essay for law admission test

50+ Important Essay Topics for LAT

The art of essay writing is one of the integral aspects that shape your legal process in the fascinating journey of preparing for the Law Admission Test (LAT). Essays serve as windows into your thoughts, arguments, and analytical abilities – crucial skills in the legal realm.

This article delves into the world of famous essay topics, where we unravel the thought-provoking subjects that challenge and inspire aspiring legal minds. Each topic is a canvas upon which you paint your perspectives, showcasing not only your knowledge of the law but also your ability to articulate ideas with clarity and depth.

So, let’s embark on this exploration of essay topics that will sharpen your legal acumen and set you on the path to becoming a persuasive and articulate legal professional. Get ready to unlock the power of your words as you prepare for LAT. Following are a few essay topics that you must master for LAT. Let the journey begin!

• Why Money Flow Matters for the Economy
• How Global Recession Affects Economies
• More Privatisation, Less Public Ownership
• Money Laundering and Wildlife Crime
• Ban on Plastic: Good or Bad for Earth?
• Goodwill: Why It’s Important in Business
• Corruption: What Makes It Happen?
• Poverty: Why People Are Poor
• No Power in Pakistan: Energy Crisis
• Hard Work: Key to Getting Ahead
• Dowry: A Problem in Society
• Money: Can Be Good or Bad
• College vs. Skills: Which is More Important?
• Online Schooling: Is it the Future?
• New Education Policy: Good or Bad?
• Skills vs. Knowledge: What’s More Useful?
• Education Getting Worse: Why?
• Girls Need School Too: Why?
• Technology in School: Is it Helping?
• Making School Better: How Can We Do It?
• Crypto-currency: Problems and Concerns
• AI: Not Just Bad, Can Be Good Too
• Learning Technical Skills: Why it’s Good
• E-money vs. Cash: Which is Better?
• The Rise of 5G Technology
• The Impact of Virtual Reality on Society
• How Drones are Changing the World
• The Role of Big Data in Everyday Life
• The Future of Self-Driving Cars
• Enhancing Security with Biometric Technology
• The Internet of Things: Connecting Our World
• Green Technology: Sustainable Innovations

SOCIAL ISSUES

• Growing Intolerance: Why is it Happening?
• Kindness in a Competitive World
• Transgender Rights: Their Struggle
• Women’s Ambition and Equality
• Pollution: How We’re Harming Earth
• Islamic Unity: Why It’s Important
• Tolerance: Why We Need More of It
• Everyone Deserves Rights: What Are They?
• Being Disciplined: Why It Helps
• Women’s Rights: Why They Matter
• Empowering Women: Making Them Stronger
• Getting Young People Involved in the Community
• Democracy: Good and Bad Sides
• United Nations: What’s its Role?
• Fighting Global Diseases: How?
• Everyone Deserves Healthcare: Why?
• Mental Health Awareness: Breaking the Stigma
• The Importance of Exercise for Physical Health
• Nutrition Education: Building Healthy Habits
• Access to Healthcare in Developing Countries
• Aging Population: Health Challenges and Solutions
• Preventive Healthcare: Importance and Benefits
• Technology’s Role in Improving Healthcare
• Addressing the Global Obesity Epidemic
• Maternal and Child Health: Ensuring a Healthy Start
• The Impact of Environmental Factors on Health

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Your 5-Step Guide to Excelling in the UNSW LAT Test

The road to law school may seem challenging, but consider this - every lawyer, from renowned barristers to influential policymakers, began right where you are today. Navigating the Law Admission Test (LAT) for the University of New South Wales (UNSW) may be your current hurdle, but remember, every hurdle crossed is a step closer to your dream. In this guide, we'll share five critical steps to help you master the LAT, from understanding the test structure and gathering your study materials to honing your persuasive writing and practice strategies.

Understanding the LAT Test

Step 1: start early for the lat test, step 2: gather your study materials for the lat, step 3: understand the lat test format and question types, step 4: learn to write persuasively for the lat, step 5: practise regularly and reflect on your performance, are you aiming to excel in the unsw lat test.

The journey to mastering the LAT test starts with understanding its structure. As of 2023, the LAT is a computer-based written exam with two sections requiring the crafting of two distinct essays within a two-hour time frame. In the first essay, you'll dissect an argument such as from an opinion piece, scrutinising its strengths and weaknesses. The second essay will have you create a persuasive piece, integrating information from various provided sources.

An important aspect of this test is time management. With only sixty minutes for each section, it's vital to read the prompt, plan your response, and write a succinct, clear, and expressive essay. Remember, quality trumps quantity, so focus on producing well-reasoned arguments over long-winded responses.

For an in-depth understanding of the test and specific strategies, check out our Student Guide to the UNSW Law Admission Test (LAT) .

Embarking on your LAT journey may seem daunting, but remember, the sooner you start preparing, the better. Starting your preparation early allows you not just to understand the LAT's intricacies but also provides ample opportunities to practise and refine your skills.

Early preparation is not about burning the midnight oil or diving headfirst into rigorous study schedules. It's about pacing yourself, allowing time for the lessons to sink in, and giving yourself room to return to challenging topics. The beauty of an early start is that it enables a gradual buildup of knowledge, allowing you to avoid the stress and potential burnout associated with cramming.

The first part of an early start is self-assessment. This involves understanding your current skill set and identifying your strengths and weaknesses related to the LAT. You might be an ace at dissecting arguments but need some work on your persuasive writing, or vice versa. To help you with this crucial first step, we've designed a free quiz that can provide insights into your readiness for the LAT. It's a helpful tool to gauge your current level and will give you a roadmap for the areas you need to focus on in your preparation.

Once you've mapped out your strengths and areas that need improvement, it's time to gear up with the right study materials. The quality and relevance of the resources you choose can significantly impact the effectiveness of your preparation.

ACER, the body that administers the LAT, provides valuable preparation materials. These resources include practice questions and sample papers which are accessible through the 'Manage Registration' section of your LAT account. While the responses in the online sample tests are not saved, you can access a paper version of the sample online test on the Practice material page.

These materials are excellent starting points. Completing the writing tasks under test conditions can mimic the pressure of the actual test and provide useful practice. It's also beneficial to have someone else read your responses and suggest improvements or alternative approaches. You can also set aside your completed tasks for a few days and then revisit them with fresh eyes. This strategy can help you spot areas of improvement that you might have missed in your initial review.

Remember, the focus should be on the quality of your writing rather than the length. When your writing is assessed, examiners consider several factors: the sophistication of your ideas, how well you've explored the ideas and issues in the stimulus, the structure and organisation of your piece, the clarity and fluency of your writing, the precision and appropriateness of your language, and the degree of nuanced and critical perspective you demonstrate in your response to the stimulus.

While ACER's resources provide a firm foundation, complementing these with our Premium Masterclass can elevate your preparation to the next level. Our 10-hour Masterclass has been designed with a keen understanding of the LAT's requirements and offers targeted guidance on building the necessary skills to ace the test. It's like having an experienced coach guiding you, providing strategies and techniques that align with your learning style and strengths. Combining these resources can give you a comprehensive and effective preparation strategy that maximises your chances of success in the LAT.

Step 3: Understand the Test Format and Question Types of the LAT Test

Sun Tzu famously said, "Know thy enemy and know thyself; in a hundred battles, you will never be defeated." The principle applies to the LAT test as well. Understanding the format and question types of the LAT is critical to strategise your approach and maximise your efficiency during the test.

As you know, the LAT is a two-hour exam split into two sections, each requiring you to write an essay. There are no multiple-choice questions; instead, the focus is on your critical thinking, reasoning skills, and ability to express your thoughts succinctly and persuasively in written form.

In the first section, you'll respond to an opinion piece, which could be a blog post or an article. You're required to analyse the argument presented, dissect its strengths and weaknesses, and conclude how persuasive you find it. This part of the test assesses your critical thinking abilities and your ability to express your analysis clearly and succinctly.

The second part presents you with various sources and asks you to construct a persuasive essay. This section is your chance to convince the reader of your viewpoint. The skills assessed here include your ability to coherently assemble information from different sources into a persuasive argument, focusing on clarity, succinctness, and expressiveness.

An in-depth understanding of the test format and question types can help you anticipate what is expected from you in each section and frame your responses accordingly. It gives you the ability to optimise your test-taking strategy, manage your time effectively, and ensure your answers align with what the test assessors are looking for.

For a deeper dive into understanding the LAT format and honing the skills necessary for each section, you can consider joining our Premium Masterclass . By marrying knowledge of the test format with solid preparation strategies, you'll be well-equipped to face the LAT with confidence.

Mastering persuasive writing is a critical component of excelling in the LAT, particularly in the second essay section where you are asked to present a compelling argument using various sources. The persuasive essay assesses your ability to express yourself clearly, make logical arguments, use evidence effectively, and sway the reader towards your viewpoint.

To become an effective persuasive writer, you need to:

1. Understand your audience:

Keep in mind that the markers of your essay are likely experienced legal professionals. This means they value logical argumentation, clear expression, and respectful communication. Understanding this can help you tailor your responses appropriately.

2. Have a clear thesis:

A persuasive essay should have a clear position or argument, which is your thesis. The thesis should be a succinct statement of your viewpoint on the issue at hand.

3. Support your thesis with evidence:

A persuasive essay isn't just about stating your opinion, but about convincing the reader that your opinion is valid. This involves providing supporting evidence, which in the context of the LAT, would come from the sources provided in the test. You need to demonstrate an ability to incorporate this information effectively into your argument.

4. Structure your essay effectively:

Good structure is vital to a persuasive essay. You should have an introduction that presents your thesis, body paragraphs where each paragraph presents one main idea or piece of evidence supporting your thesis, and a conclusion that summarises your argument and restates your thesis in light of the presented evidence.

5. Enhance your reasoning skills:

This is a key criteria for success in the Law Admission Test because it enables you to write in a coherent and logical manner. Learn more from our complete guide on How to Enhance Your Reasoning Skills for the Law Admission Test (LAT) .

6. Use language effectively:

P ersuasive writing also involves using language that is clear, precise, and impactful. You want to draw in your reader with compelling language, while also ensuring your points are expressed clearly and unambiguously.

To help you master persuasive writing, consider our Premium Masterclass . This course provides you with in-depth strategies and practice opportunities to hone your persuasive writing skills. Remember, persuasive writing is not just about expressing an opinion—it's about crafting a well-reasoned, evidence-backed argument that sways the reader to your viewpoint.

Imagine you're training for a marathon. Would you just read about running techniques, study the race course, and show up on race day hoping for the best? Probably not. You would lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement regularly, gradually increasing your distance while analysing your pace, form, and endurance. Preparing for the LAT test is no different - consistent practice and reflective learning are crucial for success.

Regular practice accomplishes a few things. Firstly, it helps you get familiar with the test format, question types, and time constraints, reducing your test-day anxiety. Secondly, practising under test conditions can help you develop effective time management strategies. Remember, you'll have two hours to write two essays, so learning to manage your time is key.

Moreover, the act of writing enhances your understanding of language structure, grammar, and syntax. It gives you an opportunity to apply what you've learned about crafting persuasive arguments and analysing arguments presented in opinion pieces. Remember, the more you write, the more comfortable you'll become with expressing your ideas clearly, concisely, and effectively.

However, merely practising is not enough. Reflective learning is equally important. After each practice test, take time to review your responses critically. Assess the sophistication of your ideas, how well you explored the stimulus, the structure and organisation of your writing, your language use, and your overall perspective. Don't shy away from seeking feedback from others, such as teachers, peers, or the friends you make in our Premium Masterclass . Constructive feedback can provide valuable insights into how you can improve your writing and argumentation skills.

Preparing for the LAT test is a journey that involves understanding the test, gathering relevant study materials, mastering persuasive writing, and consistent practice coupled with reflective learning. Like any meaningful journey, it demands commitment, resilience, and a positive mindset. Remember, every practice essay you write, every argument you dissect, and every piece of feedback you receive takes you one step closer to your goal. Arm yourself with the right tools, strategies, and mindset, and you'll be well on your way to acing the LAT and stepping into the world of law at UNSW. Believe in your potential, embrace the process, and the path to success will unfold before you.

Look no further than LAT Academy's innovative and highly effective Premium Masterclass ! We have a proficient team of mentors who specialise in guiding students to master the intricacies of the Law Admission Test (LAT).

Our program isn't just about theory; we focus on enhancing your analytical and persuasive writing skills, critical thinking abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of the LAT format. It's no wonder that we have a staggering success rate of 92%, with hundreds of 5-star testimonials to our credit.

Our interactive sessions are conducted online, providing flexibility and convenience. We've helped countless students on their journey to law school, with many witnessing significant improvements in their LAT performance!

Experience a unique and effective approach to LAT preparation with LAT Academy's Premium Masterclass. Sign up today and join the ranks of our successful students who have taken their first step into the legal world.

Written by: Ikjot Singh

Ikjot Singh, an accomplished legal professional and proud graduate of the University of New South Wales (UNSW), brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to our LAT guidance. During his time at UNSW, he didn't just excel academically but was also an integral part of both the Law Society and Business Society, adding another layer of practical experience to his theoretical knowledge.

His professional journey includes rich experiences at reputable organisations such as Kailash Lawyers & Consultants, Refugee Advice & Casework Services (RACS), Legal Aid NSW, and Insurance Australia Group (IAG). Through these varied roles, he has amassed a deep understanding of the legal landscape.

Ikjot's passion lies in leveraging his experiences and expertise to empower future law students to excel in their LAT journey. His mission is to demystify the LAT and provide aspirants with actionable strategies to achieve their law school dreams.

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Lsat writing sample - a step-by-step guide + example.

Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 3/18/24

The writing section is an often overlooked part of the Law School Admission Test. Read on to learn how to approach the LSAT Writing Sample.

Part of becoming an excellent lawyer is having strong persuasive oral and written communication skills. Law schools require students to complete a writing sample as part of the challenging LSAT exam to assess potential law students on this skill.

If writing under pressure isn’t your forte, this guide will go over what you can expect on the writing sample, how to complete it efficiently, and give you a sample LSAT prompt to help you prepare!

LSAT Writing Sample Prompt

Just like sample LSAT questions can help you study, looking at essay examples can help you prepare. Here’s a past LSAT writing sample prompt you can use to begin honing your writing skills! 

​​Brighter Construction is deciding which of two upcoming construction projects to bid on—resurfacing Hilltop Road or expanding Carlene Boulevard. 

Since Brighter cannot fulfill both contracts at the same time and bids constitute binding commitments, Brighter can only bid on one of the projects. Using the facts below, write an essay arguing for one project over the other based on the following two criteria:

- Brighter wants to enhance its reputation among potential clients

- Brighter wants to increase its capacity to take on bigger projects

The Hilltop Road resurfacing is a small project. The potential profit is relatively low. With Brighter’s experience and resources, it is almost certain to win the contract, and it is highly likely to finish on time and within budget. Brighter has an established reputation for finishing projects on time and within budget.  

Brighter has specialized in small projects. Construction firms specializing in small projects find it increasingly difficult over time to win contracts for bigger projects. If the project is completed under budget, Brighter will keep the extra money. 

If it is over budget, Brighter must cover the additional costs. Brighter will use any extra money to purchase additional heavy equipment. 

The Carlene Boulevard expansion is a large project. The potential profit is much higher. It involves a kind of work that Brighter has never done before and that would require it to explain its operation. Because of the overall nature of this project, Brighter believes it has a good chance of winning the contract.

It is uncertain whether Brighter can finish the project on time and within budget. Even if brighter exceeds time and budget constraints, it will gain valuable experience. If the project goes over budget, Brighter will lose money. 

As you can see, this prompt offers two courses of action and asks you to choose whichever matches the stated criteria best. After carefully reading the prompt and following the above tips, you should be able to formulate a solid argument!

Model Answer Example

Here is a great LSAT writing example for the above prompt: 

“Based on the two criteria given, it is advisable for Brighter Construction to bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project.

Firstly, to enhance Brighter Construction's reputation, winning and completing the Carlene Boulevard project would have greater benefits than the Hilltop Road resurfacing project. While it is true that Brighter Construction has established a reputation for finishing projects on time and within budgets, this reputation is limited to small projects. 

As the prompt suggests, specializing in small projects can make it harder for companies to win contracts for bigger projects over time. Brighter Construction can demonstrate its ability to handle larger, more complex projects by taking on the challenge of an expandable project like Carlene Boulevard. Clients looking for construction firms to manage big projects will take notice of this. Furthermore, as the prompt indicates, the Carlene Boulevard expansion has the potential for higher profits. 

Winning this project will open up doors for Brighter Construction, which can lead to more high-profit projects in the future. It will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operation and be better positioned to take on even more significant projects. Therefore, even if Brighter Construction does not profit from the Carlene Boulevard expansion project, it can prepare itself to handle bigger projects better than before and take up more significant opportunities in the future.

The Carlene Boulevard expansion project presents a more significant opportunity on the second criterion of increasing capacity to take on bigger projects. As mentioned above, this project is much bigger and requires new and more advanced resources. Hence, Brighter Construction will acquire the necessary resources to handle bigger projects after winning this project. This experience will allow Brighter Construction to take on more large-scale projects. The company will have successfully expanded its operations, and thus, it can bid on more significant projects in the future. The more significant the projects Brighter Construction takes on, the higher the profits that come with them.

Moreover, the Carlene Boulevard expansion project will provide valuable experience to Brighter Construction. The fact that it is unsure if it will complete the project on time and within budget means that the company will learn new skills, gain new insights, and discover new strategies. Brighter Construction will learn to optimize its resources better if it exceeds budget constraints. The company will undoubtedly face challenges and obstacles throughout the project, and this experience will be priceless. It will enable Brighter Construction to improve its work quality and overall competence and help win more significant projects in the future.

In conclusion, while the Hilltop Road resurfacing project seems safer, Brighter Construction should bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project to enhance its reputation among potential clients and increase its capacity to take on more significant projects. This project will provide Brighter Construction with valuable experience, allow it to acquire new resources, and allow the company to prove its ability to handle more substantial projects successfully. Winning this project will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operations, prepare to take on even more significant opportunities in the future, and increase its profitability accordingly.”

Why This Answer Is Good

What makes this essay good is that it gets straight to the point. It strongly argues for one side and provides relevant examples to support that argument. 

The essay advocates for Brighter Construction to prioritize bidding on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project over the Hilltop Road resurfacing project based on enhancing reputation and increasing capacity for larger projects. 

It successfully argues that winning the Carlene project would demonstrate the company's ability to handle more significant endeavors and open doors to higher-profit opportunities. 

How is the LSAT Writing Test Scored? 

The LSAT writing sample is not scored and does not affect your overall LSAT writing score. However, it is still considered an integral part of the admissions process as it provides a window into your aptitude for a career as a lawyer. 

Similar to the experimental section, the writing sample is reviewed by admissions committees alongside your LSAT score and other application materials to evaluate your ability to construct a well-organized, logically coherent argument. 

Each law school evaluates the writing sample differently, but missing or weak responses have been used as grounds for rejection by law schools.

How to Approach the LSAT Writing Sample

Planning and writing an entire essay within 35 minutes might seem intimidating. To make this process less daunting, here are our top steps to approach the writing sample. 

By going through each of these steps, you can not only help you master the writing section, but you’ll also free up space to focus on the rest of your LSAT prep . It’s a smart way to balance your study time.

Read the Prompt Carefully

Before you begin writing your essay, you must consider all the facts. You should be able to make your decision based solely on the information you have given. Read the prompt carefully to determine which side you can create the best argument for. 

Focus on the Facts

Even if you’re well-versed in the topic presented, you should only use the information given to you to make an argument. Do not include outside information that you believe will strengthen your argument.

Admissions committees want to see how you create arguments with limited information to test your analysis and reasoning skills. 

Remember, There Is No Right or Wrong Answer

There is no right or wrong answer to these prompts. They are presented in a way that will make it somewhat challenging to choose the option with the most supporting evidence, but either side can be argued.

Choose whichever side you feel you can create the most persuasive argument for, even if it goes against what you would traditionally side with.

If you’re having difficulty choosing a side, try to jot down a few pros and cons for each and see which side has the most pros. 

Make a Plan

To avoid wasting time, getting writer’s block, or writing an incohesive essay, you should give yourself around 10 minutes to plan your essay. Create a quick outline detailing what each paragraph of your essay will argue.

Many LSAT test-takers write their sample in a series of short or only two paragraphs—one detailing the advantages of their chosen side and another detailing the disadvantages of the opposing side. You should choose a structure you feel most comfortable with.

Your first paragraph should state your stance. In your remaining paragraphs, you should mention the strengths of your choice and the cons of the opposite side. 

Your writing sample will also list certain criteria when choosing a side. Ensure you include these in your outline. 

Conclude your essay briefly by reiterating your stance and summarizing the main reasons you chose one side over the other. Your essay plan should be completed using jot notes to avoid wasting the time you’ll need to write and revise your sample.

Keep Your Writing Clear and Concise

The best way to get your point across clearly is to use simple language that is easy to understand. Do not try to impress the committee by using vocabulary you aren’t familiar with. You should also only use words that you are sure you can spell correctly. 

Leave Time to Edit

While 35 minutes may not seem like a lot of time, once you’ve created a rough plan for your essay, it won’t take too long to write it out. Remember, this essay should only be a few short paragraphs! 

You will make at least a few silly errors as you race against the clock to finish your essay and hit the LSAT writing deadline. Since this sample is meant to give the admissions committee insight into your writing skills, you must revise your writing to eliminate any avoidable spelling, grammar, or syntax errors. 

Give yourself around five minutes to review your sample to find these mistakes before submitting it. 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Approach LSAT Writing Essay

If you have no idea where to start for your LSAT writing sample, don’t fret. We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to help you break down the writing process. 

Taking time to practice your LSAT writing essay is a great way to self-study for the LSAT . You may also want to look at an LSAT writing example to get your ideas flowing as you practice your writing. 

But the best way to improve your writing is simply to write! So, please look at our guide below to help you learn how to approach the LSAT writing sample. 

Step One: Compare and Contrast

To build a strong argument, you need to understand both sides thoroughly. Before writing, create a list to compare and contrast the opposing arguments. This way, you can weigh the choices before you decide which side you’re on. 

There are several ways to do this. You may create a side-by-side chart, a pro-and-con list, a Venn diagram, or a thought map—the possibilities are endless! Use whatever works best for you to organize your thoughts effectively. 

Step Two: Prioritize

Now, it’s time to examine each argument carefully. Pay attention to its strengths and weaknesses and the criteria and factors provided. 

When prioritizing, consider what is most important in the situation. Which potential consequence would be a greater loss? This should help clarify which argument is stronger. 

Step Three: Make a Decision

Considering all of the above, choose a side to argue for. Be confident and prepared to defend your choice in your essay fully. Use the brainstorming you’ve done in steps one and two to create an outline for your writing sample. 

Step Four: Get Writing

Now that your argument has been built, it’s time to start writing! Remember to keep it concise--every sentence should be purposeful and necessary. Avoid fluff and filler words. 

Defend Your Choice

Start by explaining why your choice is the best one. List the factors that you prioritized and your reasons for doing so. You should have at least three strong reasons for your argument. 

Since there is no “right” answer, your argument may have weak points, which you should address. Explain why these weak points aren't significant or how the strengths in your argument compensate for them. 

Explain How the Opposition Falls Short

You don’t have to bash the other side. It’s a good idea to mention the opposition's strengths, as it shows you’ve made your decision carefully. But you should point out the “fatal flaw” of the other choice that led you to reject it. Be thorough and explain your thinking in detail. 

Step Five: Revise

Thoughtless errors never put you in a good light with admissions committees. As we mentioned before, leave yourself some time to proofread your writing sample and edit out any mistakes! 

Common Mistakes in LSAT Writing Section

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when completing the LSAT Writing section.

Misinterpreting the Prompt

Misinterpreting the LSAT essay prompt is a common mistake that significantly undermines the essay's effectiveness. This error occurs when test-takers fail to fully grasp the nuances of the prompt, leading to essays that address the wrong issue. 

Rapid reading without carefully considering the specific question can result in a lack of understanding between the essay's content and the intended evaluative criteria. This weakens the essay's persuasiveness and coherence. 

To avoid this, test-takers should invest time in comprehending the prompt, identifying key issues, and ensuring their responses specifically address the outlined instructions.

Lack of Evidence

Not using evidence to support your argument in an LSAT essay weakens the persuasive power of arguments. This mistake often results from inadequate preparation or time constraints, leading to hastily chosen examples. 

To address this, test-takers should prioritize relevant, specific, and well-developed evidence to ensure the credibility of their claims and avoid potential counterarguments that could weaken the overall persuasiveness of the essay.

Provide a Clear Conclusion

A lack of a proper conclusion in an LSAT essay diminishes its impact by depriving the reader of a clear takeaway. This oversight, often due to time constraints, results in an abrupt ending that leaves the essay incomplete. 

A well-crafted conclusion, summarizing key points and offering a compelling final thought, is crucial for reinforcing the main ideas and enhancing the overall coherence and impact of the essay.

Are you wondering if you’re ready to take the LSAT? Take this “ Am I Ready For the LSAT? Quiz ” to determine if you can take this difficult exam! 

FAQs: LSAT Writing 

Here are some commonly asked questions about this section of the LSAT, to help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

1. How Long Should My Writing Sample on the LSAT Be?

While your writing sample has no word limit, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Most writing samples on the LSAT are between two and four paragraphs long. Ensure you prioritize quality over quantity.

2. How to Prepare for the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

The best way to prepare for the writing sample is to review sample prompts and answer them under the same time constraints you’ll be in on test day.

3. Do Law Schools Read the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

Yes, law schools do read the writing samples to assess candidates’ writing and argumentative skills.

4. How Long Is the Writing Sample on the LSAT? 

You will have 35 minutes to complete the writing sample on the LSAT. 

5. Do You Have to Take The LSAT Writing More Than Once?

No, you do not have to take LSAT writing more than once. You are only required to submit one writing sample for your LSAT to be considered complete.

Final Thoughts

Given the stress you’ll be under trying to master all three sections of the LSAT, knowing you’ll also have to write an essay can make acing the LSAT seem impossible! 

Knowing how to approach the LSAT to write the most effective argument should ease some of this stress and help ensure you write a compelling sample to impress the judges!

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Updated: Apr 17, 2024, 8:06am

Law schools are known for their demanding admissions requirements. To apply to law school, aspiring law students typically write a law school personal statement , polish their résumés and send test scores to demonstrate their readiness to succeed in a rigorous curriculum.

The only standardized test accepted by every American Bar Association accredited law school is the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)®. The LSAT tests your reasoning, reading comprehension and writing skills as they apply to concepts covered in law school. Law schools use the LSAT to determine whether applicants are well-suited for a J.D. degree program. While the test is not a legal aptitude test, law schools rely upon it because of its ability to predict academic performance in the first year of law school.

Find out what to expect from the LSAT in this guide, which explores the test’s subject areas, its structure and how to prepare for the LSAT.

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What Is The LSAT?

The LSAT—offered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC)®—is a standardized test for prospective law school students. The test examines your skills in reading, writing and reasoning, measuring your potential success in a law program. The LSAT features multiple-choice questions and a writing portion.

LSAT Questions

The multiple-choice section tests your critical thinking and reading comprehension skills through four 35-minute blocks of questions. The questions cover the following topics:

• Reading comprehension. This section includes reading material typically found in law school. The questions gauge your ability to dissect information, draw conclusions and understand key points. The LSAT includes four reading passages, each with a series of follow-up questions.
• Analytical reasoning. This section presents scenarios featuring facts, rules and relationships. You’ll answer questions using problem-solving skills to assemble the puzzle of each scenario while adhering to relevant rules or limitations. Starting in August 2024, this section will be eliminated, and instead the exam will include two sections dedicated to logical reasoning.
• Logical reasoning. The LSAT’s logical reasoning portion includes source-based passages, each with up to two follow-up questions. The questions cover analogies, argument flaws and logical reasoning patterns.

The test also includes one unscored question section covering one of the above topic areas. LSAC uses these questions for quality assurance to strengthen the accuracy of future tests.

LSAT Writing®

LSAT Writing consists of a scenario prompt with two positions the writer can take. This section requires you to choose a side of an argument and use your reasoning and logic skills to support your choice in a persuasive essay. You complete this section separately from the rest of the LSAT, and you have 35 minutes to do so. LSAT Writing is monitored through live proctoring software, allowing test takers to complete it from their own homes, a development that came about, initially, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

LSAT Scoring

The LSAT counts each question you get right rather than subtracting questions you get wrong from a cumulative score. (In other words, there is no penalty for guessing.) LSAC does not score LSAT Writing samples.

The LSAT scoring scale ranges from 120 to 180. The final score report includes your score, your percentile rank compared to other test takers and a score band that highlights your proficiency in each area of the exam. LSAC sends your LSAT score report and writing sample to your law schools of choice.

Common Questions About the LSAT

How long does the lsat take.

The LSAT takes about three hours to finish, including all five sections and a break. You can take the 35-minute writing portion up to eight days before the day you take the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT.

The LSAT includes two 35-minute sections of multiple-choice questions, followed by a 10-minute break. The test then continues with its final two 35-minute multiple-choice sections.

You can request additional breaks between each section if you qualify for accommodations.

How Many Times Can You Take the LSAT?

You can take the LSAT up to seven times. However, you are limited to five tests per five-year reportable scoring period. These rules only apply to tests taken from September 2019 to the present. Therefore, any LSATs you took before that time don’t count toward your limit.

You can’t retake the LSAT if you receive a perfect score in the current or past five testing years.

Is the LSAT Required for Law School?

The LSAT isn’t required for all law schools. Some schools also accept the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)® or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)™. Law schools that accept the GRE or GMAT also accept LSAT scores.

What Can You Expect on LSAT Test Day?

The LSAT is administered online with a remote proctor and in person at professional testing centers. You get a 10-minute break halfway through the test. You can leave the room during your break, but you may not use electronic devices and you must check in with your proctor before beginning the second half of the LSAT.

LSAC allows you to have earplugs, tissues, water in a transparent container and medication on your desk if needed. The test no longer allows scratch paper except as an approved accommodation, but the LSAT Writing interface includes a digital scratch paper section.

You can take the written portion before or after completing the standard LSAT. The LSAT Writing takes place online with a live proctor only.

What Is a Good LSAT Score?

LSAT scores range from 120 to 180, and the median LSAT score is about 152. However, each law school determines its minimum LSAT score for applicants, with more competitive schools preferring scores of 160 or higher.

Common Questions About LSAT Writing

Is lsat writing required for law school.

LSAT Writing is not required for law schools that do not require the LSAT for admission; you may instead take the GRE for these schools. However, if your school does require the LSAT, you’ll need to complete LSAT Writing. Your school will not consider your LSAT complete if it doesn’t include LSAT Writing.

Is LSAT Writing Scored?

No, LSAT Writing isn’t scored. LSAC sends your writing sample to the law schools to which you apply. Those schools evaluate your writing sample based on their own requirements.

Do Law Schools Actually Read Your Writing Sample?

Law schools that require LSAT scores read each applicant’s writing sample. A school can weigh the importance of LSAT Writing samples however they’d like when determining whether an applicant qualifies for admission.

Does LSAT Writing Have a Minimum or Maximum Word Count?

LSAT Writing does not set a minimum or maximum word count. Instead, test takers should focus on writing a well-planned, organized and thorough essay during the 35-minute testing portion.

Common Questions About LSAT Prep

When should you start preparing for the lsat.

Anyone preparing for the LSAT should study relevant content for at least several weeks. If you have a lot of time to study, you might feel ready after just one or two months of preparation. However, some test takers might need three months or more to feel better equipped for the LSAT.

What’s the Best LSAT Prep Strategy?

Preparing for the LSAT is an intensive process and systems like memorization that might aid in a college exam do not help when taking the LSAT. As a result, preparing for the LSAT is a process that normally requires months of study, rather than weeks. For example, a preparation cycle of three to six months is very common.

A good starting point is to simply take a full practice test, often called ‘a diagnostic’ so that you can establish a baseline score. In addition to working through a formalized curriculum it is important to remember that taking practice tests after completing that curriculum will form the backbone of your preparation and will also help you objectively assess your readiness to take the test formally.

Are There Free LSAT Prep Resources?

Yes, there are several free LSAT prep resources, including official LSAC LawHub practice tests. Khan Academy also provides a free online LSAT prep course. However, given the correlation between your LSAT score and the cost of attending law school, test takers are strongly encouraged to invest in their test preparation, although spending thousands of dollars is rarely necessary.

LSAT Prep Resources to Consider

Studying for the LSAT and practicing under test conditions should acclimate you to the test and the conditions you will encounter on test day, the idea being that it will help you counter test anxiety and properly understand this very difficult exam. Below are some of the most popular resources for LSAT preparation.

LSAC’s LawHub is free for test takers who want extra practice before taking the exam. The plan includes exam-like testing modules and four official practice tests with instant scoring to determine critical study areas. However, it is important to remember that the level of instruction is going to be very different from that experienced in commercial test preparation offerings.

LawHub Advantage

LawHub Advantage is a paid version of the LawHub free study program, priced at $115 annually. It includes about 60 practice exams, educational resources and a status tracker for law school applications. This is an excellent resource for someone who has learned how to understand the test and needs to practice the test under increasing amounts of time pressure, and under test conditions.

LSAT eBooks and Prep Books

LSAC provides several official eBooks and test prep books for purchase on Amazon and other online retailers. One of its most comprehensive books, “The New Official LSAT TriplePrep Volume 1™,” includes three recent practice tests with answer keys, a scoring conversion table and three LSAT Writing prompts.

Other books include a single or bundle of practice tests. Each book generally costs between $10 and $25, with lower-priced e-book versions available. However, experts note that learning the test through the use of a book alone can lead to learning bad habits that can cause plateaus and which can be difficult to break.

Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep

The Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep program is a free study resource that identifies which exam areas you may need to develop. It then uses that information to create a custom plan with lessons and skills practice. Khan Academy is an excellent starting place, but with law school tuition costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, even at average schools, investing in quality LSAT preparation is strongly encouraged.

The Cost of LSAT Prep

The cost of LSAT preparation programs varies widely and depends on the experience of the tutor, whether the content is provided in person (more costly) or online and the level of student to tutor interaction. For instance, some providers offer subscription fees under $100 but with minimal interaction. Others range from anywhere between $1,000- $5,500 but spending such a large sum is rarely necessary. Test takers will also be encouraged to note that many providers allow waivers for those with an LSAT approved fee waiver.

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As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner and former educator, Amy Boyington is passionate about researching and advocating for learners of all ages. For over a decade, Amy has specialized in writing parenting and higher education content that simplifies the process of comparing schools, programs and tuition rates for prospective students and their families. Her work has been featured on several online publications, including Online MBA, Reader’s Digest and BestColleges.

Law School Admissions Essay Topics

Law schools admissions essay topics involve questions or themes that you address in one or more of your admissions essays. Most law schools require you to complete an essay in which you discuss your aspirations in the field of law and the experiences that make you the right candidate. The tone of your essay should be personal, and you should aim to express the sincerity of your desire to become a law school student through evidence from your academic and non-academic background. In this blog, we are going to discuss various law schools admissions essay topics and prompts with sample answers to help guide you as you develop your own essays. Remember, you will most likely have to write more than one essay, including a law school personal statement , a diversity statement, and sometimes an addendum. Referring to common topics can help you find patterns and plan your essays ahead of time.

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Article Contents 14 min read

What are law school admissions essay topics.

Each law school you’re planning to apply to is going to ask for an essay with specific requirements, usually in the form of a law school personal statement, law school letter of intent, and law student cover letter . Some schools also allow law school optional essays, such as a law school diversity statement or a law school addendum . An addendum is a document in which you explain various weaknesses on your application. These may include poor grades or gaps in work history. Definitely check the schools you want to apply to to see if this is a requirement. Some schools will supply the applicant with a specific format for their personal essays, where they have to address a certain law school essay prompt or essay topic. On admissions pages, you will find that a lot of programs give a general outline of what they want you to write about for each essay. For example, Harvard Law School asks their applicants to provide context for how they think they can contribute to Harvard Law and legal communities.

The topics you can write about generally involve a combination of work/volunteering history, behavioral or situational questions, or references from your academic background. In your responses, you will not only want to provide information about how your experiences shaped your desire to pursue a career in law, but you will also want to choose a topic that can fully represent the scope of your goals and background. If a school requires you to answer a very specific prompt, and even if they only provide a rough sketch of what they want you to write about, if you don’t do so, you will likely get rejected. Before you even start writing, find out what various schools are looking for in all variations of written documents. As a side note, if you find you need help creating a compelling response to some of the topics, a law school advisor can help.

Law School Admissions Essay Topics with Expert Sample Answers

As you’re developing your law school admissions essay(s), pay particular attention to the formatting guidelines on each school’s website. Not all law schools in the US are going to give you a rigid structure you must follow for your essays, but for those that do, make sure you respect any word count or page limitations. If no format is specified, assume a word count between 500 and 800, and a page count between one to two pages. Some law schools like Harvard mention they want applicants to use the full two pages.

We will go over some common topics and themes you need to pay attention to as you begin brainstorming for your essays. While the wording of the prompts may be different for the schools you are applying to, there are some common tropes that you need to detect to write an essay that will get you in.

Here are some law school admissions essay topics for you to consider:

1.   Can you describe a project you worked on that contributed to personal growth?

This essay topic is really asking you what steps you took to prepare yourself for law school and why you are pursing this career path in general. Though it does not specifically asking you about law, make sure to connect the project you choose to write about to your desire to become a layer. This essay topic is a common example of a prompt you would use in an optional essay. Some students would also describe a project they worked on in their personal statements without necessarily making it the theme of the essay. What makes this topic so well-rounded is that it gives you the opportunity to show that you’re persistent, hard-working, and able to problem-solve your way through challenges or unexpected conflicts – very important qualities to have as a lawyer. You can describe a project you worked on during an internship relevant to law or community service project. Once you describe the detail of the experience, demonstrate what you learned and how the experience shaped you both personally and professionally. Make sure to show rather than tell what your role was, how you affected the outcomes of the project, and how it affected you and your desire to pursue law. Most students will find success for this topic if the project also happens to be one of their proudest achievements, since you will be answering another common prompt, “what is one of your proudest achievements?” As a starting point, reflect on who you are as an individual, and try to avoid mentioning anything that programs can see or infer from your resume or transcript.

 I became interested in the field of law after taking a criminology class in my first year of undergrad. I was amazed at some of the statistics regarding disproportionate sentencing and the challenges certain criminals faced when they were released from prison as they attempted to assimilate back into society. Compounding with this new statistical knowledge, was a situation in which I was asked to pull over to the side during a routine traffic stop. I wondered if it was possible that part of the reason I was pulled over was due to the fact that I’m a person of color. Having this direct experience reminded me of what I read in class, and was immediately looking for ways to get involved in some small way in rectifying small injustices. When I mentioned to my parents that I was the only one being asked to pull over, my father mentioned that when I was too young to remember, he served a small sentence for possession of marijuana, despite having a medical prescription to manage chronic pain. What disturbed me the most about this epiphany about injustice was that there were examples that were far worse than both mine and my father’s.

This topic is your chance to describe an event or experience from your formative years that you think influenced your decision to want to apply to law school. This topic is a variation of the “why do you want to study law” interview question, which you will get a chance to practice in your law school mock interview . Programs ask this question because they want to get an idea of who you are as a person and what makes you right for this career path. Leveraging critical events or experiences from your background also allows you to demonstrate how the skills and proclivities you gained during these years will help you contribute to their program. While there aren’t any “wrong” personal experiences that may have led to your decision to pursue a career in law, an admissions committee is looking for specific details about your past, such as accomplishments or memorable moments that tell a story about who you are. Think of it like you’re summarizing the chapter on the education and careers section of your autobiography. What would you want it to include? Always conduct research on the school that you're applying to when you’re writing a personal statement or optional essay so you can choose experiences that resonate with their mission.

Growing up as the child of a politician and a professor of criminal justice, I travelled around the country a lot as my parents had new career opportunities. Because both of my parents were heavily involved in various community service programs, I was also exposed to a lot of the incongruities in outcomes among families of diverse backgrounds. Having parents who were working in a very closely related field to law, I had the benefit of early exposure to some of the issues that the field faces, and the people they often encounter. Despite the frequent travel, one thing that I took for granted prior to campaigning around with my father was how stable my upbringing was. All my needs were constantly met, and I never had to worry about the things that were often addressed in certain social services programs like meal plans, financial services, and homelessness. This realization sparked the development of my critical thinking about social issues.

One year, my dad had been working on implementing a new social service program focusing on investments for families with disabilities or financial strife. During the campaign in which he was promoting this new development and ensuring various cities could provide the educational resources for those who wanted to access this program, we were visiting some of the families who were among the first to access it. We were sitting down with the family at their home to discuss what the program would involve. The family included two young children and their mother. She explained that her husband passed away from a work accident, and while she was able to work from home to support her children, it was still difficult to balance other needs with supporting them financially. Seeing how emotional and grateful she was for what my father had developed was inspiring to witness, and I knew immediately that I wanted to follow in my parents’ footsteps and get involved in something similar.

Law schools want to identify the students who they think can not only succeed in their program, but who can also improve the reputation of their program. In other words, these kinds of prompts are asking “why our school?” Your long-term career goals should explain what you hope to achieve in five to ten years from now, and how you think the program can help you achieve those goals. Take this opportunity to outline one or more of your major goals and the steps you can take to achieve them. To impress the admissions committee, make your answer personal but also organized, detailed, and concise. Admissions committees read hundreds of essays from applicants, so you want to show that your goals have been the subject of deliberation and that you’re serious about executing them. Anyone can have goals. A committee is looking for someone who can deliver on those goals by developing a plan of action. If you have examples of when you delivered on your goals in the past, you may also use this to support the main content of this essay. Be precise with your wording here, as any vagueness can corrupt the intent behind this topic. Review the program overview to determine what kind of goals you want to highlight in your essay. For instance, if a program emphasizes community outreach and diversity, mention a volunteering experience involving a situation where you were directly involve in such initiatives, and how this contributed to your long-term goals.

In my sophomore year of college, I joined my school’s journal team for the philosophy section of the monthly issue. Most of the philosophy content was comprised of recent developments in the field from contributions made by our faculty and students. My job was to read various submissions from the student body about topics within the field of philosophy. One of the essays I read was about how implicit bias affects admissions rates among different races, ethnicities, ages, and sex/genders, which I found so profoundly interesting that I decided I wanted to investigate this issue further. In my studies, I learned about the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that introduced the term ‘affirmative action’ in an attempt to remedy the alleged discrimination taking place within schools and workplaces. I also learned that while schools no longer employ an affirmative action framework for admissions, they still focus on trying to make their student body diverse though a more qualitative metric. Learning about the fact that discrimination still takes place on the implicit level was what inspired me to want to be an advocate for diversity. My goal was to promulgate the inaccessibility of certain educational resources that prevent people from being able to attend a post-secondary institution. I was able to find an organization in my community that was partnered with one of the local high schools to help low-income students afford college.

Looking for law school personal statement examples?

My goal since then hasn’t changed. My primary long-term career goal is to become a lobbyist so I can integrate the reality of disparate outcomes among different classes of social groups into government decisions and actions. This will give me the best chance to become a spokesperson for the issues that affect my clients so I can make the case for certain actions that will improve the outcomes for specific groups of people. My long-term goal is to have my own lobbying firm, but I know that to gain the necessary experience, I will want to join a lobbying firm that has a reputation of championing the issues and client base that I can effectively represent. Because I know that in order to realize this goal I will have to apply for a line of credit and build a reputation through networking and other advocacy initiatives, a key step to achieving this goal is to apply for the internship offered at your program for congressional aide. This internship will give me the opportunity to develop key relationships with influential members within the field, and gain the experience I need handling research and other administrative tasks that are crucial to becoming lobbyist, and eventually opening my own firm. Being someone who is already familiar with how to conduct quality research to build persuasive arguments as per my training in philosophy, I know that if I continue to refine my public speaking skills and knowledge through your program in law, my goal is attainable.

The issue I want to address is the difficulty some groups of students have in accessing higher education. I believe that everybody should be able to attend college or university if they wish to, and the fact that there are still many barriers is an issue that deserves more attention. I hope that you will consider my zealous attitude toward achieving my goals within the field of law as evidence of my ability to thrive in your program.

Want more law school personal statement examples from top law schools?

• Harvard law school personal statement examples
• Columbia law school personal statement examples
• Cornell law school personal statement examples
• Yale law school personal statement examples
• UPenn law school personal statement examples
• Cambridge law school personal statement examples

Law School Admissions Essay Topics to Practice

To recap, law school admissions essay prompts can be in one of four categories: “why X Law school?”, “why our program?”, “what can you contribute to our program and culture?”, and “are there any gaps or weaknesses in your background that we should know about?” Some law schools might request one or more essays from different categories. Choose the topics of your essays strategically to explain why you’re a strong candidate for the program. Here are some topics that you can expect some schools to ask their applicants to address:

4. Write about a time you changed your mind about an idea or issue that is of interest to you.

5. What do you believe X school has to offer to you and you to X school?

6. Describe a failure, challenge, or setback you faced.

7. Describe an experience that speaks to the problems and possibilities of diversity in an educational or work setting.

8. Describe your academic experience so far.

9. How would someone you just met describe you?

10. How can you contribute to the diversity of X school based on your achievements, background, and perspectives?

Law school essay topics are essentially prompts or questions that schools may directly ask their applicants to answer in a personal or optional essay.

Specificity can range depending on the school. Some will request very specific details and questions they want you to include, where others will only ask for the type of essay or letter they want to receive.

Common examples include “what are some of your career goals?”, “what experiences influenced your decision to pursue law?”, and “describe a project that helped you grow as an individual?” Most of all, you should always keep in mind the following questions when you write your essays: “why law?” and “why our program?” You may also encounter diversity topics and questions about any setbacks you experienced.

You don’t have to submit an addendum, but it is advisable if you want to explain any gaps or weaknesses in your resume or academic record.

You can treat your optional essay as an opportunity to write about why you want to pursue law and why you want to join their program.

You can choose based on topics that appeal to you the most. For example, if you have very defined and concise career goals, you might choose to write about this as your topic rather than something else.

A diversity statement is your chance to reflect on your own values and background as it relates to any aspect of diversity and how it shaped you as a person and as a prospective law school student.

Generally, its best to stay within 500 to 800 words. No less than one page, no more than two. Some schools will ask that for a specific word or page count, so take note of any specifications when you’re researching admissions requirements.

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Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions.

So if I understood correctly even if a topic at first look is not law-related I should find a way to link it to law and my desire to go to law school? Am I right?

BeMo Academic Consulting

Hi Deng! Thanks for your comment. Yes, your application should always link back to why you are pursing law.

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In this article, you'll get a complete guide for the law admission test (LAT) in Pakistan : being conducted by HEC for all the applicants desirous to get admission in the five years LLB degree program. All students in public and private sector universities and colleges ; even their affiliated institutes are now required to pass the law admission test.

LLB is now a 5 years program instead of 3 years (as in the past). Students after passing their 12-grade education (HSSC) can apply for the LAT.

LAT Essay (English/Urdu) and Important Topics

Personal statement, multiple choice questions (mcqs), registration method, download roll number slip, fee submission for law admission test, preparation guide for lat, contact hec, test syllabus and pattern.

The test can be divided into two parts; subjective and MCQs (objective) making a 100 marks paper in total .

The essay is a 15 marks question requiring students to write an article of 200 words max either in English or Urdu.

There is no need to use hard and fast vocabulary instead use simple words as it is for an intermediate level test. Here are some important topics to get an idea of it:

• Life and Work of Allama Iqbal
• Quiad e Azam Work and Life
• Literacy in Pakistan
• Population: Curse or Blessings
• Poverty Causes and Solutions
• Crime Preventions
• Power Sector Crisis in Pakistan

It is a 10 marks question which you can answer in English or Urdu. The personal statement is a summary of your ideas . You can say it is an introduction, motivation, skills, background, career, and relevant information about your live events. You need to answer this question in plain/ simple language in short sentences without grammatical mistakes .

In short, a personal statement is a description of your accomplishments, expertise, moments, and goals often involved in life.

The remaining 75 marks are of multiple choice questions . This part of the test is segmented into many sub-parts: English (Synonyms, Antonyms, Prepositions), General Knowledge, Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, Urdu (Vocabulary), Mathematics

Registration for the LAT can be done on the ETC website ( https://etc.hec.gov.pk/ ).

• Visit the ETC website and click on "Apply for Law Admission Test", fill out the form, and submit the fee.
• Click "Submit" application
• A test fee of Rs. 1000/- (updated) can be deposited through an Online/ATM in HEC Habib Bank Limited account (Account No: 17427900133401, Account Title: Higher Education Commission, Bank: Habib Bank Limited, Branch Code: 1742). NOTE: Bank accounts can be changed. Always check the official website for an updated account number.
• Submit the proof of fee deposit to "Room No. 13-209, 2nd Floor, HRD Building, HEC, Sector H-8, Islamabad" before the last date of registration.
• Applicant must mention CNIC on the backside of the deposit slip.

General Questions and Answers

There are many questions regarding the registration and preparation of LAT, which we'll try to address in this section.

The roll number slip is mandatory during the examination. The applicant can visit the ETC website (https://etc.hec.gov.pk/), click on the LAT test, and download your roll number slip. Printed roll number slip with CNIC is compulsory in the examination center.

Roll number slip is also sent to your registered email address.

Newly and updated fee for the LAT Rs. 1000/- which can be submitted online/ATM to the following account number.

• Account No: 17427900133401
• Account Title: Higher Education Commission
• Bank: Habib Bank Limited
• Branch Code: 1742

Note: The information in this section can be updated from time to time.

The difficulty of LAT multiple choice questions is that of GRE and GAT tests. All the books for GRE and GAT can be used for the preparation of the law admission test.

In case of error or help, applicants can contact HEC directly through phone calls or an online complaint system. For online complaints, there can be delays in answers. You can submit a complaint online here: http://onlinehelp.hec.gov.pk/

HEC has also provided with many phone number for help as follow:

• 051 111 119 432
• 0334 1119432

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Practice tests

There are many ways that you can practise the LNAT. You’ll find links to all of them on this page.

Online practice test

You can access this test with your browser and it will run on any computer. There is no limit on the number of times the sample test can be taken.

https://lnat.ac.uk/lnat-sample-test

It is an onscreen simulation of the LNAT. It is a simulation of the real LNAT exactly as it will appear on-screen at the test centre . You can use it to familiarise yourself with the format of the test and the skills it requires.

Guided Tour of LNAT Test Screen

The best way to familiarise yourself with the system is to try out our two practice tests. If you don’t have time to try out the practice tests here are some screenshots of sample questions to be going on with. Click on the screenshots to see larger versions.

Multiple Choice Screenshot (click to enlarge)

The screenshot above shows a multiple choice question. The passage always appears in the left-hand pane of the LNAT test window. If the passage is longer than a single screen-length will accommodate, it appears with a scroll bar. The associated questions appear (one at a time) in the right-hand pane, with the possible answers. You click a button on the screen next to the answer you choose. The system will only let you choose one answer at a time.

You can change your answers at any time until the end of the 95 minutes set aside for the multiple choice test. The system lets you flag questions for review, so that you can go back to unanswered or difficult questions when you have completed the rest. You cannot go back to the multiple choice section from the essay section. Each is separately timed. Your time remaining for the section you are on always appears on the top right of the screen.

LNAT Essay Screenshot (click to enlarge)

The screenshot above shows an LNAT essay question. Each question appears at the top of its own screen. You can browse through them using the ‘Next’ and ‘Back’ buttons until you find a topic you like. You should answer only one question. The system has ‘cut’, ‘copy’, ‘paste’, ‘undo’ and ‘redo’ functions (using the buttons above the essay pane). There are no other word-processing functions, eg no spell check. The system has a built-in word count at the bottom of the essay pane. The recommended maximum length for an LNAT essay is 750 words.. Ideally you should write about 500-600 words. You have 40 minutes to write it. Your time remaining for the essay section always appears on the top right of the screen.

United States LSAT tests

If you want to do more practice beyond our practice tests, you could consider trying some similar practice questions from other sources. Many are freely available. For example, the LSAT (Law Schools Admissions Test) used by law schools in the United States contains similar multiple choice items. The LSAT passages are typically shorter and the calibration of the questions may not be the same (law is a graduate-entry programme in the US) but the skills involved are identical. Visit the LSAT website for their preparation materials .

Paper-based LNAT practice tests

If you don’t want to download the test simulator, or if you have no access to a computer that runs Windows we’ve prepared paper versions of the tests that are delivered through the simulator. You can download them all, as well as selected commentaries and the test marking scheme here.

Practice test paper 1 (PDF)

Practice test paper 1 (RTF)

Practice test paper 2 (PDF)

Practice test paper 2 (RTF)

Practice test commentary (PDF)

Practice test commentary (RTF)

Practice test marking scheme (PDF)

Practice test marking scheme (RTF)

LNAT Cookies Policy

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JD Application Process

Step by step to sls.

If you are applying for admission to Stanford Law’s JD program for Fall 2024, mark these three important dates on your calendar:

September 15, 2023  — When the application becomes available.

December 1, 2023 — The date your application must be received and deemed complete (last eligible LSAT test administration is November 2023) by SLS if you are applying for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program . We strongly suggest that applicants take the LSAT prior to the November test administration so that all application deadline requirements are met. If you opt to submit a GRE score in lieu of the LSAT, plan accordingly so that we receive your score from ETS by the stated deadline.

February 15, 2024, 11:59 PM PST — The deadline for submitting your application.

Explore these key steps in the application process — then get started.

Application Process at a Glance

The first step to admission to Stanford Law is a thoroughly completed application. It is your responsibility to make certain that all items arrive at the Office of Admissions. We will consider your application complete and proceed with an admissions review as soon as we receive all required documents. Unless stated otherwise, any updates to your application must be submitted via e-mail to the Office of Admissions at [email protected] .

• Application for Admission.  You must complete the entire application form and submit it electronically through LSAC.
• Application Fee. Your nonrefundable application fee of $85 must be submitted by credit card through LSAC. If you are unable to pay the fee, please review the 2024 SLS Application Fee Waiver Instructions , complete the Fall 2024 SLS Application Fee Waiver Form , and submit it to the Office of Admissions as soon as possible so that we may process your fee waiver request. You must submit your fee waiver request prior to submitting your SLS electronic application. Allow 5-7 business days for a decision and factor in this timing to ensure you adhere to the application deadline. Please note that our fee waiver criteria and process are distinct from that of LSAC.  
• Resume.  Stanford requires a one-to-two page resume describing your academic, extracurricular and professional activities. The resume must be submitted electronically with your electronic application. Please do not include a photo. If you have already submitted your resume and have included a photo, note that we have redacted that photo. No further action is required on your part and that original submission will not impact our review process.
• Personal Statement. Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests, and character would help you make a distinctive contribution to Stanford Law School. The personal statement must be submitted electronically with your electronic application. Your statement should be approximately two pages in length.
• Optional Essay . At Stanford Law School, we value the ability to communicate constructively across differences – even when the stakes are high or the differences significant. Please discuss a time when you encountered a viewpoint that contrasted with your own and explain how you responded. Would you do anything different if the same thing happened today? Your essay should be approximately one to two pages in length.
• Optional Short Essays. From a list of four essay questions, you may provide up to two responses of 100 to 250 words each.
• Two Letters of Recommendation.  Stanford requires that at least two and no more than four letters of recommendation be sent directly through the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service . Letters sent directly to the Office of Admissions will not be accepted. Recommenders should be instructors who have personal knowledge of your academic work, preferably those who have known you in a seminar, small class, tutorial program or the like. If you have been out of school for a significant period you may substitute one letter from an employer or business associate. Sometimes these applicants find it difficult to obtain even one academic recommendation; in that case, you may submit two nonacademic letters. Please advise recommenders that should you choose to apply for a joint degree and/or other programs at Stanford University, the letters of recommendation may be forwarded to that program for review.
• Right of Access to Recommendations. Federal law provides a student, after enrollment, with a right of access to, among other things, letters of recommendation in the student’s file (if maintained). This right may be waived, but such a waiver may not be required as a condition for admission to, receipt of financial aid from, or receipt of any other services or benefits from Stanford Law School. Please indicate your choice by checking the appropriate box on the LSAC Letter of Recommendation form before giving them to your recommenders.
• Standardized Tests. All applicants are required to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test. If you have one or more valid LSAT scores, they must be reported as part of your application. If you also take the GRE, you may submit all valid GRE scores, but you may also choose to submit only LSAT scores. The only circumstance where you may apply without providing us with an LSAT score is if you have only taken the GRE. If you are admitted to the Law School with a GRE and, after admission, take the LSAT, the Admissions Committee will consider this new LSAT score and will re-evaluate our offer of admission. LSAT. If you choose to apply with the LSAT, you must take the LSAT no later than January 2024. This deadline is based on the time needed by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) to get your scores to us by our application deadline of February 15, 2024. LSAC will report scores directly to us. If you do not indicate the January 2024 test date on the application but plan to take that test at a later date, you should notify the Office of Admissions in order for the score to be considered. Scores received on tests taken prior to June 2018 will not be considered valid. Note that all applicants using the LSAT are required to submit at least one writing sample. This sample can either be taken at the time of the LSAT examination or at a later date. If taken at a later date, note that it may take several weeks for LSAC to process and report your writing sample so plan accordingly keeping our February deadline in mind. GRE . If you choose to apply with the GRE, you should take the exam no later than February 1, 2024. This deadline is based on the time needed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to get scores to us by our application deadline of February 15, 2024.  You must arrange with ETS to have all valid GRE scores sent directly to us. Log into your ETS account and select Stanford Law School as a recipient of GRE results using the school code 4993 . Scores received on tests taken prior to June 2018 will not be considered valid.
• Credential Assembly Service Report.  Transcripts from each college or university you have attended should be forwarded to LSAC, which will prepare and transmit a Law School Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report to Stanford Law School. To register for the CAS service, please visit LSAC . The report furnished to the school will include copies of all transcripts sent to LSAC. If you have received academic credit for coursework taken abroad while enrolled as a full-time student, and if grades for that period of study are not clearly indicated on your home transcript, you must send that foreign study transcript directly to LSAC or to Stanford Law School. All non-US/Canadian transcripts listed during registration for the Credential Assembly Service are forwarded to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), where they will be authenticated and evaluated, except in cases where it is clearly marked on the home campus transcript. This service is included in the CAS registration fee. The data is assembled into a credential evaluation document that contains AACRAO’s summary, copies of the transcripts and translations (where applicable), and will be sent to the Office of Admissions. Any updated transcripts must be sent directly to LSAC. Please note that should you choose to apply for a joint degree and/or other programs at Stanford University, the CAS report may be forwarded to that program for review.

When the documents described above have all been received, your application is considered complete. However, until the application has been finally acted upon (and until the first day of attendance, if you are accepted and enroll), you are obligated to advise the school of any changes in the information previously furnished. In particular, you should promptly report to the school any additional grades received and any other facts that would have required a different answer to the questions asked in the application. Such changes may be reported informally by e-mail to the Office of Admissions; if official verification is required, you will be so advised. You must have received, or expect to receive by the Summer of 2024, a bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent) from an approved college. All offers of admission are conditional upon graduation.

Reapplication Procedure

If you wish to reapply for admission you must submit the following:

• New application
• Application fee
• Updated resume
• Updated personal statement
• New letter of recommendation to LSAC utilizing the Letter of Recommendation and Evaluation Service
• Updated transcripts showing conferral of degree
• New LSAT scores through LSAC if available

Please note that recommendations already on file need not be duplicated. Applications for the Fall of 2021, 2022, and 2023 have been retained.

Application Status Check

To keep you apprised of your application status, we provide an online status page. To view the status of your application, please click on the link below to access our password-protected online status page. Please note that bookmarking may make it difficult to access the page.

CHECK YOUR STATUS ONLINE

The Admissions Committee does not grant interviews as part of the admissions process. However, we encourage you to visit the school and arrange to meet with a member of the admissions staff.

Notification of Acceptance

Stanford Law uses a rolling admissions process, acting upon applications throughout the admissions season as they are completed. However, some applications are held until the committee has reviewed the entire applicant pool. This second review generally occurs in April, at which time the class will be filled. (A small number of applications will be held for possible use in filling vacancies that may occur during the summer.)

The Office of Admissions will make every effort to send applicants a first response (accept, deny or wait list) by April 30.

To secure a place in the entering class, applicants accepted for admission must pay a deposit.

If you are offered admission, Stanford reserves the right to withdraw that offer of admission (even after enrolled attendance) if: 1) you show a significant drop in academic performance or fail to graduate from your current program; 2) there has been a misrepresentation in or a violation of any of the terms of the Stanford Law School (SLS) application process; 3) we learn that you have engaged in behavior prior to the first day of enrolled SLS attendance that indicates a serious lack of judgment or integrity; or 4) you reserve a place in our entering class and make an enrollment commitment or make a deposit at another law school. Stanford further reserves the right to require you to provide additional information and/or authorization for the release of information about any such matter.

Acceptance Deferral Policy

Stanford Law School grants a limited number of requests for one-year deferrals. Any admitted applicant granted and accepting deferred admission is required (1) to submit a nonrefundable deposit that will be applied to tuition; and (2) to sign a statement that deferred status is not also held at another law school, that all prior applications to other law schools have been withdrawn, and that new applications will not be made to other law schools. Persons admitted from the wait list are ineligible for deferment.

Additional Matters

International Student Visas

In order to register as students, Stanford University requires all those who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. registered permanent residents to obtain and maintain an appropriate visa status for their stay in the United States. For more information, please visit the Bechtel International Center website .

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Undocumented Applicants

Inclusion and nondiscrimination are core values held by the University and this extends to all members of our community regardless of citizenship or nationality. Therefore, SLS remains firmly committed to the principle that citizenship is not a condition for admission to any of our programs. Individuals who have been granted DACA status at the time of application are eligible to apply and matriculate at SLS. In addition, individuals who have met all other admission requirements and are otherwise undocumented are permitted to apply and matriculate at SLS.

Stanford has actively supported the DREAM Act legislation since its introduction in 2001, which would enable undocumented students to continue their education and apply for U.S. citizenship. Stanford also supports DACA, which has allowed some undocumented individuals who entered the United States as children to remain in the country without fear of deportation. Stanford is among the more than 600 colleges and universities that have signed a letter in support of DACA.

https://immigration.stanford.edu/

Nondiscrimination Policy

Stanford University admits qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or marital status to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the University. Consistent with its obligations under the law, in the administration of the University’s programs and activities, Stanford prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law; Stanford also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence. This policy applies to Stanford programs and activities both on and off-campus, including overseas programs.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding this nondiscrimination policy: Stanford’s Director of the Diversity and Access Office, Krista Martinelli, Kingscote Gardens, 419 Lagunita Drive, Suite 130, Stanford, CA 94305-8550; (650) 723-0755 (voice), (650) 723-1791 (fax),  [email protected]  (email). Stanford’s Title IX Coordinator, Stephen Chen, has been designated to handle inquiries regarding sexual harassment and sexual violence: Kingscote Gardens (2nd floor), 419 Lagunita Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, (650) 497-4955 (voice), (650) 497-9257 (fax),  [email protected]  (email).  Individuals may also file complaints directly with the Office for Civil Rights, within the United States Department of Education, by following the information on this website:   https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html

Last revised September 13, 2023 .  For the most recent policy, please visit the  Diversity and Access Office .

Campus Security

Stanford University complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. Stanford’s policies and statistics under this act are posted on the Department of Public Safety website at  https://police.stanford.edu/security-report.html . A paper copy can be obtained by calling the Stanford Department of Public Safety at (650) 723-9633 or by sending an email to [email protected].

JD Application Requirements

How do law schools make admission decisions.

Before a law school can make an admission decision , it must receive your

• application
• Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report (or LSAT Law School Report if the school doesn't require CAS)
• letters of recommendation

personal statement

• application fee
• any additional requirements unique to that particular school

Your undergraduate grade-point average (UGPA) and LSAT score are most predictive for success in law school and are fundamental for admission decisions.

Your LSAT score is an integral part of your law school application for most law schools. Scores are based on the number of questions answered correctly (the raw score). There is no deduction for incorrect answers, nor are individual questions on the various test sections weighted differently.

Raw scores are converted to an LSAT scale that ranges from 120 to 180, with 120 being the lowest and 180 the highest possible score.

Take the LSAT

Transcripts

Most law schools look closely at your college grades and course selection. UGPA is often a strong indicator of how well you'll perform in law school. Law schools also view difficult or advanced undergraduate courses more favorably.

Many schools also consider your undergraduate performance trend. They may discount a slow start in your undergraduate career if you performed exceptionally well in later years. Similarly, a strong start followed by a mediocre finish could be an indication of less potential to succeed in law school.

When you complete your applications, be sure to comment on any irregular grade trends in your academic record.

More about Your Academic Record      Requesting Transcripts

Letters of Recommendation

The most effective letters of recommendation are written by professors or work supervisors who know you well enough to describe your academic, personal, or professional achievements honestly and objectively. Letters that compare you to your academic peers are often the most useful. Most schools do not consider general, unreservedly praiseworthy letters helpful.

English Proficiency Exam for International Students

If English isn't your native language, most law schools will ask that you take a standardized test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

As you consider schools, make sure you identify which schools require this test. Each school has its own standards for minimum required scores.

LSAC accepts score reports for either TOEFL or IELTS exams.

Personal Statement

Law schools want to recruit people who are qualified for reasons beyond grades and scores. The essay or personal statement is your opportunity to tell the committee what sets you apart from others.

An essay on actual experiences and past accomplishments has more value to the committee than speculation about future accomplishments. Any noteworthy personal experience or accomplishment may be an appropriate subject, but be sure to do more than just state it. Describe your experience briefly but concretely, and explain why it had value to you.

Work Experience

Law schools want diverse, interesting classes that represent a variety of backgrounds. A candidate who applies to law school several years after their undergraduate education, and who has succeeded in a nonacademic environment, may be seen by a law school as more motivated than one who continues their education without a break.

Conditional Admission Programs

If you're concerned about your numerical qualifiers, you may want to consider applying for a law school conditional admission program.  These programs provide an excellent way to get a feel for the rigors and demands of law school. After successfully completing a school’s program, you may be offered admission to the school. Admission to conditional programs is at the sole discretion of the school offering the program.

Explore This Section

• Academic Record

Application Components

A comprehensive and holistic review.

At Yale Law School, our goal is to enroll a talented, diverse, and engaged entering class each fall. Each application is comprehensively and holistically reviewed to ensure that we thoughtfully consider all of the information that you provide to us. No one factor is dispositive. Instead, the Admissions Committee carefully evaluates each component of every application, including your essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities and leadership, honors and awards, professional experiences, and background. We do not utilize a GPA or standardized test score cutoff of any kind in our review process.

Every year applicants from all backgrounds and with scores in all ranges are admitted to Yale Law School. The only guarantee you will not be admitted is if you do not apply, and we take seriously every application we receive.

The below application components were updated as of August 2023.

Section Menu

Application Fee & Need-Based Fee Waivers

Applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable $85 application fee, which will not be credited to tuition in the event of admission. The application fee is waived automatically for those applicants who have received an LSAC fee waiver.

If you do not have an LSAC fee waiver and would like to request a need-based fee waiver of your Yale Law School application fee, please request a fee waiver using our online application . Need-based fee waivers are generously granted, and parental information is not requested as part of the fee waiver application. If your request is approved, you will be given a fee waiver code to enter during the submission process for your Yale Law School application.

Please note that neither the request for, nor the granting of, a need-based fee waiver has any bearing on admissions decisions. Yale Law School employs a need-blind admissions process and encourages applicants from all socio-economic backgrounds to apply.

Undergraduate Degrees & Academic Transcripts

You must receive, or expect to receive, by the summer of 2024 a bachelor's degree (or the equivalent) from an approved undergraduate institution in order to be eligible to apply. All offers of admission are contingent upon graduation.

You must submit to LSAC transcripts from each college or university you attended, including all schools you attended for graduate or professional study. Even if one school includes summary data regarding courses from another school on its transcript, an official transcript from each institution must be submitted. Yale Law School strongly encourages applicants to submit transcripts, through LSAC, reflecting all coursework completed through the time of application and further encourages applicants to submit updated transcripts as additional coursework is completed. We suggest that you allow at least six weeks for a transcript to be processed by LSAC. For detailed instructions, please visit the LSAC transcript webpage .

In light of the circumstances posed by COVID-19, Yale Law School recognizes that transcripts may reflect mandatory or optional pass/fail or credit/no credit grades. These grades will not be viewed negatively by the Admissions Office and the Law School will maintain a holistic review process for all applications.

Personal Statements

Applicants must submit a personal statement that helps us learn about the personal, professional, and/or academic qualities they would bring to the Law School community and the legal profession. Applicants often submit the personal statement they have prepared for other law school applications.

Personal statements should be approximately two double-spaced pages.

250-Word Essays

The Law School is a vibrant intellectual community where students are expected to engage academically with faculty and fellow students. In no more than 250 words, applicants must write about an idea or issue from their academic, extracurricular, or professional work that is of particular interest to them. The idea or issue you choose does not have to be law-related; this is an opportunity for readers to learn more about how you would engage intellectually in the Law School community.

Optional Essay

Applicants may choose to submit an essay in response to one of the four questions below, each related to a value that is central to the Law School community. This is an opportunity to provide readers with relevant information that may not be found elsewhere in your application. If you choose to answer one of these questions, your essay should focus on your relevant personal, professional, and/or academic experiences and not on specific reasons why you wish to attend Yale Law School.

The optional essay should be approximately one page double-spaced. The prompts for the optional essay are as follows:

• Option 1: The Law School has a strong tradition of public service and encourages its students to contribute to the community in a wide variety of ways. Describe a community that has been particularly meaningful to you. Discuss what you have gained from being a part of this community and what you have contributed to this community.  
• Option 2: The Law School encourages its students and alumni to be leaders, innovators, and changemakers across many different sectors. Describe one of your most important accomplishments and explain why it is important to you. Discuss how you demonstrated leadership, helped innovate, and/or drove change as part of that accomplishment.  
• Option 3: The Law School values determination and resilience and recognizes that these traits are critical to success at the Law School and in the legal profession. Describe a significant challenge, disappointment, or setback that you have faced. Discuss how you approached this experience and what you learned from it.  
• Option 4: In order to succeed at the Law School and in the legal profession, you must be able to have discussions across difference and be open to changing your mind. Describe a time when you changed your mind on an important topic after discussing it with a person with whom you disagreed or learning additional information. Discuss what you learned from this experience.

Applicants may submit addenda to their application if any are necessary for a full representation of their candidacy. These addenda may include, for example, explanations related to transcripts or test scores, including a history of under-performance on standardized tests. It is not necessary to include any addenda, and many applicants do not include any.

Letters of Recommendation

Yale Law School requires at least two letters of recommendation. We strongly prefer letters from at least two professors with whom you have studied who can speak to your academic performance and who have had a chance to personally evaluate significant aspects of your academic work. Letters from employers, college deans, coaches, chaplains, colleagues, and others may be helpful, but are not preferred. If possible, they should not replace letters from two faculty recommenders.

Applicants who have been out of school for some time or who are otherwise unable to obtain two faculty recommendations may substitute letters from employers or others who know them well. These letters should address the qualities that academic recommendations typically address, for example: the applicant's ability to write and think critically, as well as their overall suitability for the study and practice of law.

A tip sheet for your recommenders can be found  here .

All letters of recommendation must be transmitted through the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service , which is included as part of your CAS subscription.

We will begin review of your application as soon as we have received two letters of recommendation. We will not hold your application in order to wait for additional letters. To ensure that all of your recommendations are available for consideration, please verify that they are on file with LSAC prior to applying to the Law School.

Activities Sections

Applicants are required to submit a statement of activities to help us understand what you did during your undergraduate education and after graduation (if applicable). 

The college activities section asks three questions: 1) what you did during those terms when you were not in school, including summers and any other terms off (e.g., employment, internships, or study abroad); 2) what you did during the terms while you were also taking classes (e.g., extracurricular activities, employment, or internships); and 3) a catch-all question where you may briefly describe any other activities that you consider relevant (e.g., a significant thesis or capstone project, or significant personal or familial responsibilities). While you may choose to do this in a variety of formats, we ask that you do so in a structured manner such as a list or chart.

If it has been more than three months since you attended college, you must also describe what you have been doing since graduation in any format you choose. You should include graduate or professional education, paid or unpaid employment, as well as any other activities that you consider relevant. You may respond in a narrative format if you have only one or two activities. If you have more than a few activities, we ask that you format your response in a structured manner such as a list or chart.

The activities in these sections should be listed in order of their relative importance to you. For each activity, you must provide a brief description, state the approximate start and end dates, estimate the weekly hourly commitment, and note whether the activity was paid or unpaid. Please note that we anticipate significant duplication between these sections and your résumé. These sections should be brief, and, in general, applicants should answer the college activities questions in no more than 1–2 pages and the post-college activities question in no more than one page. 

Standardized Tests

Yale Law School accepts results from the  Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test . Additionally, the Law School accepts results from the  LSAT-Flex and the GRE General Test at Home . We do not have a preference among these standardized tests. However, you may submit score(s) from one standardized test only. If you have a reportable LSAT score, you may not submit a GRE score for consideration.

If you choose to apply with the LSAT, you must take the LSAT no later than January 2024. LSAC automatically reports all LSAT scores from the past five years. The oldest LSAT score we will accept is June 2018. If you have taken the LSAT since June 2018, you do not have the option to not report your score(s) to the Law School—your score(s) will be included in the information that we receive in your CAS report from LSAC.

LSAC requires at least one LSAT writing sample, taken either at the time of the LSAT examination or via LSAT Writing , in order to generate your CAS report. Yale Law School requires only one LSAT writing sample. Applicants who take the LSAT more than once do not need to submit multiple writing samples. It may take up to three weeks for LSAC to process and report your LSAT Writing. Therefore, you should complete your LSAT Writing no later than January 25, 2024 to ensure we receive it by Yale Law School’s application deadline.

If you choose to apply using the GRE General Test, we must receive your GRE scores from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) by our application deadline, February 15, 2024. Because it may take up to 15 calendar days for ETS to transmit your scores once you complete the exam, you should take the GRE no later than February 1, 2024. Applicants who have taken the GRE can log into their ETS accounts and select Yale Law School as a recipient of GRE results using the school code 4542.

To maintain parity between our evaluation of LSAT and GRE results, applicants who apply using the GRE must submit all GRE scores from the past five years. When reporting your GRE scores to Yale Law School, please select the option to report your entire testing history. Selecting this option will report all of your GRE scores for the past five years. Additionally, please ensure that the GRE score report submitted with your application is generated on or after the date you submit your Yale Law School application. A failure to comply with these policies may prevent the review of your application or result in the withdrawal of an offer of admission.

Dean's Certification

Yale Law School does not require submission of a dean's certification form(s) as part of the initial application. In the event an offer of admission is extended to you and you choose to accept that offer, you will be required to submit a dean's certification form from each college or university degree program in which you are, or have been, enrolled, regardless of whether a degree was awarded. The dean's certification form and a complete set of instructions will be provided to admitted students.

All offers of admission are contingent upon the satisfactory completion of the dean's certification requirement. Discrepancies between an applicant's answers to the questions in the Character and Fitness section of the admission application and the information provided in dean's certification forms will be considered sufficient grounds for the revocation of an offer of admission.

Interview Program

Yale Law School will continue piloting an interview program it began in the 2022-2023 application cycle. A small number of applicants will be selected for interviews as part of the evaluation process. If you are selected for an interview, the Admissions Office will contact you with additional information. Your application will not be disadvantaged if you are not selected for an interview.

• Free Interview Course

LAW NATIONAL ADMISSIONS TEST (LNAT)

100s of realistic sample test questions, fully worked answers & explanations, for the National Admissions Test for Law.

Training That Works

Discover insider secrets and a masterclass of testing practice material that has helped 100s of candidates pass their LNAT.

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Whether you’re just starting out or you know what to expect, you will get access to 100s of questions, with solutions that will catapult your chances of success.

Powerful Resources

Get instant access to the material right now which includes guidance on registering, and preparing for the LNAT plus 100s of practice questions. 

THE LNAT DOES

• Test candidate’s ability in regards to verbal reasoning;
• Assess candidate’s ability in deductive and inductive reasoning skills;
• Evauluate candidate’s bility in regards to understanding, interpreting, and analysing large amounts of information;
• Test candidate’s ability to distinguish between inferences, generalisations, opinions and conclusions. 

THE LNAT DOES not

• Assess candidate’s intelligence regarding the law;
• Rely on candidate’s knowledge and understanding obtained from previous education;
• Expect candidates to have prior knowledge to the topics used in the assessment;
• Guarantee a candidate’s place at their chosen university. 

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• Demonstrate the ability to differentiate between inferences, abstractions, assumptions and generalisations by applying logical and critical analysis;
• Demonstrate high levels of critical thinking and logical understanding;
• Demonstrate high levels of reasoning and interpretation;
• Evaluate arguments and the position in which the author upholds;
• Focus on sufficient evidence to generate adequate support and justification;
• Analyse information to draw conclusions.
• Demonstrate writing ability in the style of an essay-based question, which will require critical analysis, persuasive writing and detailed points of view.

LAW NATIONAL ADMISSIONS TEST – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In order to complete an LNAT test, you will not be able to revise for the test as such. Instead, you will need to be able to demonstrate a particular set of skills and particular mind-set that is required to score highly on the test.

Predominantly, the LNAT combines strategic measurements and analytical approaches to assess your ability to understand and interpret information regarding current affairs. You will need to be able to illustrate your ability to interact with the following areas;

• Economical;
• Technological;
• Historical events.

The LNAT is used by certain universities to ensure that the students that they accept on to the course are ‘able’ students who show strong levels of progression. The test ultimately provides an in-depth evaluation of candidates and hopes to determine the strong candidates from those considered incapable of handling the demanding nature in which a law course entails. The LNAT measures a particular set of skills including:

• Analytical Ability;
• Reading Skills;
• Interpretations;
• Comprehensive Understandings;
• Inductive and Deductive Reasoning Skills;
• Verbal Skills;
• Strategic Approaches.

The LNAT will last for 2 hours and 15 minutes, during which you will have two sections to complete. The first section will comprise of 42 multiple-choice questions, based on 12 comprehensive passages. For each passage, it will contain 3 to 4 questions. For this part of the assessment, you will be given 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete all 42 questions.

The second part of the LNAT is in the style of an essay-based question. You will be given a choice of 3 questions, of which you must answer one. The essay will need to be typed and submitted in an electronic format. You will have 40 minutes in which to complete the essay.

You will be required to sit the LNAT, if the chosen university you have applied for is part of the LNAT Consortium. In other words, anyone who wishes to study an undergraduate law degree will need to take the assessment if the university that they are applying for, uses the test as part of their selection process.

The LNAT is a requirement for the following universities within the UK, EU and overseas:

UK UNIVERSITIES:

University of Birmingham

University of Bristol

Durham University

University of Glasgow

King’s College London

The University of Nottingham

University of Oxford

SOAS University of London

University College London (UCL)

NON-UK UNIVERSITIES:

National University of Ireland (NUI), Maynooth

IE University (Spain)

Subject: Acting Manager

Congratulations and thank you for taking on Andrew’s responsibilities as manager of the copywriting team while he’s away. We all appreciate that you have a lot on your plate with your own tasks, so we hope that the workload from managing the team won’t be too extreme.

As you know, Andrew likes to meet with each of his team members for a ten-to-fifteen minute catch-up once every two weeks. Andrew informed me on Friday that his last catch-up with the team was two weeks ago. Therefore, it would be great if you could get in touch with the rest of the team and find a time to meet with each of them. You’re probably well aware of what’s going on between everyone on the team, so hopefully a catch-up will be straight-forward. Please organise these for the end of the day.

In addition, I’d like you to take a look at some possible clients with projects that the team will be working on. I’ll send a brief report with each of the clients’ projects sometime later today, but if you could also decide on which (if any) of the clients to work with by the end of the day would also be excellent.

If you have any queries, or have any questions about your new role, don’t be afraid to get in touch.

Linda Peterson,

Managing Director

Choose the  most effective  and  least effective  course of action:

In order to take the LNAT, you will be required to register online and fill in your application. Below, is a step-by-step guide illustrating the process of registering for the LNAT:

• Set up your online account:  you will need to register an account via the following web address: www.lnat.ac.uk. You will need your UCAS identification number in order to register, however if you are registering before you are given your UCAS number, you will be able to continue with a ‘fake’ registration number which will need to be changed and updated as soon as your UCAS number arrives.
• Book your test:  after you have registered an account, you will need to log on to your profile with the username and password that you provided when registering. You will then need to select the booking button, and proceed to make your confirmation. You will need to choose the LNAT venue that you wish to sit the day, and choose the date that you wish to attend the assessment.
• Making your payment:  test fees are required to sit the LNAT. The cost for candidates to take the assessment is £50 for UK and EU testing centres, and £70 for a test centre outside of the EU. Details of the test centres can be found on the official LNAT website. You may be eligible for an LNAT Bursary if it is deemed that you are financially struggling. Be sure to check this out before submitting your application.
• Changing your booking:  you are able to change your booking date, by rescheduling or cancelling your reservation. Tests need to be rescheduled before noon, two working days before the actual assessment if you wish to receive your payment back. Any cancellations after this time, will not receive their booking payment back.

The LNAT requires a great deal of attention in regards to reading comprehension and critically analysing information. The best preparation for a test like this, is to simply practice sample papers, testing questions and improve the key skills and qualities being assessed. Becoming familiar will undoubtedly better your overall performance. Reading quality newspapers will allow you to think critically in regards to:

• Issues being addressed;
• The assumptions being made;
• Information that is relied upon in order to reach a conclusion;
• The position of the author;
• What the main argument is;
• Thinking of counter-arguments to challenge the argument.

Listed below are some of the newspapers that are worth reading:

SAMPLE LNAT QUESTIONS

To help you get a better understanding of what the LNAT involves, let’s take a quick look at a few sample questions.

FREE | 4 Questions Law National Admissions Test Practice Questions

You will be given a passage to read. You need to make sure to read the passage carefully in order to answer the questions that follow. A sample passage below is on the distorted views of the media:

The Distorted Views of the Media

The myriad landscape of the media infiltrates every inch of the social world, and can be accessed almost anywhere, by anyone. The media has changed considerably over the years, from information reported through newspapers and television, to a world that is transfixed with the realms of online access. It highlights the major growths in how the world communicates, and how these modes of communications have changed considerably over time.

How then, can we be sure to trust the channels which we are single-handedly presented, and offer only a single form of interpretation? What is the quality of the information that we are receiving? Does media focus on quantity more than assuring quality? Ultimately, it is not so much about where the information comes from, but the extent to which these mediums produce reliable and partial accounts of news.

Media have become somewhat slanted in recent years, and no matter what the medium, the information that they create and produce can be, and is often, challenged. Criticisms in regards to the fabrications of distortion, manipulation and interpretation, suggests how publishers and distributors are more concerned with maintaining and accumulating circulation figures, as opposed to being centred on truth, justice and value. The fabrication of beauty and body image is a major issue that is often portrayed within an array of media formats. It continues to stir debate regarding how such images carry inaccurate and biased accounts of the truth, particularly in regards to women.

You will then be given 3 or 4 questions regarding that passage. Note, the questions are in the style of interpretative, stylistic and argumentative questions. They are used to determine how well you can interpret information, make conclusions and assumptions, and understand the overall argument in which an author or authors, are trying to make.

So, after you read the passage, you will be given a multiple choice question like so:

Within the third paragraph, the writer assumes that…

A  – Newspapers are the foundation of distorted imagery.

B  – Publishers of newspapers are the people who decide what gets printed in their paper.

C  – Newspapers continue to adopt a writing style that is based on bias and controversy.

D  – Distorted imagery cannot be avoided.

E  – The media are responsible for the social issues in which girls face regarding body image.

You will then need to determine which of the answers best describes the author’s assumptions. Please note, that these questions are designed so that the answers are very similar. You need to pay careful attention to the use of words and language in the answers to determine how accurate the answer is.

The Threats of Social Networking

Social networking has unquestionably become a global phenomenon, which I believe is having a huge effect on our social world. Social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter have experienced exponential growth during the 21st century, and yet some users remain oblivious to how much their social networking profiles can shape, influence and affect their everyday lives.

Information that is posted on these sites is likely to come back and haunt a person in the future. Just think of a social networking site as a type of “global database”. You are posting information, facts about yourself, images etc, into your very own “database”; acting as a log of your personal behaviour for others to view. This is a great concern for many parents whereby they feel obliged to check how secure their child is whilst they’re online.

An example of the impact of social networking occurred in America, whereby students were faced with court charges for underage drinking, a situation that had it not been shared on their social networking profiles, would never have been known otherwise. The students in question were unaware of the impact of their behaviour of underage drinking and posting the evidence online.

Furthermore, employers often use these sites as a way of maintaining access to their employees outside of the working environment. Although this can be considered morally wrong, employers can track your profile in order to find controversial issues, sensitive matters or inappropriate misconduct.

Which of the following best describes the author’s tone in regards to his attitude about social networking sites?

A  – Strongly pessimistic

B  – Discouraged.

C  – Guarded.

D  – Upset.

E  – Highly optimistic.

During the essay section of the LNAT assessment, you will be given 3 questions in which you must choose one to write your essay on. These questions are usually based on current affairs, common debate topics, which allow you to voice your opinion and argue your reasoning using support, evidence and justifications.

Answer one of the following questions.

Your answer should be a reasoned and substantiated argument, which justifies your response to the question that you have chosen

You have 40 minutes in which to draft and write your answer to one essay question.

1.  “Euthanasia should be legal”. Discuss.

2.  Should the death penalty be allowed?

3.  “Violent games contribute to youth violence”. Argue.

You will then to plan and write your answer to one of the above questions. You should structure your essay like indicated below:

• INTRODUCTION . The introduction will be the first thing the reader will look at, and so it is important to make a clear and concise overview of what your essay is going to be about.

Your introduction should include the purpose of the essay, what your initial thoughts may be, what you hope to achieve/find, enumerate the points you wish to make, and define the overall importance of your argument and why it is relevant/significant.

• MAIN BODY.  During the main body of your essay, you should remember to keep in mind the questions mentioned previously in regards to what, why, how and what if.

You need to make points and back them up using examples and evidence in order to strengthen your overall argument. There is no point making a statement, if you have nothing to back up the reasoning for it. Your argument needs to be straight to the point, persuasive and significant to illustrate what you are trying to say.

Usually, 3-4 high quality points is enough to make a good argument. Do not waffle. Expand on a few points and provide analysis and detail, as opposed to briefly mentioning lots of points and not going into enough detail about each of them. Your essay needs to read coherently.

• CONCLUSION.  Your conclusion should summarise your whole argument. It is often said that a reader should be able to read an introduction and a conclusion, and still have a basic understanding of what your argument would be about.

Your conclusion should not introduce any new points, and should only sum up the points that you have written about previously.

The conclusion should be short, to the point and significant. If you can summarise your argument using three to four sentences, your reader will be impressed and know what you were trying to achieve.

Make sure that your conclusion refers back to the question you were given. Make sure that the question has been answered directly, and demonstrate where you stand on the subject matter.

Answer  one  of the following questions.

Your answer should be a reasoned and substantiated argument, which justifies your response to the question that you have chosen.

1.  What is equality? Does it really matter?

2.  Make the best case for Government funding the arts programmes.

3.  Why does ‘political correctness’ matter?

B = ‘Publishers of newspapers are the people who decide what gets printed in their paper’.

The writer concludes from the passage that publishers focus on the importance of increasing their newspaper circulation, rather than maintaining efforts in regards to producing truthful and unbiased content. In order for the writer to come to this conclusion, the writer needs to assume that the publishers of the newspapers are the people in which decide what gets printed.

C = ‘Guarded’.

The word that would best describe the tone of the author’s writing in relation to his attitude concerning social networking is “guarded”. The author offers very “guarded” responses in association with the importance of security for social networking sites. Answer options A and E are quite extreme, and the fact that the author is not overly extreme or assertive in his responses, suggests that these words cannot depict his overall tone of writing. Answer option D, ‘upset’, is not a word that best describes his attitudes; the author shows more of a concern then he does an upset, and therefore does not reflect his tone of voice. Answer option B, ‘discouraged’, does not reflect the overall tone of the author. This term is used to illustrate melancholy or somewhat disheartened, but the overall tone of the author does not come across as disheartened.

ANSWER TO ‘EUTHANASIA SHOULD BE LEGAL. DISCUSS.’

We have provided you with key areas that you could include in this argument:

Dignity . Within a civilized society, it is argued that an individual should be able to die in a dignified and peaceful way, instead of waiting out for a disease to kill them, or become so inflicted with pain, that it is too much to bare.

Bodies  are our own. It can also be argued that it is up to us with what we decide to do with our bodies. Our bodies are our own. We are allowed to make all kinds of decisions based on our body. For example, getting tattoos, piercings, having a baby, getting a transplant, getting plastic surgery etc, thus we too should be able to decide when our body has had enough and therefore can no longer prolong living.

Beliefs . Some people believe that suicide is not a crime. People commit suicide and no crime has been committed, and no one was in the wrong. Therefore, euthanasia should also not be a crime. The only difference between the two is that euthanasia usually requires the assistance of someone else. The assisted help from someone willing to let a person die ultimately fulfils a dying person’s wishes.

Changing attitudes.  According to a study conducted in 2007, 80% of the public said that they wanted the law to change regarding assisted suicide and helping those to end their life.

ANSWER TO ‘WHAT IS EQUALITY? DOES IT REALLY MATTER?’

Defining equality.  Equality is about ensuring that every individual within every society has an equal opportunity. Equal opportunities include the rights to work, female and male equal rights, reduce discriminations in relation to sex, gender, race, religion, disabilities etc. Equality is a way of maintaining a standardised message within culture that opportunities need to be distributed equally, and not seen to benefit someone of particular interest.

History of equality. . Within your essay, you could explain the history of equality, and how previous years have demonstrated a lack of equality amongst society, and how this has changed and evolved over time. Within contemporary society, we live in a world that is regulated and imposed with rules that prevent inequalities. However, you could argue that whilst regulations remain in place, inequality does still remain, and probably always will. Give an example of how people can challenge the current zeitgeist of society in relation to equality.

Significance.  This is the second part of the question that you need to answer in order to gain high marks. You need to discuss the importance of equality and how this is important to culture. Inclusion, equality and opportunities are a central principle to build community capacity. Society needs a healthy and stable workforce and create citizens who conform to the rules and regulations of society. What is the importance of equality in relation to democratic societies?

Pass the LNAT. First Time.

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After reading this book you will not only have the confidence and skills needed to pass the LNAT but also the belief that you will succeed in whatever career path you choose to follow once you have passed the exam.

This is without doubt one of the most comprehensive books available to prepare for the LNAT. Included: a mock test, exam material, prep for exams plus on the day of your exam advice, how to tackle the exams, includes sample multiple choice questions as well as the essay questions- this is invaluable – the focus is not just on how to write the perfect essay but also goes over the basic structure and how to tackle each separate part to make your argument concise, plus 2 essays to write and then talks you through each part of the essay from the basic argument to giving an opinion – there are tips and examples on how best to answer each part of the essay question. Half the battle of writing a great essay is understanding the question and answering it fully in a structured way- this guide covers all of this and more.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR DOWNLOAD?

Complete guidance to ensure you pass the selection tests.

• Detailed information regarding the LNAT.

• How to register for the LNAT.

• How to prepare for the LNAT.

• Sample questions that show you how to reach the answer.

• Hundreds of sample questions to work through.

• Detailed answers and explanations to all questions.

• An LNAT mock exam to illustrate what the actual test will be like.

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As well as life-time access to the LNAT download, this product also includes a 30-day free trial to Online Aptitude Testing Platform (usually £9.99 + vat per month).

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For the admissions cycle for 2025 entry the Faculty of Law requires prospective applicants to sit the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) as a pre-interview admissions assessment. The LNAT is an internationally recognised standard for assessing applicants’ abilities in reading comprehension, inductive and deductive reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analysis, all of which are necessary skills to do well in Law at university. The LNAT does not assess intelligence or your knowledge of the law.

Cambridge will use both sections of the LNAT to assess applicants. The first section consists of 42 multiple choice questions relating to 12 argumentative passages over 95 minutes. The second is an essay in response to one of three possible questions in 40 minutes, for a total examination time of two hours and 15 minutes. The essay component will be marked centrally at Cambridge.

Please note that the LNAT will be used to deselect applicants (that is, it will be used, along with all other relevant information, in determining which applicants will be invited for interview), as well as for the selection of applicants.

Applicants are expected to sit their LNAT in September or early October, as the LNAT must have been completed by Cambridge’s 15 October UCAS deadline. Applicants may book their LNAT tests when registration opens on 1 August. Tests are completed at testing centres affiliated with the LNAT’s testing provider, Pearson Vue.

The fee for taking the LNAT is £75 at UK/EU test centres and £120 at test centres in the rest of the world. There is an LNAT bursary scheme available to candidates struggling to pay for their LNAT test. Test fees will be waived for UK/EU students in receipt of certain state benefits. Candidates must apply for their bursary before booking their LNAT.

To book your LNAT test, or to see further information, including sample tests, please visit the LNAT website .

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Yale Daily News

Law School announces four new optional essay prompts for 2023-24 law school admissions cycle

Announced after the Supreme Court’s decision to axe affirmative action, Yale Law School applicants now have the chance to write an optional essay centered around the themes of community engagement, leadership, determination or open-mindedness.

Staff Reporter

Madelyn Kumar, Senior Photographer

Applicants to Yale Law School must provide an academic transcript, an LSAT or GRE score, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. 

New this cycle, applicants can now also submit an additional optional essay, which the Law School announced just weeks after the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down race-conscious admissions policies.

The new optional component, added in August, allows applicants to write an essay on one of four topics. The topics center around the themes of community engagement, leadership, determination and open-mindedness. According to the Law School’s website, these essays should focus on the “personal, professional and/or academic experiences” of an applicant rather than their specific reasons for wanting to attend Yale Law School. 

For Jake McDonald LAW ’25, the new prompts are “a welcome change” because they expand the definition of diversity to encompass voices from a wider variety of backgrounds, including ideological, socioeconomic and religious perspectives, allowing applicants to talk about those subjects more freely.

Yash Chauhan ’26 told the News he believes the prompts allow applicants a chance to tell the admissions committee who they are beyond their grades and test scores. 

“These optional essay prompts — while markedly different from diversity statements — allow candidates the chance to showcase their drive, passion and aspirations,” Chauhan wrote to the News.

In previous application cycles , applicants had the opportunity to include an optional diversity statement in their application. This essay allowed applicants to address any core aspect of their identity that, in their view, would have contributed to the Law School community and might not have been sufficiently addressed in their personal statement. 

According to McDonald, the diversity statement had a fundamental flaw: an ambiguous framing of diversity, which he felt left many applicants with no idea on whether to write the optional statement.

However, Sage Mason LAW ’24 told the News that the diversity statement allowed his Law School application to present a more complete picture of his identity and experiences.

“My application process to YLS was atypical because I transferred [to Yale] after my first year of law school at Washington University in St. Louis,” Mason said. “I included a diversity statement as part of my application, and it contributed greatly to providing a more complete expression of who I am and what I thought I could offer a place like YLS.”

The diversity statement is no longer listed as an application component on the Law School’s website for the 2023-2024 law school admissions cycle.

McDonald told the News that he believes the removal of the diversity statement and the addition of the new prompts may have to do with the Supreme Court’s June decision that struck down race-conscious admissions.

“[I believe] the explicit diversity statement from years past — including the year I applied — is gone because the school was worried about its legal viability in light of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in SFFA v. Harvard,” McDonald wrote to the News.

Debra Kroszner, the spokesperson for the Law School, declined to comment on whether recent application changes were motivated by the Court’s ruling against affirmative action. 

In the Court’s majority opinion , Chief Justice John Roberts said that schools can only constitutionally consider the race of an applicant if it is “concretely tied to a quality of character or unique ability that the particular applicant can contribute to the university.” 

In other words, applicants can still discuss their race or ethnicity in admissions essays, but admissions officers can only consider any mentions of race if they are directly relevant to an applicant’s unique accomplishments. It remains unclear , however, what cases would be deemed as directly relevant, leaving specifics of what the Court’s ruling should look like in practice at the University — and at other higher education institutions — unknown.

Though the Law School has not addressed whether the updated essay prompts are related to the Supreme Court’s June decision, its website claims that it continues to uphold its commitment to a holistic review process .

“Applicants may choose to submit an essay in response to one of the four questions … each related to a value that is central to the Law School community,” the website reads. “This is an opportunity to provide readers with relevant information that may not be found elsewhere in your application.”

Kroszner declined to comment on this story overall; she referred applicants to the Law School’s website for information regarding the school’s admissions process.

Yale Law School was founded in 1824.

Correction, 10/11: A previous version of this article misquoted a source. The article has been fixed accordingly.

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How Biden’s New Immigration Policy Works

The new policy will give some 500,000 people a pathway to citizenship.

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By Hamed Aleaziz

President Biden’s new immigration policy protects some 500,000 people who are married to U.S. citizens from deportation and gives them a pathway to citizenship.

The election-year move comes just two weeks after Mr. Biden imposed a major crackdown at the U.S.-Mexico border, cutting off access to asylum for people who crossed into the United States illegally.

The policy announced on Tuesday is aimed at people who have been living in the United States for more than a decade and have built their lives and families here.

Here is how it works:

Why do the spouses of American citizens need protection?

Marrying an American citizen generally provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship. But people who crossed the southern border illegally — rather than arriving in the country with a visa — must return to their home countries to complete the process for a green card, something that can take years. The new program allows families to remain in the country while they pursue legal status.

Who is eligible?

There are roughly 1.1 million undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens in the United States, according to Fwd.us , an immigration advocacy group, but not all of them are eligible for the program.

The spouses must have lived in the United States for 10 years and have been married to an American citizen as of June 17. They cannot have a criminal record. Officials estimate that the policy will provide legal status and protections for about 500,000 people. The benefits would also extend to the roughly 50,000 children of undocumented spouses who became stepchildren to American citizens.

When will the program take effect?

Biden administration officials said they expected the program to start by the end of the summer. Those eligible will then be able to apply for the benefits.

Why is President Biden doing this now?

Mr. Biden is trying to strike a tricky balance on immigration, which is a serious political vulnerability for him. Polls show Americans want tougher policies. Just two weeks ago, Mr. Biden announced a crackdown on asylum at the southern border.

His new policy, giving hundreds of thousands of immigrants new legal protections, is a way for him to answer the calls from the progressive base of the Democratic Party, which has accused the White House of betraying campaign promises to enact a more humane approach to immigrants.

Hamed Aleaziz covers the Department of Homeland Security and immigration policy. More about Hamed Aleaziz

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