Pre-Law

How do I prepare for law school?

Law schools require a baccalaureate degree. They do not require a specific undergraduate major, but do seek students who are broadly educated with strong skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking. Admission is extremely selective based primarily on GPA, LSAT scores, a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

Students interested in issues of law and social justice are encouraged to learn more about Fairhaven College’s Law, Diversity and Justice concentration. All WWU students may take Fairhaven classes such as American Legal System or Court Watch (but Fairhaven students get first priority). See the Center for Law, Diversity and Justice Web site for more information at http://www.wwu.edu/cldj/.

What should I major in to gain acceptance to law school?

Law schools want students who have strong oral and written communication skills; a broad understanding of economic, political and social institutions; and well-developed objective and critical thinking skills. No particular major is required. Western offers a variety of majors and minors that will develop these skills. The General University Requirements (GUR) will also aid students in gaining competence in such skills.

LSAT Information

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT), normally required of applicants to American and Canadian law schools, is offered on Western’s campus several times each year. Applications and test schedule information may be obtained from the Testing Center (OM 120) and the Department of
Political Science. Students should plan to take the LSAT late in their junior year or by December in their senior year.

Recommendations

Freshman or Sophomore Year:

• Complete prerequisites for the major and declare your major.
• Meet with a pre-law advisor for general information.

Junior Year:

• Research law schools.
• Prepare for the law school admissions test (LSAT).
• Think of people from whom you would like to request a letter of recommendation.
• Take the LSAT in June (or else wait until October of your senior year).

Senior Year:

• Complete your major requirements and apply for graduation.
• Take the LSAT, if you haven’t already, in October.
• Request letters of recommendation from professors, administrators, and professionals.
• Start preparing your law school applications in early fall and complete by December 1.

Resources

• Law School Admissions Council: lsac.org
• Legal Information Center: legalinfo.as.wwu.edu
• Fairhaven College Center for Law, Diversity and Justice: www.wwu.edu/cldj