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Timetable for Applying to Law School

The application process usually begins in the spring, approximately 18 months prior to when law school begins. Follow this timetable if you plan on attending law school immediately upon graduation.

Prior to Spring of Junior Year

• Determine whether law school is for you
• Talk with UCSC alumni who have entered the legal profession
• Choose courses that develop reading, logical thinking, writing and research skills

Spring of Junior Year

• Obtain the LSAT/LSDAS booklet from the Career Center and set up an appointment with the pre-law adviser
• Register with LSDAS
• Register for the June LSAT (October date is also acceptable and may be wiser if you are finishing final exams or senior comps)
• Begin preparing for the LSAT (enroll in prep course if possible)
• Begin identifying appropriate law schools
• Request 3 letters of recommendation from faculty (provide faculty with LSDAS form, stamped/addressed envelope, mini personal statement, narrative evaluation, and copy of class papers with professor's comments)

Summer after Junior Year

Take LSAT in early June (or register for October LSAT)
• Request catalogs and admission materials from law schools in August
• Receive June LSAT score or prepare for October LSAT
• Begin writing personal statement

Fall of Senior Year

• Take October LSAT (score available about 3 weeks later)
• Order UCSC transcripts in October
• Finalize personal statement
• Attend UCSC Professional/Graduate School Fair
• Meet with pre-law adviser to discuss schools
• Prepare application materials
• Complete all law school application materials by early November
• Complete financial aid applications