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Academics
- Choose a major you can do well in
(Law schools do NOT care what you major in your GPA matters more.) - Track your graduation requirements
- Take writing and critical thinking classes
- Build relationships with professors + students inside and outside your major
- Keep your GPA strong (3.5+ if possible)
- Network! Network! Network!
Activities & Leadership
- Join a Pre-Law Club, Mock Trial, Debate, or Student government
- Take on leadership positions
- Do community service
- Attend law-related campus events
- Keep a running list of your activities for applications
- Get involved in your community
Professional Growth
- Create and update your resume as you go
- Build your LinkedIn and keep it current
- Find internships (law, public policy, government, local firms)
- Shadow a lawyer or visit courts in your area
- Attend pre-law fairs, info sessions, LSAC Forums, and conferences
LSAT Prep
- Pick a study timeline
(Your timeline is however long YOU need! no one-size-fits-all.) - Gather study materials
- Take a diagnostic test
- Make a weekly study schedule
- Track your practice test and drilling progress
- Register for the LSAT ONLY when you know you’re ready! (When your Practice test score is at your goal score)
Law School Research
- List your target, reach, and safety schools
(Below, at, and above their medians.) - Check each school’s median LSAT + GPA
- Research scholarships and financial aid
- Attend virtual or in-person info sessions
- Compare bar passage + employment rates
- Network with current students and alumni especially from your undergrad
Personal Statement & Application Materials
- Start your personal statement early
- Consider writing a diversity statement
- Choose recommenders who TRULY know you (don’t chase “big names”)
- Request letters 6–8 weeks before applying
- Update your resume to the law-school format
- Draft optional essays or addendums (if necessary)
LSAC & Applications
- Create your LSAC account
- Start the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) early
- Upload transcripts + letters
- Track every school’s deadline
- Apply for fee waivers
- Aim to submit applications September–November if possible
Financial Prep
- Estimate tuition + living costs
- Save for LSAT + application fees
- Apply for the LSAC Fee Waiver
(Covers CAS fee, LSAT, and Score Preview) - Search for scholarships early
- Learn the basics of loans (Grad PLUS, federal, private options)
Interviews & Decisions
- Prepare for admissions interviews
- Compare offers carefully
- Negotiate scholarships
- Pay seat deposits before deadlines
- Look for housing near your future school
- Join admitted student groups + networks
Wellness & Balance
- Create a study-life balance
- Manage stress intentionally
- Ask for help when overwhelmed
- Connect with other pre-law students
- Celebrate small wins
This process is demanding. Honor your milestones!
Consulting (Optional)
- Before you pay anyone, figure out what you actually need help with
- There are free options too like advisors, mentors, older pre-law students, friends in law school
- Paid consultants can be helpful, but do NOT let them take over your whole application
- They’re there to guide you, not write your personal statement for you
- Look for consultants with real receipts (proof they’ve helped people)
- Make sure their vibe matches yours, you do NOT want someone who stresses you out
- Use consultants for things like: Editing your essays, Game planning your application list, Scholarship + negotiation tips, Helping you stay on timeline.