Vernellia R. Randall
Professor of Law and
Web Editor
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In its admission process, a law school may consider a
number of factors. For many law schools, the primary and some times the
only factors are LSAT and UGPA. However, even in those schools, they
will often profess to use other factors to assure a quality and
well rounded class. For that reason it is important that you make
sure that your application address as many of the following factors that
you think is relevant to you and the to the particular law school. This
means that you make sure that your references address specific
subfactors. Unless the school specifically limits you to number of
statements or statement size, you feel free to attach additional
statements as necessary. Factors that a law school will consider are:
- Likelihood of success.
- Contribution to the educational environment.
- Motivation, effort and desire.
- Contribution to the legal profession and to society.
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| Applicants academic background,
preparation and likelihood of success.
This factor is assessed by looking at both quantifiable data and
qualitative information regarding educational preparation. It includes,
but is not limited to,
(1) grades, grade trends,
(2) LSAT score,
(3) college attended, major, class rank, courses, degree(s),
educational program, undergraduate and graduate degrees earned,
(4) employment, volunteer activities, service and work experiences;
and
(5) the development of strong reading, writing and analytical
abilities, communication skills, problem-solving skills, advocacy
skills and other skills particularly important to being a successful
law student.
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| Applicant’s
likelihood of contribution to the educational environment.
This factor is assessed by looking at the applicant’s
motivation and ability to make a positive contribution to the diversity
of viewpoint and perspectives among students. This assessment
includes
(1) factors that contribute to diversity of viewpoints such as,
without limitation, gender, race or ethnic identification,
socioeconomic status, family educational attainment, disability or
handicap, geographic origin, maturity, religion, sexual orientation,
social position and veteran status;
(2) demonstrated ability to interact with diverse types of peoples;
and
(3) personal experiences, characteristics and life circumstances
including their variety, type, uniqueness, duration and intensity
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| Applicant’s motivation,
effort and desire.
This factor is assessed by looking at:
(1) an applicant’s demonstrated ability and motivation to
overcome adversity, discrimination or disadvantage;
(2) an applicant’s special interest or special preparation for
studying law or participating in the legal profession; and
(3) an applicant’s work ethic or experience
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| Applicant’s potential to
make a contribution to the legal profession and to society.
This factor is assessed by looking at:
(1) maturity
(2) leadership potential;
(3) evidence of good character including assessment of the likelihood
that the applicant will be ethical and honest citizen and member of
the legal profession;
(4) desire and ability to extend legal services to under-represented
and disenfranchised groups;
(5) special skills or knowledge that the applicant would bring to the
practice of law, or other professional use of his or her legal
education; and
(6) commitment to the specific mission of the law school.
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