1. Decide When to Apply
Because so many law schools are on rolling admissions, it will behoove you to apply as early as possible in the application cycle (ideally, September through November) even if schools have application deadlines in February and beyond. Investigate whether your target schools offer early decision or early assurance programs—but be aware of any legally binding commitments. Common wisdom suggests applying to law school when you are ready to attend. Some applicants may wish to apply and then request to postpone enrollment until the next year; most schools grant deferred admission to very strong applicants, but policies vary—so research carefully. Do not apply to law school counting on the fact that you will be able to defer.
2. Look Into Fee Waivers If Applicable
Application fees can be waived for individuals with demonstrated financial need.
3. Register For and Take the LSAT
The vast majority of applicants register for and take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) administered by LSAC, but an increasing number of schools now accept the GRE and a few the GMAT. Plan to take the LSAT by December of the year before you intend to start law school; summer or early fall tests are ideal—especially for rolling admissions and early decision programs. Many schools will not accept LSAT scores from late-winter administrations for same-year entry.
4. Register with the Law School Admission Council's Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
All law school applicants must register with the LSAC's Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which centralizes and standardizes undergraduate academic records. Registration is valid for five years, so you can sign up as soon as you decide to apply. CAS will prepare a report for each law school you apply to, including your academic summary, transcripts, LSAT scores, writing sample, and letters of reference.
5. Send Your Transcripts to CAS
You are responsible for requesting official copies of all transcripts to be sent directly to CAS from the registrar's office at each institution you attended. Use LSAC’s Transcript Request Forms, available only after you register for CAS and enter your previous institutions.
For UM transcripts: While it is possible to submit electronic requests for transcripts through Wolverine Access, you cannot submit the CAS Transcript Request Form electronically; you must submit your request to the UM Registrar in person, via fax, or mail. Download the appropriate UM transcript order form. For specific UM transcript questions, call 734-763-9066. More on submitting official transcripts to CAS.
6. Make Arrangements for Letters of Reference
Besides academic and professional records, applications require letters of reference—and strong recommendations are critical. You can securely collect and store letters for later use with the LSAC LOR service.
7. Investigate Schools and Decide Where to Apply
Rather than relying exclusively on rankings, use your personal criteria to select law schools. Start with the Searchable ABA-LSAC Official Guide to ABA-Approved Law Schools and the ABA Standard 509 Information Reports.
8. Mark Your Calendar for UM Law Day
Law Day is a great opportunity to connect with law schools on campus, gather information, and learn from representatives. You can also attend a national LSAC Law School Forum.
9. Obtain Law School Applications
Most applications become available from schools’ websites in late summer or early fall. CAS registrants can submit electronic applications for all ABA-approved law schools via LSAC at no extra charge aside from application fees. This common platform streamlines the process, allowing you to reuse information, attach essays and résumés, and meet most schools’ preferred submission methods.
10. Start Working on Your Main Application Essay
All schools will require one or more essays. Begin early to brainstorm topics that express your unique background, perspective, and experiences. For feedback on your draft, see if your college's pre-law advisor can review it or contact the Sweetland Center for Writing.
11. Submit and Monitor Your Applications
Submit your applications and fees in late summer and fall, then closely monitor your online account to confirm that all parts (including transcripts and letters) arrive at CAS and reach the law schools. Don't forget to file your FAFSA in early fall for financial aid.
12. Wait for Decisions (and Be Patient!)
Early applicants may hear decisions by the end of fall semester or throughout winter. Waitlisted students may wait until summer for a final offer, so be patient!
You may also find this LSAC resource helpful: Admission Made Simple: Your Journey to Law School (PDF)