Sure – we can't all go to Harvard Law, but if you've decided that you want to become a lawyer, you're probably already aware of how much hangs on your ability to get into one of the top ranked law schools. Getting into law school is a highly competitive affair, so it's important to make sure you've done everything possible to get into one of the best law schools available to you. During the law school admissions process, law schools look at the applicant’s grades in their undergraduate courses, as well as their record of public service and LSAT scores.
How to Prepare for Law School
Unlike medical students, there's rarely an established "pre-law" major for students to take. Instead, it’s recommended that students focus their course load on classes in sociology, English, history, economics, and government to increase their chances of making it into a good law school. It also helps to know which area of law interests you the most, as it will be to your benefit to take several classes in your potential specialty.
For example, if you want to become a tax attorney, consider taking some accounting classes to make yourself more attractive to law schools with specialized programs in your area of expertise.
When considering law school rankings, be sure to check into their American Bar Association (ABA) standing.
It's important to attend a school that's been approved by the ABA, since some firms will refuse to hire you if your school doesn't meet this criteria. In addition, check out the US News & World Report for their rankings of law schools around the country. Currently, their list of top law schools are:
1. Yale University
2. Harvard University
3. Stanford University
4. Columbia University
5. New York University
6. University of California – Berkeley
7. University of Chicago
8. University of Pennsylvania
9. Northwestern University
10. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
If you aren't sure you'll be able to get into a top-tier institution like Harvard or Yale, you'll be able to find plenty of good third- and fourth-tier schools that may be perfect for you.
Getting into a prestigious law school is an important part of becoming a lawyer and the competition to get into such schools is fierce. There are always more applicants than there are available spots, so it's important to have everything in order before you apply. Any small oversight or slip-up could take a full school year to be corrected through the Law School Admission Council, leading to a longer wait before you can reapply to the school.
Once an applicant has been accepted into law school, the hard work truly begins. The first year and a half of schooling is intense and most students drop out during this time. The core classes of legal education are taught during this time, and students must use their extra hours to begin choosing the fields in which they want to specialize. During the last half of law school, students must study classes in their field or specialty to prepare them for life in the field. Although the educational process can be intense, it's worth it if you're passionate about bringing about justice and change through the legal system.
Imagine getting your law degree from the comfort of your own home, through a reputable online college. That dream can be a reality if you choose Concord Law School, the nation's first online law school. Learn more about Concord College | Request free info
Imagine getting your law degree from the comfort of your own home, through a reputable online college. That dream can be a reality if you choose Concord Law School, the nation's first online law school.
