Northwestern University
University Career Services
Law School Application Timeline
Each program has its own requirements and deadlines. The timeline below is a general overview of the application process. Please note the materials and timing required for each application you plan to submit.
SPRING OF JUNIOR YEAR
Meet with a Pre-law Advisor at UCS or WCAS for assistance with the decision making and application process Sign up to take LSAT prep courses in the spring or summer, if necessary Register to take the LSAT exam in June or October Research law schools of interest Request letters of recommendation from two or three faculty members
SUMMER OF JUNIOR YEAR
Take the LSAT exam or prep courses, depending on LSAT exam date Prepare a draft of your personal statement and have it reviewed by a Pre-law Advisor at UCS Prepare a draft of your resume and have it reviewed at UCS Create a list of law schools to which you are applying Register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS): http://www.lsac.org/jd/apply/cas.asp Verify with the Office of the Registrar that your official transcript is accurate and current Request that your transcripts be sent to the CAS Visit law schools of interest
FALL OF SENIOR YEAR
Attend a law school forum: http://www.lsac.org/jd/choose/forums-and-other-events.asp Finish revisions and finalize your personal statement Update and finalize your resume Ensure you have all necessary letters of recommendation and/or LSAC evaluations: http://www.lsac.org/JD/Apply/cas-lor-evaluations.asp Start looking into financial aid: http://www.lsac.org/jd/finance/financial-aid-overview.asp Take the October LSAT if applicable Complete the LSAC application Send completed applications by Thanksgiving Contact law schools to confirm the completion of your applications Relax and enjoy the holidays!
WINTER/ SPRING OF SENIOR YEAR
Develop a ‘Plan B’ by brainstorming and discussing alternative options Prepare for interviews, if necessary Evaluate and submit offers of acceptance Congratulate yourself and celebrate getting through this tough process!!
University Career Services Main Location: 620 Lincoln Street Career Lab: Main Library, Core Reserves, 2nd Flr Phone: 847-491-3700 www.northwestern.edu/careers
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