How to Get Into Law School with Bad Grades
Admission to law school is more than a numbers game. Undergraduate grades and LSAT scores play an important part in the law school admissions process. However, law schools also consider other circumstances before they make their final decisions to admit prospective students. Factors that play a significant qualitative role are undergraduate degrees, personal statements and letters of recommendation. Applying early can also maximize your chances of getting in.
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Grades Are Not Everything
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Getting into law school with bad grades is a challenge. Law schools often consider the difficulty of an applicant's undergraduate major, notes Jannell Roberts, associate dean of admissions at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, For example, an applicant may have a 4.0 in construction management while another applicant may have a 2.7 in architectural engineering. Obviously, the engineering major has more obstacles to overcome and has better demonstrated an ability to grasp difficult material. In addition, admission committees also consider the rank or prestige of the undergraduate school. An upward grade trend can also affect the likelihood of admission.
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The personal statement is probably the most important qualitative element of an applicant's file. Robert Schwartz, dean of admissions and financial aid at the University of California in Los Angeles, advises applicants to give special emphasis to significant socioeconomic disadvantages and hardships or unusual life experiences that have been overcome. You could also show how your admission would markedly diversify the student body or the legal profession. The admissions committee also considers work experience and career achievement, community service and leadership qualities.
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The best letters of recommendation are detailed, specific and give information on how well an applicant compares to his peers. Recommenders should offer examples of academic ability and characteristics necessary for success in law school. Letters should also show how that applicant's skills will translate in the law school setting. In addition, letters should show a solid academic or professional relationship with the applicant. Never submit letters from family members or from family friends.
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Some law schools use a rolling admissions policy, which is helpful for applicants with poor undergraduate grades or low LSAT scores. Applicants have the advantage of being considered early in the process.
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Tips & Warnings
Research law schools. Choose schools that are open to admitting students with distinctive life and work experiences. If you are not successful one year, apply again the following year.
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