The Ultimate Law School Application Checklist: What You Need Before You Apply

Applying to law school takes more than just filling out a form and hitting submit. A successful application is a thoughtfully curated package that tells your story, showcases your readiness, and meets every requirement.

Use this comprehensive checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared before you apply.

Applying to law school takes more than just filling out a form and hitting submit. A successful application is a thoughtfully curated package that tells your story, showcases your readiness, and meets every requirement. Use this comprehensive checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared before you apply.

1. A Competitive LSAT Score

• Register for the LSAT through LSAC’s website.

• Consider working with a  tutor or taking classes over using study books/materials only. A more hands-on approach helps students gain strategy, confidence, and higher scores. No matter what, do NOT use an LSAT as a “practice test”. Do not waste your time and money.

• Consider retaking if needed to reach your target score.

• Send scores through LSAC to the schools to which you’re applying. 

TIP: You can submit your application before you have your LSAT score. This way, as soon as your LSAT score does post, the committee is ready to review your application. If you are worried about your score, you can ask it be held before application review. Most school’s take your highest LSAT score, not an average (but be sure to ask).

2. Academic Transcripts

• Request official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions

• Review for accuracy before submitting

TIP: While law schools only consider your undergraduate GPA, seeing any additional degrees/coursework will paint an overall picture of your growth.

3. A Standout Personal Statement

• Craft a clear, compelling narrative that answers: Why law? Why now?

• Show personal growth, motivation, and intellectual curiosity

• Edit for grammar, clarity, and tone

TIP: GradMissions offers a workshop just for this! In 30 minutes you can go from feeling stuck and second guessing, to having a clear, structured plan that helps your personal statement stand out to the admissions committees.

4. Letters of Recommendation

• Ask 2-3 professors, employers, or mentors who know you well

• Provide them with your resume, personal statement, and deadlines

• Follow up with gratitude and reminders if needed

5. Resume 

• Highlight academic achievements, leadership, work experience, and service

• Tailor for law school rather than a job application

• Keep it clean, well-formatted, and not past two pages

6. Addenda (If Applicable)

• Character & Fitness explanations for any legal or academic issues

• GPA or LSAT addendum if needed to contextualize your performance

7. Optional Essays & Diversity Statements

• Prepare thoughtful responses if the school offers the option

• Use these to share unique perspectives, backgrounds, or experiences

8. School Research

• Know each school’s values, programs, and requirements

• Tailor your application materials when possible

9. LSAC Account & Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

• Set up and manage your application through LSAC

• Upload documents, track requirements, and send materials to schools

10. A Realistic Timeline

• Map out deadlines for each component

• Give yourself buffer time for edits, recommendations, and unexpected delays

• Apply early if possible (especially for rolling admissions!)

TIP: For those a few years from applying, the GradMissions Admissions Accelerator is perfect for creating a personalized roadmap, complete with checklists and a strategic plan to move you forward in confidence.

For those applying for this year’s law school cycle, the Curated Application Experience starts with the accelerator roadmap, and moves in to a VIP journey, with weekly calls and check-ins, for everything from personal statement crafting, admissions interviews, and scholarship negotiations. 

Work with GradMissions: Confidence & Clarity

Need help pulling it all together? GradMissions supports future lawyers with curated, strategic application coaching every step of the way. Schedule your free strategy call today!