Pre-Law: Applying to Law School

Overview

The personal statement is often the part of the law school application that students find most challenging. Because most law schools do not conduct interviews, the personal statement is a critical opportunity to show admissions committees who you are and what makes you unique.

While a single essay cannot overcome a weak academic record or disqualify a strong candidate on its own, a well-written statement can make an important difference for applicants in the middle range.

How the personal statement is used

Law schools use the personal statement in two primary ways.

• Writing sample: The statement demonstrates your ability to write clearly, organize ideas, and communicate effectively. Avoid legal jargon and overly complex language.
• Personal insight: Admissions committees use the statement to learn which applicants are interesting, motivated, and engaged, beyond what grades and test scores show.

Choosing a topic

Your personal statement should focus on you. Admissions committees are not interested in general theories about law or society, or generic statements about wanting to be a lawyer.

Instead, aim to present something about yourself in a fresh and specific way. Possible themes include:

1. Work experience while attending school that made your path more challenging
2. Unique perspectives gained through travel, internships, disabilities, or special skills
3. Talents, hobbies, or accomplishments unrelated to law
4. A meaningful goal you worked toward or an obstacle you overcame
5. Demonstrated commitment to improving society, the environment, or the lives of others, supported by concrete actions

Rather than repeating information already found in your application, focus on one topic and explore it in greater depth using specific examples.

Addressing weaknesses

Some applicants consider addressing weaknesses in their academic record in the personal statement. In most cases, issues such as poor test performance, a difficult semester, or legal problems are better explained in a separate addendum rather than in the personal statement itself.

If you are unsure, consult a prelaw advisor before including this information.

Style and format

If a law school does not specify a length, a good guideline is two to three double-spaced pages. Keep the statement visually clean and easy to read, with reasonable margins and clear paragraph breaks.

Begin with a strong opening that captures attention, and maintain clarity throughout. Avoid overly “lawyerly” language and unnecessary complexity.

Creative formats such as dialogues or fictional court arguments are generally discouraged unless they clearly enhance understanding and have been reviewed by others.

Extra hints

• Explain activities and organizations clearly rather than assuming familiarity.
• Outline, draft, revise, and revise again. Strong statements take time.
• Proofread carefully. Errors reflect poorly on attention to detail.
• Ask multiple people to review your statement, including those who do not know you well.

Writing support services and prelaw advisors can provide feedback and guidance, though they will not write or edit the statement for you.