to provide a detailed account you may include an electronic attachment.(maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Have you ever been a complainant, party or witness to or otherwise involved in any civil or criminal action, proceeding or investigation?YesNo
6. Please explain the circumstances. Note: If you need more space to provide a detailed account you may include an electronic attachment.(maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Resume
Please attach a résumé.
37 University of California—Irvine
L50: 167 | G50: 3.72 | Deadline: March 31, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell us how your unique life experiences could contribute to our law school community. We do not have a checklist of attributes; we would like for you to tell us what you believe is different and most important for us to know. For example, did a significant life experience, intellectual interest, extracurricular activity, or particular person prompt you to do something that changed or enriched your life? Have you met and overcome a significant obstacle or challenge? Have you taken action in response to political, philosophical, or personal concerns? If you served in the military, how did that experience affect you? Are there atypical paths that you have taken in terms of your education, work life or family life? Have your sexual identity, a disability, discrimination, or socioeconomic factors impacted you? This is your moment to provide information that will help us know you personally.
When drafting your personal statement you should use Microsoft Word and format all your documents to 8-1/2 x 11 inches, double spaced, with 12-point font and one-inch margins. Most importantly, please include your name, LSAC number, and statement type (e.g. personal statement, Why UCI Law essay, etc.) in the top header of each page and abide by the word limit.
Please write a minimum of 350 words and a maximum of 750 words.
This prompt is open-ended.
Inclusive Excellence Essay
This section is optional.
UCI Law is committed to inclusive excellence, celebrates all aspects of diversity, and strives for equity and inclusion. How do you define inclusive excellence and what experiences will you bring that contribute to this inclusive community?
The Optional Statement on Diversity is very inviting, and you should feel free to write it whether or not you have a traditional diversity factors. You shouldn’t feel pressure to write it, though. It would be better to focus your energy on a killer “Why UCI.”
The second two prompts are, respectively, calls for GPA or LSAT addenda.
Optional Essays
This section is optional.
We know that you may want to provide some additional information for the Admissions Committee to consider when reviewing your application. You may attach an optional statement, if desired. You are not required to provide the information below.
When responding to an optional statement prompt, you should use Microsoft Word and format all your documents to 8-1/2 x 11 inches, double spaced, with 12-point font and one-inch margins. Most importantly, please include your name, LSAC number, and statement type (e.g. personal statement, Why UCI Law essay, etc.) in the top header of each page and abide by the word limit. If responding to more than one optional statement prompt; please begin each optional statement on a new page.
- Optional Statement on Your Academic Record:
- If you believe that your academic record does not accurately reflect your ability to succeed in law school, tell us about this.
- Optional Statement about Your Standardized Tests:
- If you believe that your results from standardized tests (LSAT, GRE, or SAT/ACT) do not accurately reflect your ability to succeed in law school, tell us about this.
Please write a maximum of 500 words among either or both optional academic/standardized test statements.
This essay is mandatory.
Interest in UC Irvine
We know that you have many options when applying to law school. Tell us why you are interested in UCI Law. What do you believe we have to offer you? What will you bring to the School of Law? How would your experiences and perspectives enhance and enrich the quality and breadth of our law school community?
Conduct Information
Indicates a required field.
When responding to the following questions, please note that an affirmative answer to any or all of the questions within this section does not necessarily preclude or prejudice admission to the School of Law. Applications are reviewed holistically and take rehabilitation into consideration. Any affirmative responses trigger an obligation to submit a supplemental Conduct Information Statement with additional information explaining the conduct issues and rehabilitation measures. You should follow the rule that full disclosure is the best option. Failure to provide full, accurate information may result in the denial of an opportunity to take a state bar examination.
1. Have you ever been convicted of, or is any charge now pending against you, for any crime other than a traffic violation?YesNo
2. Have you ever been dismissed, suspended, placed on probation or disciplined by any college, university, graduate, or professional school, or is any such charge pending against you, or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
3. Have you ever been subject to discipline by a professional organization or discharged from employment for conduct-related issues?YesNo
The American Bar Association (ABA) requires that applicants for admission to law schools be advised to obtain information regarding the requirements for admission to the Bar in the state(s) in which the applicant intends to practice. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the Bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
Please submit your current résumé. It should include the following information:
- Academic and non-academic honors, awards, including scholarships, fellowships, prizes, publications, memberships in honor societies
- Your extracurricular activities since you entered undergraduate school, the number of hours you spent on those activities, and the dates of those activities. If you have been out of undergraduate or graduate school more than two years, include any community activities in which you have participated.
- Your employment after graduating from high school (either full-time or part-time), the number of hours, and the dates of employment.
- Hobbies or special areas of interest or academic pursuits; interesting travels; other skills or talents.
37 Boston College
L50: 165 | G50: 3.69 | Deadline: March 31, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Personal Statement:
Upload a personal statement that demonstrates your capacity for the study of law.
Many applicants submit a personal statement about a major life experience that has shaped their world view, overcoming a difficult challenge, or unique personal traits that they would bring to the BC Law community. In crafting your personal statement, you may wish to consider one of the aforementioned topics, or you may choose a topic of your own.
Your personal statement should not exceed three pages (double-spaced) with a minimum of one-inch margins and 10-point font size.
Optional Statement
This section is optional.
Optional Statement:
You may upload an optional statement, regarding any economic, cultural, social, or other factors that you wish for us to consider when reviewing your application.
You are not required to submit an optional statement. Your optional statement should not exceed two pages (double-spaced) with a minimum of one-inch margins and 10-point font size.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum (Optional)
This section is optional.
Addendum (optional):
If you believe that your LSAT score(s) and/or GPA are not reflective of your ability and potential to succeed in law school, you may upload an optional addendum detailing relevant facts and circumstances.
You are not required to submit an addendum. Your addendum should not exceed one page (double-spaced) with a minimum of one-inch margins and 10-point font size.
You could use this for an LSAT, GPA, or gap-in-employment addendum.
Public Service Candidates
This section is optional.
This attachment is only required for applicants applying for the Public Service Scholarship.
Please share why you are applying to be a Public Service Scholar at BC Law, examples of your leadership and experience in public service beyond what is stated in your resume, your career plans after law school, if you know, and what steps you have taken to learn about different career paths available to you. Your response should not exceed two pages (double-spaced) with a minimum of one-inch margins and 12-point font size.
12. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. Have you ever been compelled to curtail or discontinue your study or your work for a substantial period? YesNo
2. Have you ever been placed on academic warning, academic probation, or conduct probation; or been dismissed, reprimanded, sanctioned, expelled or disciplined, or been the subject of any unresolved conduct or disciplinary complaint by or at any college, graduate or professional school, or professional licensing agency?YesNo
3. Have you ever been convicted with or been the subject of any investigation for a felony or misdemeanor other than a minor traffic charge?YesNo
- An applicant with a sealed record on file with the commissioner of probation may answer "no record" with respect to an inquiry herein relative to convictions. (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 276, Section 100A)
4. Have you ever been a party on either side in a civil action, or a proceeding involving a claim of fraud, conversion, breach of fiduciary duty, professional malpractice or other wrongful conduct?YesNo
5. Have you ever been a party, other than as representing counsel, in non-criminal legal or adminstrative proceedings?YesNo
NOTICE TO APPLICANT: The Board of Bar Examiners, both in Massachusetts and other jurisdictions, may require additional information pertaining to criminal/disciplinary history and legal proceedings that educational institutions in Massachusetts are not permitted to seek under state law. Examples of character and fitness questions from three jurisdictions are provided below.
The Massachusetts Petition for Admission by Examination - First Time includes the following three questions:
- Have you ever been charged with or been the subject of any investigation for a felony or misdemeanor other than a minor traffic charge?
- Have you ever been a party on either side in a civil action or proceeding involving a claim of fraud, conversion, breach of fiduciary duty, professional malpractice or other wrongful conduct?
- Have you been a party in any other legal or administrative proceedings?
The Application for Admission to Practice as an Attorney and Counselor-at-Law in the State of New York includes the following question: - Have you ever, either as an adult or a juvenile, been cited, ticketed, arrested, taken into custody, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, or been the subject of any juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding? Traffic violations that occurred more than ten years before the filing of this application need not be reported, except alcohol- or drug-related traffic violations, which must be reported in all cases, irrespective of when they occurred. Do not report parking violations.
The Texas Bar Exam Application for Out-of-State Law Students includes the following three questions: - Have you ever been convicted of an offense, placed on probation, or granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion? You must report any such offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You must report any failure to appear conviction resulting from any offense. You must report any conviction for failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance). You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.
- Have you, within the last 10 years, been arrested, cited or ticketed for, or charged with any violation of the law? You must report any such offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You must report any failure to appear charge or warrant resulting from any such offense. You must report any failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance) arrest, citation, ticket or charge. You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.
- Are you currently the target or subject of a grand jury or other governmental agency investigation?
6. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.I have read and acknowledge the above statement.
Resume
Upload your current résumé or curriculum vitae.
37 University of California—Davis
L50: 165 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 16, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Each applicant is required to submit a personal statement with the admission application. Because it promotes learning, one important goal of the admissions process is a student body with a considerable diversity of backgrounds, interests, and skills. Experience or background that enables an applicant to bring a unique perspective to the study of law or contribute to serving the diverse populations of California may be taken into account. We also invite applicants to review the School of Law's Mission Statement at https://law.ucdavis.edu/about/law-school-mission.html. Applicants may choose to submit a Diversity Statement, in addition to the Personal Statement, but it is not required.
- The personal statement should not exceed four pages, double-spaced, 12-point standard font.
- Each page of the statement should include the applicant's full name and LSAC account number. The combined length of any optional additional statements (e.g., a diversity statement) should not exceed four pages, double-spaced. We do not include
- required
- addenda or the resume in the four-page maxiumum.
- Applicants should write a statement that adds further dimension to the LSAT (or GRE) / GPA predictors.
- There are other factors that bear on the applicant's suitability for the study and practice of law. These will also be considered and include the following:
- Achievements despite social, economic, or physical disadvantage, including specific experience of discrimination on the basis of characteristics such as race, ethnicity, citizenship, sex gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, disability, military service, or age.
- Consideration shall be given to individuals who, despite having suffered disadvantages economically or in terms of their social environment or due to specific experience of discrimination, have nonetheless demonstrated sufficient character and determination in overcoming obstacles to warrant confidence that they can pursue a course of study to successful completion.
- Unusual accomplishments, abilities, or skills (including skills in languages other than English) relevant to the study of law and not falling under other listed criteria.
- Extra-curricular activities during undergraduate studies.
- Community activities and employment experience during and after undergraduate studies.
- Advanced degrees or other advanced studies.
- Other objective evidence of growth and maturity and of commitment to law study.
This prompt rolls a personal statement, diversity statement, and non-required addendum into one. If you include DS or addenda material, you can incorporate it into your main essay or give it a separate header and include it in the same attachment.
Legal Sanction Addendum
This section is optional.
If you have ever been convicted of, or have a pending charge of, a felony or misdemeanor offense (or the equivalent in juvenile court), you must provide a statement explaining the circumstances. NOTE: Conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest), or a verdict or finding of guilt, regardless of the sentence imposed by the court. You MUST report all offenses, including those for which the record has been expunged, and any traffic violations that resulted in a misdemeanor or felony conviction, including Failure to Appear, Driving without a License, Driving with a Suspend License, and Reckless Driving (or their equivalent). You do NOT need to include parking or traffic violations that do not involve the use of intoxicants, or any arrest not resulting in a conviction, unless the charge is still pending.
An affirmative answer to these questions does not necessarily preclude, or even prejudice, admission to King Hall. The Admissions Committee will review answers on an individual basis and in relation to all aspects of your experience, academic achievement, and potential. Do not assume that past problems will prevent future accomplishment. In fact, evidence of how you have overcome negative circumstances may be an asset.
Job Termination Addendum
This section is optional.
If you have ever been involuntarily dismissed or terminated from employment for cause, you must provide a statement explaining the circumstances. You are not required to include an addendum if your position was eliminated as part of a no fault layoff, merger, or other company reorganization.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
An affirmative answer to these questions does not necessarily preclude, or even prejudice, admission to King Hall. The Admissions Committee will review answers on an individual basis and in relation to all aspects of your experience, academic achievement, and potential. Do not assume that past problems will prevent future accomplishment. In fact, evidence of how you have overcome negative circumstances may be an asset.
Failure to provide truthful, complete answers, and failure to notify the Admissions Office of any changes and/or new occurrences responsive to these questions, may result in revocation of admission, disciplinary action by the law school, reporting to the Law School Admission Council Committee on Misconduct and Irregularities, and denial of permission to practice law in your chosen jurisdiction(s).
If your answer to any question is yes, you must provide a concise, separate statement that includes the date(s) of occurrence, the name and nature of offense, the locality of court/school/employer, an explanation of the relevant circumstances, and a summary of how the matter was resolved. Further, please describe any rehabilitative activities taken since the incident(s). This may include, but is not limited to, community service, substance abuse recovery program, abstinence from substances, paid restitution and fines, and successful completion of probation and parole. You should also include details about the occurrences relevant to your decision to apply to UC Davis School of Law.https://fap.lsac.org/standards/fap.aspx?section_id=3715748#_msocom_2
Although you are not required as part of your application to submit any official documentation associated with the disclosed occurrence, the Admissions Office may request such documentation later, including after matriculation if offered admission. Further, you must disclose any occurrences responsive to the questions that take place after submission of your application, including up to onset of and through the juris doctor program. Please note that state bars may request a copy of your application for admission, and any information that does not match the information provided in your application for admission to the bar may inhibit your ability to pass character and fitness.
Should you have any questions about these directions, please contact the Admissions Office prior to submitting your application. For questions about individual state bar requirements, please visit the National Conference for Bar Examiners at www.ncbex.org.https://fap.lsac.org/standards/fap.aspx?section_id=3715748#_msocom_3
1. Have you ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor offense (or the equivalent in juvenile court)? NOTE: Conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest), or a verdict or finding of guilt, regardless of the sentence imposed by the court.You MUST report all offenses, including those for which the record has been expunged, and any traffic violations that resulted in a misdemeanor or felony conviction, including Failure to Appear, Driving without a License, Driving with a Suspend License, and Reckless Driving (or their equivalent). You do NOT need to include parking or traffic violations that do not involve the use of intoxicants, or any arrest not resulting in a conviction, unless the charge is still pending.YesNo
2. Are you awaiting final adjudication of any investigation or arrest?YesNo
3. Have you ever been granted immunity in lieu of criminal prosecution?YesNo
4. Have you ever been subjected to dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic sanctions by any college, university, or professional school?YesNo
5. Have you ever been involuntarily dismissed or terminated from employment? You are not required to indicate "yes" if your position was eliminated as part of a no fault layoff, merger, or other company reorganization. YesNo
Resume
A résumé is required. Applicants are encouraged to limit the résumé to two (2) pages and use a standard 12-point font.
43 Indiana University - Bloomington
L50: 164 | G50: 3.81 | Deadline: July 15, 2023 | ED: May 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a 2-3 page personal statement that provides insight about you, describes your motivation to attend law school, and/or highlights your interest in Indiana University Maurer School of Law. A compelling statement will be clearly written, well-organized, and highlight the special strengths and experiences you would bring to our law school and the legal profession. These may include, but are not limited to, demonstrated evidence of leadership, creativity, commitment to justice, service to others, cross-cultural competency, and significant work or volunteer experience. The personal statement must be a maximum of 3 pages, double-spaced, using 12-pt font with 1-inch margins.
This personal statement prompt is somewhat open-ended, but Maurer wants to know why you're applying to law school and maybe why you're applying to Maurer in particular.
Other Addenda
If you wish to submit additional information that you believe will provide further insight into your candidacy please attach this information here.
[From Instructions section:] If you believe that the admissions committee would benefit from an explanation about part of your application, you should submit an addendum. Addenda will usually explain problems with, or unusual aspects to, your application. Typical reasons for submitting an addendum include, but are not limited to, the following: a poor semester of grades, an unusually low grade on a particular course, an unusual gap in college attendance, or an LSAT or GPA that isn’t indicative of your true abilities. You may also submit an addendum describing any significant adversity you have experienced which may have limited your educational opportunities or negatively impacted your academic performance.
Please note that if you answered 'Yes' to any question under the Character and Fitness section of this application, you must submit an addendum to explain each incident.
This is an open-ended prompt. You could respond with a brief diversity statement, LSAT addendum, GPA addendum, or something else.
Character and Fitness
Because of the high ethical standards of the legal profession, law school applicants need to be aware that "failure to disclose" an act or event that pertains to your character and honesty on this application may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the Maurer School of Law or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which an applicant seeks admission. Under Indiana law, you do not have an obligation to disclose expunged offenses to the law school as part of your application for admission. However, you are strongly encouraged to do so. Many state bars, including Indiana, require disclosure of expunged and/or sealed records for assessing character and fitness for admission to the bar. As such, admission to law school and completion of JD requirements does not guarantee that you will be able to sit for or be admitted to the Indiana bar (or another state’s bar).
In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners at http://www.ncbex.org. State Bar authorities investigating you in the future will expect that anything they find in their security clearance checks or through other inquiries will have been reported on this application. Therefore, please respond fully to the following questions. Resolve doubts by disclosing the information (see Attachments section).
By electronically transmitting this application, you acknowledge that, if you are admitted and then do matriculate, you will have a continuing obligation to disclose promptly any incidents that occur from application submission to enrollment as well as throughout your time as a law student that might reflect adversely on your good character and fitness to practice law. The Office of Admissions reserves the right to rescind an offer of admission based on the misconduct of an applicant after he/she has been admitted.
Suspension
- Have you ever been suspended, expelled, placed on probation, or otherwise disciplined (including being requested or advised to resign to avoid discipline) by any college or university (including a residence hall system) for any academic, legal, ethical, or other reasons?
If you answered YES to Question #1 of the Character and Fitness (Suspension), please use an electronic attachment to explain. Please be detailed and specific with your explanation. Resolve uncertainty by consultation with a member of our Admissions Office.
Crime
2. As a juvenile or adult, have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of a crime that has not been expunged or sealed by a court? Please note that expungement and dismissal are distinct and all offenses that have been dismissed in your favor must be disclosed.
If you answered YES to Question #2 of the Character and Fitness (Crime), please use an electronic attachment to explain. Please be detailed and specific with your explanation. Resolve uncertainty by consultation with a member of our Admissions Office.
Traffic Violations
3. Have you ever been charged with any traffic violations or infractions (omitting parking violations)?
If you answered YES to Question #3 of the Character and Fitness (Traffic Violations), please use an electronic attachment to explain. Please be detailed and specific with your explanation. Resolve uncertainty by consultation with a member of our Admissions Office.
Morals
4. Within the meaning of the general phrase "good moral character," are there any other incidents that might challenge your character, honesty, and integrity?
If you answered YES to Question #4 of the Character and Fitness (Morals), please use an electronic attachment to explain. Please be detailed and specific with your explanation. Resolve uncertainty by consultation with a member of our Admissions Office.
If you answered YES to any of the above questions, please use an electronic attachment to explain. Please be detailed and specific with your explanation describing the incident(s), including the location(s) and date(s) of the charge(s) or conviction(s), your status at the time of release, and the court deposition(s). In your own words, provide a description of the impact the incident(s) had on you. Resolve uncertainty by consulting with a member of our Admissions Office.
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5. If I am admitted and then matriculate, I will have a continuing obligation to disclose promptly any incidents that occur during my time as a law student that might reflect adversely on my good character and fitness to practice law.
Résumé
Please submit a current resume which outlines your professional and volunteer experience, academic accomplishments, and other pertinent aspects of your background you wish to share with the admissions committee.
Letter of Good Standing
If you have attended another law school as a J.D. candidate, you must submit a letter of good standing from your previous law school. Failure to produce a letter of good attending will disqualify you from consideration.
43 University of Wisconsin
L50: 164 | G50: 3.65 | Deadline: April 3, 2023 | ED: November 30, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please include a double-spaced, two to three page personal statement. A carefully prepared personal statement telling us about yourself and reflecting our admissions criteria, which are described on our website, is very helpful to the Admissions Committee. Include any special factors, problems, plans, explanations, or additional information that you think might help the Law School in acting on your application.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Univ. of Wisconsin in particular.
Addendum
This section is optional.
Once you submit your application materials, they cannot be changed or returned. If there is something we haven't asked about in the application that you want to highlight, you may include two to three paragraphs as an attachment marked "addendum."
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
You must answer all character and fitness questions carefully, thoroughly, and honestly. Omission or falsification of information relevant to these questions may serve as grounds for rescinding your admission to the University of Wisconsin Law School. When you apply to be admitted to the bar, the state bar organization may conduct a background investigation on you and may also seek a copy of your law school record. Any discrepancies between the character and fitness information you provide on your Law School application and the information compiled for your bar application may impede your admission to the bar. Please note that satisfaction of Character and Fitness requirements for the University of Wisconsin Law School does not mean that Character and Fitness requirements for any state bar have been satisfied. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners http://www.ncbex.org/character-and-fitness/.
If you are unsure whether a matter should be disclosed, you should err on the side of full disclosure. Nondisclosure of a pertinent matter will cause difficulty. In most circumstances, the BBE will consider a thorough, detailed, and honest disclosure of an incident for which you take responsibility as a factor tending toward a finding of adequate "character and fitness." Prior contacts with the criminal or civil justice systems, including felony convictions, do not, in and of themselves, necessarily disqualify you from practicing law nor do they necessarily preclude you from admission to the University of Wisconsin Law School.
1. College/University Misconduct:With respect to college, university, professional school, or law school activities, has an honor court, council, or similar body ever formally accused you of misconduct; OR dismissed, dropped, suspended, expelled, disciplined, or placed you on academic or social probation?Please include instances where you were asked to withdraw or allowed to withdraw to avoid any of the above actions.YesNo
2. If your response to the Character and Fitness Question College/University Misconduct is yes, explain in detail the circumstances. (maximum characters 600)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Criminal/Civil/Military Infractions: Have you ever been cited, arrested, charged, convicted or sentenced for any criminal, civil, or ordinance violation, at the federal, state, or local level? This includes, for example, any adult, juvenile, or military violations, as well as any forfeitures.You must answer whether or not the matter was resolved in a conviction, a dismissal, or was resolved at the same or a different level of seriousness as the original violation. You must also answer even if a finding of guilt or sentence was suspended or withheld, or the record was expunged or sealed.You must include all citations and tickets, including traffic tickets, speeding tickets, and moving violations. Only parking violations may be omitted.YesNo
4. If your response to the Character and Fitness Question Criminal/Civil/Military Infractions is yes, explain in detail the circumstances. (maximum characters 600)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Impaired Driving: Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, convicted of, or entered a plea of guilty or no contest to a violation that involved driving under the influence of alcohol or driving under the influence of drugs?YesNo
6. If your response to the Character and Fitness Question Impaired Driving is yes, explain in detail the circumstances. (maximum characters 600)number of characters left is displayed after the field
7. Pending Issues: Are any such issues currently pending, which relate to incidents described previously? Pending issues include, for example, any incident for which you are on probation or under supervision.YesNo
8. If your response to the Character and Fitness Question Pending Issues is yes, explain in detail the circumstances. (maximum characters 600)
Resume
Please provide us with a current résumé.
45 University of Arizona
L50: 163 | G50: 3.76 | Deadline: July 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law is particularly interested in students who will add to the intellectual climate and diverse perspectives of the student body. We therefore require that you include a personal statement (as an electronic attachment) describing any special characteristics, background, or experiences that will help us achieve our goal of a dynamic learning community.
Supporting Information
This section is optional.
Please attach documents providing information that you cannot include elsewhere only in the event that you deem it of critical importance in the evaluation of your admission materials.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
An affirmative response to any of the following questions will not preclude your admission to the University of Arizona Rogers College of Law. If you respond affirmatively, you must attach an electronic statement explaining the circumstances surrounding the incident(s), date(s) involved, and sentence(s) imposed. You must inform the Admissions Office immediately if any events changing your answers to the questions below occur between your submission of this application and your enrollment at the University of Arizona Rogers College of Law.
Please note: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been subject to suspension, dismissal, probation or other disciplinary or academic sanction by any college, university, professional school or professional association? (If yes, you must attach an addendum explaining)YesNo
2. Have you ever been charged with, pled guilty or no contest to, and/or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony (or the equivalent in a military proceeding or juvenile court), or is any such charge currently pending? Please do not include traffic violations, unless they constitute a misdemeanor, felony or involve the use of alcohol or drugs. (If yes, you must attach an addendum fully explaining)YesNo
3. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary sanction by your employer, including dismissal? (If yes, you must attach an addendum explaining)YesNo
4. Do you have any adverse financial history, including but not limited to, bankruptcy, foreclosure, or loan default? (If y es, you must attach an addendum explaining)YesNo
Resume
In addition to academic promise, we assess many qualities, characteristics and experiences in the admissions decision. Your resume is one of the best ways to convey to the admissions committee the range of your work and volunteer experiences, level of expertise and responsibility, and skills and interests.
46 Texas A&M University
L50: 164 | G50: 3.93 | Deadline: May 31, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Attach a personal statement of no more than two (2) double-spaced, typed pages. One of the goals of the Admissions Committee, at Texas A&M University School of Law, when making decisions is to admit a diverse student body that will contribute to a collaborative and progressive learning environment. Academic background and strength of performance, though important, are not the only criteria evaluated in the application process. For this reason, a personal statement, written by you, is required as part of the application. In this statement we seek information about you. Statements about law in general or law and society will not be useful. The statement should illustrate the life experiences and talents that make you unique. You are invited to write about significant obstacles that you have overcome and events in your life that influence your perspective.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay with specific, personal examples.
Addendum
This section is optional.
(OPTIONAL) Please attach document, no longer than one (1) double-spaced, typed page, pertaining to any area of the application for which you would like to provide clarification or additional explanation.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. However, it ca only be one page, so be concise.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Admissions Office of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission, revocation of law degree, or disciplinary action by the School of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
Although an affirmative answer to any or all of the questions below does not necessarily preclude admission to Texas A&M University School of Law, persons who have been convicted of more serious criminal offenses may have difficulty gaining admission to the bar. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. State licensing agencies often require you to include your law school application as part of your application for admission to the bar. Accordingly, your answers to these questions will often be part of your record. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. A Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements, which includes coverage of character and fitness requirements and contact information for each state, is available on the website of the National Conference of Bar Examiners www.ncbex.org.
If your answer to any of the questions in this section is “yes” you must include a separate statement or electronic attachment providing a complete description of your actions and full details of the charges and sanctions against you. For example, to be complete, the statement must include a description of all charges or adjudications, including the level of degree (e.g., 1st degree felony, class A misdemeanor) and whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. You also must include the date(s) of the matter(s), the status or final disposition of the charge(s) with the type of plea, such as, not guilty, no contest, Alford, guilty, probation, or deferred disposition, including your current status with the disciplinary or criminal authorities (for example, the status of your probation or parole), and the name and address of the authority in possession of those records.
It is not necessary to disclose information about a juvenile or criminal record that has been sealed or expunged; however, it is up to you to ensure that your offense is in fact expunged and/or sealed under the relevant state law. Mistaken belief or detrimental reliance upon the advice of a third party (such as an attorney or judge) is no excuse for the failure to disclose a reportable offense that has not actually been expunged or sealed. To ensure that you do not run afoul of this exception, you should obtain a copy of the signed Motion and Order of Expungement from the court in question.
1. Have you been subject to sanction, discipline, or academic action by any academic institution, administrator, professor, or by any entity representing any academic institution, or have you been allowed to withdraw from such an institution to avoid such discipline, whether or not the record of such action was retained in your file? This includes, without limitation, a letter or other written notice of reprimand or warning, suspension, expulsion, adjustment of grade, assignment of community service, any form of academic, disciplinary, or conduct-related probation, or any other adverse action.(You must report any alleged or pending charges, violations, and/or sanctions.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been arrested, cited or ticketed, charged with, convicted of, placed on deferred adjudication, or pled guilty or pled nolo contendere (no contest) to any violation or criminal offense other than a minor traffic violation? Note: You must report any failure to appear resulting from any offense, including a minor traffic offense, any failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance), and any attempt, whether successful or not, to suspend or revoke your driver's license.(You must report any violation involving the use of drugs or alcohol, regardless of the severity of the incident.)YesNo
3. Have you ever been disciplined or reprimanded by any profession or professional organization, had a publicly granted license denied, suspended, or revoked, or had other disciplinary action filed against you?YesNo
4. Have you ever been a party to a bankruptcy (business or personal) or other civil proceeding in which you were alleged to have committed fraud or any type of misrepresentation, engaged in grossly negligent or reckless conduct, or engaged in the willful destruction of property?YesNo
5. Have you ever been confined by any governmental authority because you were determined to be a danger to yourself or others? Note: You do not have to disclose any voluntarily, non-court ordered hospitalization.YesNo
6. Have you ever been subject to administrative or disciplinary proceedings, dismissed, or other than honorably discharged from the armed forces?(If you have never served in any branch of the armed forces, please check “no.”)YesNo
7.Continuing Duty to DisclosePlease note that neither the submission of your application nor matriculation absolves you of your continuing duty to disclose any existing, pending, or new allegation, circumstance, or incident which would require you to answer “Yes” to any of the above Character and Fitness questions. If you discover that you have omitted an incident, or you receive the final disposition of a pending incident, or you are involved in a new incident, you must notify the admissions office immediately. You will be required to submit a written statement providing details regarding the reportable incident.By checking this box, I agree to provide any necessary updates and amendments to the above Character and Fitness questions to the admissions office in a prompt and timely manner.I agree
Resume
Attach a descriptive resume. Please include details about:
- Your educational background, honor societies, scholarships, work history, military service, extracurricular activities, public/community service, honors and awards, publications, foreign language proficiencies, and any other significant achievements and involvements.
- Your work history. Be sure to include the name of the employer or organization, location, dates of employment, position held, general description of duties performed, and any employer recognized achievements.
47 Florida State University
L50: 165 | G50: 3.83 | Deadline: July 31, 2023 | ED: December 15, 2022
LORs: 0 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Personal Statement: Each year, the Admissions Committee receives applications from many more qualified individuals than the law school is able to admit. In making admissions decisions among applicants with comparable LSAT scores and GPAs, the Committee considers a number of other factors. These include: interesting or demanding work or service experience; leadership potential; rigorousness of undergraduate course of study; graduate study; economic need requiring significant employment during college; social or cultural disadvantages; and extraordinary family or personal responsibilities. Your personal statement should discuss any of these factors that you would like the Committee to consider. The statement should be two to three pages in length, typed and double-spaced.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in FSU in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
If you wish to supplement your application with a diversity statement, you may do so with an attachment to your application through LSAC. The statement should not exceed two typed pages, double spaced, using a 12-point font.
This prompt does not interpret diversity either broadly or narrowly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Academic Addendum
This section is optional.
Academic Addendum (optional): You may include an academic addendum, explaining any circumstances that you believe may have negatively affected your undergraduate GPA or performance on the LSAT.
6. Violation of Laws
Indicates a required field.
1. Violation of Law Duty to Disclose: Have you ever been arrested, detained or restrained, given a notice to appear or taken into custody for the violation of a law or ordinance? You should disclose each instance even though the charges may have been dismissed, you were acquitted, adjudication was withheld, or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. However, if your records were expunged pursuant to applicable law, you are not required to answer yes to this question. If your answer to this question is YES, please read the following carefully. You MUST include by electronic attachment to this application a full statement of relevant facts for each incident. In addition to your written account of the incident(s), you MUST furnish the College of Law with copies of all official documents explaining the final disposition of the proceedings. If your answer changes from a NO to a YES after you have submitted your application, you are obligated to notify the Admissions Office of the change and include the written statement and official documentation regarding the incident as part of your application.YesNo
2. Violation of Law Duty to Disclose: Have you ever been arrested, detained or restrained, taken into custody or accused of driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving with an unlawful blood alcohol level or charged with vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide? You should disclose each instance even though the charges may have been dismissed, you were acquitted, adjudication was withheld, or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. However, if your records were expunged pursuant to applicable law, you are not required to answer yes to this question. If your answer to this question is YES, please read the following carefully. You MUST include by electronic attachment to this application a full statement of relevant facts for each incident. In addition to your written account of the incident(s), you MUST furnish the College of Law with copies of all official documents explaining the final disposition of the proceedings. If your answer changes from a NO to a YES after you have submitted your application, you are obligated to notify the Admissions Office of the change and include the written statement and official documentation regarding the incident as part of your application. YesNo
3. Violation of Law Duty to Disclose: Have you ever been charged with a traffic violation that resulted in a fine of $200 or more, charged with a traffic violation that resulted in time spent in jail, or had your driver license or your driving privileges revoked or suspended? You should disclose each instance even though the charges may have been dismissed, you were acquitted, adjudication was withheld, or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. However, if your records were expunged pursuant to applicable law, you are not required to answer yes to this question. If your answer to this question is YES, please read the following carefully. You MUST include by electronic attachment to this application a full statement of relevant facts for each incident. In addition to your written account of the incident(s), you MUST furnish the College of Law with copies of all official documents explaining the final disposition of the proceedings. If your answer changes from a NO to a YES after you have submitted your application, you are obligated to notify the Admissions Office of the change and include the written statement and official documentation regarding the incident as part of your application.YesNo
5. Institutional Discipline
Indicates a required field.
1. Educational Institution Discipline Duty to Disclose: Have you ever been accused of a violation of an honor code or student conduct code, warned, placed on academic, scholastic or disciplinary probation, suspended, requested or advised to discontinue your studies, dropped, expelled, or requested to resign or otherwise subjected to discipline by any college, law school or other post-secondary institution? If your answer to this question is YES, please read the following carefully. You MUST include by electronic attachment to this application a full statement of relevant facts for each incident. In addition to your written account of the incident(s), you MUST furnish the College of Law with copies of all official documents explaining the final disposition of the proceedings. If your answer changes from a NO to a YES after you have submitted your application, you are obligated to notify the Admissions Office of the change and include a written statement and official documentation regarding the incident as part of your application.YesNo
2. Educational Institution Discipline Duty to Disclose: Regardless of whether the record has been cancelled or annulled, or whether no record was made, have you ever been accused of cheating, plagiarism, or other academic dishonesty at any school you attended? If your answer to this question is YES, please read the following carefully. You MUST include by electronic attachment to this application a full statement of relevant facts for each incident. In addition to your written account of the incident(s), you MUST furnish the College of Law with copies of all official documents explaining the final disposition of the proceedings. If your answer changes from a NO to a YES after you have submitted your application, you are obligated to notify the Admissions Office of the change and include a written statement and official documentation regarding the incident as part of your application. YesNo
Resume
A detailed résumé should accompany the application and must be submitted as an attachment.
47 University of Maryland
L50: 163 | G50: 3.71 | Deadline: August 1, 2023 | ED: January 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement. We recommend that you use the personal statement to present to the Admissions Committee information and perspectives regarding your background, experience, special circumstances, and interests that you believe will help the Committee understand your unique story. In addition, the statement should address why you are interested in obtaining a law degree and, more specifically, in attending the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law. The personal statement should be no longer than 750 words, double-spaced.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Univ. of Maryland in particular.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law is committed to promoting diversity in legal education and in the profession as a whole. Toward that end, the Admissions Committee invites applicants to submit a statement explaining how they would contribute meaningfully to the diversity of the law school. For example, your statement may address how characteristics such as, but not limited to, your geographic origin, age, culture and language, or your experience overcoming barriers presented by race, social status, economics or disability demonstrate your capacity to make a special contribution to our law school community. Please limit the length of the statement to 250 words. (Optional Diversity Statement)
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Responding to Character and Fitness Questions in the Application
Please carefully read and respond to the 12 questions in the application that relate to your Character and Fitness for Admission to the Bar. The failure to provide honest and accurate answers to the questions posed below is very serious, often more significant than the act or event requiring disclosure. The questions we ask in this section track the questions that will be asked by many state bar admission authorities.
FAILURE TO DISCLOSE THIS INFORMATION IN A TIMELY MANNER MAY RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE SCHOOL OF LAW AND COULD DELAY OR EVEN PREVENT YOUR ADMISSION TO THE BAR.
For any affirmative answer, please electronically attach a statement marked “Character and Fitness.” Your answer should include the date and location (city, town and state) of each incident, a description of the incident, and a full explanation of the circumstances surrounding – and the resolution of – each event. The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law reserves the right to request additional information from you, including further explanation concerning the incidents in question, court records, documents, or any other relevant information.
Applicants have a continuing duty throughout the application, admission, and enrollment process to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes in the information provided in the application to ensure that it remains complete and accurate. Failure to provide truthful and complete answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the School of Law, and/or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar.
Upload attachment(s) when completing the application form.
1. Have you ever been terminated, suspended, laid off, discharged or permitted to resign in lieu of termination from any employment? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been discharged from the military under conditions other than honorable? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
3. Excluding incidents which may have occurred as a juvenile, have you ever been charged, disciplined, placed on probation, suspended, expelled, or asked to withdraw as a result of a disciplinary or academic violation of any kind by any school, college, or university, whether formally or informally? This includes, but is not limited to, any instances in which you were charged but the charges were ultimately dropped or where you simply received a written warning. (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
4. Excluding incidents which may have occurred as a juvenile, have you ever been charged with a violation of any honor code, ethical code, code of conduct, or code or rules governing academic and/or personal behavior while a student at any school, college, or university? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
5. With regard to the two questions immediately preceding this one, is there any situation involving a disciplinary or academic violation on your part that is currently pending? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
6. Has it ever been determined that you filed false honor code charges or false complaints against fellow students, faculty or staff, or other members of your school, college or university community? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
For purposes of the next two questions, you should include offenses that resulted in purged, sealed, obliterated, dismissed, expunged, or destroyed records, regardless of whether you have been told that you need not disclose any such event. This includes traffic offenses of all kinds, with the exception of the occasional parking ticket. This information will also be requested by state bar authorities in many states. If you are not sure about the nature or the ultimate disposition of a particular charge, you are advised to make full disclosure, as a subsequent finding that you failed to disclose relevant information could have disqualifying consequences. The failure to disclose an act or event is often more significant, and can lead to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the School of Law, and/or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar.
7. Excluding offenses committed as a juvenile, have you ever been arrested or charged, formally or informally, and without regard to the result, with a violation of any law? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
8. Are any charges pending or expected to be brought against you for the violation of any law? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
. Are you in default on any financial obligation for any student loans or to any college or university? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
10. Has your driver's license ever been suspended or revoked? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
11. Are you currently deferring enrollment at a law school that requires a commitment not to apply elsewhere? (If yes, please attach an explanation of the circumstances, including relevant details.)YesNo
12. Have you ever attended a law school? If yes, provide the name of the school and reason for leaving in a separate statement.YesNo
Resume
Submit a résumé or curriculum vitae detailing your education, employment, skills, honors, awards and accomplishments.
49 University of Colorado—Boulder
L50: 164 | G50: 3.72 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
At Colorado Law, we seek students who advance our core values of character, diversity, leadership, and commitment to service, and will contribute to our mission to be an outstanding public law school that provides students with a state-of-the-art legal education and prepares them to serve wisely and with professionalism; advances the development of knowledge through scholarship, testing of new ideas, and challenges to the status quo; and serves as a vehicle and catalyst for meaningful public service – all of which deliver high value to our students and have positive impacts, both locally and globally, on the legal profession and society.
Please write a personal statement explaining how you can contribute to the values of Colorado Law. You may also discuss any other factors that you think may assist the Admission Committee's evaluation of your application, such as: background information; experiences, talents or special interests; adversities you have overcome; and your reasons for applying to the University of Colorado Law School.
The personal statement is an opportunity for us to get to know you. Be authentic and share information about yourself that is not available in other components of your application (without restating your resume). We’re also looking for evidence that you can communicate effectively. Be sure to write clearly and concisely, taking extra care to avoid misspellings, grammar issues, and other errors.
Your essay must be in your own words, double-spaced, and should not exceed 1,000 words.
Please attach your personal statement electronically to your application.
Optional Statements
Optional Statement:
You may submit an optional statement on any one or more of the following: (a) aspects of your upbringing, life experiences, work or service experiences, or education that you believe set you apart from most law school applicants; (b) economic disadvantage or other obstacles you have overcome in pursuing your education or career thus far and in applying to law school; and (c) how your diversity (diversity can be broadly defined as racial/ethnic, sexual orientation, gender, socioeconomic status, veteran status, or other forms of diversity) will add to our community.
You do not need to talk about information you included in your personal statement. This additional statement is an opportunity for you to share more information about yourself that doesn't appear elsewhere. This statement is optional.
Your optional statement must be in your own words, double-spaced, and not exceed 500 words.
Please attach your optional statement electronically to your application.
Addenda:
You may attach addenda as necessary to explain items in your application about which we may have questions.
All addenda must be in your own words and double-spaced.
Please attach addenda electronically to your application.
Character and Fitness
Please answer fully and accurately the following character and fitness questions. If you have any questions as to how to answer these questions, please first refer to our web page. If you still have questions please email our Assistant Dean of Admissions. Failure to fully and accurately answer these questions may result in expulsion or other disciplinary action by Colorado Law. There are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. You are encouraged to determine what those requirements are in the jurisdiction in which you intend to practice by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. As a part of your application for admission to the bar, many states will review your answers to these questions and may require additional information during their determination of your fitness to practice law.
1. Have you ever been warned for any disciplinary or academic reason, placed on disciplinary or academic probation, suspended, requested or advised to discontinue your studies, dropped, expelled or requested to resign, or otherwise subjected to discipline by any school, college, university, law school, or other post-secondary institution? Include, for example, any warnings or discipline for violation of school or dormitory policies related to alcohol or controlled substances.
-
Have you ever been accused of a violation of an honor code or student conduct code?
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Have you ever been investigated, arrested, cited for, charged with, or convicted of any alcohol or drug-related offenses? Include any traffic or other violations that involved alcohol or drugs, as well as any minor in possession or open container charges.
Include all matters that have been dismissed for any reason, subject to a diversion or a deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. You do not need to disclose any incident (including a juvenile one) that ended in the sealing or expungement of the incident by a court. Expungement or sealing of a record is different than a dismissal as it is conducted by a court and results in a court order. -
Have you ever been, in the last five years, investigated, arrested, cited for, charged with, or convicted for any traffic violation? Exclude violations disclosed in the previous question and any parking tickets.
Include all matters that have been dismissed for any reason, subject to a diversion or a deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. You do not need to disclose any incident (including a juvenile one) that ended in the sealing or expungement of the incident by a court. Expungement or sealing of a record is different than a dismissal as it is conducted by a court and results in a court order. -
Have you ever been investigated, arrested, cited for, charged with, convicted, imprisoned, or placed on probation or parole for any offense against the law? Exclude violations disclosed in the previous two questions.
Include all matters that have been dismissed for any reason, subject to a diversion or a deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. You do not need to disclose any incident (including a juvenile one) that ended in the sealing or expungement of the incident by a court. Expungement or sealing of a record is different than a dismissal as it is conducted by a court and results in a court order.
Résumé
Please attach a current résumé. Please show volunteer activities as well as work experience. It is also helpful to include the number of hours per week that you participated in an activity, club, or job. You do not need to include any high school activities or sports unless they are particularly relevant to your current goals.
49 University of Washington
L50: 164 | G50: 3.67 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
UW Mission Statement
The University of Washington School of Law aspires to be the best public law school in the nation and one of the world’s most respected centers for interdisciplinary legal studies. We strive to be leaders by shaping and defending just and sustainable laws and policies through our scholarly discovery, ethical advocacy, inspired teaching, and generous public service.
Personal Statement
At the University of Washington School of Law, the primary goal of the admissions process is to enroll students who demonstrate outstanding academic, professional, and leadership promise; are committed to generous public service and ethical advocacy; and who have background and experiences that will enhance the diversity of the student body, thereby enriching the law school educational environment. As such, applicants are invited to write a personal statement that describes their potential contributions to our vibrant community.
Please limit your response to 700 words.
Applicants may include the following factors in their personal statement or the optional supplemental statement: perseverance against substantial obstacles; socio or economic disadvantage; family or personal adversity; social hardships; disability; prejudice or discrimination; leadership potential; studying or living abroad; foreign language skills; special talents; unique life experiences; or geographic diversity.
Supplemental Statement
(Optional) Supplemental Statement
Applicants may supplement their personal statement by including a response to one (1) of the following optional questions:
- Why are you interested in pursuing your legal education at the University of Washington?
- What life events or experiences have had the greatest influence in shaping your character and why?
- If you were asked to create a non-profit organization, what would be the organization, its mission, and its purpose?
Please limit your response to 500 words.
Addendum
Applicants may include an addendum explaining any reason(s) for grade point average trends and/or LSAT score discrepancies. Please limit any addendum attachments to one (1) page.
Character and Fitness
If the answer to either question below is yes, you must explain fully on a separate attachment. Note: For criminal matters, the entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. It is the applicant's duty to notify the Office of Admissions & Financial Aid immediately of any and all circumstances and events that may occur from the date the application is submitted to the first day of enrollment that may change the initial response to either of the following questions. All students also have a continuing obligation to disclose immediately to the law school any and all circumstances and events occurring after the first day of enrollment until the date of their graduation which may bear on their character and fitness to practice law.
1. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or scholastic probation, placed on disciplinary probation, expelled, requested to withdraw, or allowed to withdraw in lieu of discipline from any college or university, or otherwise subjected to discipline by any such institution or requested or advised by any such institution to discontinue your studies there? NOTE: This question is similar to questions that will appear on state bar applications.
If you answered "yes" to question (1) regarding Character and Fitness, please explain fully on a separate electronic attachment. Note: For criminal matters, the entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. It is the applicant's duty to notify the Office of Admissions & Financial Aid immediately of any and all circumstances and events that may occur from the date the application is submitted to the first day of enrollment that may change the initial response to either of the questions. All students also have a continuing obligation to disclose immediately to the law school any and all circumstances and events occurring after the first day of enrollment until the date of their graduation which may bear on their character and fitness to practice law.
- Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted for any violation of any law including any cases resolved in juvenile court? Include matters that have been sealed or dismissed, expunged, pardoned, subject to a diversion or deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. Omit traffic violations. NOTE: this question is simiar to questions that will appear on state bar applications.
If you answered "yes" to question (2) regarding Character and Fitness, please explain fully on a separate electronic attachment. Note: For criminal matters, the entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. It is the applicant's duty to notify the Office of Admissions & Financial Aid immediately of any and all circumstances and events that may occur from the date the application is submitted to the first day of enrollment that may change the initial response to either of the questions. All students also have a continuing obligation to disclose immediately to the law school any and all circumstances and events occurring after the first day of enrollment until the date of their graduation which may bear on their character and fitness to practice law.
Résumé
Please provide a résumé detailing any significant vocational, non-vocational, extracurricular or community activities, volunteer work, honors, awards, any service in the Armed Forces, job descriptions and major areas of responsibility, along with dates of employment (mm/yyyy) and the number of hours per week devoted to such activities, publications, or other information that you believe the University of Washington School of Law should consider in evaluating your application. Also please include details as to any foreign language proficiencies you possess, including the level of ability with regard to speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing.
Your résumé may not exceed three (3) typewritten pages.
51 University of California (Hastings)
L50: 160 | G50: 3.59 | Deadline: June 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit an essay on any pertinent topic. While there is no word limit, your statement will be evaluated for clarity, content, and skill of presentation. It is to your advantage to convey information and views that are important to you, and that you believe should be weighed in considering your application for admission.
This is an open-ended prompt.
Other Addenda
Other addenda can be attached here, if desired.
LEOP Addendum
On a separate electronic attachment, write out and answer all questions that are applicable to you. Questions not answered will be assumed not to pertain to you. This supplemental information will be used to evaluate your claim of significant adversity and to determine whether to offer admission. Your application to the LEOP program will not be considered without this information. If your claim of significant adversity does not meet LEOP admissions requirements, your application will automatically be considered for general admission by the Admissions Office.
- Describe the financial situation of your family from birth to college entry. Please include sources of income, income estimates, number of household wage earners, and number of dependents. Please describe any unusual expenses.
- Please describe the occupation(s) and the educational background(s) of the person(s) who raised you.
- Describe your early educational experiences through high school. Discuss the expectation level of and support for educational and career achievement in your family and community. What impact, if any, did it have on your education?
- Please list your source(s) of financial support in college by approximate percentage: Family: Employment: Loans: Grants/scholarships: Other assistance:
- Describe any paid or unpaid test preparation, academic support, or tutorial services you have used since elementary school.
- Identify and describe the community(ies) in which you resided from birth to age of college entry. Describe any bias you faced as a member of such community(ies) and explain what impact, if any, it had on your academic performance.
- Are you an immigrant or the child of immigrant parents? If yes, please include the country of origin, year of arrival in the U.S., and the reason for immigrating.
- If English is not your first language, how old were you when you first learned English? Was English the primary language spoken in your home?
- Have you had any learning or physical disability that may have adversely affected your academic performance? Please indicate what accommodations, if any, you were provided in high school and college. If possible, please include supporting documentation of your disability and/or accommodations.
II. LEOP STATEMENT (Optional)
Please submit a statement in which you identify and describe in detail the challenges and obstacles that you have faced and the impact they may have had on your academic preparation. The obstacles may be cultural, economic, educational, familial, geographic, linguistic, or social in nature. Include specific information on what you have done to meet and/or overcome these challenges that are not evidenced by your responses to the LEOP Supplemental questions above or in the general personal statement.
We strongly encourage students to consider answering these questions.
Character Questions
You must answer all of the character questions in this section of the application. A "yes" answer does not disqualify you from admission, but an explanation must be provided for each "yes" answer. Additionally, if you answer "yes" to the last three questions in this section, you should consult the rules and regulations of the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State in which you wish to practice the law to determine if there is anything that may affect your eligibility for admission to the bar.
Have you ever enrolled in a law program at any other ABA accredited institution? Yes/No
Have you ever been subject to dismissal, suspension, probation or other academic or disciplinary sanction, been found to have violated a conduct or honor code, or been warned by any college or university or professional school? Yes/No
Have you ever been discharged, rejected during probation, or have you ever resigned under pressure or unfavorable circumstances from any employment? Do not include a layoff that was caused by the employer's financial situation. Yes/No
Have you ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, or is any such charge now pending against you? For purposes of this question, a conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, or a verdict or finding of guilt, regardless of whether sentence is imposed by a court. Traffic violations which must be reported under this question include Failure to Appear, Driving Without a License, Driving with a Suspended License, and Reckless Driving, as well as all traffic violations that resulted in a misdemeanor or felony conviction. You need not answer “yes” because of an arrest that did not result in a conviction as long as the charges are no longer being adjudicated. You need not answer “yes” for any arrest or conviction that has been sealed, expunged, dismissed, or set aside. Yes/No
Resume
Please provide a résumé which includes all significant employment, internships, memberships, and professional and volunteer activities during and after college. Include any honors, awards or other recognition (scholastic, collegiate, extracurricular, or community) you have received and the basis for your selection. Include dates of participation. Be sure to account for all significant blocks of time since the completion of your undergraduate degree, including your activities this year while applying to law school. Please limit to two pages.
Please note their specific request to address blocks of time since your graduation (if relevant).
52 Pepperdine University
L50: 164 | G50: 3.85 | Deadline: February 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please include a brief personal statement indicating your reasons for wanting to study law, why you chose to apply to Pepperdine Caruso Law, significant extracurricular activities, and any further information which you feel should be considered by the Admissions Committee.
Pepperdine maintains a strong commitment to diversity stemming from its Christian heritage and seeks to admit students from a variety of academic, cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is through the inclusion of others from diverse points of view and experiences that one often begins to see dimensions of truth previously unseen. In your personal statement, you may choose to reflect on your life experiences with an emphasis on how the perspectives you have acquired would contribute to the diversity of Pepperdine Caruso Law.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Pepperdine in particular. They want diversity statements to be included as part of the personal statement.
Optional Mission Response
This section is optional.
Optional
Mission Statement
Pepperdine is a Christian university committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service, and leadership. Caruso Law’s dedication to our Christian mission drives a deep desire to embody and imbue in our students the highest standards of ethics and morality. We are proud to have a strong Christian faculty that also includes several professors from other faiths. We welcome students of all faiths, as well as students who are not part of any faith tradition. Our complete mission and vision can be found here. Please share with the Admissions Committee how you would contribute to this unique community.
This essay is optional
Addendum
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL - Please use this space if you need to add supplemental information not already disclosed elsewhere in your application. Diversity statements should be included as part of the personal statement (see instructions).
This addendum prompt could be used for a GPA addendum, LSAT addendum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
The following information must be completed before your file can be evaluated.
If you answer "YES" to any of the four questions, attach a statement or an electronic attachment giving details and return it with this application.
Should your response to any of the four questions change at any time during the course of your application, after you have been placed on the wait list, or after you have been offered admission, you must immediately inform the Office of Admissions in writing and update your application accordingly.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Has academic or disciplinary action been taken against you at any college, university, or law school you have attended?YesNo
2. Have you been charged, cited, prosecuted, or convicted of any crime for an offense other than a misdemeanor or minor traffic violation? Include any instance of drunk driving whether a felony, misdemeanor, or minor traffic violation. You need not report any arrest, conviction or other proceeding in which the record has been ordered or is required to be sealed, dismissed, obliterated, or otherwise expunged. YesNo
3. Have you ever been a party to or are you presently a party to any civil action or administrative proceeding? (This does not include divorce or dissolution.) YesNo
4. Do you know of any matter which might otherwise adversely affect your admission to this school or the Bar?YesNo
Resume
Please attach a résumé including record of employment, scholastic honors, extracurricular activities, and community involvement.
52 University of Richmond
L50: 163 | G50: 3.75 | Deadline: June 1, 2023 | ED: December 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A short personal statement (approximately 1 - 3 double-spaced pages) is required. We encourage you to provide information about yourself not otherwise found in your application. For example, you may wish to highlight your background, personal or cultural factors, achievements, obstacles overcome, goals, or experiences that you believe would contribute to the diversity of the law school community.
In an info session, the presenter said that the best PS’s he’d ever encountered weren’t about law (hiking the Appalachian trail, baking cookies, learning how to play an ancient Afghan drum), but they did “stick the landing,” i.e. make the link to law.
Additional Statement
This section is optional.
Richmond Law considers whether a student comes from an underprivileged socioeconomic background, is a first-generation college student, has a disability or is from a group underrepresented in the legal profession. We encourage any additional statements you wish to provide.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you would like to include an addendum to address any other factors you have not already addressed, you are welcome to use an addendum for that purpose.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. I acknowledge the above text.
2. Have you been placed on academic probation at any college or university?YesNo
3. If yes, please list the dates of your probation:
4. Are you currently/have you ever been subject to disciplinary action/charges at any college or university? If yes, in an attachment, please list the charges, describe the discipline and the circumstances (see Attachments section).YesNo
5. Other than minor traffic violations, have you ever been arrested for any violation of the law? If yes, in an attachment, name the offense and the date, and describe the circumstances (see Attachments section). This would include arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance. Note: You must disclose the information requested in this question even if you received a deferred prosecution, a suspended imposition of sentence, the conviction was stayed or vacated, or the record (including but not limited to proceedings in juvenile court, family court, or any court of general jurisdiction) was expunged.YesNo
6. Are there any criminal charges currently pending against you? If yes, in an attachment, please name the offense and describe the circumstances (see Attachments section).YesNo
7. Are you now or have you ever been investigated or subject to discipline by any professional licensing board or body? If yes, please explain in an attachment (see Attachments section).YesNo
Résumé
The résumé may be of any length and should provide chronological information about your academic background, work experiences, extracurricular or charitable activities, and accomplishments.
52 Yeshiva University (Cardozo)
L50: 164 | G50: 3.74 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit via electronic attachment a personal statement of no more than two typed, double-spaced pages in which you may bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee anything about yourself that you believe to be relevant to the admissions decision. Your statement should include any factors that you deem important to the Committee’s evaluation of your candidacy, including for instance, personal and family matters; educational background, talents and experiences; or reasons for applying to law school as they may relate to your personal or professional goals. (Please include your full name in the right corner of the top margin of your personal statement.)
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should consider explaining why you’re going to law school by the end of t he essay, and why you’re interested in Cardozo in particular.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
If you would like to add an additional statement or essay regarding any personal characteristics or any other factors (economic, social, physical, educational, or cultural) that you would like the Admissions Committee to consider when reviewing your application, we invite you to share them in this Optional Essay. Please include your full name in the right corner of the top margin of your essay.
This is an opportunity to talk about non-traditional diversity factors, obstacles, and background.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
If the answer to any of the questions in this Character and Fitness section is "yes," please submit a full descriptive statement. If you wish to provide additional information, you may do so via an electronic attachment. Answering "yes" to any of the questions below does not preclude admission to the Law School.
1. Was your undergraduate or graduate study interrupted for one or more terms for any reason?YesNo
2. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Have you been placed on academic probation or been required to withdraw from any school for academic reasons?YesNo
4. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action for academic or other reasons at any of the colleges or graduate schools you have attended? This should include any or all disciplinary matters, including those relating to university housing, regardless of whether you have satisfied any sanctions applied. Also include all matters that have been sealed or expunged. YesNo
6. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
7. Are there any disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
8. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
9. Either as an adult or juvenile, have you ever been convicted of, or pled guilty or no contest to, a violation of any law other than a minor traffic violation such as a parking or speeding violation? (You should include convictions or pleas that were sealed, expunged and/or subject to a diversionary program.) Traffic violations that occurred more than ten years before the filing of this application need not be reported, with the exception of alcohol or drug-related traffic violations, which must be reported in all cases irrespective of when they occurred. YesNo
10. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
11. Are any such charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
12. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
13. Have you ever been prohibited or suspended from practicing in any professional capacity due to or as a result of alleged misconduct on your part?YesNo
14. If you answered "yes", please provide a thorough explanation in the text box below. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Resume
In addition to answering the questions in the Employment Section, please submit a copy of your résumé via an electronic attachment.
55 Tulane University
L50: 161 | G50: 3.60 | Deadline: August 1, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please write an essay about yourself or about a significant experience you have had.
You should use this as an opportunity to provide information not provided elsewhere that you believe should be taken into account by the Committee on Admission. This essay should reflect solely your own work. Although neither a minimum nor a maximum, a suggested length is 2 to 3 double-spaced, typed, pages. Statements that are significantly shorter or longer than this guideline should demonstrate exceptional writing and editing skills.
Your essay should be used to provide information about yourself that you consider significant to our evaluation of your file. General essays about the justice system or your perceived character strengths are not particularly useful or helpful to your chances for admission, nor do we recommend that you simply repeat information provided elsewhere in your application.
We want to learn what makes you tick and why you are someone we should want to enroll at Tulane. We are interested in learning about those of your qualities that would be valuable to the legal profession, the law school classroom, and the community. You may wish to describe a significant experience in your life or to discuss your interest in or motivation for attending law school.
Avoid using your essay to explain problems with your academic, LSAT, or conduct record, but do ensure that these matters are addressed—preferably in the optional “GPA/LSAT Addendum”.We know that you can't tell your life story in 2-3 pages. Don't try to. A strong personal statement is one where we learn something about you, but also want to learn more. Share with us a complete story or experience, but avoid feeling like you must tell us all of your stories and experiences.
This prompt is mostly open-ended but they really emphasize writing about an experience that is specifically significant to you.
Diversity
This section is optional.
Tulane Law School is proud of its diverse student body. Students, faculty, and staff with a range of backgrounds , identities, and experiences create an atmosphere at the Law School where every individual is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to succeed. If you wish to include an optional statement of how you would contribute to this culture and you feel that have not sufficiently addressed this topic in your personal statement or other material , you may include an optional statement here.
This optional statement would also be the appropiate place to discuss any economic, cultural, social or educational factors that have presented obstacles that you have had to overcome (assuming that you wish the Committee on Admission to consider such factors in evaluating your application).
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
GPA/LSAT Addendum
This section is optional.
You have the option to attach a supplemental statement, in addition to your Personal Statement, that describes any experiences or circumstances (including any physical and/or psychological difficulties) not mentioned elsewhere in this application that might have adversely affected any previous objective measures of academic performance. You may also addresss any factors that may have adversely affected standardized testing results. If you choose to discuss these circumstances, what would be most helpful to our Admissions Committee is understanding whether these circumstances still prevail today and, if so, how would this affect your success in a law school program.
We ask that you do not simply reference/refer to information you may provide in other attachments to your application. Even if the nature of the explanation is related to circumstances provided in other attachments, write your response as if this were a stand-alone document.
We emphasize that this statement is truly optional, and there is no expectation that you share this information if you are uncomfortable and/or choose not to be public about your conditions or status. We simply are creating this space to do so without needing to use space in your personal statement.
We strongly encourage you to respond to this essay.
Extracurricular Activity
This section is optional.
If there are significant college or graduate school activities (clubs, organizations, community involvements, family responsibilities, etc.) that were not listed in the required Résumé attachment, you should use this optional document to list and/or describe your commitments in detail, including any awards or honors earned and/or accomplishments achieved.
This is optional, but we offer this space in case you feel your resume would be less organized by including this information. Many candidates with significant work experience who do not wish to include college or graduate activites find that this optional attachment may help to better organize their resume submission.
Interest in Tulane
This section is optional.
Optional (but helpful for those seeing the most comprehensive consideration for admission and scholarship): Please tell us why you are currently interested in attending Tulane Law School.
You may use a few sentences, a few paragraphs, or (when well written) a few pages. While this question is optional, please understand that answering this question will improve your chances of admission and/or consideration for our highest scholarship awards, and failure to answer this question may be a factor in determining admission and scholarship eligibility.
- For some applicants, the answer to this question may have more to do with the city of New Orleans than Tulane Law itself. This is entirely acceptable. (We love our hometown!) Help us better understand your own future goals and how study in New Orleans might advance your personal educational objectives, career interests, passion for the law, etc.
- We understand that not all applicants know with absolute certainty if Tulane is the right fit for them when they apply. Maybe you've never been lucky enough to visit Tulane or New Orleans before. If this describes you, simply tell us why Tulane looks like a possible fit for you based on what you know so far. You may also let us know what programs you might be interested in learning about more in depth if you are offered admission. (This information is helpful for the admissions staff in connecting you with members of our community that will be of interest to you.)
10. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. The Tulane Law School Admission Committee requires complete disclosure regarding any violation or alleged violation of law (including traffic offenses) and regarding any university disciplinary actions, including a fully descriptive narrative of the event or events. In some cases, committee members may request additional information and/or supporting documentation. State bar character and fitness committees require bar applicants to provide such detail, and bar examiners compare the candidate's disclosure on law school applications with bar application disclosures after a background check that includes purged, sealed, and dismissed actions. The failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described in the questions below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admission of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the Law School, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar.In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.We strongly urge, if you are unsure as to whether to make a disclosure, that you err on the side of disclosure. We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions about what you are required to disclose. Please note also that it is your responsibility to update your application by notifying the Tulane Admission Office if any criminal charges or disciplinary actions are filed or expected to be filed between the date you submit this application and the date you enroll at Tulane. Further, students have a continuing duty to supplement their responses to questions in the admission application concerning disciplinary action, arrests, convictions (whether or not sentence was imposed), pleas of guilty or nolo contendere, or violation or alleged violation of any law while enrolled at Tulane.I have read the paragraphs above.
2. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action (for scholastic or other reasons) in any of the colleges, universities, graduate or professional schools you have attended? This includes being dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, or requested or advised to resign from any postsecondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school.YesNo
If your answer to either question concerning disciplinary action is yes, please electronically attach a statement marked "Character/Fitness: School" with an explanation of the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, the disciplinary action(s), or any pending action. Be sure to provide the dates of the events you are disclosing, along with a full description of what took place.
3. Have you ever been charged with, arrested for, convicted of, pled guilty or nolo contendere for a violation of any law? For purposes of questions 4 and 5, you should include offenses that resulted in purged, sealed, obliterated, dismissed, or destroyed records, regardless of whether you have been told that you need not disclose any such event, including traffic offenses. These will also be requested by state bar authorities in many states. If you are not sure about the nature or the ultimate disposition of a particular charge, you are advised to make full disclosure, as a subsequent finding that you failed to disclose relevant information could have disqualifying consequences.YesNo
If your answer to either question concerning violations of the law is yes, please electronically attach a statement marked "Character/Fitness: Legal" with a full explanation of the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, your arrest or conviction, or any pending charges. Be sure to provide the dates of the events you are disclosing along with a full description of what took place.
4. Have you ever been discharged from any employment or requested or permitted to resign in lieu of disciplinary action? Or, in connection with your employment, have you ever been subject to any formal or informal charges of improper behavior that had any part in your quitting, being permitted to resign, being discharged or resulting in a suspension, demotion or loss of pay? Or, in connection with work requiring licensure, have you ever been disciplined as a member of any licensed profession or occupation including, but not limited to, being suspended from practice, reprimanded, censured, disqualified, revoked, permitted to resign, admonished, sanctioned or removed, or have any complaints or charges, formal or informal, ever been made or filed or proceedings instituted against you in such capacity?(You need not answer this question in the affirmative if a work discharge was not connected to disciplinary action or charges of improper behavior.)YesNo
5. If you currently hold, or have ever held, a professional or occupational license of any kind, please list the license(s), dates held, and the jurisdiction or authority that issued the license. If you have not held such a license, please simply respond "N/A".required (maximum characters 250)number of characters left is displayed after the field
If your answer to the question concerning employment/professional discipline is yes, please electronically attach a statement marked "Character/Fitness: Employment" with a full explanation of the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, your discipline and/or resignation/discharge. Be sure to provide the dates of the events you are disclosing along with a full description of what took place.
Résumé
Please electronically attach a current résumé. Your résumé should include, at a minimum,
*all post-secondary educational institutions you attended
*all paid employment of any kind, post-secondary school
*all volunteer or internship placements, post-secondary school
*special skills and talents (i.e. language ability, professional certifications, professional licensure, etc.)
Be sure to provide dates for each entry, and if part-time, indicate average hours per-week.
Extracurricular activities (i.e. athletic teams, leadership in clubs/organizations) may appear on the resume, or they may be included in the separate "Extracurricular Activity" attachment. (This is completely up to you, but we offer this option so you can best organize and represent your accomplishments.)
56 Villanova University
L50: 163 | G50: 3.76 | Deadline: July 1, 2023 | ED: March 15, 2023, December 15, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Attach a two-to-three page (double-spaced) personal statement with your application. You may select any topic you wish.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Villanova in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
Villanova Law welcomes, but does not require, a diversity statement, which can help us learn more about our applicants and how they would contribute to our classrooms and community. If you choose to submit a diversity statement, please discuss any factors or attributes you consider important and relevant but be mindful not to repeat key aspects of your background and experiences already covered elsewhere in your application. Historically, applicants have discussed information about factors including, but not limited to, race/ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, disability, first generation college or professional school status, being a nontraditional student/student parent, geographic diversity, ideological diversity, etc.
Optional Essay #2
This section is optional.
The admissions process consists of a fair and comprehensive review of all applicants to determine potential success at Villanova Law and the legal profession. Admission assessment will consider all achievements, both academic and non-academic, to enroll students with a broad range of characteristics and perspectives. Considerations include, but are not limited to: academic achievement, leadership and collaboration potential, ability to learn from experience, service to the community, ability to address systemic shortcomings, substantial experience with other cultures, and goal-setting.
Therefore, applicants are encouraged to write an optional essay (no longer than 2 pages) to better express their qualifications, talents, perspectives, and goals. Please feel free to incorporate one of the following five topics into an optional essay.
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Leadership and Collaboration1. : Villanova Law alumni are leaders at all levels of business, government, and civil society. Describe examples of your leadership or collaborative experience in which you significantly influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
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Project Management: Villanova Law alumni are frequently called upon to organize and manage complex projects to meet their clients' needs. Describe any project management experience or training that you have. Note the complexity and duration of the project.
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Overcoming Adversity: Villanova Law students and alumni demonstrate valuable strengths—such as persistence, resourcefulness, and work-ethic—when faced with considerable challenges. When have you been challenged, when did you fail, when were you convinced you lost? How did you resolve and overcome it?
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Businesses That Do Good: Villanova Law's commitment to be a place "Where Law Meets Business" is not only a reference to conventional industry and commerce, but also reflects a concern for the business aspects of non-profit organizations. Describe your involvement with the business, marketing, or financial matters of any non-profit organization with which you have worked.
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Empathizing With Others: Villanova Law alumni are advocates for their clients. Describe a time you were faced with having to empathize and act to protect someone from a completely different circumstance or life background that you have had yourself. Describe what experience, values, or personal characteristics you believe would help you be a strong advocate for clients facing adversity.
We strongly encourage you to respond to answer at least one of these topics if you are able/applicable.
Optional Essay #1
This section is optional.
The admissions process consists of a fair and comprehensive review of all applicants to determine potential success at Villanova Law and the legal profession. Admission assessment will consider all achievements, both academic and non-academic, to enroll students with a broad range of characteristics and perspectives. Considerations include, but are not limited to: academic achievement, leadership and collaboration potential, ability to learn from experience, service to the community, ability to address systemic shortcomings, substantial experience with other cultures, and goal-setting.
Therefore, applicants are encouraged to write an optional essay (no longer than 2 pages) to better express their qualifications, talents, perspectives, and goals. Please feel free to incorporate one of the following five topics into an optional essay.
-
Leadership and Collaboration: Villanova Law alumni are leaders at all levels of business, government, and civil society. Describe examples of your leadership or collaborative experience in which you significantly influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
-
Project Management: Villanova Law alumni are frequently called upon to organize and manage complex projects to meet their clients' needs. Describe any project management experience or training that you have. Note the complexity and duration of the project.
-
Overcoming Adversity: Villanova Law students and alumni demonstrate valuable strengths—such as persistence, resourcefulness, and work-ethic—when faced with considerable challenges. When have you been challenged, when did you fail, when were you convinced you lost? How did you resolve and overcome it?
-
Businesses That Do Good: Villanova Law's commitment to be a place "Where Law Meets Business" is not only a reference to conventional industry and commerce, but also reflects a concern for the business aspects of non-profit organizations. Describe your involvement with the business, marketing, or financial matters of any non-profit organization with which you have worked.
-
Empathizing With Others: Villanova Law alumni are advocates for their clients. Describe a time you were faced with having to empathize and act to protect someone from a completely different circumstance or life background that you have had yourself. Describe what experience, values, or personal characteristics you believe would help you be a strong advocate for clients facing adversity.
We strongly encourage you to respond to answer at least one of these topics if you are able/applicable.
Optional Addendum #2
This section is optional.
If needed, please attach any additional documents you wish to include in your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Optional Addendum #1
This section is optional.
If needed, please attach any additional documents you wish to include in your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Additional Information
- Villanova Law welcomes all to its community, regardless of race, sex, religion or creed, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, economic status, or disability. We actively recruit excellent students from diverse backgrounds. If you would like the Committee to consider any economic, cultural, or social factors that have had an impact on your identity, please attach a separate statement or submit a relevant optional essay. (maximum characters 1000)
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
If any question below is left unanswered, your application may be denied at the sole discretion of the law school. If any question below is answered yes, give full details of all of the circumstances surrounding your answer on an electronic attachment. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Has your college, university, graduate, or professional school attendance been interrupted for one or more terms for any reason?YesNo
2. Have you ever been subjected to adverse academic action (including warning, probation, suspension, or dismissal) by any academic institution for any reason? Disclosure is to be made even if academic action has been expunged from the records of the academic institution.YesNo
3. Have you ever been subjected to disciplinary action (including probation, suspension, or dismissal but not "detention") by any academic institution (other than elementary or middle school) for any reason? Disclosure is to be made even if disciplinary action has been expunged from the records of the academic institution.YesNo
4. Are there any disciplinary, academic, or criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
5. Since the age of 18, have you ever been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any crime by a law enforcement agency, other than a minor traffic violation (i.e., parking or speeding citations) that has not been subsequently expunged?YesNo
6. Between the ages of 14 and 18, were you ever adjudicated delinquent of or pleaded guilty to a crime involving serious bodily injury to another person?YesNo
7. Have you ever been dismissed, discharged, or requested to resign by an employer?YesNo
Resume
Attach a copy of your current résumé.
56 University of Tennessee
L50: 160 | G50: 3.76 | Deadline: August 9, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement provides an opportunity for you to present information on your life experiences that have shaped and formed your view of the world around you, your motivation to join the legal profession, and/or any other pertinent information about you that you would like to share with the Admissions Committee that is not available elsewhere in your application. It should give us a clear picture of the person you are and how you may contribute to the quality of classroom discussions. Varying opinions make for a better overall education experience. The personal statement should be two pages, double spaced and composed by you.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Univ. of Tennessee in particular.
Optional Diversity
This section is optional.
Our society is best served when the classroom reflects the wide-ranging, multifaceted, and characterful nature of the people within it. In addition to recruiting students who demonstrate exceptional academic and professional potential, the Admissions Committee purposefully seeks to enrich the classroom and to ensure a superior educational environment through actively recruiting a diverse student body. We encourage you to attach a brief (optional) statement that may be helpful to us in reaching a thoughtful and informed decision on how your personal background will contribute to the diversity at UT Law.
Ways in which you can potentially contribute to student diversity include:
- Living in a foreign country or speaking a foreign language;
- Experiencing any form of prejudice, disadvantage, or hardship as a result of your disability, socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation or religious affiliation; or
- Any other way in which your experience would not ordinarily be well-represented in the student body because of cultural or social background.
This list is by no means all-inclusive, but we offer it to help you consider if writing a diversity statement is appropriate for you.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addenda
This section is optional.
You may submit multiple addenda to provide any additional information that you believe would help our Admissions Committee evaluate your application. For statements containing more than one topic, address each on separate pages and include a description header on each page.
These are optional/if applicable
Time After College
Indicates a required field.
1. If it has been more than three months since you attended or graduated from an educational institution, or if you discontinued your education for a significant period of time, please describe in detail what you have been doing, or did, in the interval (employment, military service, traveling, family responsibilities, etc.). (maximum characters 500)
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1.In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.Note: Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, character evaluations are conducted of all applicants for admission to a state bar. State requirements vary, and you should obtain information about qualifications for admission to the bar of the state where you intend to practice. Similarly, failure to provide complete and truthful answers to these questions may result in revocation of admission or other disciplinary action. In addition, state bar examiners will conduct background investigations prior to your admission to the bar. Therefore, you are advised to check transcripts and/or consult with school officials holding disciplinary records before answering these questions. If admitted, you are obligated to update this information provided in this section with any subsequent actions or conduct that takes place between the time of your admission and the end of your law school career.I acknowledge the above statement
2. Disciplinary Action:Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on scholastic or disciplinary probation, expelled, requested to resign, allowed to resign in lieu of discipline, otherwise subjected to discipline, or requested to discontinue your studies by any college or university? Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until documentation has been received.YesNo
3. Criminal Action:Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of any law including juvenile court? Note: Include matters that have been dismissed, expunged, subject to a diversion or deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. Omit traffic violations. If Yes, include a copy of the associated arrest report, complaint, indictment, citation, information, disposition, sentence, docket report, and appeal, if any.Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until this documentation has been received.YesNo
4. Alcohol or Drug Related Traffic Violation:Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any alcohol or drug related traffic violation including being resolved in juvenile court? Note: Include matters that have been dismissed, expunged, subject to a diversion or deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. If Yes, include a copy of the associated arrest report, complaint, indictment, citation, information, disposition, sentence, docket report, and appeal, if any.Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until this documentation has been received.YesNo
5. Dishonorable Discharge:Have you ever received less than an honorable discharge from any branch of the US armed forces? If yes, please supply a written explanation.YesNo
6. Termination:Have you ever been permitted by an employer to resign in lieu of termination? If yes, please supply a written explanation. Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until this documentation has been received.YesNo
7. Administrative Proceeding:If you have been party to an administrative proceeding. For example, loss of licensure (including professional licenses or firearm licenses), or military proceedings. If yes, please provide documentation. Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until this documentation has been received.YesNo
8. Traffic Violation:Have you been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any moving traffic violation during the past ten years? Note: Include matters that have been dismissed, expunged, subject to a diversion or deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. Omit parking violations.Note: Your application will not be considered for an admission decision until this documentation has been received.YesNo
Resume
Attach a current résumé.
58 Wayne State University
L50: 161 | G50: 3.75 | Deadline: August 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Submit a brief personal statement written by you in your own words. You may use your personal statement to convey to the Admissions Committee any experiences, interests, goals, unusual circumstances, or other information not otherwise included in your application that you believe would be helpful to the Committee in evaluating your application. When reviewing applications, the Admissions Committee gives positive consideration to an applicant's socioeconomic disadvantage, substantial obstacles such as family or personal adversity, and educational disability. It also takes into account other factors that contribute to a diverse and engaged law school student body and legal profession, including, but not limited to, geographic residence, work and volunteer experience, leadership qualities, commitment to community and public service, communication skills, multilingual proficiency, experience of life in a foreign country or on a Native American tribal reservation, and other qualities of background and experience not ordinarily well-represented in the student body.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why law and why Wayne State in particular.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., famously said, "The life of the law is not logic but experience." We draw experience from many sources, and the diversity of those sources enriches our experience. At Wayne State University Law School, we value diversity in all its forms, and we invite you in this optional essay to expand our horizons and describe how your experience in life has shaped you and your perspective.
The diversity statement should be no more than 3 pages, double spaced in 12 point font.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum
This section is optional.
Attach addendum if applicable.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Required1. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every US jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the Law School, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar. We strongly urge, if you are unsure as to whether to make a disclosure, that you err on the side of disclosure. Please note also that it is your responsibility to update your application by notifying the Wayne Law Admissions Office if any criminal charges are filed or expected to be filed between the date you submit this application and the date you enroll at Wayne Law.Please initial here to indicate that you have read this paragraph.required
2. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action (for scholastic or other reasons) and/or are there any disciplinary charges currently pending or expected to be brought against you in any of the colleges, universities, graduate or professional schools you have attended? This includes being dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled or requested or advised to resign from any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school. Note: If your answer is yes, you must electronically attach a statement marked "Character and Fitness 1" with a full explanation of the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, the disciplinary action(s) or any pending action, including relevant dates.YesNo
3. Have you ever been charged with, arrested for, convicted of, pled guilty or nolo contendere for a violation of any law and/or are there any charges pending or expected to be brought against you? (For purposes of this question, a conviction includes a verdict or finding of guilt, regardless of whether sentence is imposed by the court.) You should also disclose offenses that resulted in purged, sealed, obliterated, dismissed, or destroyed records, regardless of whether you have been told that you need not disclose any such event. These will also be requested by state bar authorities in many states. If you are not sure about the nature or the ultimate disposition of a particular charge, you are advised to make full disclosure, as a subsequent finding that you failed to disclose relevant information could have disqualifying consequences. Note: If your answer is yes, you must electronically attach a statement marked "Character and Fitness 2" with a full explanation of the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, your arrest or conviction or any pending charges, including dates.YesNo
Resume
Please attach a professional peer reviewed résumé.
58 Baylor University
L50: 162 | G50: 3.64 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: November 10, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
We encourage all applicants to electronically attach a Personal Statement, which should be approximately two to three pages in length. The Personal Statement must be a product of your own work. It should be prepared without the assistance of other persons or professional writing services. This is your opportunity to persuade the Admissions Committee that you should be admitted to Baylor Law School. Through your Personal Statement, the Admissions Committee will try to get a sense of you as a person and will evaluate your writing ability. Any number of factors could be helpful to the Admissions Committee, including your motivation to study law; evidence of academic achievement, leadership, and responsibility; community involvement; educational, social, and economic background; and any special skills that you possess, such as bilingual language skills or advocacy skills. We are particularly interested in any aspect of your background that would allow you to distinctively add to the diversity and enrichment of the law school environment. The Admissions Committee places considerable importance on the Personal Statement. Include your name and LSAC account number on each page of your Personal Statement.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Baylor in particular by the end of the essay.
Addenda
You may submit an addendum in response to our mission statement (https://www.baylor.edu/law/index.php?id=930089), discussing how your experiences and/or beliefs align with that mission statement.
You may submit an addendum that explains your specific interest in Baylor Law.
You may submit an addendum that discusses aspects of your academic background, LSAT performance, or life experiences that you believe are not otherwise clear from your application.
You may submit an addendum highlighting how you will bring a diverse perspective or experiences to the Baylor Law community.
Each addendum should not exceed two pages in length, double-spaced ,and it should not be used as an extension of your personal statement.
Don’t be fooled! Though Baylor calls this an addendum, and though it doubles as an addendum prompt, they are also, kind of sort of, asking for a “Why Baylor” essay.
Character and Fitness
Because of the high ethical standards governing lawyers, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant and leads to more serious consequences than the act or event itself. Failure to provide full and truthful answers may result in denial of admission, withdrawal of admission, expulsion after matriculation, revocation of the law degree after graduation, other disciplinary action by the Law School, referral to appropriate legal education authorities and state bar examiners, and/or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission. Failure to answer a question and/or providing superficial explanations will result in your application file being considered incomplete. Full candor in the application process is required not only by Baylor Law but also by the state bar for the jurisdiction(s) in which you intend to practice. At the start of your studies, the state bar authorities will review your law school application answers for accuracy by means of a thorough background check. Additionally, your entire history will be checked again by the state bar authorities when you apply for admission to the bar, which you must do in order to practice law.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Read the following questions very carefully. If the answer to any of the following questions is "yes," you must provide a detailed explanation in a separate Word document as an electronic attachment. Include your name and LSAC account number on each page. This explanation must be separate from any material provided as part of your personal statement.
- Have you ever been disciplined in any way for any matter by any college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning, or by any professor, administrator, employee, or entity representing any college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning; or have you been allowed to withdraw from such an institution to avoid such discipline, whether or not the record of such action was retained in your file? Discipline includes, without limitation, a letter or other written notice of reprimand or warning, suspension, expulsion, adjustment of grade, assignment of community service, any form of probation, or any other adverse action. Entity includes, without limitation, residential facilities or other facilities owned or managed by or in any way affiliated with a college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning.
- Have you ever been accused within any academic setting of cheating, plagiarism, or any other academic dishonesty?
Instructions for the question below: You may exclude minor traffic violations. You must, however, report any traffic or other offenses involving alcohol, drugs, or a controlled substance, or any offenses in which there was an attempt, successful or not, to suspend or revoke your driver's license. List and provide a detailed explanation of each instance, including its ultimate disposition. You must disclose each instance, even if no charges were filed, even if you were granted any type of pretrial diversion, even if filed charges were dismissed (with or without prejudice), even if such charges resulted in a deferred adjudication, even if you were acquitted of such charges, or even if such charges resulted in a conviction that was reversed, set aside, vacated, or expunged. Administrative license suspensions must also be disclosed. You must also disclose any matters involving a failure to appear or answer any citation or warrant, whether for a traffic violation or otherwise. Disclosure is required even if you have been informed by any source that you do not have to disclose any such instance and even if a search of your public records made by you or on your behalf did not disclose an instance that has in fact occurred.
- Have you ever, either as an adult or juvenile, been ticketed for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of the law?
- If you have ever served in the Armed Forces (federal or state), were any administrative or disciplinary proceedings commenced against you, or did you receive a less-than-honorable discharge? List and explain each instance including its ultimate disposition and all details. (If you have never served in the Armed Forces, you may leave this question blank.)
- Have you ever been a part of a civil proceeding in which: (1) you were alleged to have committed fraud or any type of misrepresentation; (2) you were alleged to have engaged in grossly negligent or reckless conduct; (3) you were the subject of a proceeding to enact guardianship or commitment based upon incompetency, mental illness, or substance abuse; or (4) you were alleged to have engaged in any act of violence against person(s) or to have engaged in the willful destruction of property? If any of these instances have occurred, this question should be answered "yes", regardless of the outcome of the proceeding. List and provide a detailed explanation for each instance, including its ultimate disposition.
- Have you ever been terminated, suspended, disciplined, or permitted to resign in lieu of termination from a job?
- Have you ever been suspended, placed on probation or warning, or otherwise disciplined by any professional organization or state agency charged with reviewing professional conduct, or are any charges or proceedings pending or completed?
- Are you currently the target or subject of actual or potential grand jury proceedings?
C&F prompt covering the following topics: Since you responded "yes" to a character and fitness question, you must provide a detailed explanation including a description of the final outcome of each incident.
- Academic or Disciplinary
- Academic Dishonesty
- Armed Forces History
- Criminal History
- Grand Jury Proceedings
- Job Termination
- Misrepresentation
- Professional Organization
Prior Law School History
Since you left a law school in less than good standing, you need to provide a detailed description of why you left that school and the cause the departure.
Résumé
A résumé is required.
58 Southern Methodist University
L50: 163 | G50: 3.76 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please provide a personal statement that highlights aspects of your background that you believe will be of interest to the Admissions Committee. There is no specific required topic or question to address. Write about something personal, relevant, and individual to you. This may include writing about a significant aspect of your background, a quality or trait that you believe defines you, a transformative experience, or the things that interest and motivate you. The Admissions Committee is particularly interested in aspects of your background that may not be evident from other parts of your application. This statement should be approximately 2-3 double-spaced pages.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Question
This section is optional.
SMU Dedman School of Law is committed to fostering a culture where diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion are ingrained into everything we do. You are encouraged to submit an optional essay that reflects how you can add to or support that commitment. This statement should be approximately 2-3 double-spaced pages.
Other Addenda
This section is optional.
If you have other addenda you would like to submit, please attach them here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. However, it ca only be one page, so be concise.
Why SMU?
Include a brief paragraph concerning your motivation for applying to SMU Dedman School of Law, including academic reputation, interest in a specific area of study, interest in Dallas, ties to the area or to SMU, and personal reasons such as family, spouse, or significant other moving to, or located in, the area. This statement should be 1 double-spaced page or less.
We strongly encourage you to respond to the Why SMU? essay.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Please note: in addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Additionally, because of the high ethical standard to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described in this section is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers or failure to inform the Admissions Office of any changes to your answers may result in the revocation of admission or disciplinary action by SMU Dedman School of Law or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
You must answer these questions for your application to be considered complete. If you answer yes to question 2 or 3, you understand and agree that the University has the right to check your criminal background and to follow its policies and procedures relative to the admission of students who have criminal records or are under indictment. If you answer yes to any of these character and fitness questions, you must attach an electronic attachment giving the dates, causes, outcomes, and a narrative description of the event.
1. Have you ever been disciplined in any way for any matter by any college, university, law school or other institution of higher learning, or by any professor, administrator, employee or entity representing any college, university, law school or other institution of higher learning, or have you been allowed to withdraw from such an institution to avoid such discipline, whether or not the record of such action was retained in your file? (Discipline includes, without limitation, a letter or other written notice of reprimand or warning, suspension, expulsion, adjustment of grade, assignment of community service, any form of probation, or any other adverse action). (Entity includes, without limitation, residential facilities or other facilities owned or managed by a college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been arrested, cited or ticketed for, or charged with any violation of the law? You must report all offenses, including offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You may exclude Class C misdemeanor traffic violations, however you must report any failure to appear charge or warrant resulting from any offense, including Class C misdemeanors. An offense is not a minor traffic violation if it involved alcohol or drugs, or if there was an attempt, whether successful or not, to suspend or revoke your driver's license as a result of the violation.YesNo
3. Are you currently under indictment or have you ever been convicted of any offense, placed on probation or granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion? You must report all offenses, including offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You may exclude Class C misdemeanor traffic violations, however you must report any failure to appear arrest or conviction for any offense, including Class C misdemeanors.YesNo
4. Have you ever been discharged or dismissed from the armed forces (other than honorably) or sentenced in a court-martial proceeding?YesNo
Resume
Please attach your resume. It may include employment experiences, extracurricular or community activities, internships, memberships, volunteer activities, and any honors, awards, or other recognition. (This should be approximately 1-2 pages.)
58 Pennsylvania State - Dickinson Law
L50: 161 | G50: 3.54 | Deadline: June 30, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement is required to complete your application. The statement should address factors that have been significant in your development and identity; experiences or circumstances that may distinguish you from other candidates; or any special achievements or accomplishments. You should feel free to discuss a topic or topics of your choice. Please limit your submission to two pages of double-spaced type.
This prompt is open-ended.
Diversity Statement
At State’s Dickinson Law, we believe that diversity enriches everyone’s educational experience. We are as committed to welcoming people of diverse cultures and lifestyles as we are to preparing them to become the next generation of practice-ready attorneys. As an inclusive community, Dickinson Law defines diversity broadly to include racial and ethnic minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ community, veterans, first generation students, adult learners, and any others who have experienced subordination, marginalization, or isolation in academic communities because of their identity status. Although not required, you may submit a supplemental statement discussing how you will contribute to the diversity of thought and experience within the Dickinson Law community.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum
You may include an addendum addressing pertinent information that would provide the admissions committee with additional insight into your admission application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addendum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Specific Interest
A brief statement describing your specific interest in Dickinson Law is preferred, but not required.
We recommend that you write this essay.
Character and Fitness
- Since the age of 18, have you ever been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any crime by a law enforcement agency other than a minor traffic violation (i.e., parking or speeding citations) that has not been subsequently expunged? If it has been more than 10 years since you turned 18, you need only list those convictions that occurred in the past 10 years. Please note that nothing in this question should be interpreted to be inconsistent with the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law.
If you answer "yes" to this question, please elaborate on the details surrounding the conviction(s)/plea(s) in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the "Attachments" section of this application. Be advised that you may be required to provide a more comprehensive disclosure to the Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners, which is exempt from the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law. - Between the ages of 14 and 18, were you ever convicted of or pleaded guilty to a crime involving serious bodily injury to another person? If it has been more than 10 years since you turned 18, you need only list those convictions that occurred in the past 10 years. Please note that nothing in this question should be interpreted to be inconsistent with the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law.
If you answer "yes" to this question, please elaborate on the details surrounding the conviction(s)/plea(s) in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the "Attachments" section of this application. Be advised that you may be required to provide a more comprehensive disclosure to the Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners, which is exempt from the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law. - Are there criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you by any law enforcement agency, civil or administrative agency, or any other agency? If you answered "yes" to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the "Attachments" section of this application.
If you answered "Yes" to question 3 in the Character & Fitness section, then you must provide a full explanation of the circumstances in this addendum. Any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed. Please include specific details like dates, underlying facts, and resolution of charges. If the resolution of the charges occurs or will occur after you have submitted your application, you must submit documentation providing any and all details of the outcome to us at dickinsonlaw@psu.edu and be sure to include your name and LSAC number. - Have you ever been subject to any disciplinary action, placed on academic probation, dismissed, suspended, expelled, asked to withdraw for academic reasons, or been subject to any action for misconduct or honor code violation at any school, college, university, or graduate/professional school, or is any such action pending or expected to be brought against you? If you answered "yes" to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the "Attachments" section of this application.
If you answered "Yes" to question 4 in the Character & Fitness section, then you must provide a full description of the circumstances in this addendum. Any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed. Please include specific details like dates, underlying facts, and resolution of charges. If the resolution of the charges occurs or will occur after you have submitted your application, you must submit documentation providing any and all details of the outcome to us at dickinsonlaw@psu.edu and be sure to include your name and LSAC number. - Have you ever been subject to any sanctions for or findings of professional misconduct (e.g., debarment by a state, federal, or other agency; any form or professional discipline or license restriction or surrender; an admission or determination that you have committed research or professional misconduct)? If you answered "yes" to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the "Attachments" section of this application.
If you answered "Yes" to question 5 in the Character & Fitness section, then you must provide a full explanation of the circumstances in this addendum. Any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed. Please include specific details like dates, underlying facts, and resolution of charges. If the resolution of the charges occurs or will occur after you have submitted your application, you must submit documentation providing any and all details of the outcome to us at dickinsonlaw@psu.edu and be sure to include your name and LSAC number.
58 University of Houston
L50: 161 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement of no more than three pages, double-spaced, is extremely valuable in the selection process. Because we do not grant personal interviews, this is your opportunity to tell the Admissions Committee more about yourself. It is, in essence, your personal interview on paper. You may write your personal statement on any subject, but you should include a statement explaining your interest in attending the University of Houston Law Center in either your personal statement or an optional statement. Use the electronic attachment to submit your statement.
Past statements have included such topics as:
- a discussion of special circumstances in your background (such as hardships overcome and unique experiences);
- a description of the personal strengths and/or leadership qualities you would bring to the University of Houston Law Center and to the practice of law;
- a description of what you intend or hope to do professionally (if you choose to write on this topic, you may want to identify experiences or aspects of your record that indicate promise in the selected area);
- a description of why you want to attend the University of Houston Law Center; and
- any subject of importance to you that you feel will assist us in assessing your strengths and abilities.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in UH Law Center in particular.
Other Optional Statement
This section is optional.
You may wish to explain or highlight elements in your application that are not readily apparent. You may write an optional statement regarding your diversity, disadvantaged background, socioeconomic status, grade trends, substantial discrepancy between your performance on standardized tests and your actual level of academic achievement, or any other information you believe is relevant to the Admissions Committee that has not been previously included in your personal statement. If you did not include it in your personal statement, you should also include a description of why you want to attend the University of Houston Law Center.
This is an open-ended prompt. You could respond with a brief diversity statement, LSAT addendum, GPA addendum, or something else.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
CHARACTER AND FITNESS QUESTIONS. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.
PLEASE THOROUGHLY READ THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS BELOW. YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO ANSWER SIMILAR QUESTIONS DURING THE LICENSING PROCESS, WHICH INCLUDES STATE AND FEDERAL BACKGROUND CHECKS.
You must answer "yes" or "no" to the questions below. The failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant and leads to more serious consequences than the act or event itself.
Failure to provide truthful answers or failure to promptly inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to your answers due to an incident that occurs after you submit your application may result in revocation of admission, disciplinary action by the University of Houston Law Center, or denial of permission to practice law by the state bar in which you seek admission.
Please note that these questions are very broad, and any exceptions should be construed very narrowly. When in doubt you should always err on the side of FULL DISCLOSURE.
If you answer yes to any of the questions, please include an electronic attachment explaining the circumstances. For questions 1, 2, and 3, please forward the official documentation showing the final disposition of the incident(s).
1. Have you ever been disciplined in any way for any matter by any college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning, or by any professor, administrator, employee, or entity representing any college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning, or have you been allowed to withdraw from such an institution to avoid such discipline, whether or not the record of such action was retained in your file? (Discipline includes, without limitation, a letter or other written notice of reprimand or warning, suspension, expulsion, adjustment of grade, assignment of community service, any form of probation, or any other adverse action.) (Entity includes, without limitation, residential facilities or other facilities owned or managed by a college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been convicted of an offense, placed on probation, or granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion? You must report any such offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You must report any failure to appear conviction resulting from any offense. You must report any conviction for failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance). You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.YesNo
3. Have you, within the last ten (10) years, been arrested, cited or ticketed for, or charged with any violation of the law? You must report any offenses involving alcohol or drugs. You must report any failure to appear charge or warrant resulting from any such offense. You must report any failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance), arrest, citation, ticket, or charge. You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.YesNo
4. Have you ever been confined by any governmental authority because you were found to be dangerous to yourself or others?YesNo
Resume
Attach a résumé or a list of civic and extracurricular activities, honor societies, and work experience.
63 Temple University
L50: 163 | G50: 3.60 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement is required of all applicants. Please refer to section 7 of the instructions for more information on the personal statement.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Temple in particular by the end of the essay.
Sp.A.C.E. Statement
This section is optional.
A Sp.A.C.E. statement is optional. Please read the description of the Sp.A.C.E. program under Admission Evaluation Process in section 14 of the instructions for more information.
General Information
This section is optional.
Please feel free to include any additional information you feel would be helpful to the Admissions Committee.
11. Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. Have you ever been subject to a warning, dismissal, suspension, probation, or other disciplinary or academic action by any college, university or professional school? If the answer is yes, please detail the exact nature of the action and the dates on a separate page or electronic attachment and enclose with your application. (See "Character and Fitness" in section 12 of the instructions for more information.)YesNo
2. Have you ever been arrested, accused, charged, prosecuted, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a crime for an offense other than a minor traffic violation? If the answer is yes, please detail the exact nature of the offense and the dates on a separate page or electronic attachment and enclose with your application. This does NOT include summary (minor) motor vehicle violations for which you were give a citation/ticket. It does include all alcohol-related traffic citation (e.g. DUI, OWI) If you are unsure whether to answer yes, it is strongly recommended that you answer yes and provide a detailed explanation of the incident. (See "Character and Fitness" in section 12 of the instructions for more information.)YesNo
Resume
This section is optional.
Please feel free to attach a copy of your résumé.
Academic Honors
This section is optional.
In the event that an award is made after the submission of your application, you may update your application by submitting a brief statement.
Employment Information
This section is optional.
You may supplement the employment question with an additional page(s) or electronic attachment if necessary.
13. Other Service
Required field icon Indicates a required field.
- Have you participated in the Peace Corps, VISTA, or rendered some equivalent service? If so, please describe and indicate dates and duration of such service.
64 University of San Diego
L50: 161 | G50: 3.74 | Deadline: June 1, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
In your separate personal statement, please describe and discuss the aspects of your background, qualifications, experiences, activities, perspectives, etc. relevant to the criteria for selection set forth above. You may also wish to address (a) why you wish to study law, setting forth your special qualifications or aptitudes; (b) how you plan to use your legal training; and (c) any additional information you deem important for the admissions committee to consider.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in San Diego in particular by the end of the essay.
Optional Addendum
This section is optional.
If you would like to provide additional information not included elsewhere in your application, an addendum may be attached here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
**Please note, law school applicants have an ongoing duty to disclose throughout the application process.
1. Have you ever been found to have violated a university or college honor code, or been subject to any academic or disciplinary action (e.g., allegation, expulsion, suspension, probation, warning, dismissal, invitation or requirement to withdraw) from any academic institution attended, any employer, profession, or professional association? If so, submit a detailed explanation using an electronic attachment.YesNo
2. Have you ever attended any law school including USD School of Law? If "Yes," state where and when and give clear reasons for leaving in an electronic attachment. You must provide a letter from the dean or other authorized official verifying your good standing, together with an official transcript from any law school previously attended.YesNo
3. Have you ever been charged with a misdemeanor or felony (or the equivalent in a juvenile court), is any such charge now pending, or are under investigation? In responding to this question, please include incidents where the charge was originally a misdemeanor or felony, but may have ultimately been reduced to a lesser charge or dismissed. Include all incidents, no matter how minor, even if the record has been sealed, obliterated, destroyed, dismissed or expunged. Please furnish complete facts, including the name and nature of the offense, the date of the offense, the name and locality of the court, and the disposition of each event using an electronic attachment.YesNo
4. Have you ever been convicted of a violation of a misdemeanor or felony? As used herein, a conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, or a verdict or finding of guilt, regardless of whether a sentence is imposed by the court. Please furnish complete facts including the name and nature of the offense using an electronic attachment.YesNo
5. Have you ever been convicted by General Court Martial or did you receive a dishonorable or less than honorable discharge from the military? Please furnish complete facts including the name and nature of the offense using an electronic attachment.YesNo
6. Has a restraining order ever been filed against you? Please furnish complete facts, including the names and nature of the restraining order using an electronic attachment.YesNo
ABA Standard 504
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
Please attach a current résumé or a list of employers.
64 Pennsylvania State - Penn State Law
L50: 162 | G50: 3.76 | Deadline: March 31, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement is required to complete your application. The statement should address factors driving your decision to attend law school, factors that have been significant in your development and identity, experiences or circumstances that may distinguish you from other candidates, or any special achievements or accomplishments. Please limit your submission to two pages of double-spaced type.
A brief second statement outlining your specific interest in Penn State Law is preferred, but not required. (This would be submitted under section "Specific Interest")
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Penn State Law and Penn State University value diversity. Applicants are invited but not required to submit a statement reflecting on how you will contribute to diversity, how you incorporate diversity into your everyday life, or how your life or decision to pursue legal education have been influenced by factors such as, but not limited to: age, physical or mental disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity/expression, military status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, work experience, or other factors.
Additional Addendum 2
This section is optional.
You may include an addendum on any topic of your choice. This may include any economic, cultural, or societal factors about which you wish to inform the admissions committee; your academic record or LSAT result(s); or other pertinent information that would provide the admissions committee with additional insight into your admission application.
Additional Addendum 1
This section is optional.
You may include an addendum on any topic of your choice. This may include any economic, cultural, or societal factors about which you wish to inform the admissions committee; your academic record or LSAT result(s); or other pertinent information that would provide the admissions committee with additional insight into your admission application.
Specific Interest
This section is optional.
A brief statement outlining your specific interest in Penn State Law is preferred, but not required.
Short Answer Questions
Indicates a required field.
1. Briefly explain why you have decided to pursue legal education and ways in which you forsee using your law degree. (500 character limit)required (maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
2. Briefly describe how you prepared for the test, the score of which you are submitting with your law school application (e.g., studied on your own; took a commercial course; worked with a private tutor). (500 character limit)required (maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Briefly describe an instance in which you had to persist through challenges to achieve a goal. (1000 character limit)required (maximum characters 1000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Disclosure
Indicates a required field.
1. Are you currently or have you ever been arrested, charged, cited, accused, or prosecuted for any crime by a law enforcement agency, or have you ever been the subject of any investigation by a law enforcement agency, civil or administrative agency, professional organization, corporation, board, or any other agency? This does NOT include summary (minor) motor vehicle violations for which you received a citation (ticket).If you answered “Yes” to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the “Attachments” section of this application. You must answer “yes” to this question even if: the charges were dismissed; or you were acquitted or pardoned; or adjudication was withheld; or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. You are not required to answer "yes" if your records have been expunged or subject to limited access pursuant to Pennsylvania Act 56 of 2018. YesNo
2. Have you ever been denied enrollment, dismissed, suspended, expelled, subject to any disciplinary action including disciplinary probation for plagiarism, cheating, dishonesty, fraud, or any other reason, or withdrawn in lieu of discipline from any academic institution or organization beyond high school, for any reason, or is any such action pending or expected to be brought against you?If you answered “Yes” to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the “Attachments” section of this application.YesNo
3. Do you expect to be, or have you been notified or told that you will be charged, cited, accused or prosecuted for any crime by a law enforcement agency or do you have reason to believe or have you been notified that you are or will be the subject of any investigation by any law enforcement agency, civil or administrative agency, professional organization, corporation, board, or any other agency? This does NOT include summary (minor) motor vehicle violations for which you received a citation (ticket).If you answered “Yes” to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the “Attachments” section of this application. You must answer “yes” to this question even if: the charges were dismissed; or you were acquitted or pardoned; or adjudication was withheld; or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. You are not required to answer "yes" if your records have been expunged or subject to limited access pursuant to Pennsylvania Act 56 of 2018. YesNo
4. Have you ever been subject to any sanctions for or findings of professional misconduct by any agency, professional organization, corporation, board, or academic institution (including but not limited to disbarment by a state, federal, or other agency; any form of professional discipline or license restriction or surrender; an admission or determination that you have committed research or professional misconduct)?If you answered “Yes” to this question, any and all details surrounding these circumstances must be disclosed in an addendum to this question using the corresponding document in the “Attachments” section of this application. YesNo
Resume
Please include a current résumé.
64 University of Connecticut
L50: 159 | G50: 3.54 | Deadline: April 30, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a personal statement on a topic of your choice. The Admissions Committee is interested in gaining insight into your passions, character, intellectual abilities, and writing skills. Although the topic is open ended, your ability to write clearly, concisely and persuasively is important. Please note the Committee prefers essays to be submitted in 12 point font, double spaced, and no more than two pages in length.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in UConn in particular.
Optional Essay
You may include an optional essay or addendum which discusses additional information not included in your personal statement. This statement should provide further explanation or details which may not be readily apparent in other sections of your application. Please note the Committee prefers essays to be submitted in 12 point font, double spaced, and no more than two pages in length.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
If your answer to any of the Character and Fitness questions is yes, attach a separate essay explaining the circumstances for each positive response (see Attachments section). Please put your name and LSAC ID number on each page and the question number(s) to which you are responding. You are strongly encouraged to secure information regarding character and fitness requirements from any jurisdiction in which you may intend to practice. Many state bar examining committees require copies of your law school applications; should your responses to our application be different from your responses to the bar examination application, it may result in a character and fitness investigation or hearing. See Instructions for more information.
1. Have you ever been sanctioned, warned, placed on scholastic or disciplinary probation, suspended, dropped or expelled for any reason regardless of final result, by any institution (or agent thereof, including any standardized testing organization) of higher learning? If yes, please attach all required documentation (see Attachments section). Please see Instructions for further information.YesNo
2. Has your higher education, employment or business activity been interrupted for six months or more for any reason? This includes being involuntarily separated from a job, internship, externship or volunteer position for a nonprofit organization as a result of an accusation of dishonesty. If yes, please fully explain and attach all required documentation (see Attachments section). Please see Instructions for further information.YesNo
3. Have you ever held a professional license that has been subject to disciplinary action, probation, suspension or revocation? If yes, please attach an essay fully explaining the circumstances. You must also attach documentation showing reinstatement of any license that has been subject to disciplinary action.YesNo
4. Have you ever been arrested, charged and/or convicted of any criminal offense(s) in any criminal proceeding in any jurisdiction, including a General or Special Court Martial? This includes matters that may have been expunged or otherwise removed from your record through completion of court ordered or approved programs. If yes, enclose a copy of all court and/or police records confirming the disposition of the case, along with an essay fully explaining the circumstances (see Attachments section). Your file will remain incomplete until we receive the required documentation.YesNo
5. Are any such charges pending? If yes, enclose a copy of all court and/or police records confirming the disposition of the case, along with an essay fully explaining the circumstances (see Attachments section). Should any charges be filed against you after you submit this application but before enrollment at the Law School, you must immediately report the charges to the Admissions Office in writing. Your file will remain incomplete until we receive the required documentation.YesNo
6. Have you ever been a defendant in any civil proceeding in which allegations of fraud, misrepresentation or other improper conduct were made against you? If yes, please fully explain and attach all required documentation (see Attachments section). Please see Instructions for further information.YesNo
Resume
You must attach a résumé.
- All applicants must attach a résumé. Please make sure that all entries are current up to the date of submission. Please include military service and summer employment.
- In addition to the résumé, please list every college and university, graduate and professional school attended, however brief and regardless of whether or not credit was received. Include the dates of attendance, major, degree and date degree was awarded. Include any enrollment, however brief, at any law school, whether or not credit was received.
67 University of Kansas
L50: 158 | G50: 3.74 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to share with the Admissions Committee your significant personal, social or academic experiences that demonstrate why you are interested in attending law school and what qualities you will bring to our campus. Please attach a 2-3 page double spaced statement reflecting your interest in seeking a J.D. and in joining our community.
This is an open-ended prompt but you should consider including information about “Why KU” in this statement.
Diversity Statement
The University of Kansas School of Law seeks to build a diverse student body reflective of our community and our nation. In a separate attachment, please share with us your life experiences or personal characteristics that would add to the diversity of the student population and enrich the academic and cultural experience.
This is an open-ended diversity statement.
Additional Addendums
If you wish to address any additional qualifications or concerns not covered in the application, personal statement, or résumé, please attach your additional addendums here. This is entirely optional.
Kansas Statement
The University of Kansas School of Law seeks to attract students from all fifty states and every nation. In a separate attachment, please briefly share with us any personal interest or connection to Kansas, the University of Kansas, or the University of Kansas School of Law.
This is a broad statement that may touch on the law school, University, or State of Kansas.
Character and Fitness
If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, please provide a thorough explanation on a separate sheet or electronic attachment submitted with your application. Include the date, nature of the event or proceeding, name and location of the court or tribunal, disposition of the matter, and any other relevant information to fully explain the situation.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. They may also consult the website of the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been subject to any sanction, probation, or disciplinary actions for any reason in any of the secondary schools, colleges, or universities you have attended (include records that have been sealed or destroyed under a school's file management policy, include actions related to university or college residential living)? Yes/No
2. Have you ever had a protective or restraining order entered against you? Yes/No
3. Have you ever been arrested for, issued a citation for, noticed to appear or summoned, charged with, taken into custody, indicted or convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or infraction other than a minor traffic infraction (include diversions, sealed or expunged records, and juvenile offenses)? Yes/No
4. Have you ever been subject to proceedings at an academic institution related to accusations of personal or academic dishonesty (include records that have been expunged, canceled or annulled)? Yes/No
5. Have you ever had your driver's license suspended or revoked, or have you ever been arrested for, charged with, summoned, taken into custody, indicted or convicted of a traffic violation involving alcohol or a controlled substance? (include diversions, sealed or expunged records, and juvenile offenses) Yes/No
6. Have you ever been charged with a military offense (include diversions and sealed or expunged records)? Yes/No
7. Have you ever been investigated in connection with a professional certificate or license, or had a professional certificate or license denied, revoked or suspended? Yes/No
8. Have you ever been a party to bankruptcy proceedings, had a tax lien filed against you, or been a party to any other civil or criminal proceeding related to unpaid financial obligations? Yes/No
Resume
Please attach a résumé to your application that includes all your relevant education, work experience, volunteer activities, honors, scholarships, awards and other activities that reflect your background and experience. You must list all post-secondary (after high school) institutions where you enrolled. Please include the start and end date for each institution.
Please note to list all post-secondary institutions.
Supplemental Application for Foreign Candidates
For candidates planning to attend on F-1, J-1 or related visa status that requires proof of financial viability.
If you will require a visa to attend, you must provide financial documentations that demonstrate you can support your educational expenses.
67 University of Oregon
L50: 159 | G50: 3.54 | Deadline: August 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Please provide an example of your writing in the form of a personal statement. Though there is no prescribed topic, this statement can describe how an event, achievement, individual, or personal circumstance has shaped your experience and outlook. Use no smaller than 11-point font and double space your answers. It should be no longer than two pages. Do not submit an academic paper as a personal statement.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Oregon in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity & Equity Essay
This section is optional.
We believe diversity is key to the intellectual, educational, and social mission of the law school, the university, and the legal profession more broadly. At Oregon Law, we’re not satisfied with simply preparing students to be lawyers—we believe we have a parallel responsibility to develop leaders with skills and capacity to engage and lead effectively within, across, and around difference. As a learning community, we should all be working towards addressing systemic inequities thoughtfully, working with differing perspectives, and holding firm on a shared belief that we can learn from each other.
Please describe how you will contribute to cultivating an inclusive and equitable learning community at the University of Oregon School of Law.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Additional Attachment
This section is optional.
If there is any other information that you would like the admissions committee to consider, please attach an additional statement.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Why Oregon Law? Essay
Indicates a required field.
Required1. In this essay, our Admissions Committee would like to learn more about you. This essay should describe why, specifically, you want to pursue your legal education at Oregon Law in particular. Please type your answer to this short essay directly in the text box below. Do not attach a separate statement.required (maximum characters 2000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
You are required to answer each of the questions below. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Inconsistencies between the content of your law school application and that of a future bar application can result in an investigation by bar examiners, and lack of candor in and of itself may be enough to deny certification to practice in some jurisdictions.
If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, you must describe the event(s), including why, when, and where it occurred. Describe what disciplinary actions were taken. Answering “Yes” to any of these questions does not necessarily preclude your admission.
Should a sanction or action, criminal arrest, investigation, or conviction occur after you have submitted your application, you must promptly notify the Admissions Office in writing. An addition to your record may, but does not necessarily, result in a change in admission status. If you have any questions, please contact the Oregon Law Admissions Office.
1. Have you ever been placed on academic warning or probation, suspended, expelled or been required to withdraw, had a scholarship or award revoked, or been the subject of any other disciplinary action or proceedings for academic or social misconduct in your post-secondary education (beyond high school)?YesNo
2. Have you ever been placed on probation, suspended, expelled, terminated or otherwise disciplined by any professional organization, state agency, or place of employment?YesNo
3. Including any matters that may have been expunged, except expunged juvenile matters, have you ever been cited, arrested, charged, or convicted of a criminal offense?YesNo
4. Are there any such disciplinary actions, charges, or proceedings referenced in the three questions above pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
Résumé
A résumé is required.
- List your employment history. Include specific dates (month/year) and specific locations (city/state).
- List academic awards, scholarships, and other noteworthy achievements.
- Include participation in community service, volunteer work, sports and recreation, and local leadership.
Your résumé should be no more than three pages. Ensure that the information you provide is thorough, current, and that the appearance of your résumé is professional.
67 Loyola Marymount University—Los Angeles
L50: 161 | G50: 3.64 | Deadline: May 15, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement is required and assists the Admissions Committee in selecting a highly-qualified and diverse entering class. It is also used to assess each applicant's written English skills. The personal statement provides each applicant with the opportunity to describe his or her interest in law school, the uniqueness of his or her character and experience, and his or her potential to contribute to Loyola's community.
The personal statement should be 2-3 pages in length, double spaced, using no smaller than 10 point font. The personal statement must be the original work of the applicant.
Please attach personal statement here.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in LMU in particular.
Addendums or Statements
This section is optional.
Optional addendums are accepted for the following:
- Academic record and grades
- Diversity Statement
- Economic hardship and/or disadvantage
- LSAT score differences
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
6. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. Have you applied to Loyola Law School before?YesNo
2. If "yes", for which year(s)? Please include Year and Decision. (maximum characters 80)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Have you ever registered/attended any law school?YesNo
4. If "yes", when and where?(If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to submit an official transcript and letter of good standing from the law school. These documents should be mailed directly to the law school's Admissions Office.)(maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Have you ever been disqualified from any law school?YesNo
6. If "yes," when and where? (maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
7. PROBATION: Have you ever been subject to academic warning, probation or suspension at a school, college, university or other educational institution? If "yes," provide name of institution(s), date(s), and reasons for the action in an electronic statement and enclose it with this application.YesNo
8. DISCIPLINARY: Have you ever been subject to any conduct or disciplinary action taken by a educational institution, employer, organization, or agency charged with reviewing student or professional conduct? If "yes," provide name of institution(s), date(s), and reasons for the action in an electronic statement and enclose it with this application.YesNo
9. CONVICTIONS: Have you ever been charged, arrested, or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony (excluding minor traffic violations)? As used herein a conviction includes a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, or a verdict of finding of guilt, regardless of whether sentence is imposed by the court. You must disclose this requested information even if the charges were juvenile convictions, the conviction was stayed or vacated, the record was sealed or expunged, or you were told you need not disclose this information. You must also disclose any incident that is awaiting final adjudication. If "yes," for each occurrence furnish complete facts, including the date, name and nature of the offense, the name and locality of the court, and the disposition of each such matter in an electronic statement and enclose it with this application. Please refer to the Disclosures section of the website.YesNo
10.CIVIL SUIT: Within the last 10 years, have you been a party to any civil suit or proceeding or have any judgments been filed against you? If "yes," provide the date, name of the court, details and resolution of the case in an electronic statement and enclose it with this application.YesNo
Resume
This section is optional.
Please attach résumé. (Optional, but highly recommended.)
67 University of Missouri
L50: 160 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement should be approximately two pages in length. Somewhere in your statement briefly address why you are interested in MU. We do not recommend explaining any legal or educational issues associated with your application here. If needed, please address these issues in a separate addendum.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Mizzou in particular.
Underrepresented
This section is optional.
Mizzou Law considers whether a student is from a group underrepresented in the legal profession. If you believe you fall into this category, indicate your reasons in detail in an attachment.
We recommend that you write this essay if you fall in this category.
First-generation College Student
This section is optional.
Mizzou Law considers whether a student is a first-generation college student. If you believe you fall into this category, indicate your reasons in detail in an attachment.
We recommend that you write this essay if you fall in this category.
Underprivileged Students
This section is optional.
Mizzou Law considers whether a student comes from an underprivileged socio-economic background. If you believe you fall into this category, indicate your reasons in detail in an attachment.
We recommend that you write this essay if you fall in this category.
Other
This section is optional.
No additional addendum is required, however you may attach other items if needed.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.I acknowledge the above text.
2. Have you been placed on academic probation at any college or university?YesNo
3. If yes, please list the dates of your probation:Start date (month/year)Start date month Select Month January February March April May June July August September October November December / Start date year, four digitsEnd date (month/year)End date month Select Month January February March April May June July August September October November December / End date year, four digits
4. Are you currently/have you ever been subject to disciplinary action/charges at any college or university? If yes, in an attachment, please list the charges, describe the discipline and the circumstances (see Attachments section).YesNo
5. Other than minor traffic violations, have you ever been arrested for any violation of the law? If yes, in an attachment, name the offense, the date and describe the circumstances (see Attachments section). (This would include arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance.) Note: You must disclose the information requested in this question even if you received a deferred prosecution, a suspended imposition of sentence, the conviction was stayed or vacated, or the record (including but not limited to proceedings in juvenile court, family court, or any court of general jurisdiction) was expunged.YesNo
6. Are there any criminal charges currently pending against you? If yes, in an attachment, please name the offense and describe the circumstances (see Attachments section).YesNo
7. Are you now or have you ever been investigated or subject to discipline by any professional licensing board or body? If yes, please explain in an attachment (see Attachments section).YesNo
Resume
Please attach your resume. Please include education, employment, activities, community service, etc.
67 University of Nevada—Las Vegas
L50: 160 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A statement no longer than three typed pages (double spaced, 12 point font, one-inch margins). Through the personal statement, the Admissions Committee seeks to gain insight into the abilities, motivation, and experiences of an applicant and to assess his/her writing ability. An applicant's personal statement also should explain his/her specific interest in pursuing a Juris Doctor degree at the Boyd School of Law at UNLV.
Addenda
This section is optional.
Should you wish to provide any additional information that you feel the Admissions Committee should be aware of, please do so here.
Character and Fitness
If you answer yes to any of the following questions you must provide a statement describing your actions and a detailed description of the charges and/or sanctions against you. A positive answer to any of these questions does not necessarily adversely affect admission, but failure to disclose relevant information may lead to disciplinary action by the law school or affect your admission to the bar. Include full details, including relevant date(s) of the incident(s), status(es) of final disposition of the charge(s), and the name and address of the authority in possession of your record. You are strongly encouraged to err on the side of inclusion rather than exclusion in answering these questions. It is common for bar examiners to ask questions that differ in depth, breadth, and/or scope from the character and fitness questions above. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners
1. Have you ever been subject to sanction or discipline by any academic institution, or do you have pending any charges which could lead to discipline? (You do not need to include sanctions stemming from academic probation or academic dismissal.)
If you answered "yes" to the academic Character and Fitness question, please provide a detailed statement.
-
Have you ever been convicted of a crime or adjudicated delinquent, or are there any criminal charges pending against you?
(You need not report either juvenile matters for which records have been sealed or minor traffic violations.)
If you answered "yes" to the criminal Character and Fitness question, please provide a detailed statement. -
Have you ever been, or are you presently subject to a disciplinary proceeding by any professional organization or licensing body?
If you answered "yes" to the professional Character and Fitness question, please provide a detailed statement.
Resume
A descriptive résumé listing employment, honors, publications, extracurricular activities and community service. If you were not employed or not attending school on a full-time basis for any period of time, indicate dates and how your time was spent.
Part-Time Statement
This section is optional.
All part-time applicants must submit a brief statement describing the reasons why they are applying to either of the part-time programs.
67 University of Kentucky
L50: 157 | G50: 3.62 | Deadline: April 15, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
With your application, you must submit a personal statement that you wrote yourself. The Admissions Committee carefully considers all the information contained in your file. In order to evaluate your application the Committee needs complete information about you as a person, potential law student, and lawyer. In the personal statement you may write about any of your accomplishments, any particularly meaningful experience, your reasons for applying to law school, or any other topic of your choosing. Your personal statement should be in 11-12 point font, single-spaced (double-spaced between paragraphs) and a maximum of 2-3 pages in length.
You may use a separate addendum to explain any other information you consider pertinent to your application, such as your undergraduate performance; your LSAT results; your employment history; any personal, cultural, or economic factors that may have adversely affected your academic performance; any gaps in your resume.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Kentucky in particular by the end of the essay.
Optional Essays
This section is optional.
This area allows for the Admissions Committee to learn additional relevant information about you that you may not have been able to express in your personal statement. If you wish, you may submit an additional essay on any of the following topics:
-
Interest in the University of Kentucky College of Law
-
Specific interest in a specialty/practice area
-
Diversity
You may submit an essay for one or more essay topics. Each essay should be one page, double-spaced and titled appropriately.
This could be used as a nontraditional diversity essay, Why X? essay (if not addressed in PS), etc.
Other Information
This section is optional.
If there is any additional information that you would like to include with your application which you consider relevant to the admissions decision, please attach it here. Such information may include your undergraduate performance; your LSAT results; your employment history; any personal, cultural, or economic factors that may have adversely affected your academic performance; any gaps in your resume; or your specific interest in UK Law.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. You must answer these questions, and explain as needed (see Attachments section), for your application to be considered.Every American jurisdiction in which you may practice law after graduation from law school requires each applicant for admission to the bar to meet character and fitness requirements as a condition of eligibility for admission. A character and fitness review will require truthful, accurate and complete reporting of all requested information related to past conduct that bar examiners may deem relevant to one’s fitness to practice law, in most jurisdictions including (but not limited to) all criminal arrests, charges, plea agreements, convictions, or instances of being taken into custody, as a juvenile or adult; all traffic violations including parking violations; involvement as a party to civil litigation; acts of fraud, dishonesty or lack of candor; educational discipline or misconduct; failure to pay financial obligations; and substance abuse. Many jurisdictions require disclosure of all criminal arrests, charges, plea agreements or convictions, as a juvenile or adult, even where the record has been expunged.It should be noted, however, that while bar admission boards require a complete disclosure of requested information, in many instances past relevant conduct, particularly if isolated and/or not recent, has not resulted in denial or delay of admission to the bar in a particular jurisdiction of interest. (This is not to suggest or predict how any jurisdiction’s bar admissions board would respond to any applicant’s particular conduct disclosures going forward.)A failure to truthfully, accurately and completely respond to a character and fitness inquiry, however, is commonly deemed a character and fitness violation in and of itself, and may be more detrimental to bar admission prospects than the undisclosed or incorrectly disclosed underlying conduct.In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.Note: If you answer YES to questions 2-9, you are advised to check with the Board of Bar Examiners or Supreme Court in the state(s) where you intend to practice law to be sure that you will not be precluded from admission to the bar. In no way does admission to UK Law imply or guarantee applicants will be admitted to any particular bar.I acknowledge the above statement.
2. Have you ever been placed on academic probation in any of the schools, colleges, or universities you have attended? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
3. Have you ever been placed on academic suspension in any of the schools, colleges, or universities you have attended? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
4. Have you ever been academically dismissed or expelled from any of the schools, colleges, or universities you have attended? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
5. Have you ever been accused of, charged with, or found responsible for any academic offense (including, but not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, collusion, duplicity, falsification or misuse of academic records) or nonacademic offense (including, but not limited to, attendance or violation of university policy) that led to disciplinary action in any of the schools, colleges, or universities you have attended? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
6. Have you ever been arrested, charged with, or convicted of any crime, including juvenile offenses or any offense or crime that resulted in expunged records (including, but not limited to, driving while intoxicated or impaired, traffic violations, moving violations, or parking violations)? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section)**YesNo
7. Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any military offense, including any offense that resulted in expunged records (including, but not limited to, driving while intoxicated or impaired, traffic violations, moving violations, or parking violations)? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (See Attachments section).**YesNo
8. Have you ever been a party in any civil, administrative, or other proceeding? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
9. Have you ever been disciplined, discharged, or asked to resign from employment for reasons reflecting on your character (including, but not limited to, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, forgery, or any other act of dishonesty or immorality)? **If so, give dates and full details in an attachment (see Attachments section).**YesNo
10. Have you ever attended another law school? If so, you must attach a detailed explanation including how that study terminated (see Attachments section) and request a letter of academic standing from the Dean of that school be emailed to: uklawadmissions@uky.edu. The letter of academic standing should be written on official letterhead, signed, and emailed as a PDF document.YesNo
Resume
Please attach resume here. The inclusion of your resume is required.
73 American University
L50: 162 | G50: 3.62 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: February 10, 2023, December 12, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
The Committee on Admissions requires applicants to submit a personal statement with the application. Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, your background, your achievements, and other factors you want us to consider in evaluating you for admission. This statement may be a maximum of 3 pages double-spaced and must be electronically attached.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in American in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
(Optional) You may attach a separate statement explaining how your personal circumstances are of special relevance to this application.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you wish to include a brief addendum regarding information not already addressed in other application materials, please attach it here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character & Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Please read this carefully; your application will not be reviewed if left unanswered. Reporting responsibility to state bars mandates that you fully and completely answer the following questions. If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, please attach electronically a detailed explanation. The obligation to provide truthful, accurate, and complete information is a continuing one, which requires you to notify the law school of any changes in your answers to any part of this application that occur after the date of the application submission. Any ambiguity in the questions below should be addressed by contacting the Office of Admissions.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been subject to any disciplinary action, misconduct and/or irregularity charges or allegations, placed on academic warning/probation, and/or dismissed from any school, college, university, and/or graduate/professional school or any organization or association, including LSAC, and/or is any such action pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
2. Please list any current criminal charges pending against you in any jurisdiction as well as any instance when you have been convicted or found guilty of a criminal charge(s). In answering these questions, please disclose any relevant pending charges, convictions, or plea agreements for any felonies, misdemeanors, or other criminal offenses, including any charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You do not need to disclose traffic violations unless they resulted in incarceration, or in actual criminal charges, convictions, or plea agreements. You also do not need to disclose any charge or conviction that has been expunged or sealed by order of a court, provided you have a copy of the order in your possession which you can provide to Washington College of Law upon request.YesNo
3. Have you ever been dismissed for cause from any employment and/or discharged under conditions other than honorable from the armed forces?YesNo
Resume
Please attach a résumé that may include the following items:
Employment, awards, honors and scholarships (including those received in college), extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and accomplishments.
73 Northeastern University
L50: 163 | G50: 3.70 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit an essay on any topic. One hallmark of a Northeastern University School of Law education is the freedom to pursue the areas of law that interest you, both in and out of the classroom. Likewise, we are granting you the freedom to decide what to cover in your personal statement.
Your essay should be in your own words, no longer than two pages, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and in 12-point font.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Essays
This section is optional.
Your essay(s) should be in your own words, one page, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and in 12-point font, with a label at the top of the page indicating which prompt(s) you are answering.
Prompt 1:
The National Jurist recognized Northeastern Law with an A+ grade for practical training in its 2022 “Best Schools for Practical Training” issue of preLaw magazine. Our signature Cooperative Legal Education Program, or "co-op," guarantees you nearly a year of full-time work experience in the areas of law that interest you, anywhere in the world. With co-op employers in more than 40 states and 70 countries world-wide, Northeastern lets you tailor your experience to your professional interests and travel the world on co-op if you choose.
What field(s) of law would you like to pursue on co-op and why?
Prompt 2:
Northeastern is a nationally recognized leader in public interest law with a strong reputation for producing accomplished leaders in the field. The success of our graduates in part reflects our social justice mission.
What specific social justice issue are you most passionate about, and how have your professional or personal experiences influenced your interests?
Prompt 3:
At Northeastern University, diversity is about excellence and inclusion. It’s about the way in which we engage with the world, the opportunity to learn from new perspectives, a core value for the University, an essential element of contemporary life, an expression of cultural pride, and a reflection of our campus, community, and global partners.
Northeastern University School of Law, in keeping with the mission of Northeastern University, is committed to building and sustaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community of faculty, students, and staff that welcomes and respects all persons, regardless of race, gender, age, creed, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family structure, first-generation status, socio-economic status, or ability status. We strive to develop an open and respectful environment that draws on talent from every sector of society and engages the global community. We are dedicated to the integration of multiple, divergent perspectives, and to the principle that a diverse and inclusive community not only supports innovation and creativity, but also creates and promotes cultural understanding throughout Northeastern’s community. With these guiding principles, the School of Law aspires to promote a thriving society built on equal opportunity and social justice.
How has your background shaped who you are today or your future aspirations, and how will your presence enhance the Northeastern community?
We strongly encourage you to respond to respond to at least one of these prompts, especially if you chose a non-traditional personal essay topic.
Miscellaneous Addendum
This section is optional.
If there is anything about your application that you would like to address, you may submit an addendum.
Your addendum should be no more than one page, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and in 12-point font.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. Since this app has no separate attachment for Character and Fitness, this section could also be used as a C&F explanation.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Contact information for all relevant agencies in the United States is available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event can lead to more serious consequences than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admissions in a timely manner of any changes to your answers in advance of matriculation or during school enrollment, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action, including dismissal, by the School of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek bar admission.Note: Bar examiners, both in Massachusetts and other jurisdictions, may require additional information pertaining to character and fitness history that Northeastern Law is not permitted to seek under state law. Acceptance into Northeastern Law's JD program does not guarantee you will be permitted to sit for a state's bar examination or be admitted to practice in your preferred jurisdiction. I have read and understand the above disclosures.
2. Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty or no contest to, any felony or is any felony charge currently pending against you?YesNo
3. Within the past five years, have you been convicted of, or released from incarceration for, a misdemeanor (or its equivalent in the applicable jurisdiction), other than for a first offense for drunkenness, simple assault, speeding, minor traffic violations, affray, or disturbance of the peace? YesNo
4. Have you ever been subject to academic or behavioral proceedings, probation, discipline or other sanction, or are any such charges pending against you, by any college, university or professional school?YesNo
5. Have you ever been separated from any branch of the armed forces of the United States, the Peace Corps, Teach For America, City Year, or any other service organization under conditions other than honorable? YesNo
6. Have you ever been discharged, suspended, laid off, permitted to resign (in lieu of termination), or terminated from any job?YesNo
7. Have you ever been the subject of any charges, complaints or grievances (formal or informal), alleging that you engaged in the unauthorized practice of law, including any now pending?YesNo
Résumé
Please provide a current résumé. Include work experience - including paid or unpaid employment, internships and volunteer work - as well as activities. Limit the résumé to no more than two pages.
73 Seton Hall University
L50: 160 | G50: 3.58 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee requires a personal statement in the form of a written essay of approximately two or three typed pages, double-spaced. Please tell us about a significant life experience that has helped to shape your career choice and desire to attend law school.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Seton Hall in particular. They also stress providing lear examples from your experience.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
The Admissions Committee would like to provide you with the opportunity to share additional information with us. Please note that this statement is optional, and the decision to skip this section will not affect the review of your application.
Please describe the world you come from (ie. your family, community or school) and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.
LEO Program Essay
This section is optional.
If you are seeking consideration for admission via the LEO program, you must attach this supplemental essay that explains the hardships you have overcome. To be eligible for admission to the LEO Program, students must demonstrate resiliency and perseverance in the face of social, economic or educational challenges, or other hardships, and bring determination, compassion, and leadership skills to the Seton Hall Law School community. Do not simply reference/refer to information you may provide in other attachments to your application, such as your personal statement. Even if the nature of the explanation of your hardship is related to circumstances provided in other attachments, write your response as if this were a stand-alone document. For specific types of claims, please also address the following issues:
English is not your first language: If you weren't born in the USA, when did you arrive? What is your primary language? At what age did you learn English? What is the current language spoken in your home? What was the language of instruction in elementary school, middle school, high school, and college?
Physical/Learning/Other Disability: Describe the nature of the disability, including your age at onset or diagnosis. Describe what help, if any you have had in dealing with this condition and how it has affected your educational development and academic record. (Documentation of the existence and nature of the disability with recent reports from treating physicians, counselors, or other professionals should be scanned and attached to the application, or mailed to the admissions office.)
Family Circumstances: Explain how your family circumstances affected your educational opportunities and/or achievements. Have any of your relatives attended college? (If so, who?)
Economic Hardship: How has your family's economic circumstances affected your educational achieivements. If you attended a private elementary or high school, what was the source of tuition/financing? (Documentation of economic hardship must be submitted such as personal income tax return(s) for the last two years and/or financial aid award letters. These should be scanned and attached to the application, or mailed to the admissions office.)
Inferior pre-college schooling: Explain how the shortcomings of schools attended prior to college affected your early education.
All LEO applicants MUST include this additional essay. The essay should be titled: "LEO Admission Essay".
This is for the LEO Program - “Applicants Seeking Legal Education Opportunities” (Summer Institute)
More info here: https://law.shu.edu/About/diversity/LEO/index.cfm
GPA/LSAT Explanation
This section is optional.
You have the option to attach a supplemental statement in addition to your Personal Statement, that describes any experiences or circumstances (including any physical and/or psychological difficulties) not mentioned elsewhere in this application, that might have adversely affected any previous academic performance or standardized testing results. It is important that you address whether these circumstances prevail today, and, if so, how would this affect your success in a law school program. Do not simply reference/refer to information you may provide in other attachments to your application. Even if the nature of the explanation is related to circumstances provided in other attachments, write your response as if this were a stand-alone document.
This is for the LEO Program - "Applicants Seeking Legal Education Opportunities" (Summer Institute)
More info here: https://law.shu.edu/About/diversity/LEO/index.cfm
Supplemental Documents
This section is optional.
If you wish to scan and attach any supplemental information to document answers provided elsewhere in this application, you may attach/scan the document(s) and attach them here.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
The American Bar Association Standards and Rules of Procedure require law schools to advise each applicant that state bar requirements deal with character and fitness of an applicant at the time he or she seeks certification to register for a state bar examination. They may further allow the law school to seek information on character and fitness to ensure that appropriate law school qualifications are met. Acceptance by the law school does not guarantee certification by the state bar examiners. If you are concerned about facts that may affect your eligibility to practice law, you should discuss the matter with the Board of Bar Examiners in the state and jurisdiction where you expect to practice. Your law school application is a living document, meant to represent your character and fitness to practice law from the time of application through admission to the bar. Submission of this application indicates your understanding that you have an obligation to update these character and fitness answers any time your answers change between the time of application submission and the time of admission to the bar. Updates should be sent to the Seton Hall Law School Associate Dean for Academics.
A "Yes" answer to any "Yes/No" question in this section requires that you submit a "Character and Fitness" attachment. Your application will not be complete without the attachment.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been cited for, charged with, taken into custody for, arrested for, indicted, tried for, pled guilty to, or convicted of the violation of any law (other than a minor traffic violation) or been the subject of a juvenile delinquent or youthful offender proceeding or received a conditional discharge, adjournment in contemplation of dismissal, or pretrial diversionary program? (Note: driving while intoxicated or impaired, driving without insurance, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving while suspended are NOT considered minor traffic offenses for the purposes of this section). The entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter(s) on this statement. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. If "yes", you must complete the "Character and Fitness" attachment explaining the nature of the proceeding and full details, including a narrative of facts, dates, name and location of court, and disposition.YesNo
2. Have you ever been charged with fraud, larceny, embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, misrepresentation, perjury, false swearing, conspiracy to conceal, or a similar offense? If yes, you must complete the "Character and Fitness" attachment explaining the nature of the proceeding and full details, including a narrative of facts, dates, name and location of court, and disposition.YesNo
3. Have you ever been a named party (eg. plaintiff/defendant) in any civil proceeding, regardless of the age of the matter or whether the final disposition was a dismissal or a settlement? This includes, but is not limited to, negligence actions, unintentional torts, landlord/tenant matters, contract matters, or domestic relations matter, including divorce, custody, visitation, support, petitions for protection from abuse, restraining orders and/or peace orders. (If you were the child in question in a custody proceeding, you were not considered a named party). If yes, you must complete the "Character and Fitness" attachment explaining the nature of the proceeding and full details, including a narrative of facts, dates, name and location of court and disposition.YesNo
4. Have you ever been discharged from any employment or requested or permitted to resign in lieu of disciplinary action? Or, in connection with your employment, have you ever been subject to any formal or informal charges of improper behavior that had any part in your quitting, being permitted to resign, being discharged or resulting in a suspension, demotion or loss of pay? If yes, you must complete the "Character and Fitness" attachment explaining the nature of the proceeding and full details, including a narrative of facts, dates and disposition.YesNo
5. If you currently hold, or have ever held, a professional or occupational license of any kind, please list the license(s), dates held, and the jurisdiction or authority that issued the license. (maximum characters 200)number of characters left is displayed after the field
6. Have you ever been disciplined as a member of any licensed profession or occupation including, but not limited to, being suspended from practice, reprimanded, censured, disqualified, revoked, permitted to resign, admonished, sanctioned or removed, or have any complaints or charges, formal or informal, ever been made or filed or proceedings instituted against you in such capacity? If yes, you must complete the "Character and Fitness" attachment explaining the nature of the matter, providing full details including a narrative of facts, dates, names of adjudication authorities and final disposition, including the current status (active, suspended, etc.) of any professional or occupational licenses held.YesNo
Resume
Provide a résumé or curriculum vitae indicating all employment experience since secondary/high school until the present. You should include part-time and summer work. Include number of hours worked and if employment was part-time. If you have never been employed, you may attach a letter explaining this in lieu of a résumé.
73 Loyola University—Chicago
L50: 159 | G50: 3.46 | Deadline: May 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
We want to know your motivation for continuing your schooling, your career aspirations, and how you believe Loyola's program will help you meet your goals. Your statement should not exceed two pages in length (double-spaced).
Optional Diversity Essay
This section is optional.
Loyola University Chicago strives to be the school of choice for diverse, talented and dedicated law students. How might your own background and/or experience add to the diversity of our student body?
This is an optional opportunity to provide us with relevant information that you were not able to include elsewhere in your application. The essay should be about one page in length (no more than two, double-spaced).
Addenda
This section is optional.
If you believe any item in your application requires clarification, and/or you would like to provide more context to the Admission Committee, you are welcome to submit a brief addendum.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
The following questions require a "yes" or "no" response. An affirmative response will not necessarily prejudice your admission to Loyola or to the bar of a U.S. jurisdiction. If you answer "yes" to any question, you must provide a detailed written explanation of the circumstances. If you are unsure whether to answer "yes" to any question, we recommend answering "yes" and fully disclosing all incidents. Failure to answer these questions completely and with candor may result in the revocation of an offer of admission to Loyola or other action under Loyola's Code of Conduct.
Applications for admission to the bar of a state or other jurisdiction usually require the disclosure of more information than is required by this application. If a disclosure in your bar application(s) differs materially from a disclosure required by this application for admission, it may result in denial of your admission to the bar. You should therefore ensure that your disclosures in this application are as complete and accurate as possible.
1. While enrolled at a college, university or other higher education institution, were you ever suspended, dismissed, expelled, placed on probation, or otherwise disciplined for academic or non-academic reasons (including, but not limited to misconduct related to alcohol or substance abuse)? You must disclose any matters or proceedings that are pending at the time of your application.
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Were you ever suspended, expelled, terminated, placed on probation, or otherwise disciplined by any organization or agency charged with regulating professional or business conduct, or are any such proceedings pending?
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Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense or accepted/admitted responsibility (such as by paying a fine) for a criminal citation other than a minor traffic violation (fine $200 or less)? You are not required to disclose arrests that did not result in a criminal charge or citation, or criminal charges or citations (or juvenile adjudications) that have been dismissed, expunged or sealed. You must disclose any criminal charges or citations that are pending against you at the time of this application.
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Has your driver's license ever been suspended for any reason?
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Did you answer "yes" to any of the questions in the Character and Fitness section? If so, you must provide a detailed written explanation of the circumstances. If you answered "yes" to more than one question, please include all explanations in one document, identifying each. You must include in the explanation(s) the date, year, location, circumstances of the violation and the fine and/or sanctions or remedial measures imposed. Please include your name and LSAC account number at the top of the page. Do not provide official documentation in lieu of a written explanation of circumstances.
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NOTE: Continuing Duty to Disclose -- After you submit this application, and throughout your attendance in law school, if admitted, you are required to inform Loyola University Chicago School of Law promptly and in writing of any matters that require any change or addition to your responses to the questions above. Failure to comply with this obligation may result in adverse action under Loyola’s Code of Conduct.
Please type your FULL NAME to indicate that you understand and accept responsibility for the information above.
If you answered "yes" to any of the questions in the Character and Fitness section, you must provide a detailed written explanation of the circumstances. If you answered "yes" to more than one question, please include all explanations in one document, identifying each. You must include in the explanation(s) the date, year, location, circumstances of the violation and the fine and/or sanctions or remedial measures. Please include your name and LSAC account number at the top of the page. Do not provide official documentation in lieu of a written explanation of circumstances.
Resume
It is required that applicants attach a current resume or curriculum vitae.
Law School Standing
This section is optional.
If you answer "yes" to this question, you must provide an attachment with a complete explanation of the circumstances.
73 University of Miami
L50: 161 | G50: 3.69 | Deadline: July 31, 2023 | ED: November 4, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Applicants are required to include a personal statement containing information about themselves, such as work experience, leadership roles, community service, specific interest in the law, or unique circumstances. This information will be used by the Admissions Committee to reach a decision on the application. While review by others is acceptable, this statement should be written solely by the applicant.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in MIami in particular.
Overcoming Obstacles
- (Optional) The Committee may consider favorably the fact that an applicant has overcome obstacles. Please explain any circumstances you would like the Committee to consider, such as socio-economic or educational challenges, health issues, disability, immigration status, English as a second language, homelessness, complex family situations, surviving abuse, discrimination, etc. (maximum characters 500)
This section is optional and is if you want to apply to Miami scholars.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you need to provide additional information to the Admissions Committee for review, please submit an addendum as part of your application.
Significant Writing
- (Optional) Effective writing is an essential skill for lawyers. Please list all significant writing experiences, such as course term papers, independent research, theses, dissertations, articles, books, work as a journalist or editor, etc. (maximum characters 500)
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Character and Fitness and the Need for Full Disclosure: Applicants should respond fully and accurately to every question on the application. In evaluating applications, the Admissions Committee is primarily concerned with your potential for success in and contribution to the academic program and to the law school community. The Admissions Committee also places high value on the honesty and integrity required in the practice of law. The care and candor reflected in the responses on your application are significant factors in the Committee’s evaluation. You should be aware that, in conducting character and fitness investigations, bar authorities frequently request copies of candidates' applications for admission to law school to determine whether they have supplied erroneous or incomplete information in the admissions process. If discrepancies are found, bar authorities may conclude that they undermine a candidate's credibility and call into question a candidate’s fitness for admission to the bar. Therefore, Miami Law places upon applicants the continuing duty to notify the law school of any changes to information required by the Character and Fitness questions on the application for admission. This responsibility begins when you submit your application for admission and continues throughout your time as a law student. You are required to answer the application’s Character and Fitness questions completely, irrespective of any statute, administrative rule, court order, or legal or administrative proceeding expunging/sealing the information from any record or purporting to authorize any person to deny the existence of such matters. Receipt of advice from any source (including legal counsel) that such information need not be disclosed does not release you from the duty to disclose or justify a failure to disclose. Please note that your duty to disclose extends to warnings and sanctions imposed as a result of violation of any rules in university dormitories and off-campus housing. Pending matters or charges expected to be brought against you must also be disclosed. If you are unsure about the nature or the ultimate disposition of a particular charge, you are advised to make full disclosure of the charge. A subsequent finding that you failed to disclose relevant information is often more detrimental than the incident requiring disclosure itself.
Conviction of a Crime and State Bar Requirements: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the bar admission requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Contact information for all relevant jurisdictions are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. Applicants with criminal convictions may find it difficult to gain admission to the bar of some states. State bar authorities are concerned about the candor of prospective lawyers and thus with applicants’ truthfulness in supplying and updating information requested on law school applications. Applicants failing to disclose on their law school applications a crime for which they have been convicted may experience, on that ground alone, unusual delays or other problems in being admitted to the bar.
For any affirmative answer, applicants are required to submit a statement that includes the date, location, and a detailed explanation and resolution of each incident using the Character and Fitness feature under the Attachments section of the application. After initial review of your application, the Admissions Committee may request additional documentation.<
Required field
1. Have you ever been accused of a violation of an honor code or student conduct code; warned; placed on academic, scholastic, or disciplinary probation; suspended, requested, or advised to discontinue your studies; dropped, expelled, or requested to resign; or otherwise subjected to discipline by any college, law school, or other post-secondary institution?
Yes
No
Required field
2. Have you ever been discharged, terminated, suspended, relieved from duty with or without pay, asked to resign, or placed on paid or unpaid administrative leave with regard to any disciplinary action or potential disciplinary action taken by any employer?
Yes
No
Required field
3. Have you ever been cited, charged, detained, taken into custody, or arrested for a violation of any law, statute, or ordinance, regardless of the outcome of the case? Please note this includes civil matters, misdemeanors, or traffic offenses for which the penalty was a fine actually paid of $200 or more, as well as any violations resulting in probation, community service, withhold of adjudication, pretrial diversion, jail sentence, or revocation/suspension of your driver?s license.
Yes
No
Required field
4. Have you ever been arrested or detained for driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving with an unlawful blood alcohol level, or charged with vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide?
Yes
No
Required field
5. Have you ever been charged with or convicted of a felony?
Yes
No
Required field
6. Within the past 5 years, have you been delinquent by more than 90 days in the payment of any tax, credit obligation, judgment, student loan, or other indebtedness?
Yes
No
Resume
Applicants are required to include a résumé or curriculum vitae detailing their education, employment, skills, honors, awards, and accomplishments.
Advocacy and Public Service
- (Optional) The Committee may consider favorably significant experience serving economically and/or educationally underserved communities. Please list any public service in which you have participated, such as AmeriCorps, City Year, Peace Corps, Teach for America, etc. Include the approximate number of hours per week, duration of your involvement, and any leadership positions.
If you would like to expand upon your passion for public service, you may also provide a public interest addendum. The addendum should address the importance of public interest work in the legal profession and how you hope to use your law degree to promote access to justice. Submissions may be considered for public interest scholarship funding. (maximum characters 400)
78 Drexel University
L50: 158 | G50: 3.59 | Deadline: August 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a personal statement that speaks to your reasoning for wanting to become a legal professional. How do you think the Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law can aid your goals?
We suggest you follow the prompt closely.
Optional Diversity Essay
(Optional) Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important values to our institution. Please describe your potential to support the law school's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to help bring diversity to the legal profession.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum
(Optional) You may include an explanation related to your academic or work history that is not otherwise described in law school application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a GPA addendum, LSAT addendum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Under Disclosures
- Have you ever been denied enrollment, dismissed, suspended, expelled, subject to discipline, or disciplinary probation for plagiarism, cheating, dishonesty, fraud, or any other reason (including dorm violations or the like), or withdrawn in lieu of discipline from any academic institution or organization, beyond high school, for any reason (does NOT include academic discipline or probation for poor or failing grades)?
- Have you ever been court-martialed?
- Since the age of 18, have you ever been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any crime or violation, other than a minor traffic violation (i.e., parking or speeding citations) that has not been subsequently expunged?
Between the ages of 14 and 18, were you ever convicted of or pleaded guilty to a crime involving serious bodily injury to another person?
If it has been more than 10 years since you turned 18, you need only list those convictions that occurred in the past 10 years.
If yes, provide a detailed explanation in an addendum.
Please note that nothing in this question should be interpreted to be inconsistent with the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law. Further, note that should you apply to the Pennsylvania bar, you will be required to give a greater disclosure to the Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners, which is exempt from the Pennsylvania Clean Slate law. - is an acknowledgment/agreement
If you answered yes to any of the disclosure questions, please submit an attachment with a detailed explanation.
Résumé
Please submit a current résumé.
78 Case Western Reserve University
L50: 160 | G50: 3.61 | Deadline: April 1, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
Please complete this section by discussing academic achievements, work experience, special interests, honors, community involvement, and other matters you believe will assist the Admissions Committee in evaluating your application. Please limit your answer to two 8-1/2 x 11 pages (which must be attached electronically). Please include your name and LSAC account number on each supplemental page.
This is an open-ended prompt.
Diversity
We believe enrolling a diverse student body enriches the educational experience for everyone. We recognize and value many forms of diversity, including race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, language, culture, national origin, religious affiliation, age, disability status, political viewpoint, and family circumstances. Please include a supplemental essay if you would like to discuss the importance of diversity to you and/or how you would contribute to a diverse environment at CWRU Law.
This is an open-ended diversity statement.
Interests and Goals
In evaluating applicant files, it is helpful for us to learn about an applicant's interests, goals, and expectations of law school. We encourage you to attach a supplemental statement describing your particular interest in Case Western Reserve University School of Law as it relates to your personal and professional objectives.
We strongly encourage students to submit this statement.
Character and Fitness
In order to be licensed to practice law, you will need to sit for a state bar examination. The bar examination application questions vary from state to state but generally will require you to disclose whether you have been subject to any criminal or disciplinary proceedings. When answering these questions, please keep in mind that any discrepancy between your responses on your application for law school admission and your application for admission to the bar may be an impediment to your admission to the bar in many states.
If your answer is "yes" to any of the Character and Fitness questions, you must supplement your response with a full explanation of the circumstances, including dates. Use a separate sheet or electronic attachment and clearly identify the number of the question. All matters must be reported, even if they were dismissed, expunged, or sealed under the laws of any state.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been the subject of a hearing pursuant to the Law School Admission Council's Rules Governing Misconduct and Irregularities in the Admission Process? Yes/No
2. As an adult or juvenile, have you ever been cited for, charged with, subject to a penalty for, or convicted of a crime? A crime includes a misdemeanor, felony, or traffic offense involving drugs or alcohol. Note: Include matters that have been expunged or subject to a diversion program. Yes/No
3. Have you been charged with any moving traffic violations that were not alcohol- or drug-related during the past ten years? Note: Include matters that have been expunged or subject to a diversion program. Please specify date, location, details of the violation, and outcome. Yes/No
4. Have you ever been charged with academic or disciplinary misconduct at any postsecondary educational institution? Yes/No
5. Have you ever been dismissed, suspended, placed on academic warning or probation, disciplined, expelled, or officially requested or advised to withdraw from a postsecondary educational institution due to inadequate academic performance? Yes/No
6. Have you ever been subject to a restraining order? Yes/No
7. Has a professional association or state licensing board ever suspended or revoked a professional license that you held or has such an association or board ever required you to appear at a proceeding where license suspension or revocation was a possible sanction? Yes/No
8. Have you ever been terminated, suspended, disciplined, or permitted to resign in lieu of termination from any job? Yes/No
Resume
Please attach a résumé. Include job dates, the employer name and location, and your position held. List in chronological order, most recent first.
Please note the preference for chronological order.
Leadership
At Case Western Reserve University School of Law we have a strong tradition of inspiring leaders. We evaluate all of our applicants for leadership potential. Describe in one page or less what characteristics you have that make you a leader. Please be sure to include at least one example of a time when you demonstrated your leadership potential.
We strongly encourage students to submit this statement.
78 Georgia State University
L50: 160 | G50: 3.55 | Deadline: June 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Electronically attach your personal statement. This is your opportunity to support your application with anything you wish to say about yourself and your abilities, interests or personal history. This statement should be limited to two pages double-spaced.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider addressing why you want to attend law school and Georgia State in particular.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Feel free to attach an optional diversity statement. Please limit to no more than two pages double spaced.
Law Violations
This section is optional.
If you answered YES to Question 4 of the Character and Fitness section regarding "law violations", you are required to attach a statement explaining the circumstances of each incident. Include at least the following information for each instance: date, description of the offense(s), and disposition.
These attachments are for if you answered specific C&F questions.
Attended Any Law School
This section is optional.
If you answered YES to the question, "Have you ever attended any law school", electronically attach a separate statement explaining why you did not complete the program.
(Note: An official law school transcript must be forwarded to LSAC. Additionally, a Letter of Good Standing must be mailed directly to the College of Law's Admissions Office.)
These attachments are for if you answered specific C&F questions.
Academic Interruption
This section is optional.
If you answered YES to the question, "Has your college, university, graduate, professional or technical school course of study ever been interrupted for one or more terms," electronically attach a separate statement explaining each instance. Include at least the following information for each instance: date, school name, reason for interruption and any condition(s) placed upon your return.
These attachments are for if you answered specific C&F questions.
Honor Code Violations
This section is optional.
If you answered YES to the question, "Are you currently charged with, or have been found guilty of, any violation of academic honesty, honor code, or conduct regulations of a previously attended institutions," electronically attach a separate statement explaining each instance.
These attachments are for if you answered specific C&F questions.
Academic Discipline
This section is optional.
If you answered YES to the question, “Have you ever been expelled, suspended, or placed on probation or discipline, academic or otherwise,” electronically attach a separate statement explaining each instance. Include at least the following information for each instance: date, school or organization name, reason for probation or discipline, and any condition(s) place upon your return or reinstatement.
These attachments are for if you answered specific C&F questions.
Non-Resident Addendum
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL ONLY FOR NON RESIDENTS OF GEORGIA
This is your opportunity to further reiterate your desire to attend the Georgia State University College of Law. Feel free to discuss the reasons for relocating to Georgia (i.e. employment, military assignment, or any past or current Georgia ties).
Visa/Perm. Resident Card is req., the rest of the addendums are optional/as applicable.
Character and Fitness
. Indicates a required field.
1. Has your college, university, graduate, professional or technical school course of study ever been interrupted for one or more terms, for any reason? If YES, explain fully on a separate electronic attachment, including at least the following information for each instance: date, school name, reason for interruption and any condition(s) placed upon your return.YesNo
2. Have you ever been expelled, suspended, or placed on probation or discipline, academic or otherwise, by any school, university, college, trade or professional organization for any reason? If YES, explain fully on a separate electronic attachment, including at least the following information for each instance: date, school or organization name, reason for probation or discipline and any condition(s) placed upon your return or reinstatement.YesNo
3. Are you currently charged with, or have been found guilty of, any violation of academic honesty, honor code, or conduct regulations of a previously attended institution?If yes, you must list each separate charge pending against you or with which you have been found responsible. For each charge, you must list the corresponding dates and provide a concise description of the circumstances and provide a letter of good standing from the Dean of Students at the institution(s) where each charge occurred.YesNo
4. Are you aware of any circumstances in your background that might prohibit you from being admitted to the practice of law? If YES, explain fully on a separate electronic attachment, including at least the following information for each instance: date and a description of the circumstances. For a description of circumstances that might prohibit you from being admitted to the practice of law in Georgia, see http://www.gabaradmissions.org.YesNo
5. EXCLUDING ONLY PARKING VIOLATIONS, have you ever been detained, arrested, formally accused, cited or prosecuted for the violation of any law (including ALL traffic citations, such as speeding, reckless driving, running a red light or stop sign, failure to yield, etc.)? If YES, electronically attach a statement, including at least the following information for each instance: date, description of the offense(s), and disposition. IMPORTANT NOTE: You must disclose each instance even if the charges have been dismissed, or you were acquitted, or allowed to plead nolo contendere, or adjudication was withheld, or a conviction was reversed, set aside or vacated, or the record sealed or expunged and regardless of whether you have been told you need not disclose any such instance. This includes all juvenile charges. Such instances do not necessarily disqualify you from admission to law school. All circumstances are carefully considered by the College of Law Admissions Committee.If you have been convicted of offenses other than minor ones, or if you withhold required information on this application, you may have difficulty gaining bar admission. Bar admission authorities often review an applicant's law school application and school record when application is made to the bar. Your answers on this application will be part of your record.Every American jurisdiction in which you may practice law after graduation from law school requires each applicant for admission to the bar to meet character and fitness requirements as a condition of eligibility for admission. You are encouraged, as you go through the law school application process and before you enter law school, to determine the requirements of the jurisdiction(s) where you intend to practice law. If you are uncertain where you will practice law, you may wish to review the Standard NCB Character and Fitness Application, titled Request for Preparation of a Character Report, of the National Conference of Bar Examiners, which is used by a number of jurisdictions’ bar admission authorities. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available at www.ncbex.org.YesNo
6. **LAW VIOLATION CERTIFICATION (Please initial below)**I hereby certify that the information I have provided in response to Question 4 of the Character and Fitness Section is true and complete. If anything occurs that makes my response incomplete or inaccurate, I will amend my answer as soon as is reasonably possible after the occurrence of any such event. I understand that this obligation to ensure that these responses are correct (and amend, if and when necessary), continues until my graduation from the College of Law.
Resume
This section is optional.
Electronically attach your resume.
Miscellaneous Addenda
This section is optional.
This is your opportunity to attach any statement or explanation regarding your academic performance including the LSAT.
78 University of Pittsburgh
L50: 160 | G50: 3.51 | Deadline: May 1, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee seeks to identify how each applicant might enhance our community and use his or her legal education to have a positive impact. Please submit a two-page, double-spaced, typed Personal Statement. In your Personal Statement, please describe how your life experience provides evidence relevant to these considerations.
Please attach your Personal Statement.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but they want to know how you would contribute legally using past evidence from previous life experiences.
LSATExplanation
This section is optional.
Do you believe that any personal background factors have caused your LSAT scores or undergraduate grades to under predict your ability to perform successfully in law school? Such factors might include, but are not limited to, physical or mental disability, English as a second language, quality of primary or secondary education, maturing non-academic experiences such as work experience, and ethnic and cultural factors by reason of which you have had less experience in dealing with culture-bound standardized tests. If your answer is "Yes," please identify and explain any such factors. It will be helpful if you could also identify a counselor, teacher, or other person who is aware of the factor and would be able to describe its extent.
These essays are optional but we recommend you answer them if they are applicable.
MinGroup
This section is optional.
Do you believe that you are a member of a minority group, however described, which is inadequately represented by the legal profession today, either because too few lawyers are drawn from that group or because members face challenges in access to representation? If your answer is "Yes," identify the minority group, describe in what way you believe it is inadequately represented by the legal profession, and describe how you think you can make a contribution to the solution of the problem.
These essays are optional but we recommend you answer them if they are applicable.
Miscellaneous
This section is optional.
If there is additional information you would like to attach to your application in order to help the admission committee make a decision on your file, please attach it here. We ask that you limit the size 2 pages, double-spaced typed. Thank you.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. Have you ever been dismissed, suspended, expelled, subject to discipline (including disciplinary probation for plagiarism, cheating, dishonesty, fraud, social media content that you either shared or created, or any other reason), or withdrawn or been denied enrollment in lieu of discipline from any academic institution or organization beyond high school, for any reason?If your answer is "Yes," please explain in an electronic attachment.YesNo
2. Are there any disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you?If your answer is "Yes," please explain in an electronic attachment.YesNo
3. Are you currently or have you ever been arrested, charged, cited, accused, or prosecuted for any crime by a law enforcement agency, or have you ever been the subject of any investigation by a law enforcement agency, civil or administrative agency, professional organization, corporation, board, or any other agency (including, but not limited to, the lawyer Disciplinary Board, Attorney General's Office, government entity, law firm, etc.)? This does NOT include summary (minor) motor vehicle violations for which you were given a citation (ticket).Expunged or sealed convictions or sanctions MUST be disclosed.If yes, please give dates and complete details (use an electronic attachment).YesNo
Resume
This section is optional.
Please attach your résumé.
78 University of Nebraska
L50: 158 | G50: 3.64 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is the applicant's opportunity to tell the Admissions Committee additional information, including why he or she wants to study law and any information that would be helpful to the Admissions Committee in evaluating the application. Applicants may also want to clarify information regarding their Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores or undergraduate grades.
The University of Nebraska College of Law does not conduct face-to-face interviews; therefore, the personal statement is the applicant's best opportunity to convey information that he or she might discuss in an interview. Recommended length for your personal statement is 2 to 3 double-spaced pages.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Nebraska in particular by the end of the essay.
Disadvantaged Background
This section is optional.
If you have overcome significant educational or economic disadvantages to obtain your undergraduate education, please provide an attachment with an explanation.
First Generation Grad
This section is optional.
If you are in the first generation in your family to graduate from College, please upload a separate document explaining how this has impacted you and/or your educational aspirations
We recommend that you answer one of these prompts if applicable.
Miscellaneous
This section is optional.
Please use this attachment to upload any additional documents or addendums that weren't previously submitted.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Answer the following questions "yes" or "no." If you answer any of the questions "yes," you must upload a separate document and provide the additional information requested (see Attachments section). Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the College of Law of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of your admission, or if admitted, dismissal from the College of Law or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been ticketed, cited, charged with or arrested for a crime other than a minor traffic violation? Check "yes" even if the offense was expunged from your record, you went through a pre-trial diversion program, your record was sealed or you were told you did not need to disclose the matter. If "yes," please explain in detail the nature of the crime, the circumstances surrounding the ticket, citation, charges or arrest and the disposition (see Attachments section).YesNo
2. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled or requested or advised to resign from any postsecondary school, college, university, professional school or law school? If "yes," please upload a separate document with explanation (see Attachments section).YesNo
3. Have you ever attended law school?If "yes," state the name of each law school you attended, the period of attendance and the reason(s) you left that school. Please request that each law school's dean send a letter indicating your standing as well as a transcript of all law school work directly to the Admissions office. (see Attachments section).YesNo
Underserved Communities
This section is optional.
If you anticipate a career that will focus on providing legal services to underserved communities after you graduate from law school, please provide an attachment with an explanation.
78 University of Denver
L50: 160 | G50: 3.60 | Deadline: March 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Submit a double-spaced, typed Personal Statement, which, generally, should not exceed two pages. Keeping in mind that LSAT scores and undergraduate transcripts are only a part of what the Faculty Admissions and Scholarship Committee will consider, take this opportunity to explain to the Committee why you should be selected for admission to Denver Law. Topics that the Committee may consider helpful in evaluating qualifications may include:
- Significant personal experiences beyond what may be reflected in the transcripts and on the résumé, especially experiences associated with the law
- Characteristics and experiences that you will bring to Denver Law and the legal profession that distinguish you from other applicants
- Long-range career plans and goals that you intend to pursue with your law degree
- The intellectual contribution you will make to the classroom
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Denver in particular.
Supplemental Information
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION These statements do not replace your Personal Statement.
- In an attachment, briefly describe any significant written product that you have produced, whether professional, academic, or otherwise. Describe the written product and its purpose. Include the name and date of any published material written by you or jointly with other authors. Do not attach the written product.
- In an attachment, briefly describe anything interesting in your background or life experience where you have excelled. This might include, for example, musical instruments you play, awards you have won, and sports where you and/or your team have excelled.
We suggest this section if you have excelled in a non-law related field that is not covered in your personal statement.
Admissibility to Practice
This section is optional.
If you answered "Yes" to either of the Admissibility to Practice questions, please attach an addendum for each "Yes" answer that gives dates and details, including the specific action and final determination.
This addendum is if you responded to any of the C&F Questions (called “Admissibility to Practice” on this app)
Admissibility to Practice
Indicates a required field.
1.Please take particular care in responding to this acknowledgement and the following two questions. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.You should be aware that any state bar to which you apply will receive a copy of this application. In rare cases, bar candidates, after graduating from law school and passing the bar examination, have been denied admission to the bar on character and fitness grounds.I acknowledge the above statement.
2. Criminal OffensesHave you ever been arrested, cited/ticketed for, charged with, convicted of, imprisoned, or placed on probation or parole for any offense against the law? Do not include parking or speeding tickets. Include all matters that have been dismissed for any reason, subject to a diversion or a deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside. You do not need to disclose any incident (including a juvenile one) that ended in the sealing or expungement of the incident by a court. If "YES", provide (1) a statement describing what happened in your own words.In addition to the statement (1), described above, if you were convicted of or pled guilty to any charges (including any deferred sentences that were ultimately dismissed), also include (2) a copy of the charging document, complaint, indictment, or citation, (3) the disposition or sentencing order, and (4) substantiation of successful completion of any sentences. Do not include parking or speeding tickets.YesNo
3. Academic & Social ConductFor academic or disciplinary reasons, have you ever received a warning, been dropped, placed on probation, been suspended or expelled, or otherwise been disciplined by or requested/advised to resign from any postsecondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school? If "YES", provide (1) a statement describing what happened in your own words. In addition to the statement (1), described above, if the incident resulted in a Title IX investigation, also include (2) a copy of any incident report, notice letter, decision letter, or other documentation regarding the action from the institution.YesNo
If you are unable to locate the requested documentation please provide an additional statement detailing the efforts made to obtain official records.
Résumé
Your résumé should include, but is not limited to, the following:
- All educational institutions attended since high school with attendance dates, degree(s) received, and major(s)
- Employment with dates, responsibilities, and accomplishments
- Extracurricular, political, public interest, and community activities
- Honors and awards
84 St. John's University
L50: 162 | G50: 3.66 | Deadline: March 15, 2023 | ED: January 1, 2023, December 1, 2022, November 1, 2022, October 1, 2022, January 6, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
lease submit a personal statement or short essay with your application or use an electronic attachment, if applying electronically. Please include your LSAC account number on your personal statement. You may select any topic you wish. Here are some suggested topics:
- your decision to pursue a career in law
- your reaction to a recent current affairs event
- your feelings about a particular community service or extracurricular activity with which you have been involved
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in St. John’s in particular by the end of the essay.
Supplementary Statement
This section is optional.
If there are economic, cultural, or social factors that have been significant in your development and identity, or that have presented obstacles to you and you wish the Admissions Committee to consider those factors in evaluating your application, please provide a supplementary statement or use an electronic attachment describing these obstacles.
This prompt is like a diversity statement and interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Addendum 2
This section is optional.
If necessary, please attach an addendum to your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Addendum 1
This section is optional.
If necessary, please attach an addendum to your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. Since this app has no separate attachment for Character and Fitness, this section could also be used as a C&F explanation.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. Have you ever been subject to any disciplinary action, placed on academic probation, or dismissed from any school, college, university, or graduate/professional school, or is any such action pending or expected to be brought against you? If yes, please state the precise facts and disposition of such action in a supplementary statement or on an electronic attachment.Please note: Although a disciplinary action may have been expunged or dismissed, it nevertheless should be disclosed in answer to this question.YesNo
2. Have you ever, either as an adult or juvenile, been cited, arrested, taken into custody, charged with, indicted, convicted or tried for, or pleaded guilty to, the commission of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law, except minor parking violations, or been the subject of any juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding?If yes, please explain in a supplementary statement or electronic attachment the charge or charges and relevant facts, including the nature of the offense, the dates and courts involved, and the penalty imposed, if any. Please note: Although a conviction may have been expunged or sealed by an order of a court, it nevertheless should be disclosed in answer to this question.YesNo
You are under a continuing obligation to notify the Admissions Office of any changes in your answers to these questions up until the time of your enrollment. Once enrolled,you are under a continuing obligation to notify the Office of Student Services of any changes in your answers to these questions.
Resume
You must attach a current resume.
84 University of South Carolina
L50: 159 | G50: 3.61 | Deadline: July 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell us about yourself. Please attached a personal statement that will give the Admissions Committee information you believe relevant to the admissions decision that is not elicited elsewhere in the application. You may address your academic or intellectual interests, significant accomplishments or obstacles overcome, personal or professional goals, educational achievements, or any way in which your perspective, viewpoint, or experiences will contribute to the rich diversity of the School of Law community.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in South Carolina in particular by the end of the essay.
Optional Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
South Carolina Law fosters a community where diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion are ingrained into everything we do. We invite you to submit an optional essay that reflects how you would contribute to or support that commitment consistent with the mission of the law school, which is:
The University of South Carolina School of Law prepares lawyer-leaders to serve their communities through rigorous legal studies, exceptional experiential training, and comprehensive professional identity formation within an inclusive and diverse environment. We serve justice and advance the law through engaged learning, teaching, scholarship, and service.
Given the nature of the admission process, you might reflect on how your experiences, achievements, and background inform the perspective you would bring to the life of the law school, both in the classroom and through cocurricular activities. Your experience might not ordinarily be well-represented in our study body unless we understand the contours of your journey to law school so far. While there are no requirements for the content of your diversity statement, nor are there limitations on its content as we seek to know more about you.
Addendum
This section is optional.
Please attach any information you wish to discuss in an addendum to the application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants seeking to engage in the practice of law are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules for admission to the Bar of the state in which they intend to seek admission, especially those rules relating to character, fitness, and other qualifications for practice. To guide your responses to the Character and Fitness questions in Section 11 in this application for admission, please review the Character and Fitness Guidelines on the School of Law website (www.law.sc.edu) at the Admissions Requirements tab.
When responding to the character and fitness questions below:
Include all disciplinary actions, charges, convictions, and traffic violations. You may exclude parking tickets, but you must disclose all traffic violations including those you consider to be minor. You must provide a complete record of all instances in which you have been arrested, taken into custody, or accused, formally or informally, of a violation of the law. Include instances that were expunged by Order of the Court, and juvenile offenses, whether or not the records are sealed. Disclose each instance even if the charges were dismissed; you were acquitted; adjudication was withheld; a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated; the record was sealed or expunged, or you participated in a pre-trial intervention program.
If you answer Yes to any of these questions, attach a detailed explanation giving dates, locations, the nature of the charge, the disposition of the case, and any sanction imposed. Simply including a copy of your driving or criminal record without including your detailed explanation is insufficient.
If you have questions about whether an incident or charge should be disclosed, we suggest that you err on the side of full disclosure. Failure to provide information is often more serious than the acts th
1. Has any disciplinary proceeding of any kind, formal or otherwise, been taken against you at any college or university you have attended?YesNo
2. Have you ever withdrawn from a college or university after being accused of a conduct or honor code violation?YesNo
3. Are any disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
4. Have you ever been arrested, taken into custody, or accused, formally or informally, of a violation of the law? Please refer to the instructions above concerning what must be disclosed in response to this question.YesNo
5. Are any criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
Resume
Please attach a résumé or curriculum vitae which details your employment history, including the name of your employer, your position title, dates of your employment, the number of hours per week, and your reason for leaving. Include significant academic honors, awards, or other recognition you have received, including academic scholarships and fellowships. Be sure to list significant extracurricular activities, community involvement, volunteer service, or other activities.
86 Rutgers University (merged)
L50: 158 | G50: 3.41 | Deadline: July 1, 2023 | ED: March 1, 2023, December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Essay
Each candidate must complete a 2-4 page (double-spaced) statement presenting any information that may assist the Admissions Committee in rendering a decision. Such statements can include information about yourself, your motivation for attending law school, and how you plan to use your legal education. Our goal is to create an intellectually stimulating student body comprised of persons who have diverse backgrounds and who share a desire for academic excellence and accomplishment. In addition to outstanding academic ability, we seek evidence of qualities such as leadership ability, professional and/or military experience, technical or vocational training, extraordinary accomplishment or success in a previous career, or a history of overcoming disadvantage.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in Rutgers in particular.
Additional Information #2
This section is optional.
If there is any information you would like to bring to the Committee's attention that has not been covered in the application or your personal essay, you are welcome to do so by attaching a separate statement. You can include information about your family background, reasons for a weak semester in college, or any other information that you feel should be considered when your application is reviewed.
Additional Information #1
This section is optional.
If there is any information you would like to bring to the Committee's attention that has not been covered in the application or your personal essay, you are welcome to do so by attaching a separate statement. You can include information about your family background, reasons for a weak semester in college, or any other information that you feel should be considered when your application is reviewed.
We recommend that you answer one of these essays if they can bring more light to your important accomplishments/experiences that are not addressed in the personal statement.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
The American Bar Association Standards and Rules of Procedure require law schools to advise each applicant of the following:
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Every American jurisdiction in which you may practice law after graduation from law school requires each applicant for admission to the bar to meet character and fitness requirements as a condition of eligibility for admission. A character and fitness review will require truthful, accurate and complete reporting of all requested information related to past conduct that bar examiners may deem relevant to one's fitness to practice law, in most jurisdictions. This includes (but is not limited to) all criminal arrests, charges, plea agreements, convictions, or instances of being taken into custody, as a juvenile or adult; all traffic violations except minor parking citations; involvement as a party to civil litigation; acts of fraud, dishonesty, or lack of candor; educational discipline or misconduct; failure to pay financial obligations; and substance abuse. Many jurisdictions require disclosure of all criminal arrests, charge, plea agreements or convictions, as a juvenile or adult, even where the record has been expunged.
It should be noted, however, that while bar admission boards require a complete disclosure of requested information, in many instances past relevant conduct, particularly if isolated and/or not recent, has not resulted in denial or delay of admission to the bar in a particular jurisdiction of interest. (This is not to suggest or predict how any jurisdiction's bar admission board would respond to any applicant's particular conduct disclosures going forward.)
A failure to truthfully, accurately and completely respond to a character and fitness inquiry, however, is commonly deemed a character and fitness violation in and of itself, and may be more detrimental to bar admission prospects than the undisclosed or incorrectly disclosed underlying conduct.
You are encouraged, as you go through the law school application process and before you enter law school, to determine the character and fitness requirements of the jurisdiction(s) where you intend to practice law. If you are uncertain where you will practice law, you may wish to review the Standard NCBE Character and Fitness Application, titled Request for Preparation of a Character Report of the National Conference of Bar Examiners which is used by a number of bar admission authorities. Addresses for the agencies are available at www.ncbex.org .
If you answer "yes" to any of the following Character and Fitness questions, please submit a detailed statement with this application explaining the circumstances, including details of the offense and relevant dates. All state bar examiners will review a copy of your law school application. Full disclosure is critical. Please make sure all relevant information is provided. If your answer cannot fit within the character limit of the corresponding textbox, please submit an addendum in the Attachments section of this application.
1. Have you ever been dismissed, expelled, suspended, placed on academic probation, given an academic warning, or disciplined by any secondary school, college, university, graduate, or professional school (including law school) for academic or any other reasons? YesNo
2. Has your academic career (undergraduate and/or graduate) been interrupted for one or more terms?YesNo
3. Were you ever subject to any disciplinary action while you were in college? Include violations of the university code of student conduct or any student honor code that covers standards of behavior at your undergraduate and/or graduate institution.YesNo
4. Are there any criminal or disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
5. Have you ever been cited for, charged with, taken into custody for, arrested for, indicted, tried for, pled guilty to, or convicted of, the violation of any law (other than a minor traffic violation) or been the subject of a juvenile delinquent or youthful offender proceeding or received a conditional discharge, adjournment in contemplation of dismissal, or pretrial diversionary program? (NOTE: driving while intoxicated or impaired, driving without insurance, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving while suspended are not considered minor traffic offenses for the purposes of this question).The entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter on this statement. This includes any juvenile record. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. If yes, please include an official statement of charges and dispositions.YesNo
6. Have you ever been a named party (e.g., plaintiff/defendant) in any civil proceeding, regardless of the age of the matter or whether the final disposition was a dismissal or a settlement? This includes, but is not limited to, malpractice, negligence actions, intentional torts, landlord/tenant matters, contract matters, or domestic relations matters, including divorce, custody, visitation, support, petitions for protection from abuse, restraining orders and/or peace orders and expungement proceedings. Have you ever been a party, complainant or participant in or to an administrative, governmental, investigative, judicial, arbitration or disciplinary proceeding, including but not limited to workers' compensation, unemployment, pension, disability, licensing boards, welfare, child protection, Title IX proceedings, conservatorship, fee arbitration or attorney disciplinary/grievance proceedings? NOTE: Simple receipt of benefits does NOT trigger an affirmative response if no proceedings were held.YesNo
7. Have you ever been disciplined as a member of any licensed profession or occupation, including, but not limited to, being suspended from practice, reprimanded, censured, disqualified, revoked, permitted to resign, admonished, sanctioned or removed, or have any complaints or charges, formal or informal, ever been made or filed or proceeding instituted against you in such capacity?YesNo
Resume
Attach a copy of your current résumé.
88 Lewis And Clark College
L50: 162 | G50: 3.54 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
PERSONAL STATEMENT
You are required to submit one essay, or statement, to be considered for admission. The statement provides an opportunity for the Admissions Committee to learn more about you and should include information that is not otherwise apparent in your application. You may write about your background, experiences, interest in law, aspirations, special abilities, or any topic that you feel will help readers of your application get a sense of you as a person and prospective law student. There is no word or page limit. The Admissions Committee will read the statement for style, grammar, and content. The statement must be your own work. It must be prepared without the assistance of other persons or professional writing services, other than for basic proofreading or a general critique. Supplemental materials such as videotapes, cassettes, CD/DVDs, and lengthy manuscripts or research papers will not be reviewed.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL ESSAY
Lewis & Clark seeks to enroll a class with varied backgrounds and interests. If you did not cover these topics in your personal statement, you may write a separate essay discussing how your interests, background, life experiences, and perspectives would contribute to the diversity of the entering class. If applicable, you may also describe any conditions that may have adversely affected your past performance or that you have successfully overcome, including linguistic barriers or a personal or family history of cultural, educational, social, or economic disadvantage.
15. Supplemental Questions
Indicates a required field.
1. Indicate the reasons why you are applying to law school. If this is clearly addressed in your personal statement, simply write "see personal statement" in the space below.required (maximum characters 1500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
2. Indicate the reasons why you are applying to Lewis & Clark Law School specifically. If this is clearly addressed in your personal statement, simply write "see personal statement" in the space below.required (maximum characters 1000)
Addendum
This section is optional.
ADDENDUM TO APPLICATION
If you have additional information you would like to include with your application, but that does not fit within our current list of required or optional attachments, please attach an addendum here.
Scholarship Statement
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL - SCHOLARSHIP STATEMENT
You have the option of submitting a short (no more than one page) statement with this application regarding your particular qualifications, which can help the scholarship committee in evaluating your request. See the "Merit-Based Scholarship" section in this application for more information on our scholarships.
19. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
To become a member of the practicing bar, you will have to pass a state bar examination. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Personnel at that agency are in the best position to give you guidance on the likelihood of your passing that state's character and fitness requirements. Most bar examiners will ask questions similar to those below. State bar admissions agencies may request to see your law school application file and may compare your answers on your law school application to those on your bar application for consistency. If in doubt as to whether to disclose, it is better to err on the side of disclosure. Failure to disclose can sometimes create as much concern on the part of a bar admissions agency as the actual infraction that one fails to disclose. Any discrepancies are likely to result in a thorough investigation by the state bar examiner.
If your answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," you must, as noted below, include a detailed statement to your application regarding the matter. Answering "Yes" to these questions will not automatically preclude you from admission to Lewis & Clark. However, individual bar admissions agencies have their own specific standards, and it would be wise to check with your anticipated bar to learn its requirements.
NOTE: You have an ongoing obligation to notify us if additional events occur between the time you sign this application and your matriculation at Lewis & Clark Law School that fit within the parameters of the questions in the Character & Fitness section of the application.
1. Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of any law other than a case that was resolved in juvenile court? This includes traffic violations. If "Yes," please provide an explanation of each incident including the resolution of the action and your reflections on each incident. Note: Include matters that have been dismissed, expunged, subjected to a diversion or deferred prosecution program, or otherwise set aside, except those in juvenile court.YesNo
2. Please type your explanation below OR attach an addendum to your application: (maximum characters 1000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Have you ever been dismissed from, suspended by, or subjected to academic or disciplinary sanctions or reprimands of any kind by any school, college, university, or law school? If "Yes," please provide an explanation of each incident including the resolution of the action and your reflections on each incident. By signing this application, you release us to discuss this matter with the school involved should we feel the need to do so.YesNo
4. Please type your explanation below OR attach an addendum to your application: (maximum characters 1000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Résumé
RÉSUMÉ OF WORK EXPERIENCE & ACTIVITIES
As noted in the application instructions, attach a separate document listing work experience, extracurricular activities, volunteer or community service, special skills, honors, awards, and other outstanding achievements. Include experiences after high school. Please indicate dates worked/served, main duties and responsibilities, position titles, and spell out uncommon acronyms.
88 University of Cincinnati
L50: 158 | G50: 3.73 | Deadline: July 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Applicants must include a personal statement. For additional information, please see instructions.
Advice for writing an effective personal statement can be found on the JD Program page under Admission Requirements.
You can either choose one of the following topics (A-C) or one of your choice (open-ended,D).
Addendum
This section is optional.
If there is any additional information that you would like to provide please include it in a short document and attach it here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. Since this app has no separate attachment for Character and Fitness, this section could also be used as a C&F explanation.
Why Cincinnati Law
Indicates a required field.
1. Please describe why you're interested in attending Cincinnati Law (in 500 characters or less).required (maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
2. What factor(s) are most important in your law school decision-making process?Affordability/Tuition/AidExperiences Beyond the ClassroomOutcomes/Jobs/Bar PassageDiversity of Student BodyLocation/Access to Urban CoreRanking and Reputation
3. Cincinnati Law offers nine academic pathways. Please check the specialty area(s) of most interest to you:Criminal LawPublic Interest LawLitigation and Alt. Dispute ResolutionBusiness and Entrepreneurship LawIntellectual Property, Innovation & TechHealth and Disability LawInternational LawEnvironmental and Energy LawGeneral and Small Practice
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners www.ncbex.org. Acceptance by the University of Cincinnati College of Law does not guarantee certification by any state’s Board of Law Examiners.
As part of this screening, the College of Law must provide a report on each student's character and fitness. To enable the College to compile that report, you must provide detailed information concerning your past conduct. Your failure to disclose past conduct that bears on your character and fitness could result in revocation of your admission to the College, discipline under the College Honor Code, or a state's refusal to admit you to the practice of law.
Please respond to the following questions, keeping in mind that complete candor is an indication of good character and fitness to practice law. Your answers are confidential, except for the report to bar examiners, unless you authorize the College to release them. If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, (including questions six through eight which ask about tickets), you must provide a full response explaining the circumstances in the space provided below the question. Failure to do so will result in an incomplete application that will not be processed.
If your explanation to any of these questions exceeds the space provided, please upload your full response as an addendum in the Attachments section of the application.
1. Have you ever been disciplined, placed on probation, warned, suspended, asked to resign, or expelled by an educational institution?YesNo
2. Have you ever had to discontinue your college education or full-time employment for more than 30 days for any reason?YesNo
3. Have you ever been discharged, suspended, disciplined, or asked to resign by any employer?YesNo
4. Have you ever filed or been the subject of a petition for bankruptcy?YesNo
5. Have you been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of any law, including as a juvenile (except parking tickets)?Note: This should include matters that have been expunged, dismissed, sealed, subject to a diversion program, or otherwise set aside.YesNo
6. Do you have outstanding or unpaid fines, court costs, or tickets, including those for traffic or parking violations?YesNo
7. Have you ever been charged with any alcohol- or drug-related traffic violations, regardless of when they occurred?YesNo
8. Have you ever been charged with any moving traffic violations that were not alcohol- or drug-related during the past ten years?YesNo
9. Have you ever been suspended, censured, removed, denied a license for, had a license revoked, or been otherwise reprimanded or disqualified as a member of another profession, or as a holder of public office?YesNo
10. Are disciplinary actions or criminal charges pending against you?YesNo
11. Have you ever been court-martialed or dishonorably discharged from the military?YesNo
12. Have you been summoned for a violation of any statute, regulation, or ordinance?YesNo
13. Have you been removed, resigned, or asked to resign as a guardian, executor, administrator, trustee, or other fiduciary?YesNo
14. Have you ever defaulted on any debts, including student loans?YesNo
15. To your knowledge, have you either been denied a security clearance or have you had a security clearance previously granted to you revoked?YesNo
16. Have you ever been, or are you currently, a party to any civil action or administrative proceeding?YesNo
Resume
A current résumé is required:
88 University of Oklahoma
L50: 158 | G50: 3.59 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
In order to ensure the educational benefits of a diverse and active class, the College of Law Admissions Committee evaluates applicants on the basis of many factors beyond test scores and grade-point averages. Those factors may include, but are not limited to, extracurricular activities, unique work or service experience, demonstrated compassion or leadership potential, a history of overcoming hardship or disadvantage, maturity, exceptional talents or skills, trends or improvement in academic performance, success in a challenging undergraduate environment, and graduate school performance. Please describe any factors you wish the Committee to consider when evaluating your application. You may indicate any circumstances that you believe may have adversely affected your academic performance, including but not limited to, experiencing some hardship or disadvantage (e.g. social, cultural, economic, language, educational, physical); family crisis; excessive employment; medical condition; or military service.
This is open-ended. However, the school does not provide a specific Diversity Statement, so some students may wish to incorporate that information into this statement.
Additional Addendum
Please provide any additional information regarding your application that would be beneficial.
Interest in OU
In a short paragraph please describe your interest in the University of Oklahoma College of Law and/or connection to the state of Oklahoma. required (maximum characters 1000)
This information is required. It is a character-defined box so it truly is limited to 1,000 characters.
Character and Fitness
Lawyers and law students are held to the highest standards of ethical behavior and professionalism. Those responsibilities begin during the application process. You have a duty to report and furnish information responsive to the character and fitness section of this application for admission regarding the four questions below. Failing to disclose an act or event is often more significant than the event itself. The failure to disclose can have serious impact including revocation or rescission of admission and/or scholarships, disciplinary action by the law school, and/or denial of permission to take a bar examination. Failure to disclose information may render you academically ineligible for admission at any time.
The following questions must be answered "YES" or "NO". If your answer to any of the following questions is "YES," you must include, on a separate supplementary electronic attachment, information explaining the circumstances in full, including dates. Be sure to include alcohol and drug offenses. Answering "YES," does not automatically disqualify you from consideration for admission to The University of Oklahoma College of Law. Please be advised, however, that there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the state bar associations that license attorneys. Prior to law school matriculation, you should determine what those requirements are in the state(s) in which you intend to practice. The failure to disclose all offenses on your application to law school may preclude your admission to state bar associations. Disclosure alone of character and fitness issues will not guarantee admission to a bar association, since the issues may require conditional admission or denial of admission.
PLEASE NOTE: It is your duty to be certain that any sealed or expunged record has in fact been sealed or expunged. Expunged or sealed offenses, arrests, tickets, or citations need not be disclosed. It is recommended that you obtain a copy of the Court Order expunging or sealing the record in question. Failure to reveal an offense, arrest, ticket, or citation that is in fact not expunged or sealed raises questions related to truthfulness in addition to questions regarding the offense itself.
It is your responsibility to notify the College of Law Admissions Office of any changes in the above answers.
Failure to timely notify the Admissions Office may result in the revocation of your admission or student disciplinary proceedings.
1. Have you ever been charged with a crime, or are any criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you, other than minor traffic violations? Include any alcohol or drug-related offenses and any reckless driving offenses. Yes/No
2. Have you ever been placed on probation, suspended, dismissed, or otherwise subjected to any disciplinary action, or are any disciplinary charges pending or expected to be brought against you from any college, university, graduate or professional school, or professional association for academic or other reasons? Yes/No
3. Have you ever been a party to any civil legal proceedings (excluding divorce), or do you have any unsatisfied civil judgments against you? Yes/No
4. Have you ever been made subject to an administrative complaint by any duly constituted legal authority, or charged with fraud, immorality, or other dishonorable conduct other than in a criminal proceeding? Yes/No
5. To the best of your knowledge have you ever been the subject of an investigation or are you currently under investigation? Yes/No
6. As a student you also have a continuing obligation to notify the admissions team and/or Dean of Students if your answers to the questions below change to "yes" up until the bar examination at the end of your 3L year. If you are unsure whether a disclosure must be made during your schooling, please reach out to the Dean of Students for clarification. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. I acknowledge the above statement
Resume/Accomplishments
Please attach a listing or résumé of your academic and career accomplishments.
91 University of New Mexico
L50: 156 | G50: 3.61 | Deadline: July 13, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is an opportunity for the Admissions Committee to get to know you beyond your academic record and for you to showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
In your personal statement you should address your motivations for pursuing a legal education, in particular attending the University of New Mexico School of Law, and your legal career goals. Statements are on average between two to three double-spaced pages.
This prompt clearly lays out the topics they want you to answer.
Evaluations/ Special Prog
This section is optional.
Please use this space to upload evaluations, grades, or certificates of completion from special summer law programs.
Addendum
This section is optional.
Please use this attachment to submit an addendum. An addendum may be used to provide further details regarding a part of your application or your background that you feel would be helpful to the Admissions Committee as they review your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
18. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Applicants who answer "yes" to any of the questions in this section must submit an addendum to fully explain the circumstances, including relevant dates, final dispositions, and other appropriate details. Addenda should be in the applicant's own words. Court documents should not be submitted in place of the applicant's own narrative statement of events.
Many jurisdictions, including New Mexico, require a copy of your law school application be submitted as part of your bar application. Failure to answer this section of the application truthfully and completely could impact your eligibility for bar admission. If, after submitting your application, circumstances arise that change your answer to any of these questions, you must contact the Office of Admissions for instructions on how to amend your application.
1. Have you ever been disciplined by a college or university for any type of misconduct, academic or otherwise, including but not limited to being placed on probation, suspended, expelled, or required to withdraw from the institution, for any length of time?YesNo
2. Have you ever had disciplinary action taken against you by any government, military, administrative, or licensing agency? NOTE: Any reversal on appeal, expungement, pardon, or other similar action must be disclosed and explained. YesNo
3. Have you ever been denied admission to practice law in another jurisdiction?YesNo
4. Have you ever been knowingly delinquent or neglectful of financial obligations?YesNo
5. Have you ever been arrested or otherwise charged, formally or informally, with a violation of the law (other than a minor traffic violation)?YesNo
6. Are any criminal or disciplinary charges or proceedings currently pending against you?YesNo
Resume/ Curriculum Vitae
Please provide a current resume or curriculum vitae.
Heritage Statement
This section is optional.
Applicants who selected ?American Indian/Alaskan Native? as all or part of their racial and ethnic identity, but who do not provide tribal affiliation and citizenship information should submit a heritage statement. This statement should describe the applicant’s connection to their Native heritage and are typically one (1) or two (2) pages, double-spaced, using standard fonts and margins.
This request is in accordance with Resolution 102 approved by the American Bar Association House of Delegates in August 2011:
RESOLVED, That the American Bar Association urges the Law School Admissions Council and ABA-approved law schools to require additional information from individuals who indicate on their applications for testing or admission that they are Native American, including Tribal citizenship, Tribal affiliation or enrollment number, and/or a ?heritage statement.?
17. Financial Information
Indicates a required field.
1. Do you wish to be considered for need-based scholarships?*By selecting "yes", you agree and understand that there are additional steps for need-based scholarship consideration. To be considered for need-based scholarships, candidates must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and direct it to the University of New Mexico (school code 0022663) on or before March 1.YesNoClear answer
2. Do you wish to be considered for named scholarships?*By selecting "yes", you agree and understand that there are additional steps for named scholarship consideration. These scholarships have varying eligibility criteria and require submission of additional application materials. Information on these scholarship opportunities is available online at https://lawschoool.unm.edu/admissions/financial-aid/scholarships.html. Admitted candidates will receive additional information on the application process via email. Applications for these scholarships must be submitted on or before March 1.YesNoClear answer
91 Michigan State University
L50: 156 | G50: 3.59 | Deadline: April 30, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement you submit may address any number of topics, such as your motivation to earn a law degree, particular career goals you may have, relevant information about your personal or professional background, and your interest in Michigan State University College of Law. Your personal statement should be no more than three double-spaced pages.
Prior Law School
The required addendum should describe what school you attended, the dates you attended, what program you were enrolled in, and any explanation as to your academic performance.
Supplemental Statement(s)
Applicants may submit supplemental statement(s) to provide additional clarification for any other aspect of their application. This may include the optional diversity statement and any other necessary addenda to explain GPA, LSAT score(s), etc.
Character and Fitness
Michigan State University seeks to admit students who provide evidence of academic performance, good character, and potential, allowing them to benefit academic rigor of those offered by Michigan State University. The University recognizes that a secure environment enhances learning opportunities. As part of the Admissions process, we require applicants to respond to the following questions. These questions mirror some of those commonly asked by bar examiners, who will do their own evaluations of your character and fitness when you apply for membership. Your answers must be consistent between this application and your future bar application. Your admission to law school does not guarantee admission to the bar of any jurisdiction.
You must submit an addendum with your application if you answer "yes" to any question in this section. This addendum should include the date and location (city/state) of events, a brief description of all incidents, and a full account of the outcome, including, if applicable, the location of the court with jurisdiction over the matter. In addition, official final disposition documentation or any corresponding police reports for each incident are helpful, and in some cases required by the Admissions Committee.
Affirmative answers to the questions below do not necessarily preclude or even prejudice admission to MSU Law. However, if an offer of admission is extended, the Admissions Committee carefully reviewed all explanations and documentation you supplied related to the character and fitness questions you answered in the affirmative. Discrepancies discovered, or failure to disclose information in this section could result in withdrawal of your offer of admission, dismissal after matriculation to MSU Law, or rejection of your application to take a state bar exam. If you have any questions about the format for disclosing this information, please consult with an MSU Law Office of Admissions professional.
NOTE: Applicants are obligated to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to their character and fitness record (e.g., amendments, updates, or new incidents) before matriculation at MSU Law. Once enrolled at MSU Law, students must notify the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs of any changes to their character and fitness record.
1. Have you ever been cited, arrested, taken into custody for, indicted for, charged with, convicted of, or pled guilty to violation of any law or been the subject of a juvenile delinquency or youthful offender proceeding? (MSU Law requires disclosure of all traffic violations excluding parking violations, although repeated parking violations should be included if they resulted in misdemeanor charges. The entry of an expungement or other order sealing or purporting to authorize any person to deny the existence of such matters does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter in this application).
If you answered yes to "Have you ever been cited, arrested, indicted for, or charged with any violation of criminal law?" please provide a written description of the incident and how it was resolved. Also attach any official documentation regarding the incident to this application, or send directly to Admissions for inclusion in your file.
- Have you ever been subjected to disciplinary or academic action by a college or university (such as reprimand, probation, or suspension) or are there any disciplinary or academic charges or investigations pending or expected to be brought against you? Your response to this question must include disclosure of any such actions related university dormitories or housing.
If you have been subject to disciplinary action by a college or university, please state the circumstances surrounding the situation, the decisions made by the institution, and any resolution to the incident.
-
Have you ever been subjected to disciplinary action by the military or by an employer?
If you have been subject to disciplinary action by an employer, please state the circumstances surrounding the situation, the decisions made by your leadership, and any resolution to the incident.
If you have been discharged from the military under less than honorable circumstances, please discuss the reasons here. Also attach any relevant documentation to the situation, or send the information directly to the admissions office. -
Have you ever been suspended from practice, reprimanded, censured, removed, or disciplined by any professional organization or state agency charged with reviewing professional conduct?
-
Are any of the issues listed above still pending? Examples include incidents that resulted in you being on presently active probation or court supervision.
-
Have you ever filed bankruptcy or been in default on any loans (including student loans)?
If you answered yes to the question concerning bankruptcy, please provide a written description of the situation and how it was resolved. Also attach any official documentation regarding the incident to this application, or send directly to Admissions for inclusion in your file.
Resume
You must provide a résumé of up to two pages in length.
Other Tribal Affiliation
Please feel free to attach a short supplemental Tribal Affiliation Statement with additional information.
94 Catholic University Of America
L50: 158 | G50: 3.50 | Deadline: June 30, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a typed personal statement (not to exceed two pages) and indicate why you desire to study law and how your family, religious, educational, extracurricular, community or employment preparation has led you to make this choice.
We recommend that you take these instructions literally, though you don’t have to answer them one at a time.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Diversity Statement: How might you contribute to the diversity of the law school community? Please limit your response to one page.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you would like to submit an additional addendum that you believe should be taken into consideration with your application please do so here.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
As many state bar associations require, we also require all applicants and enrolled students to fully disclose all criminal charges/offenses or disciplinary charges brought against you regardless of the final disposition. If in doubt, always err on the side of full disclosure. In the event that you are charged with a criminal offense or disciplinary charges are brought against you after you submit this application, you must notify the Office of Admissions in writing immediately. Failure to provide responses and/or required explanations to the questions below will delay the completion and review of your application for admission. Failure of enrolled students to comply with disclosure rules is subject to the Rules of Professional Conduct for Law Students.
1. Have you ever been discharged, dismissed, disciplined or requested to resign by an employer, with charges of dishonesty, breach of trust, violence, or similar misconduct?If "yes," attach a full descriptive statement or use an electronic attachment that includes the specific conduct that was the basis for the action.YesNo
2. Have you ever been placed on academic warning, probation or suspended or dismissed for academic reasons by any college, university or professional school you have attended? If "yes," please attach a full descriptive statement or use an electronic attachment that includes the specific action taken.YesNo
3. Have you ever been subjected to disciplinary action (hearings, probation, suspension, dismissal, official reprimands, etc.) for reasons of conduct by any of the colleges, universities or professional schools you have attended, or are there charges pending which could result in such action?If "yes," please attach a full descriptive statement or use an electronic attachment that includes the specific action taken.YesNo
4. Have you ever been charged with any traffic or criminal violations or been a party to any lawsuit? Respond yes, even if the charges are pending, or were dismissed, resulted in a conviction, a guilty plea, a nolo contendere plea, probation before judgment or a requirement that conditions be fulfilled as part of a diversion or alternative sentencing program. If "yes," please explain fully in an attachment or use an electronic attachment that gives the disposition of the matter(s).YesNo
Resume
Please submit a personal résumé of no more than one page listing past employment, community service, and other achievements you believe should be brought to the attention of the committee.
94 Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago-Kent College of Law)
L50: 159 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: March 15, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee believes that all relevant factors should be considered when selecting an entering class. In your own words, write a statement describing yourself and your qualifications. You may wish to explain or emphasize a particular part of your transcript or application, and/or describe how your admission would contribute to the diversity of the law school community. You are invited to inform the Committee of achievements and qualities not otherwise revealed by the application.
This prompt is mostly open-ended.
Heritage Statement
This section is optional.
The American Bar Association has encouraged law schools to gather additional information from applicants who indicate that they are Native American. If you wish to provide a heritage statement describing your background and affiliation with an American Indian or Alaskan Native community, you may attach a file.
Optional, if applicable. We suggest answering the Optional Essay.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
The Admissions Committee would like to know more about the factors that influenced your decision to apply to Chicago-Kent. You are invited to submit an optional essay of no more than one page that describes the programs and opportunities at Chicago-Kent that are of interest to you.
Optional, if applicable. We suggest answering the Optional Essay.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you wish to attach an addendum to your application to address a particular issue or to provide additional information for the Admissions Committee, you may attach a file below. Please note that you may only attach one file. If you wish to submit more than one addendum, you must first compile the documents into one file before attaching the file to your application.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Lawyers are held to the highest ethical standards. The failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes in your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by Chicago-Kent. Furthermore, you may be denied admission to practice by a state if your bar exam application contains facts asked for, but not disclosed in your application for admission. An affirmative response does not necessarily prejudice your admission to Chicago-Kent.
1. Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty or nolo contendere to, or received a period of supervision for, any offense other than a minor traffic or parking violation, or is any charge now pending against you concerning such an offense? (A "minor traffic violation" is a violation for which only a citation was issued, e.g., speeding. You must report any other traffic offense, including any offense in which acting under the influence of a drug or alcohol was an element of the offense.) You must disclose each instance, regardless of whether a conviction was reversed, set aside or vacated, or the record sealed or expunged. If yes, give details on an electronic attachment, including a description of the incident, the exact charge, and final resolution.YesNo
2. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, placed on academic or social probation or warning, or otherwise disciplined by any college or university, for any reason? If yes, give details on an electronic attachment.YesNo
3. Have you ever been suspended, placed on probation or warning, or otherwise disciplined by any professional organization or state agency charged with reviewing professional conduct or are any charges or proceedings that could culminate in such sanctions pending?If yes, give details on an electronic attachment.YesNo
Resume
This section is optional.
If you wish, you may attach a copy of your résumé.
94 University of Buffalo—SUNY
L50: 156 | G50: 3.61 | Deadline: March 1, 2023 | ED: November 15, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Your response should not exceed 2 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font.
The Admissions Committee values good writers and, in fact, considers the personal statement a key component in the application process. Please provide a supplementary statement with additional information or commentary that you believe will assist the Admissions Committee in evaluating your candidacy. Please refer to concrete examples drawn from your background including experience in other countries or cultures, employment, community activities, educational, and intellectual experiences you believe will be helpful to the committee.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Buffalo-SUNY in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
Your response should not exceed 2 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font.
Describe how your background or experiences will enhance the diversity of the University at Buffalo School of Law (e.g., based on your culture, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ideology, age, socioeconomic status, academic background, employment, or personal experience).
Addendum
This section is optional.
You may choose to attach an additional statement addressing one or more of the below topics if you feel the information would help put your qualifications into context. Your response should not exceed 2 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font.
LSAT (or GRE): If you do not believe that your standardized test score(s) accurately reflect your ability to succeed in law school, tell us why and share what you believe is a better indicator for your potential.
GPA: Provide additional context for anything in your academic history (e.g. weak grades, gaps in education, numerous withdrawals, etc.) that negatively impacted your cumulative GPA.
Special Circumstances: Explain any special challenges you had to overcome in the course of your education. A special circumstances statement could be related to immigrant status, disability, economic hardship, discrimination, age, or any other relevant issues related to your life history.
Optional/applicable
Why Buffalo?
This section is optional.
Your response should not exceed 1 page, double-spaced, 12-point font.
Why are you interested in pursuing your law degree at University at Buffalo School of Law?
We recommend that you write this essay.
Character Profile
Indicates a required field.
Pursuant to policy established by the State University of New York (SUNY), the University at Buffalo School of Law does not make inquiries into the criminal records of applicants for purposes of admission.
Important Note*: Admission to the University at Buffalo School of Law is based on our judgment of your ability to successfully complete a course of legal study. However, neither admission to nor graduation from UB School of Law constitutes a judgment that you are eligible for admission to practice law; that is a decision for state bar authorities, not law schools. A criminal record can be an obstacle for bar admission. It is your responsibility to make sure that you are eligible for admission to the bar, and we encourage you to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which you intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the* National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Post-Admission: Successful applicants may be asked to declare their criminal history, including any prior felony conviction(s), post-admission, if and when they seek campus housing or apply to participate in certain other activities that require such checks (i.e. study abroad programs and experiential courses that involve working at outside organizations or in settings that require criminal background checks). Certain responses could, but not necessarily, impact ones' ability to pursue the aforementioned opportunities.
You must provide a full explanation for any "Yes"(Y) response to the below questions via an electronic attachment titled "Character Profile Addendum." Information provided on your law school application must be consistent with answers provided on state bar applications. Full disclosure is in your best interest.
1. Have you ever been discharged or requested to resign from employment?YesNo
2. Have you ever been found to have engaged in academic dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) at any time?YesNo
3. Have you ever been dismissed or suspended from college for nonacademic reasons?YesNo
4. Have you ever been dismissed or prohibited from the programs or properties of a college or university?Note: Being prohibited from the programs or properties of a college or university is defined as permanent separation from an institution of higher education on the basis of conduct or behavior. An affirmative response to this question will not automatically prevent admission, but you will be asked to provide additional information. This information will be reviewed by a campus committee to ensure campus safety. Any falsification or omission of data may result in denial of admission or dismissal.YesNo
Resume
Please submit a résumé listing employment, extracurricular and/or public-service activities, honors, awards, and special interests related to your academic career to date. Indicate offices held.
94 University of Louisville
L50: 156 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: April 15, 2023 | ED: January 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
You must include a personal statement with your application. The personal statement is an open-ended essay written on any topic of your choice. It should be two to three double-spaced pages (500 to 750 words) in length and should demonstrate your capacity for high-quality written work. Ideally, the personal statement provides insight to the Admissions Committee on your experiences, motivations, personality or anticipated contributions to our law school community and the legal profession.
This is a required application component.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
To ensure that access to both legal education and the legal profession is visibly open to all qualified members of our heterogeneous society, the Admissions Committee gives serious consideration, as one factor in its analysis, to the ways in which applicants might contribute to a diverse educational environment and broaden the ranks of the legal profession to include those who have been historically underrepresented.
To that end, you may include a diversity statement with your application. The diversity statement should be one to two double-spaced pages (250 to 500 words) in length. Potential topics of focus include but are not limited to: racial and ethnic identity, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability status, socioeconomic status, unusual hardships or other unique experiences.
This is an optional application component.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If you so choose, you may include a brief addendum addressing any aspect of your application that you feel is necessary to explain for the Admissions Committee. The addendum should be no longer than one double-spaced page (250 words) unless exceptional circumstances warrant a longer explanation.
This is an optional application component.
Character and Fitness
SECTION NOTES:
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every US jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Many jurisdictions, including Kentucky, require a copy of your law school application to accompany your petition for admission to the bar. The questions in this section require the disclosure of information pertinent to your character and fitness to study and practice the law. Failure to answer these questions truthfully and completely could affect your eligibility for admission to the bar.
If you answer "Yes" to any of the questions in this section, you must provide a written explanation for each affirmative answer, including all relevant dates, details and outcomes. The Admissions Committee may request clarification or additional information if not sufficiently addressed by your initial disclosure, and review of your application may be suspended until you have provided a sufficient response. You must enter your explanation directly in the space provided, not as a separate attachment. Do not provide court documents or other records unless specifically requested by the Admissions Committee.
All applicants to the law school have a continuing obligation to disclose pertinent character and fitness information. If your answer to any of the questions in this section changes from "No" to "Yes" after you have submitted this application, you must immediately contact the Office of Admissions and provide a written explanation for each newly affirmative answer, including all relevant dates, details and outcomes.
1. Have you ever been arrested, charged or cited for any criminal offense? This includes felony, misdemeanor and juvenile offenses, even if you were acquitted, if the case was dismissed or if record has been sealed or expunged. This does not include speeding, parking or other minor traffic violations, unless resulting in probation or revocation of driving privileges.
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Have you ever been a named party in any civil, family court, administrative or other nonmilitary, noncriminal legal proceeding? Named parties include plaintiffs, defendants, petitioners and respondents but do not include witnesses.
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Have you been discharged from any branch of military service under less than honorable conditions, or have you ever been subject to court martial or other military administrative proceeding?
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Have you ever been terminated for cause, asked to resign or otherwise formally disciplined by any employer?
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Have you ever been placed on academic warning or probation, charged with or sanctioned for conduct or honor code violations, suspended, dismissed or otherwise formally disciplined by any undergraduate or post-undergraduate academic institution?
Resume
You must include a current résumé with your application. The résumé should be clearly organized and appropriately formatted, outlining your education and work history as well as other notable achievements and experiences. Most applicants' résumés can fit on a single page if formatted thoughtfully, though a second page may be reasonable for applicants with significant work histories.
This is a required application component.
98 Florida International University
L50: 160 | G50: 3.69 | Deadline: June 30, 2023
LORs: 0 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
The Admissions Committee requires a personal statement. In no more than three typed, double-spaced pages, please discuss your reasons for pursuing a legal education and your goals or future plans upon graduation. You may discuss any obstacles that you have overcome (for example, English is not your native language, discrimination, economic or family hardship, severe medical condition, etc.). If applying electronically, use an electronic attachment.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should explain why you’re going to law school by the end of the essay, and why you’re interested in FIU in particular.
13. Application Certification
13. Application Certification
Indicates a required field.
1. By electronically submitting this application, I understand this application for admission to the College of Law at Florida International University is valid only for the Fall 2023 entering class as indicated on page 1 of this application. I also understand and agree that I will be bound by the College of Law's regulations concerning application deadline dates and admission requirements. I further agree to the release of any transcripts, student records, and test scores to this institution. I acknowledge a continuing obligation to promptly update the facts stated herein should they change during the pendency of this application, prior to enrollment if accepted, or subsequent to enrollment. I certify that the information provided in this application is complete and accurate, and I understand that to make false or fraudulent statements within this application or residence statement may result in dismissal or revocation of degree and may affect admission to the bar. I acknowledge the above statement.I acknowledge the above statement.
2. Are you a first-generation college degree graduate?(A student is to be considered a first-generation if any of the following criteria is met: (a) neither parent has earned a college at the baccalaureate level or higher (b) if the student resided with and received support from only one parent, if that parent did not earn a college degree at the baccalaureate level or higher.YesNo
3. “Please indicate what most interested you in applying to FIU Law (ties to Miami and/or South Florida, specific programs, outcomes, etc.). Your answer will help us connect you with the most relevant resources to help you decide whether FIU Law is the best fit for you.”required (maximum characters 4000)
11. Disciplinary Information
Indicates a required field.
1. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Applicants who respond in the affirmative to any question addressing character or fitness, including questions regarding criminal, academic, or conduct history, for admission to the College of Law are not automatically barred from admission, but are subject to additional review. All applications responding affirmatively to questions of character and fitness, including questions regarding criminal, academic, and conduct history, must be accompanied by a written explanation and current or final disposition of the proceeding. All official documentation explaining the current or final disposition of the proceedings may be requested at a later date. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, disciplined, expelled, or requested or advised to resign from any postsecondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school? You should disclose each instance, regardless of sanctions or outcomes, here or in the attachment section.YesNo
2. If yes explain, (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. Are you currently the subject of any criminal or disciplinary proceedings? You should disclose each instance, regardless of sanctions or outcomes, here or in the attachment section. YesNo
4. If yes explain, (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
5. Have you ever been arrested, detained or restrained, taken into custody, or accused formally or informally of a violation of law or ordinance (whether or not the record has been sealed or expunged)? You should disclose each instance, regardless of sanctions or outcomes, here or in the attachment section. YesNo
6. If yes explain, (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
7. Have you been charged with a traffic violation that resulted in a fine of $200 or more or that resulted in a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license? You should disclose each instance, regardless of sanctions or outcomes, here or in the attachment section. YesNo
8. If yes explain, (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
9. Have you been arrested, charged, or convicted of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs? You should disclose each instance, regardless of sanctions or outcomes, here or in the attachment section.YesNo
10. If yes, explain. (maximum characters 4000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Resume
This section is optional.
Please submit a current résumé with your application. Please include your significant work experience, educational history, college and community activities, and honors and awards you have received. Include dates for all items listed on your résumé. Please provide complete information; there is no required length and your résumé may exceed one page.
Residency Declaration For
https://onestop.fiu.edu/_assets/forms/initial-residency-declaration.pdf
98 Howard University
L50: 154 | G50: 3.47 | Deadline: February 28, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
PERSONAL STATEMENT of no more than 3 DOUBLE-SPACED pages.
From instructions:
A personal statement is essentially an interview on paper. It provides you an opportunity to describe the uniqueness of your character, abilities, and experience. Your personal statement assists the Admissions Committee in getting to know and understand you as a person and helps us in our efforts to build a diverse class of students. It is also used to assess your writing proficiency. You should discuss those aspects of your background, experience, talents, achievements, and interests that you believe are important for us to know. Your personal statement should also detail your interest in HUSL and explain how attending HUSL will allow you to realize your dreams and aspirations.
Your personal statement should be typed in a 12-point font, double-spaced with 1-inch margins, and no longer than three (3) pages. Your personal statement must be attached to the attachment section of the online application.
Addenda
This section is optional.
Please attach any additional addenda you would like us to consider.
Character and Fitness
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PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:
Below are several questions regarding your character and fitness to practice law. Please be aware that your application will not be prejudiced because you answer “Yes” to the questions. HUSL will evaluate your answers within the context of your entire application. HUSL believes your ability to reflect on challenging life experiences and the impact of those experiences on your path to a legal career adds tremendous value to your law school application. Disclosing these experiences will not prejudice your application; however, it is imperative that you understand the ramifications for not disclosing or failing to provide an explanation and any required supporting documentation. If you fail to disclose fully all information in this application, the subsequent background check conducted by the state board of law examiners will reveal the discrepancy between your law school application and your actual record. Any discrepancy may cause further investigation from the state bar committee as they evaluate your character and fitness to practice law. Therefore, the failure to answer completely and candidly all the following questions may result in consequences including, but not limited to, the rejection of your application to law school, expulsion from law school, revocation of your law degree, or denial of admission to a state bar. In addition, earlier attempts to correct a discrepancy are viewed more favorably.
Do you understand? -
As an applicant to HUSL, you have a continuing duty to disclose and if necessary, to update any conduct under the Character and Fitness section of your application for admission to HUSL from the time you submit this application (including the summer before you matriculate) through graduation from the law school. Disclosures should happen as soon as possible. Post enrollment, you must timely disclose any matter that would have required a “yes” answer to one or more questions under the Character and Fitness section at the time you submitted this application. Disclosures after enrollment should be made to the Office of Student Affairs.
The disclosure requirement means you must disclose matters even when an arrest did not lead to a charge, a charge was reduced or dismissed, you were acquitted or found not guilty, adjudication was withheld, deferred, or diverted, or a conviction was reversed, set aside, or vacated. Disclose all convictions regardless of age at the time. Full disclosure means providing a written statement that is clear, detailed, and completely true as well as supplemental official organization reports (i.e., complete police or administrative documents related to the matter).
Full disclosure consists of a written statement detailing the facts of the situation written to address the: “WHO” “WHAT” “WHEN” WHERE” “HOW” and “WHY”. Also, it should include all official documentation from the state or administrative body involved in the matter (i.e., court records, arrest records, letters from academic institution officials). The submission of supplemental official organization reports in lieu of a written answer from the applicant is not acceptable. If there are multiple infractions that may impact criminal liability and academic sanctions, you are required to provide only one explanation per incident. You are required to disclose even if you have been advised otherwise by anyone else, including legal counsel. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE ANY RECORDS EXPUNGED OR SEALED AS A RESULT OF OFFICIAL COURT ACTION. Please maintain proof of expungement.
I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above Character and Fitness instructions.
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Have you EVER (either as an adult or juvenile) been charged or convicted of the violation of a law for any offense? Include, without limitation, all felonies, misdemeanors, and major traffic offenses (e.g., DUI/DWI offenses, repeated speeding offenses [more than 5], etc.). You may NOT omit offenses that were dropped, dismissed, or reduced. You may omit offenses that were expunged or sealed by official court action. Even if you perceive a matter to have been minor or to have happened a long time ago, you MUST disclose this information.
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Are there any criminal charges currently pending against you? If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
Also, if you answer “yes” to Character and Fitness questions 1 or 2 above, you must provide an additional statement that includes:
a. the date(s) of the incident,
b. a complete copy of the original charge or citation,
c. a detailed explanation of the relevant facts/circumstances and specific nature of the incident,
d. how the matter was resolved (including any reduced charges or lesser included offenses); pending matters will require additional information and/or resolution, and
e. any supporting documentation.
Providing copies of court documents alone does not satisfy the disclosure requirement. Your answers to these questions are confidential and will only be shared externally as required by the state board of law examiners, a court order, or other legal process. -
Have you ever been sanctioned by an official of any trade school, college, university, graduate school, or professional school? Sanctions include any type of probation, disciplinary action, written warning, suspension, expulsion or dismissal. If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
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Are there any academic or disciplinary charges pending against you by any educational institution? If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
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Have you ever had a professional license suspended or revoked, or been subject to disciplinary action by a professional organization, association, or licensing board. If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
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Have you ever been the subject of a court martial hearing, dishonorably discharged from military service, or administratively separated from military service other than an honorable discharge? If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
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Have you ever been involuntarily separated from a job as a result of an accusation that involved fraud, embezzlement, misappropriation, or any other act of dishonesty? If you answered yes, please add a statement explaining the offense. Remember to include supporting documentation.
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Did you answer yes to one or more of the Character & Fitness questions?
If you answered yes to ANY question in the Character and Fitness section, you MUST provide a COMPLETE explanation, which includes essential information (e.g. date, specific nature of the charge/incident, the circumstances that led to the charge/incident, disposition of the matter, etc.) Simply providing court documents does not satisfy this requirement. Please note: Additional information may be requested by the Admission Committee before a final decision on your application is rendered.
Resume
Please upload a current résumé.
Prior Law School Enroll
This section is optional.
Please explain prior law school enrollment, include dates of enrollment, if grades were awarded, and whether you were in good standing when you left.
98 Brooklyn Law School
L50: 159 | G50: 3.50 | Deadline: August 19, 2023 | ED: December 1, 2022
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
REQUIRED PERSONAL STATEMENT
Please write a personal statement, one to three pages in length, that gives us an opportunity to learn more about you. We are not looking for a narrative restatement of factual information presented elsewhere in your application, résumé, or academic transcripts. Instead, we are seeking to get a better sense of you as a person: your values, your strengths and special talents, your concerns about serious issues, your intellectual interests, your career aspirations, and decisions or experiences that impacted your life significantly. In short, we are interested in what drives you, and how that drive will define you as a law student and as a future member of the legal profession. (You should use this as an opportunity to think critically about yourself and — in a voice that is your own — to communicate your thoughts effectively and concisely.)
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Brooklyn in particular by the end of the essay.
Optional Essay
This section is optional.
OPTIONAL ESSAY
Although you are not required to respond, writing an essay on one of the following topics may provide you an opportunity to submit additional information you deem important to your candidacy. Please limit your essay to one or two pages.
- Why are you seeking admission to Brooklyn Law School? What is there about our school that you feel might best serve your particular interests and needs?
- What are your one or two most substantial accomplishments, and why do you view them as such?
- Present your thoughts about a course, academic project, book, or cultural experience that has especially enriched your education.
- Describe an obstacle, challenge or setback in your life. How did you overcome it? What, if anything, would you do differently if confronted with this situation again?
- How would your background and perspectives contribute to the diversity of our entering class?
This essay is optional, but we recommend you answer one of the topics, especially the first if not already answered in your personal statement.
Supplementary Statement
This section is optional.
If there is any additional information you wish to convey to the Committee on Admissions, you can attach it here.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
You are cautioned to answer all of these questions fully regardless of any contrary advice that you may have received from others, even if the prior record has been expunged. If you answer Yes to any of these Character and Fitness questions, you must submit a full statement of relevant facts (using the electronic attachment provided). In addition to these statements, if you answered yes to questions 1, 2 or 3, you must complete and submit a Dean's Certification Form (available in the Forms section).
1. Academic Probation: Have you ever been on academic probation for any reason at any post-secondary school, college, university, or professional school? This should include matters that have been expunged.YesNo
2. Academic Sanction/Suspension/Dismissal: Have you ever been sanctioned by, suspended by, dismissed by, or required to withdraw from any post-secondary school, college, university, or professional school, for academic reasons? This should include matters that have been expunged.YesNo
3. Non-Academic Sanction: Have you ever been censured for misconduct, placed on disciplinary probation, or dismissed for non-academic reasons, or are disciplinary charges now pending or expected to be brought against you at any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or place of employment? This should include matters that have been expunged.YesNo
4. Criminal Sanction: Have you ever, either as an adult or juvenile, been arrested for, or convicted of any felony or misdemeanor or the violation of any law other than minor parking violations? (Note: Records sealed under court order or matters that have been expunged or subject to a diversionary program must be disclosed. You may submit a copy of any certificate of relief from disabilities or a certificate of good conduct in connection with a conviction.)YesNo
5. Non-Criminal Sanction: Have you ever, either as an adult or juvenile, been arrested for, or convicted of, or penalized/fined for any non-criminal violation (this would include, but is not limited to, moving violations. speeding or parking tickets) or the violation of any law or ordinance (such as noise regulations, open container laws, fare-jumping and the like). As above, records sealed under court order or matters that have been expunged or subject to a diversionary program must nevertheless be disclosed here.YesNo
6. Other Criminal or Non-Criminal Charges: Are there any criminal or non-criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
7. Do you currently hold, or have you previously held, a professional license?YesNo
Resume
Attach Résumé.
International Student Q.
This section is optional.
If you answer yes to I20 , then you must submit, at the time that you apply, the International Student Questionnaire located in the Forms section of our application.
International Student Q is mandatory for International Students, the supplementary statement can be used as a GPA/LSAT addendum, etc.
98 Saint Louis University
L50: 156 | G50: 3.50 | Deadline: July 31, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement must be submitted.
The personal statement is your way to distinguish yourself to the Admissions Committee. This statement may include personal or professional goals, academic, career and life experiences and/or any other insight into your character of which the committee should be aware. The personal statement is extremely important because the Admissions Committee looks beyond the LSAT scores and undergraduate GPA to decide the quality and character of students in each entering class. Whatever the content, the statement should reflect the applicant's writing style. Attention is given to brevity and clarity of thought and expression. Please limit the personal statement to two pages or less.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in St. Louis University in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Describe how your experiences or background will help to enrich the broader law school community. This includes, but is not limited to, stories about your culture, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ideology, age, socioeconomic status, academic background, employment, or stories of adversity. What have you learned from your experiences and how have they shaped your desire to go to law school and/or join the legal profession? Please limit your statement to 2 pages or less.
Addendum
This section is optional.
If there is any additional information you would like to submit to the Admissions Committee for consideration, please submit an addendum.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Why SLU LAW
Indicates a required field.
1. Please state your reasons for applying to SLU LAW.required (maximum characters 1000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
2. Please state any connections you have to the St. Louis Metropolitan area. (maximum characters 1000)number of characters left is displayed after the field
3. What curricular areas or areas of law, if any, are you interested in?Cannabis LawImmigration LawTrial Advocacy/LitigationAdmiralty LawIntellectual Property LawProperty LawCivil Rights LawInternational LawBusiness LawConstitutional LawLabor/Employment LawCommercial LawCorporate and Securities LawPublic Interest LawEmployment LawCriminal LawReal Estate/Land Use PlanningPublic ServiceEnvironmental LawSports and Entertainment LawAlternate Dispute ResolutionEstate Planning LawTax LawSocial JusticeFamily and Juvenile LawTorts/Product LiabilityClinics & Experiential LearningHealth Law
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
1. In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. The American Bar Association Standards require law schools to advise each applicant that state bar requirements deal with the character and fitness of an applicant at the time he/she seeks certification to register for the respective state bar examinations. The American Bar Association Standards further allow the law school to seek information on character and fitness to ensure that appropriate law school requirements are met. Acceptance by the School of Law does not guarantee certification by the state bar examiners. Many state bars expect a candidate to reveal knowledge of all criminal incidents or disciplinary charges, even if expunged, sealed or otherwise. If you are concerned about any facts that may affect your eligibility to practice law, you should discuss the matter with the Board of Bar Examiners or the appropriate committee on character and fitness in the state in which you expect to practice.Please answer each of the following questions by checking "Yes" or "No." If your answer to any question is "Yes," you must submit a full statement of the relevant facts on additional pages stapled to this form or on an electronic attachment. In answering the following questions, full disclosure is required. You must disclose each instance even if charges were not brought against you or were dismissed, you were acquitted, you received a suspended imposition of sentence, the conviction was stayed or vacated, or the record was sealed or expunged, and regardless of whether you have been advised by any source, including an attorney, that you have no record or that you need not disclose the incident. No statute, court order or legal proceeding withholding adjudication; expunging or sealing any record; or dismissing, vacating, or setting aside any arrest, charge, or conviction shall excuse less than full disclosure of the incident.You also have an ongoing obligation to report any conduct that would require you to answer yes to any of the questions in this section during the pendency of your application. If an offer of admission is extended to you, the obligation to report conduct applicable to the questions in this section continues up to and through your graduation from the Saint Louis University School of Law. Failure to abide by these disclosure requirements may lead to disciplinary action up to and including revocation of your offer of admission, exclusion from law school, or denial in the application to take a state bar exam. The School of Law reserves the right to any and all disciplinary action(s) it sees fit. I understand and agree to the instructions for completing this section.I acknowledge the above statement.
2. Have you ever been charged with or subject to academic or disciplinary action (probation, suspension, dismissal or other disciplinary action, hearing or investigation of any type) at any institution of higher education?YesNo
3. Have you ever pled guilty or nolo contendere to, or been found guilty of, any felony, whether sentence was imposed or not?YesNo
4. Have you ever been issued a summons, charged, arrested, or cited for driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), minor in possession (MIP), public intoxication, or for any other alcohol or controlled substance-related offense?YesNo
5. Have you ever been convicted, cited, arrested, charged, summoned or taken into custody for the violation of any law? (Please exclude incidents listed in 2 & 3 above and also exclude minor traffic or parking violations wherein the fine did not exceed $250.)YesNo
6. Have you ever been a party to any criminal, civil or administrative proceeding? (Please exclude incidents listed in 2, 3, & 4 above.)YesNo
7. Have you ever been disbarred, suspended, censured, reprimanded or otherwise disqualified as a member of another profession or as a holder of public office?YesNo
8. Have you defaulted on any student loan obligations?YesNo
Resume
A résumé must be submitted.
103 Syracuse University
L50: 157 | G50: 3.55 | Deadline: June 30, 2023 | ED: January 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please indicate as concisely as possible how your experiences, talents, and interests would add to the law school community. Your statement should be no more than two (2) pages double spaced, 11 font.
This prompt is mostly open-ended, but you should make sure your essays answer topics such as why law and why Syracuse.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Optional - Provide an essay detailing how diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped your decision to apply for and attend law school. This essay should be no longer than two (2) pages double spaced, 11 font.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Additional Attachment
This section is optional.
Applicants may attach additional statements that further explain character & fitness issues, academic or admissions test related information, pauses or breaks from education and employment, or any other relevant information that may assist the Admissions Committee in making an informed decision. Please keep addendum(s) succinct, double spaced, 11 font.
These addendums are optional/if applicable.
Why Syracuse
This section is optional.
Optional - provide a brief essay regarding your decision to apply to Syracuse University College of Law. Your essay should be no longer than one (1) page double spaced, 11 font.
We recommend that you write this essay.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR ADMISSION TO THE BAR
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are strongly encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Failure to properly disclose in accordance with the jurisdictional rules of where you intend to practice could prevent admission to the bar in that jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Admissions decisions will not be affected by participation in or disciplinary action associated with peaceful, meaningful protest. The College of Law examines barriers specific to justice-impacted individuals throughout the application, enrollment, and educational experience in order to ensure that policies and practices do not unintentionally serve as mechanisms of exclusion. We still ask applicants to disclose any action to comply with rules set forth by most state’s board of bar examiners.
1. Have you ever been arrested, ticketed, charged with, taken into custody, indicted, convicted or tried for, pled guilty to, or are you currently under indictment for any felony or misdemeanor or any violation of law? Note: Although a conviction may have been expunged from your record by an order of the court, it does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter on this statement. In addition, traffic violations including drug or alcohol related violations need to be disclosed. Misrepresentation may result in administrative sanctions.YesNo
2. Have you ever been the subject of disciplinary proceedings or been censured for misconduct, warned, placed on probation, dropped, expelled, withdrawn or advised to withdraw, been suspended for academic or nonacademic or any other reason by any educational institution you have attended or place of employment? Note: Misrepresentation may result in administrative sanctions.YesNo
3. Have you ever been involved in lawsuits, litigation, or civil judicial proceedings? YesNo
Résumé
Submit a current résumé.
105 Texas Tech University
L50: 157 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: May 2, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 2 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement gives the Admissions Committee an opportunity to evaluate your writing abilities and learn more about you beyond your academic achievements and resume. While there is not a specific prompt or question to address, it is highly encouraged that you mention your desire to pursue law. Feel free to discuss any special conditions you believe relevant in evaluating your application.
Please limit your submission to two, double-spaced pages, size 12 font, 1-inch margins.
We recommend that you follow their recommended topic (”Desire to pursue law”)
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Texas Tech Law is committed to creating a culture that recognizes and encourages diversity and inclusion. We seek to train and develop students who are ready to practice law in a diverse world; students who are culturally sensitive and respectful to all forms of diversity and differences. Texas Tech Law defines diversity broadly to include racial and ethnic minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, military status, national origin, first generation students, individuals of any religious affiliation, adult learners, and any others who have experienced marginalization in academic communities because of their identity status. While a diversity statement is not required, you may submit a statement discussing how you will be able to contribute to the diversity of thought and experience at Texas Tech Law.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Public Interest or Service Commitment
This section is optional.
Public interest law seeks to promote social justice by empowering people and communities. It includes working for individuals, groups, and social interests that are traditionally underserved or have barriers to equal access to justice. You may use this section to include additional meaningful experiences or knowledge involving societal issues of race, socioeconomic status, equity, and service to communities marginalized due to their identity status (including, but not limited to race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, etc.).
LSAT/Grade Addendum
This section is optional.
You may use this section to upload any other additional information you would like us to consider. This may include, but is not limited to, writing about socioeconomic status, a period of poor grades, historically poor standardized test performance, discrepancies in GPA, LSAT score(s), etc., or any other information you believe would be relevant to the Committee's decision. If you are submitting more than one addendum, you must combine them in a single electronic document.
Additional information could be used a a GPA/LSAT addendum.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Please read carefully. In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, failing to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant and leads to more serious consequences than the act or event itself. Failing to provide truthful answers or to inform the Admissions Office of any changes to your answers may result in the revocation of admission or disciplinary action by Texas Tech Law or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
Although affirmative answers to the questions below may not necessarily preclude admission to Texas Tech Law, persons who have been convicted of more serious criminal offenses may have difficulty in gaining admission to the bar. State licensing agencies often require you to include your law school application as part of your application for admission to the bar, and the bar admissions process often includes a full criminal background check. Any discrepancies between your law school application and the results of that check could jeopardize your ability to be admitted to practice law.
1. Have you ever been disciplined in any way for any matter by any college, university, law school, or other institution of higher learning, or by any professor, administrator, employee or entity representing any college, university, law school or other institution of higher learning, or have you been allowed to withdraw from such an institution to avoid such discipline, whether or not the record of such action was retained in your file?(Discipline includes, without limitation, a letter or other written notice of reprimand or warning, suspension, expulsion, adjustment of grade, assignment of community service, any form of probation, or any other adverse action).(Entity includes, without limitation, residential facilities or other facilities owned or managed by a college, university, law school or other institution of higher learning.) If so, please explain below. If additional space is required, please provide a separate attachment.YesNo
2. Are you currently under investigation or subject to pending disciplinary action at any postsecondary institution for conduct involving violence, sexual assault or sexual misconduct, including but not limited to harassment, stalking, or relationship violence? If so, please explain below. If additional space is required, please provide a separate attachment.YesNo
3. Have you ever been: arrested, cited or ticketed, convicted of an offense, placed on probation, granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion, or charged with any violation of the law? You must report: any such offenses involving alcohol or drugs, any failure to appear charge or warrant resulting from any such offense, any failure to maintain financial responsibility (legally required auto insurance) arrest, citation, ticket or charge. An applicant does not need to disclose information about a juvenile or criminal record that has been sealed or expunged; however, it is up to each applicant to ensure that their offense is in fact expunged and sealed under the relevant state law. If an applicant fails to disclose information that is not in fact expunged or sealed, the applicant may be subject to disciplinary action. If so, please explain below. If additional space is required, please provide a separate attachment.You may exclude only Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.YesNo
4. Are there any charges pending against you which, if you were convicted, would require you to answer "yes" to the previous question? If so, please explain below. If additional space is required, please provide a separate attachment.YesNo
5. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. If, after submitting this application, you are disciplined by a postsecondary institution described above or convicted of an offense, placed on probation, or granted deferred adjudication or any type of pretrial diversion that would require you to answer “Yes” to the previous questions, you must inform Texas Tech Law immediately. You must also attach a statement providing complete details. Answering “Yes” to this item indicates you acknowledge this obligation and agree to comply with it.Yes, I agree to inform the law school.
Resume
Please attach your current resume highlighting any post-high school achievements or experiences, including but not limited to, education, honors & awards, employment history, extracurricular activities, community service activities, any military service, honor societies, etc.
105 Marquette University
L50: 155 | G50: 3.63 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please submit a personal statement on a topic of your choosing. As the Admissions Committee does not conduct interviews, the personal statement is your opportunity to tell the members of the Committee something about yourself that they cannot learn from the other parts of your application. Your statement should not exceed two double-spaced pages; please use standard one-inch margins and a font-size no smaller than 11-point. Please place your name and LSAC account number at the top of the first page.
This prompt is open-ended.
Optional Essay Two
This section is optional.
You are welcome to submit a brief essay that would provide the Admissions Committee with any information you consider relevant to your application. Examples of information provided in the past include such factors as personal, racial, or ethnic background; experiences, talents, or special interests; unusual circumstances or obstacles which may have affected academic performance; an explicit history of standardized test results; or personal/family history of educational or socioeconomic disadvantage. Please place your name and LSAC account number at the top of the essay.
We recommend you answer Optional Essay 1 "Why Marquette?"
Optional Essay One
This section is optional.
Why Marquette University Law School? You are welcome to submit an essay of no more than 250 words about your specific reasons for pursuing a legal education at Marquette University. Please place your name and LSAC account number at the top of the page.
We recommend that you answer Optional Essay 1 “Why Marquette?”
Other Addendum
This section is optional.
If you wish to submit additional information that you believe will provide further insight into your candidacy (and which does not fit one of the existing categories for attachments) please attach this information here. Please place your name and LSAC account number at the top of the page.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others. Since this app has no separate attachment for Character and Fitness, this section could also be used as a C&F explanation.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. The following questions should be answered carefully, accurately, and completely. The answers you provide below will be compared to the answers you provide on a state bar application by the Board of Bar Examiners. When in doubt, it is better to report the event or act than to omit it. Please answer 'yes' or 'no' to each of the following questions. ALL AFFIRMATIVE RESPONSES TO THESE QUESTIONS MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY FULL, DETAILED DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENTS, INCLUDING DATE(S), AND FINAL DISPOSITION OF CHARGES, IF APPLICABLE (see "Attachments" section).
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been charged with misconduct, dismissed, dropped, suspended, warned, expelled, asked to withdraw, placed on academic or social probation, or disciplined, or allowed to withdraw to avoid same by a post-secondary college, university, professional school, or law school in any way, or been subject to proceedings before an honor court, council, or similar body?YesNo
2. With respect to criminal charges, civil law violations, or local ordinance violations (excluding parking violations, but including all other tickets or citations, including those for moving violations) have you ever, as an adult or juvenile, been arrested, charged, convicted, issued a citation, or served probation, or paid restitution or served probation in lieu of being arrested, charged, convicted, or entering a plea (whether a plea of guilty or no contest)? You must disclose each instance, however adjudicated, including juvenile delinquency proceeding, criminal case, court martial, or case of an ordinance violation, whether or not the charge and the plea or conviction differ, whether arrest, judgment, conviction, or sentence has been withheld or expunged, or the record sealed, regardless of whether you have been told that you need not disclose any such instance.YesNo
3. Have you ever been suspended, reprimanded, admonished, warned, censured, terminated, permitted to resign in lieu of termination, or otherwise disciplined in any position, regulated profession, or as a holder of any public office? (Include separation from any branch of the armed forces under conditions other than honorable.)YesNo
4. Are there any unsatisfied judgments or court orders of continuing effect against you, or are you in default in the performance of any court-ordered duty or obligation? (Include orders to pay child support.)YesNo
5. Are you presently the subject of any proceedings involving the matters addressed in 1 through 4?YesNo
6. Did you answer 'yes' to one or more of the above 'Character and Fitness' questions?YesNo
7. I understand that if I answered 'yes' to one or more of the above character and fitness questions, I must attach an explanatory descriptive statement in the 'Attachments' section, 'Character and Fitness.' I further understand that I must provide a written update to Marquette University Law School if my answers to any of the above questions change at any time during the application process up to enrollment at Marquette University Law School and/or during my enrollment at Marquette University Law School. I acknowledge the above statement.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
This section is optional.
Please provide your current resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Special Circumstances
This section is optional.
An applicant who seeks special consideration of their application because of a disability must submit such information and documentation with their application for admission. The Law School shall maintain the confidentiality of this information and documentation. No applicant is required to reveal a disability as a condition of admission, and the failure to reveal such information shall in no way prejudice the applicant. Please place your name and LSAC account number at the top of the page.
105 Louisiana State University
L50: 156 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: June 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
You are required to submit a personal statement. The personal statement should not exceed three typed pages.
This statement will provide you with the opportunity to share with the Admissions Committee any factors you would like considered in addition to your academic record. It will also allow the Admissions Committee to get to know you personally, and allow the Committee to understand what assets, interests, or experiences you will bring to law school, and what you hope to take away from your law school experience.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in LSU in particular by the end of the essay.
12. Unique Perspectives
Lawyers serve critical roles in our society. It is essential to the LSU Law mission “to create a vibrant, stimulating, diverse, and challenging educational environment through the admission of an exceptionally well-qualified and broadly diverse student body drawn from a rich cross section of backgrounds, talents, experiences, and perspectives.” These values are not limited and encompass life experiences, unique backgrounds, and other attributes that enable our students to contribute a different perspective to the LSU Law educational environment. With these considerations in mind, you are strongly encouraged, but not required, to submit a statement in response to the following question:
1. Please describe any distinct experiences you have encountered in your life, exceptional personal talents you have developed, and any other facts about your background that you think would foster a community that aligns with LSU Law's mission. Explain how these might enhance your ability to provide an inmitable point of view as a student at LSU Law. Relevant information to provide may include, but is not limited to, financial hardship, educational adversity, physical, mental, or psychological distinctions, special talents, specific work or community service experience, first generation or immigrant experience, gender identities, ethnicities, sexual orientation, an unusual rural or urban upbringing, foreign residence, military background or unique family and/or personal circumstances. (maximum characters 3000)
Other Information
This section is optional.
Please provide any additional information that you would like the Committee to consider in making a decision on your application. This may include, but is not limited to, socioeconomic hardships or extenuating circumstances that may have had an effect on your academic performance. Please do not submit writing samples, pictures, articles, videos, or similar materials.
This is an open-ended prompt. You could respond with a brief diversity statement, LSAT addendu,, GPA addendum, or something else.
8. Character & Fitness
NOTE: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Contact information for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. Failure to fully disclose information may result in disciplinary action, revocation of your admission offer, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar. Applications to take state bar examinations ask similar questions and bar examiners often require that you include our law school application as part of your application for admission to the bar. Accordingly, we strongly urge you to fully disclose all incidents. If there is any question regarding whether you should fully disclose something, you should err on the side of disclosure. It is also your responsibility to update your application by notifying the LSU Law Center Admissions Office if any disciplinary or criminal charges are filed or are expected to be filed against you between the date you submit this application and the date you enroll at LSU.
IF YOUR ANSWER TO ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS IS YES, PLEASE ATTACH A FULL STATEMENT OF RELEVANT FACTS FOR ALL INCIDENTS AND FURNISH THE LAW CENTER WITH COPIES OF ALL OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS REFERENCING THE CURRENT STATUS OR FINAL DISPOSITION OF ALL PROCEEDINGS. FAILURE TO SUBMIT RELEVANT DOCUMENTATION MAY RESULT IN A DELAY IN RECEIVING AN ADMISSIONS DECISION.
1. Have you ever been dismissed, expelled, or suspended from any college, university, graduate school, professional school, or law school for any reason?YesNo
(You must report all incidents, regardless of how minor; regardless of whether the record of the incident has been sealed, expunged, or otherwise removed from the school records; and regardless of whether you have been advised that you would not be required to disclose the incident.)
2. Have you ever been placed on academic, disciplinary, or any other probation related to your academic studies for any reason?YesNo
(You must report all incidents, regardless of how minor; regardless of whether the record of the incident has been sealed, expunged, or otherwise removed from the school records; and regardless of whether you have been advised that you would not be required to disclose the incident.)
3. Have you ever been charged with and/or convicted of stalking, cyberstalking, rape, or sexual battery?YesNo
(You are required to report all incidents, regardless of how minor (except for traffic and/or parking violations, provided they are few in number); regardless of whether you were a juvenile or an adult at the time of incident; regardless of whether the case against you was dismissed or was otherwise disposed of in some manner other than by a conviction (e.g., by your participation in a “diversion” program); regardless of whether the record of the incident was sealed, expunged, or otherwise removed from the public records; and regardless of whether you were advised that you are not required to disclose the incident. If you are not sure about the nature or the disposition of a particular charge, you must make a diligent effort to discover it and, having done that, report the results of your effort.)
4. Are there any criminal charges pending or expected to be brought against you?YesNo
(You must report all charges, regardless of how minor; regardless of whether you were a juvenile or an adult at the time of the incident that gave rise to the charges; and regardless of whether you were advised that you would not be required to disclose the incident.)
5. As an employee in a paid or unpaid position, or as a member of any profession or professional organization, have you ever been disciplined or reprimanded for unethical conduct?YesNo
(You must report all incidents regardless of how minor; regardless of whether the record of the incident has been sealed, expunged, or otherwise removed from the organization’s records; and regardless of whether you were advised that you would not be required to disclose the incident.)
6. Have you ever been separated from any branch of the US Armed Forces under less than honorable conditions?YesNoClear answer
7. If you have been separated from any branch of the US Armed Forces under less than honorable conditions, explain the circumstances. (maximum characters 500)number of characters left is displayed after the field
Resume
You are required to submit a résumé detailing your educational history, extracurricular activities, community and volunteer activities, and your part time and full time work experience.
105 DePaul University
L50: 156 | G50: 3.57 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
A personal statement not exceeding two pages is required and must be electronically attached. Please see application instructions for additional information.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in DePaul in particular by the end of the essay.
Writing Section Essay
This section is optional.
For Full-Time Day students, please attach to the application a statement of no more than one page indicating the reason(s) for your interest in your top choice.
Optional, if applicable
Optional Attachment
This section is optional.
Please use this optional attachment to submit any additional information regarding your application for admission (e.g., addendum, diversity statement).
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
The American Bar Association requires that law schools advise each applicant that state bar requirements deal with the character and fitness of an applicant at the time he or she seeks certification to register for admission to the bar. It further allows the law school to seek information on character and fitness to ensure that appropriate law school qualifications are met. The following questions are representative of areas of inquiry made by bar authorities in most states and must be answered with a "yes" or "no." Failure to do so will delay action by the Admissions Committee.
Indicate "no" if not applicable. If "yes," on an electronic attachment, state fully all the facts, including dates and results. Your answer(s) must fully apprise the Committee of all relevant issues and facts. You are advised to answer these questions in detail because similar, but more detailed information, such as copies of all police and court records, must be disclosed at the time you apply for admission to the bar.
If you answer "yes" to any of the Character and Fitness questions, you must provide details on an electronic attachment for each question you answered "yes" to.
1. Have you ever been dropped, dismissed, suspended, placed on probation, disciplined, or expelled from any school, college or similar institution for academic or any other reason?YesNo
2. If you were ever dropped, dismissed, placed on probation, disciplined, or expelled from any school, college or similar institution, were you accused of any dishonesty therewith?YesNoClear answer
3. Have you ever been convicted of a felony or is there now pending against you any indictment, criminal information or criminal complaint charging a felony offense?YesNo
4. Have you been detained, arrested, summoned into court, cited, indicted, adjudicated guilty or convicted in any criminal, municipal, military or juvenile proceeding? If yes, you must disclose each instance even though the charges have been dismissed or you were acquitted or adjudication was withheld or a conviction was reversed, set aside, vacated or the record sealed or expunged and regardless of whether you have been told you need not disclose any such instances.YesNo
5. Have you ever been charged with any traffic violation that involved felonious conduct, the use or possession of alcohol or drugs, or which resulted in time spent in custody, or a fine of $350 or more, or the revocation or suspension of your driver's license?YesNo
6. Were you ever accused by an employer, supervisor or associate of dishonesty in connection with any employment or occupation, or have you ever been discharged by an employer?YesNo
7. Have you ever been suspended, disqualified or otherwise disciplined as a member of any profession or in military service?YesNo
8. Do you currently have any debt or obligation greater than $500 that is reported as more than 2 months past due, including, without limitation, credit card debts, charge accounts, medical bills, student loans, bank loans and court-ordered obligations to pay child support, alimony and family support? If any of the obligations are more than 2 months past due, you must disclose each instance of debt or obligation and the surrounding circumstances.YesNo
Resume
This section is optional.
A current résumé is strongly recommended and should not exceed two pages. Please see the application instructions for additional information.
105 Washburn University
L50: 155 | G50: 3.53 | Deadline: August 1, 2023 | ED: November 1, 2022
LORs: 1 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please attach a typewritten personal statement, giving general autobiographical information and information relevant to your interest in law study and the legal profession. The personal statement is generally two to three pages long and double-spaced.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Washburn in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
If you choose, you may attach a brief statement highlighting the diverse perspectives you feel you would bring to the Washburn Law family.
Addenda
This section is optional.
Include addenda as attachment.
This is an open-ended addendum prompt, which could be used to submit a diversity statement, GPA addendum, LSAT addemdum, or work or study break addendum, among others.
Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, failure to disclose a matter such as those described in the questions below may lead to more serious consequences than the matter itself. Please make full disclosure even if you have been advised by a lawyer, judge, or any other person that you need not disclose. Even if your record has been expunged, you must report the offenses. If you have any doubt whether you should disclose a particular matter, you should disclose the matter. Failure to provide truthful answers or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any changes to your answers may result in revocation of admission, disciplinary action by the law school, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission.
For any question to which you answer "yes," please provide a full factual description of the incident, including the date and the city/county and state in which the incident took place. Explain the original charge, complaint, or claim against you and the ultimate outcome of the incident. If you were convicted or otherwise received a finding against you, explain in detail. Explain any sentencing, fine, or other discipline you received. Explain whether you have fulfilled the requirements of any sentence, fine, or other discipline.
Failure to provide correct and complete answers to any question on the application or failure to inform the Office of Admissions of any new developments prior to your enrollment that cause your answers to any question to no longer be correct may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by this School of Law, including but not limited to exclusion or expulsion. It may also result in denial of permission to practice law by any state in which you seek licensure.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. If you have not completed your sentence or if your crime was a felony, please read Kansas Supreme Court rules for admission to the bar in the state wher you intend to practice. If that is Kansas, see Rules 715 and 716.
1. Despite whether the record has been expunged, have you ever been summoned, charged, arrested, taken into custody, or indicted for driving under the influence of alcohol or any other controlled substance?YesNo
2. Despite whether the record has been expunged, other than listed above, have you ever been issued a citation, notice to appear or summons, charged, arrested, taken into custody, or indicted for any felony, misdemeanor, or infraction of the law excluding minor traffic infractions?YesNo
3. Have there ever been or are there now any charges or complaints (formal or informal) concerning your conduct as an attorney, as a member of any other profession (including military, teacher, social worker, and police officer) or as a holder of public office?YesNo
4. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, placed on scholastic or disciplinary probation, expelled or been requested to resign from any school, college, or university, or otherwise subjected to discipline by any school or institution or requested or advised by any school or institution to discontinue your studies there for reasons other than failure to maintain a minimum GPA?YesNo
Resume
Include résumé as a required attachment.
105 University of New Hampshire
L50: 158 | G50: 3.50 | Deadline: July 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Essay/Personal Statement
The statement should address your rationale for applying to law school in general, UNH Franklin Pierce Law specifically, and provide insight on what motivates you to become a lawyer. The personal statement is your opportunity to share your unique abilities, character, and experiences with the Admissions Committee and to distinguish yourself from other applicants. The committee weighs this statement heavily in the decision-making process and expects it to be a concise, well-written document.
This prompt is somewhat open-ended, but you should focus on why you want to go to law school and UNH in particular.
Supplement Statement
This section is optional.
If there are special circumstances in your personal history which are not addressed in other parts of your application and you would like to bring these to the attention of the Admissions Committee, please submit a Supplemental Statement addressing these matters. Your Statement may include topics such as overcoming adversity or obstacles (economic, social, educational, disability, etc.) or membership in a linguistic or racial minority. The Admissions Committee pays close attention to these Statements and considers them when awarding Opportunity Scholarships.
This is an open-ended prompt. You could respond with a brief diversity statement, LSAT addendum, GPA addendum, or something else.
9. UNH Franklin Pierce Law Interest
1. Please tell us, briefly, your reason for applying to the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law.required (maximum characters 750)
8. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. Under New Hampshire law, applicants are not required to include expunged and annulled offenses. Applicants bear the responsibility to ensure that each charge has actually been annulled by a court of law. Applicants should not rely on statements from third parties in deciding whether to disclose an offense. New Hampshire Bar Admissions information may be found online at http://www.courts.state.nh.us/nhbar/index.htm. Applicants answering "yes" to any of the following questions must attach a separate addendum detailing the date, specific offense (s) charged, all relevant details, and disposition related to each incident.
For the following questions, DO NOT include offenses for which the record of your arrest, conviction, or sentence was annulled after a petition brought by you pursuant to statute was granted.
1. Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any felony, misdemeanor or violation? (Note: Traffic offenses are not addressed in Question 1. They are addressed in Question 2.)YesNo
2. Have you been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of three or more motor vehicle violations during the past fifteen years? (Omit parking violations).YesNo
3. Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any alcohol or drug-related traffic offense?YesNo
4. Have you ever been subject to any academic or disciplinary probation, warning, suspension, dismissal, expulsion, or been requested to withdraw from any college, university, graduate, or law school? YesNo
5. Have you ever been dismissed or discharged due to employment-related misconduct?YesNo
6. Have you ever been disciplined by any professional association or licensing authority and/or had a professional license denied, suspended, or revoked? YesNo
Resume
A detailed résumé is required and must be submitted electronically. In addition to work history, it should include extracurricular activities, internships, academic honors, community service, hobbies and other special interests, abilities, or accomplishments. If you have not been working or going to school, please indicate how you have spent this time.
111 University of Mississippi
L50: 156 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The personal statement is important to your file. It is your opportunity to point out any noteworthy academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and business or civic experiences. The personal statement also enables you to demonstrate the ways in which you can contribute your talents and experiences to the law school. Successful applicants have also elaborated on meaningful personal and intellectual interests, challenges, and disadvantages met and overcome.
If you are applying to the JD/MBA program, please address the following questions in your personal statement:
- Why have you chosen to pursue the JD/MBA?
- How will these studies help you attain your career goals?
- Is there anything you would like us to know that is not reflected in the other application materials?
Civil Litigation
This section is optional.
If you answer "yes" to have you ever been a party to any civil litigation, please attach a statement explaining the circumstances of each incident, whether such incident is still pending, and if not, its resolution.
Practicing Law
This section is optional.
If you answer "yes" to practicing law in any jurisdiction, please list the jurisdiction and date of admission. If right to practice has been withdrawn, please explain.
Note: You have a continuing duty to disclose any changes in any of the facts indicated in this application after the filing of the application and through graduation from this law school. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the Law School or other appropriate action.
Criminal Misconduct
This section is optional.
If you answer "yes" to having been charged with, arrested for, convicted of, or pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to a violation of any law, please attach a statement explaining the circumstances of each incident, whether such incident is still pending, and if not, its resolution.
This includes minor traffic violations, charges of driving under the influence, or any other drug- or alcohol-related offenses and any expunged offenses.
Note: Applicants are encouraged to contact appropriate bar admissions agencies to determine if prior criminal charges or convictions may impede bar admissions. You have a continuing duty to disclose any changes in any of the facts indicated in this application after the filing of the application and through graduation from this law school. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the Law School or other appropriate action.
Academic Conduct
This section is optional.
If you answer "yes" to any of the academic or disciplinary action questions in the Character & Fitness section (Questions #2, #3, #4, or #6), please give dates and complete details in an attachment.
This includes if you ever have been expelled, suspended, or dismissed from any college or university, or subject to disciplinary action for academic or other reasons at any of the colleges, universities, or professional schools you have attended, or by any licensing body or professional society; or if there are any disciplinary charges (academic or other) pending or expected to be brought against you by any college, university, or professional school, licensing body, or professional society.
Note: You have a continuing duty to disclose any changes in any of the facts indicated in this application after the filing of the application and through graduation from this law school. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the Law School or other appropriate action.
Character & Fitness
Because of the high ethical standards to which lawyers are held, the failure to disclose an act or event such as the ones described below is often more significant, and leads to more serious consequences, than the act or event itself. Failure to provide truthful answers, or failure to inform the Office of Admission of any changes to your answers, may result in revocation of admission or disciplinary action by the School of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission to the bar. We strongly urge, if you are unsure as to whether to make a disclosure, you err on the side of disclosure. If the answer is "yes" to any of these questions listed below, give dates and complete details in a separate attachment.
Please note: it is your responsibility to update your application by notifying the University of Mississippi Office of Law Admission if any criminal charges are filed or expected to be filed between the date you submit this application and the date you enroll at The University of Mississippi School of Law.
1. Please check that you have read the above statement.
2. Have you ever been expelled, suspended, or dismissed from any college or university for any reason?
3. Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action for academic or other reasons in any of the colleges, universities, or professional schools you have attended, or by any licensing body or professional society?
4. Are there any disciplinary charges (academic or other) currently pending or expected to be brought against you by any college, university, or professional school, licensing body, or professional society?
5. Have you ever been admitted to practice law in any jurisdiction?
If "yes," please detail the jurisdiction and date of admission in a separate attachment. If right to practice has been withdrawn, please explain.
6. Has your education in college, university, or professional school been interrupted for one term or more for any reason?
7. Have you ever been charged with, arrested for, convicted of, or pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to a violation of any law? This includes minor traffic violations, charges of driving under the influence, or any other drug- or alcohol-related offenses and any expunged offenses. You should also disclose offenses which resulted in purged, sealed, obliterated, dismissed or destroyed records, regardless of whether you have been told that you need not disclose any such event. These will also be requested by state bar authorities in many states.
If "yes," please attach a statement explaining the circumstances of each incident, whether such incident is still pending, and if not, its resolution.
8. Have you ever been a party to any civil litigation?
If "yes," please attach a statement explaining the circumstances of each incident, whether such incident is still pending, and if not, its resolution.
Resume
We require you to submit a current copy of your résumé. Any gaps on your résumé should be explained.
Prior Law School
This section is optional.
If you have ever applied to The University of Mississippi School of Law or attended The University of Mississippi School of Law or another law school, please list when and describe the circumstances.
111 Drake University
L50: 155 | G50: 3.50 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 1 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
The Law School respects the personal goals, life experiences, and varied educational backgrounds that students bring to Drake. In order for us to make the best admission decision, we need the most useful information about you. We are interested in any facts about yourself you think are significant, including work experience and community interest, but especially evidence of leadership ability, maturity, motivation, independent thinking, and the ability to relate to other persons and groups. We also encourage you to address any special interest you have that makes Drake Law School a good choice for you. Please include a separate statement with your application which does not exceed two typewritten pages.
We recommend that you follow their recommended topics.
Diversity or Disadvantage
This section is optional.
Drake Law School seeks students who have many different experiences, opinions, backgrounds and cultures. In making admissions and scholarship award decisions, we consider all relevant factors, including significant obstacles the applicant has overcome (such as economic, educational, and social obstacles or disadvantages), membership in groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession, and applicants whose enrollment will significantly contribute to the diversity of the Drake Law School student body(including but not limited to race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or other aspects of diversity). In addition to the mandatory Personal Statement, you may optionally submit a statement explaining how any of the aforementioned factors apply to you.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Other Documents
This section is optional.
Applicants are welcome to attach a resume or application addendum if further information is necessary. Please limit each additional document to one page in length.
Character and Fitness
If you answer YES to any Character and Fitness questions you must explain each incident in full in an electronic attachment (see Attachments section).
1. Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of criminal, administrative, or military law (including any deferred, expunged, or sealed judgments)? This question includes, but is not limited to, all alcohol-related incidents. However, the question is not meant to include minor traffic violations.
2. Are there any criminal charges pending against you?
3. Have you ever been dismissed, placed on probation, or otherwise disciplined by any school or college for either academic or disciplinary reasons?
Career Opportunity-COP
This section is optional.
The Career Opportunity Program (COP) is an alternative study program offered to a limited number of highly qualified, highly motivated students whose circumstances preclude full-time study of law. COP students have the option to enroll in a reduced course load of regular daytime classes. At any time, a COP student may elect to pursue full-time study. Students must complete the 90 credit degree requirement within seven years of enrollment.
COP applicants must explain their circumstances in this attachment. This explanation needs to include their employment plans in the Des Moines or Central Iowa area starting with the entrance year they are applying to Drake Law School.
114 University of Maine
L50: 158 | G50: 3.57 | Deadline: July 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please electronically submit a personal statement, written in your own words, with this application that tells us more about you. The subject matter is up to you, but keep in mind that the reader will be seeking a sense of you as a person and also as a potential student and graduate of the University of Maine School of Law. It is an opportunity for you to include any information that will help the Admissions Committee act on your application and that sets you apart in a significant way from other applicants. We encourage you to develop a statement that provides the Committee with insights that cannot be obtained from the LSAC Credential Assembly Service report, resume or other information contained in the application. You are encouraged to address why you believe you are suited to the study and/or practice of law, or why you have chosen to pursue the study of law. Please note: a resume may not be submitted in lieu of the personal statement as the Admissions Committee attaches significant value to these statements.
Your personal statement should be in 12 point font and double spaced.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
We welcome addenda that highlight a lived experience that will contribute to the diversity of our student body.
University of Maine System Non-Discrimination Notice:
The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer, and does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender expression, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information or veteran?s status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 101 Boudreau Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5754, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).
Optional Statement(s)
This section is optional.
In addition to your personal statement, you may include an optional statement or statements explaining or highlighting elements in your application that are not readily apparent.
Your optional statement may address your academic record, LSAT results, gaps in your resume, or other information you believe will provide context for the Admissions Committee.
If you believe that the University of Maine School of Law is the right law school for you, let us know that as well.
Character and Fitness
Because of the high ethical standards governing lawyers, the failure to disclose an act or event, such as the ones described below, is often more significant and leads to more serious consequences than the act or event itself. Failure to provide full and truthful answers may result in revocation of admission, referral to LSAC, or disciplinary action by the School of Law, or denial of permission to practice law by the state in which you seek admission. Because state requirements vary, we advise you to obtain information about qualifications for admission to the bar of the state in which you intend to practice. Acceptance to Maine Law does not guarantee you meet the requirements for admission to any state's bar.
If you answer "Yes" to ANY of the following questions, you MUST provide a full and complete explanation in an attachment, clearly answering the question, including the ultimate disposition. Your file will remain incomplete if this addendum is not attached. Note: An affirmative answer to any of these questions will not automatically preclude your admission.
If you have any past or pending criminal charges, you must provide all court documents and police reports.
Should your response to any of these questions change while your application is pending or, if admitted, prior to matriculation, you must immediately inform the Admissions Office and update your application accordingly. Note also that you have a continuing duty to disclose any act or event relevant to the questions below that occurs up until your official graduation from Maine Law.
1. Have you ever been dropped, suspended, placed on disciplinary probation, or expelled, or have you withdrawn, requested to withdraw, or been allowed to withdraw in lieu of discipline from any school (excluding high school) or otherwise subjected to discipline by any such institution? Note: Academic probation need not be reported.
2. Have you ever been terminated, suspended, or disciplined, or have you resigned in lieu of termination, from any job or organization for any reason?
3. Have you ever had a professional license denied, suspended, or revoked, or are there now pending any charges, complaints, or grievances (formal or informal) concerning your conduct as a member of any profession or as a holder of public office?
4. Have you been cited or arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any moving traffic violation during the past ten years? You do not need to disclose citations, arrests, charges, or convictions for speeding unless you have more than five such incidents in the past two years. You do not need to disclose parking tickets.
5. Have you ever been cited for, arrested for, charged with, or convicted of any violation of any law, other than a violation that was resolved in juvenile court? (Moving traffic violations should be disclosed in response to the previous question.)
6. Are there any other criminal charges pending against you (not reported above) or is there an ongoing investigation that could lead to criminal charges being brought against you?
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
Resume
Please electronically attach a resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
114 University of Missouri—Kansas City
L50: 154 | G50: 3.48 | Deadline: April 1, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please attach a Personal Statement of approximately 2 pages in length, double spaced. Your Personal Statement should help the Admissions Committee get to know you and better understand your strengths, motivations, and contributions you will make to our community of learners. You may write about anything you choose, although here are some recommended topics to help guide you: your motivation for law study, factors that demonstrate the likelihood of your success in law school, a description of how you have overcome obstacles, and/or how you will contribute to the class.
We suggest following one or more of the recommended topics.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
At the beginning of their law school careers, the students at UMKC Law take an oath to have “respect for people, for knowledge and ideas, and for justice.” We encourage all applicants to consider our oath and reflect upon how you will promote the ideals that will form the foundation of your legal education at UMKC Law. To that end, we welcome you, although we do not require you, to submit a separate addendum that addresses either how you will strive to uphold and contribute to an environment of respect for people, for knowledge and ideas, and for justice, or how your lived experiences or aspects of your own identity may contribute to the diversity of our community.
This prompt interprets diversity broadly; feel free to write about untraditional diversity factors.
Optional Addendum
This section is optional.
Feel free to submit an additional addendum to explain any relevant information you did not address in your personal statement. This is your opportunity to address any areas of concern in your application materials.
Character and Fitness
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
You may find a bar admission guide online at http://www.ncbex.org/publications/bar-admissions-guide/.
The questions in this section of the application are very similar to those that will be asked by the state Supreme Court bar admission authorities when you apply for admission to practice law. While the bar admission authorities ask these questions in order to determine whether you can practice law in a competent and ethical manner, we ask these questions to help us determine your ability to perform competently and ethically as a law student and to assess whether you can be admitted to practice law upon graduation. We hold your responses in the strictest confidence, sharing them only as is necessary for the law school and bar admission processes. If you have any concerns about these questions or how to respond to them, we urge you to let us know. If you are unsure as to whether to make a disclosure, we encourage you to err on the side of disclosure. Having some matters to disclose in response to these questions is common and certainly does not necessarily disqualify you from being admitted to law school. The candor you display in answering the questions is a positive factor in the consideration of your application.
If the answer to any of the questions is yes, please provide a supplemental statement in your own words accurately and fully describing the incident. If the matter has been concluded (for example, if a charge or claim was brought against you and the proceedings relating to it have been completed), please explain how it was resolved. If the matter is not completed (for example, if a charge or claim is still pending), please explain the situation and how and when you expect it to be resolved. For every question, if the answer is currently ‘no’ but there have been events that you believe may cause the answer to change to ‘yes,’ you should disclose that. (For example, if you were involved in an incident that may result in criminal charges being filed against you, you should disclose the incident even though no charges have been filed yet.) Please include all relevant dates, such as when an incident occurred and when it was resolved.
1. At any college or university or other institution of higher education, were you ever suspended, placed on probation, expelled, warned, reprimanded, or disciplined formally or informally, or were you ever the subject of a complaint, a probable cause hearing, or any other form of initial inquiry concerning your conduct? You must disclose every instance in which this has occurred regardless of whether the record has been expunged, cancelled, annulled, or no record was made by the school. You must disclose every incident whether it was an academic or non-academic matter.
2. Have you ever been held in contempt of court, had sanctions entered against you by a court, or otherwise been disqualified from participating in any legal proceeding?
3. As a holder of public office or as a member of any profession, have you ever been suspended, censured, reprimanded, disqualified, subject to discipline, allowed to resign in lieu of discipline, or been the subject of any charges, complaints, or grievances concerning your conduct? You must disclose all matters, even if the outcome was favorable to you, it was dismissed, no discipline was imposed, discipline was stayed or held in abeyance subject to a diversion or other agreement, or the matter was deemed confidential or closed.
4. Have you ever been a party to any noncriminal legal proceeding, such as a civil lawsuit, an arbitration, an administrative legal proceeding, or a family court or domestic abuse proceeding? Being a party to a legal proceeding means that you are one of the participants who has a legal interest in the outcome, such as if you sued or were sued by someone, and it includes having any type of order of protection issued against you. It does not include merely being a witness in a legal proceeding.
5. Has any entity that you owned, managed, or participated in the control or management of been charged with fraud, larceny, embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, misrepresentation, or similar misconduct, in any civil, criminal, or administrative legal proceeding?
6. Have you ever been arrested, charged, cited, issued a summons, taken into custody, or been convicted for the violation of any law? You must disclose every instance in which this has occurred even if charges ultimately were not brought against you or were dismissed, you were acquitted, you received a suspended imposition of sentence, the conviction was stayed or vacated, you were placed on probation, you were granted deferred adjudication, you participated in any type of pretrial diversion, or the record was sealed or expunged. You must disclose every incident regardless of whether you were an adult or a juvenile at the time. You must disclose every incident regardless of whether you have been advised by any source (such as legal counsel) that you need not disclose the incident. No statute, court order, or legal proceeding withholding adjudication, expunging or sealing any record, dismissing, vacating, or setting aside an arrest, charge, or conviction shall excuse less than full disclosure of the incident in this application. The incidents that must be disclosed include (but are not limited to) any violation relating to alcohol or controlled substances (such as driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated, minor in possession, public intoxication, or possession or use of false identification). You may exclude violations of traffic laws (such as speeding tickets or parking tickets) unless the violation resulted in time spent in jail, issuance of an arrest warrant, or revocation or suspension of your driver’s license.
Resume
A résumé must be electronically attached to your application. Resumes should include information about your education, employment, activities, community service, etc.
116 Seattle University
L50: 157 | G50: 3.44 | Deadline: July 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 3 accepted
Personal Statement
Please attach a personal statement of no more than two pages. Your statement should detail how your lived experiences have motivated you to attend law school and why you wish to attend Seattle U Law. You may discuss significant achievements or other personal or professional information you wish to highlight. Your statement must be typed, double-spaced in no smaller than 12-point font. Clearly label the attachment "Personal Statement."
Optional Addendum
This section is optional.
If you wish to include a Diversity Statement or have any special circumstances you wish considered or want to add any information not contained elsewhere in this application, please attach the information here as a double-spaced, one-page maximum document. Clearly label the attachment "Optional Addendum."
Character and Fitness
You are encouraged to answer the following questions to the best of your ability. Admission to law school does not guarantee automatic admission to a state's bar.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
1. Have you ever been placed on probation, suspended, dismissed from, or otherwise sanctioned at any institution of higher education or any professional licensing authority for any reason?
2. Have you ever been charged or convicted of a felony, misdemeanor, or other crime?
If you require more space to complete your Character and Fitness explanation(s), please attach a document here. Clearly label the attachment "Character and Fitness."
Resume
Please attach a current résumé.
116 Gonzaga University
L50: 154 | G50: 3.51 | Deadline: April 15, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
Please attach a personal statement.
This prompt is open-ended, but consider explaining why you’re going to law school and why you’re interested in Gonzaga in particular by the end of the essay.
Diversity Statement
This section is optional.
Gonzaga University School of Law is committed to building an intellectually vibrant and culturally inclusive community for our students, faculty, and staff. This includes increasing the diversity of our students, faculty, and staff in terms of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability status, gender identity and expression, immigration status, honorably discharged veteran or military status, and socio-economic background. Please attach a statement describing how your background, experiences, or perspective will contribute to or enhance the diversity and inclusion of the law school community.
Carl Maxey Essay
This section is optional.
The Carl Maxey Social Justice scholars are selected based on their commitment to social justice and their leadership potential and promise. In addition, each Social Justice scholar must bring diversity to the program and to the profession, in terms of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability status, gender identity and expression, immigration status, honorably discharged veteran or military status, and socio-economic background. Individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups in law school in general and Gonzaga University in particular are especially encouraged to apply.
Please submit a clearly labeled supplemental essay of 500 words or less describing your social justice interests and goals. This essay should address your demonstrated commitment to social justice, your potential and promise to be a leader, and your contribution to the diversity of the profession.
Submit an essay of 500 words or less.
12. Character and Fitness
Indicates a required field.
If you answer "yes" to any of the below questions, you are required to provide a complete explanation. Failure to disclose information may result in the revocation of your acceptance. Your obligation to disclose does not end upon admission and continues throughout your law school career.
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Most jurisdictions at a minimum will ask the following questions and will conduct a background check. Your disclosure on this application must match what you disclose on your bar application. Failure to disclose may result in denial of your admission to law school and admission to the bar. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.
1. Have you ever been sanctioned, suspended, warned, placed on academic or disciplinary probation, been the subject of a disciplinary investigation, advised or required to withdraw or resign from any post-secondary school, college, university, professional school, or law school? This question includes but is not limited to, any proceedings, warnings, or discipline related to residential life/campus housing.YesNo
2. Have you ever been investigated, warned, terminated, suspended, disciplined, laid-off for misconduct, including dishonesty, or permitted to resign in lieu of termination by any employer from any paid or volunteer position?YesNo
3. Have you ever been arrested, cited for, detained for, indicted with, or convicted of any crime, whether a felony or misdemeanor? This question requires disclosure of all criminal matters, including: (i) all criminal motor vehicle offenses, including moving traffic violations, for example: speeding tickets, failure to yield, and failure to provide insurance (omit parking violations); (ii) any juvenile offense even if the record was sealed or expunged. Disclosure is required regardless of whether a charge is pending, was dropped, you entered a diversion program, prosecution was deferred, adjudication was deferred or withheld, and even if there was a judgment of acquittal. If yes, provide a complete explanation of the matter, including the initial charges and the ultimate resolution. If you are unsure about the nature or resolution of a particular charge, it is your responsibility to obtain the information before you respond. (If you are not sure about the nature or the ultimate disposition of a particular charge, it is your responsibility to check with the courts before you answer.)YesNo
4. As a member of a professional organization, as a holder of any professional or work license, or as a holder of any office or professional position of trust, have you ever been the subject of an investigation, disciplined or had your right to practice your profession, work, or to hold office suspended or revoked, or is such a disciplinary action pending against you? YesNo
5. Has a restraining order, anti-harassment order, no contact order, or the like (whether administrative, civil, or criminal in nature) ever been requested against you? This question includes a request/petition that may not have ultimately been granted.YesNo
Resumé
Please attach a resumé.
Executive Two-Year JD
This section is optional.
If you are applying for the Executive Two-Year J.D. Program, please provide a one-page statement of interest, specifically stating why you are interested in the program.
118 West Virginia University
L50: 154 | G50: 3.56 | Deadline: July 31, 2023
LORs: 2 required, 4 accepted
Personal Statement
The Enrollment Management Committee gives considerable emphasis in its evaluation to the personal statement. The personal statement should provide the Enrollment Management Committee with insights about the applicant and the applicant's interest in pursuing both a legal education and career. The most effective personal statements also typically provide further insight into the applicant's personality, background, professional interests, or matters that ar