What is a Dean's Letter?
Almost a third of law schools require a Dean's letter—sometimes called a Dean's recommendation or certification form. This document verifies that you are or were a student in good standing at your college or university.
Do You Need a Dean’s Letter?
- Not all law schools require one. Carefully review each school’s application materials to assess whether it’s needed.
Requesting a Dean’s Letter at the University of Michigan
- At U-M, Dean’s letters are handled by your school or college’s dean or advising office.
- For LSA students and alumni, the LSA Office of the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education and Student Academic Affairs provides these letters (outside of the Honors Program and Residential College).
- Currently enrolled LSA students and alumni with a valid umich.edu email may request a Dean’s recommendation via this online form.
- All LSA Dean’s recommendations are sent electronically. Processing can take up to two weeks, especially during periods of high demand.
- Full details and policy info here. For questions, email [email protected].
Submitting Your Dean’s Letter
- Follow each law school’s directions for how to submit or return your Dean’s letter or certification form.
- Important: If you are sent the Dean’s letter to submit with your other application materials, the envelope must remain unopened.