What Law Schools Look for in Applicants

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Gaining admission to a top law school in the United States is a competitive and multi-faceted process. With thousands of applicants vying for limited spots each year, aspiring law students must demonstrate not only academic competence but also intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a strong commitment to the legal profession. While standardized test scores and grades are crucial, law schools look beyond numbers when evaluating candidates.

This detailed guide explores what law schools really look for in applicants—from GPAs and LSAT scores to personal statements, work experience, and intangible qualities like character and resilience.

1. Academic Performance (GPA)

A strong undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) is one of the first metrics admissions committees use to evaluate applicants. This is a key indicator of your academic ability and discipline.

Key Points:

  • Law schools look at cumulative GPA as reported by the Credential Assembly Service (CAS).

  • They may weigh the rigor of your major—a 3.7 GPA in engineering may be viewed differently from a 3.7 in a less quantitative major.

  • Upward trends in GPA during later years of college can be a positive sign, especially if accompanied by a compelling explanation.

Tip:

If your GPA is on the lower side, offset it with a strong LSAT score, stellar personal statement, and strong recommendation letters.

2. LSAT Score

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is arguably the most important standardized test for law school applicants. It assesses analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension—all skills essential to succeeding in law school.

Why LSAT Matters:

  • It provides a common benchmark to compare students from different academic backgrounds.

  • A high LSAT score can offset a lower GPA or enhance your chances of scholarships.

  • Many top schools have median LSAT scores in the 160–170+ range.

Tip:

Start preparing 4–6 months before the test date. Use real practice tests, consider a prep course, and focus on building stamina for test day.

3. Personal Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to tell your story beyond the numbers. It reveals your personality, motivation, and potential contribution to the law school community.

What Schools Look For:

  • Why law? Your statement should answer why you want to pursue a legal career.

  • Authenticity: Admissions committees appreciate sincerity and a clear, personal voice.

  • Clarity and writing style: Law school involves extensive writing, so your ability to craft a compelling, well-edited statement is critical.

  • Structure and content: Strong introductions, coherent body paragraphs, and a memorable conclusion make a huge difference.

Tip:

Avoid clichés (e.g., “I’ve wanted to be a lawyer since I was a child”) and instead focus on a defining moment or personal challenge that shaped your path.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Recommendation letters offer external validation of your capabilities and character. Law schools usually require 2–3 letters, preferably from professors who know you well.

What Makes a Great Letter:

  • Written by someone who can speak specifically about your academic or professional strengths.

  • Demonstrates intellectual ability, work ethic, and potential for success in law.

  • Includes specific examples or anecdotes.

Tip:

Ask your recommenders early, and provide them with your resume, personal statement, and a list of achievements to help guide their letters.

5. Resume and Work Experience

Law schools are increasingly valuing applicants with real-world experience, whether it’s post-college work, internships, or community involvement.

What They Value:

  • Professionalism: A clean, concise resume that clearly shows your achievements.

  • Leadership and initiative: Roles where you made a tangible impact or took responsibility.

  • Relevance to law: While not required, experience in legal settings (e.g., law firms, government, advocacy) can help.

Tip:

Keep your resume to one page (unless you have extensive experience), and tailor it to highlight skills relevant to law school, such as research, writing, communication, and critical thinking.

6. Diversity and Background

Law schools aim to create diverse and inclusive classes, recognizing that students from various backgrounds enrich the academic and social environment.

Factors Considered:

  • Race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation

  • Socioeconomic background

  • First-generation college student status

  • Military service

  • Unique life experiences or challenges overcome

Diversity Statement:

In addition to a personal statement, some schools allow (or encourage) a diversity statement where applicants can share how their background or perspective contributes to the community.

7. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership

Participation in extracurricular activities is a good indicator of time management, social skills, and leadership potential.

What Schools Look For:

  • Depth over breadth: Sustained involvement in one or two meaningful activities is better than a long list of superficial ones.

  • Leadership positions: Being a president, captain, editor, or organizer can stand out.

  • Public service: Volunteering, advocacy, and nonprofit work align with many schools’ missions to serve the public good.

Tip:

Include your extracurricular activities in both your resume and applications where applicable, highlighting your role and contributions.

8. Character and Fitness

Applicants must also meet character and fitness requirements, as law schools are the gatekeepers to the legal profession.

What’s Evaluated:

  • Criminal history

  • Academic misconduct

  • Financial responsibility

  • Honesty and integrity

Tip:

Be honest about any past issues. Law schools value transparency and integrity. A thoughtful explanation in an addendum can mitigate concerns.

9. Addenda: Explaining Gaps or Anomalies

An addendum is a short, factual explanation of anything unusual in your application, such as:

  • A low GPA or poor semester

  • A drop in LSAT performance

  • A gap in education or employment

  • Disciplinary actions

Tip:

Be direct, take responsibility if needed, and don’t dwell on the issue—focus on what you learned or how you improved afterward.

10. Fit with the Law School

While students assess schools, law schools are also looking for students who are a good fit for their specific programs, values, and goals.

Considerations Include:

  • Interest in specific areas (e.g., environmental law, intellectual property)

  • Connection to the school’s mission or location

  • Contributions to law journals, clinics, or pro bono initiatives

  • Commitment to public interest, academia, or corporate law

Tip:

Demonstrate knowledge about the school in your optional essays or interviews. Show how your interests align with what the school offers.

11. Optional Essays and “Why This School” Statements

Many applications offer the chance to submit optional essays, including:

  • “Why X Law School?”

  • Challenges faced and how you overcame them

  • Career goals and interests

Tip:

Optional essays are not really optional if you’re serious about the school. Use them to show thoughtful engagement with the school’s mission and culture.

12. Interview (If Applicable)

Not all law schools conduct interviews, but when they do, it’s an additional chance to make your case.

Interview Formats:

  • Traditional one-on-one interviews

  • Group or panel interviews

  • Recorded video interviews (e.g., Kira Talent)

Tips:

  • Prepare answers to common questions like “Why law?” or “What are your goals?”

  • Research the school in detail

  • Be professional, enthusiastic, and articulate

Building a Holistic Application

Law school admissions are holistic, meaning they consider the whole person, not just GPA and test scores. Applicants who take the time to craft a thoughtful, well-rounded application that reflects their academic potential, life experience, and commitment to the law have a competitive edge.

In summary, law schools look for:

  • Academic excellence (GPA and LSAT)

  • Clear motivation and purpose

  • Strong writing and communication skills

  • Leadership and engagement

  • Character and professionalism

  • A good fit with their institution

By understanding what law schools truly value, you can tailor your application to showcase your strengths, address any weaknesses, and stand out in a competitive field.

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