Application Process Timeline
Most law school applications open on September 1 and typically remain open until Spring/Summer. However, law schools use rolling admissions when evaluating applications - this means decisions are being made as applications are received. Therefore, it can be an advantage to apply early. Below you will find examples of perfect and good law school application timelines. Please keep in mind that you should not apply until you are comfortable with your work product. There are many students admitted to law school who do not apply until February or later.
Perfect Law School Timeline for Fall 2026:
- Winter/Spring 2025
- Begin studying for the LSAT/GRE/JD-Next
- Summer 2025
- Take the LSAT/GRE for the first time
- Request Letters of Recommendation be sent to LSAC
- Request Transcripts be sent to LSAC
- Draft your Personal Statements
- Fall 2025
- Retake the LSAT/GRE, if necessary
- Finalize your Personal Statements
- Finalize your Resume
- Submit applications by Thanksgiving
Good Law School Timeline for Fall 2026:
- Late Spring/Summer 2025
- Begin studying for the LSAT
- Request Letters of Recommendation be sent to LSAC
- Request Transcripts be sent to LSAC
- Fall 2025
- Take the LSAT/GRE for the first time in September/October
- Retake the LSAT/GRE, if necessary, in November
- Draft your Personal Statements
- November/December 2025
- Finalize your Personal Statements
- Finalize your Resume
- Submit applications by New Year's