“If You’re On Time You’re Late”: Law School Application Timing Among Historically Underrepresented Applicants Authors: Godette, S., Ph.D., Risman, K., Cochran, T., and Jenkins, B.
Late applicants are less likely to receive admission to law school, even when their applicant profile is similar to early/on-time applicants.
Study Information 40%
24%
of early/on-time applicants admitted
of late applicants admitted
This study (N = 186) uses data from two cohorts of LexPreLaw – a legal education diversity pathway program created by AccessLex Institute® – to explore the relationship between application timing and law school admission outcomes. Additionally, we explore other factors associated with application timing, including knowledge of the admission process, admission process engagement, and LexPreLaw interventions.
Appropriately timing the LSAT is a key barrier to early/on-time application for participants from underrepresented backgrounds.
Study Conclusion Our findings underscore the importance of executing an effective law school application strategy, such as submitting applications
“I kept pushing [the LSAT ] back and pushing it back… I was scared, and it was self-sabotage.” Participants who receive targeted intervention and support leading up to and during the application cycle are more likely to apply early/on-time.
early, to increase one’s likelihood of law school admission. This is particularly important for historically marginalized applicants and those with relatively low standardized test scores.
Recommendations 1. Create and promote resources that help applicants strategize for early submission; 2. Remove barriers to timely LSAT testing and score submission; 3. Improve information sharing on law school
Did Not Receive Timing Intervention Received Timing Intervention
44% 23%
likely to apply late
likely to apply late
admission websites; 4. Bolster recruitment and outreach to marginalized communities; and 5. Reconsider the use of rolling admissions. Copyright © 2023 AccessLex Institute (11/23)