Drake Law seeks to enroll students who show the ability to succeed in the practice of law; we want students who will be leaders in their communities; who will be ethical and professional; and who represent a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints. Your academic record, including the rigor of your curriculum, along with your LSAT score, will provide us with important information. We recognize, however, that the potential for success and your contribution to our class cannot be measured solely by a standardized test or by past academic records. Therefore, we use a holistic admissions model that evaluates non-academic skills and experiences in addition to academic credentials. Non-academic factors Drake Law may consider include:

• Extracurricular and co-curricular activities, in particular those that helped you develop your leadership, academic, or interpersonal skills.

• Professional or work experiences, or community engagement.

• Your resilience in overcoming obstacles or barriers.

• Experiences or opportunities interacting with individuals from different cultures or backgrounds, including your fluency in other languages.

• Your career goals and motivations for going to law school, including how Drake Law in particular would further those goals.

• Your potential contribution to the law school environment and legal profession (for example, relating to your background, perspectives, or experiences).

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.

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?

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.

Thank you for your interest in Drake University Law School. We are very proud of our school and equally proud of the students we train for a wide variety of legal careers. I think you will be impressed with the rich history and traditions of the law school, one of the 25 oldest in the country, complemented by an innovative curriculum, collegial environment and an abundance of experiential opportunities. Drake Law School programs are student-centered and practice oriented.

Please complete the Drake Law School application for admission on the Law School Admission Council website at LSAC.org. The online application fee is automatically waived.

Our priority application deadline is April 1. Although we continue to accept and review applications after this date, you are encouraged to submit your application prior to April 1st for best consideration of admission and scholarship opportunities.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the Law School receives all documents necessary to evaluate your file. A complete file includes the following:

The application form. Please be sure all questions have been answered, and the application is signed or electronically certified. A personal statement (see Attachments section). If applicable, explanation(s) for Character & Fitness disclosures and/or other special program considerations such as 3+3 or COP programs (see Attachments section). Your LSAC Credential Assembly Service Report. The LSAT with LSAT Writing or GRE are required. Letters of recommendation. We encourage you to use the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service. Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended must be sent to LSAC. Once your file is complete, it will be forwarded to the admission committee which gives careful and thoughtful review to each individual application. You may keep apprised of the status of your application through your online LSAC account.

I encourage you to learn more about Drake Law School and to schedule a campus visit at www.drake.edu/law. If you have questions regarding our programs or the application process, please contact the Office of Admission and Financial Aid at 515-271-2782 or law-admit@drake.edu.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Kara Blanchard Assistant Dean, Admission and Financial Aid

Bar Admission: Admission to Drake Law School does not guarantee admission to the bar 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.

Non-discrimination Policy: The principles of equal access and equal opportunity require that all interactions within the University be free from invidious discrimination. Drake University therefore prohibits discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status or any characteristic protected by law in its educational programs and activities, admissions, or employment. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator, 316 Old Main, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311, (515) 271-4956, titleix@drake.edu or the Executive Director, Human Resources, 319 Old Main, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311, (515) 271-4804, drakehr@drake.edu.