How to Get Into a T14 Law School
Tips for getting into a top law school by a Columbia JD with years of coaching experience. Plus, application strategies for low GPA or LSAT scores.
By Parth K.
Posted May 10, 2024
Table of Contents
Hi, I’m Parth K., a Law School and Undergraduate coach on Leland. In this article, I’ve outlined my top tips for getting into a T14 law school. I got my JD from Columbia Law School and have helped many friends and clients get into other top schools. If you’d like to work with me on any part of your law school application, book a free intro call on my profile!
Admission to the T14 (“Top 14” law schools) is viewed by many applicants as a dream outcome for their law school application process. Having worked with many candidates applying to law school, I wanted to share some thoughts on how to get into a T14 law school. While admission is never guaranteed, there are certainly some steps you can take to best position yourself.
An Overview
Given that I help students with their applications to law school, it may come across as odd for me to say that most of your success as an applicant comes down to two things: LSAT score and GPA. Even more so than other graduate school programs, law schools are notoriously predictable when it comes to admitting students. For the most part, if your application is solid, you’ll likely be admitted to schools where your LSAT and GPA are above the median.
Things get more interesting when one or both of your LSAT and GPA are lower than the medians of your target schools. In this situation, your application can be the make-it-or-break-it factor that determines whether or not you will get admitted.
If you’re in this boat, don’t despair! Feel empowered since your application has the potential to make a great impact on your admissions outcomes. The strength of your personal statement will be particularly critical, but don’t discount the importance of other components like your additional essays, addenda, resume, and letters of recommendation.
Be sure to put your best foot forward on the application. Every year there are candidates who underperform because of a weak application and others with low LSAT scores and GPAs who get into their reach school because of stellar applications.
How to Get Into a Top Law School
Here is a breakdown of every step you can take to position yourself for success in the application process:
1. Focus on your grades
To the extent possible, strive to get a high GPA as this is the second most important factor in your application, behind your LSAT score. Your grades should be your primary focus if you are considering law school, as even an additional 0.1 on your GPA can make a difference for some schools.
2. Focus on your LSAT
Once your grades are pretty solidified (near the end of college or after graduation), your focus should shift entirely to the LSAT. Do not work on your application until you have an LSAT score you are proud of. Don’t hesitate to retake the LSAT if needed. I have spoken to classmates of mine at Columbia Law who took the LSAT four times and were still admitted. This is of course not ideal, but an increase in score is often impactful enough to make admissions committees ignore the number of LSAT re-takes.
3. Put together a neatly packaged application
Law school admissions committees like to understand how a potential candidate will fit in their class. Thus, it helps to tie the components of your application together and present yourself as a cohesive candidate with a memorable story and background. This is certainly easier said than done. As an admissions consultant, I help applicants tell their stories through neatly packaged applications. Don’t hesitate to reach out if this is something you’d be interested in receiving help with!
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4. Apply early
This is an often underrated tip, but applying early can significantly help your application. Besides giving you a better chance for a scholarship (since the funds have not yet been allocated to other students), applying early generally provides a better chance for admission. In order to apply early, you’ll need to start the entire process early so make sure you take the LSAT, get your letters of recommendation, and prepare your application well ahead of time.
If you have a lower LSAT or GPA than desired, consider applying for Early Decision to boost your chances of admission to a top school. Keep in mind that no scholarships go to Early Decision candidates, so be sure to account for the financial impact of this approach. Nevertheless, the boost in acceptance odds associated with applying Early Decision makes it worth it for many.
5. Network and communicate with admissions officers
Many students simply apply and wait nervously instead of proactively taking steps to increase their odds of admission. If admissions officers from schools you are applying to come to speak at your college, attend the event, network with them, and ask if you can set up a time to learn more about the school. While this does not always work, it can be a great way to be a memorable applicant if the officer is receptive.
6. Relax and take time for yourself
The admissions process is quite stressful, so find time to decompress. When I was applying, I found it relaxing to hang out with friends, try new restaurants, play with my dog, and listen to music.
If you take these steps, you are likely to position yourself for success in the application process. Don’t hesitate to reach out through the Leland portal if I can be helpful as you complete your application. I’m always happy to work with prospective candidates and answer any questions you might have! See more about my background and services on my profile.
Get Into Law School With the Help of an Expert
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