Studying law in the USA
In the USA, law is studied as a postgraduate, after you finish an undergraduate degree. You usually study towards a Juris Doctor (JD) degree for three to four years, depending on the programme.
Usually, you apply through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) which is run by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
LSAC has a step by step guide on applying to law school.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by university, so you should check what they are for the universities you want to apply to. You should also check whether they will accept a non-US undergraduate degree.
LSAC has a database of American Bar Association (ABA)-approved JD programs, including each university’s entry requirements.
Academic
Most universities will accept any undergraduate degree. However, you may wish to choose modules that help build transferable skills that will make you a successful lawyer.
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
You will need to take the multiple-choice and written Law School Admission Test (LSAT). This tests your logical reasoning, reading comprehension, and writing skills. The LSAT can be taken online through a live, remotely invigilated session or in person at a test centre. A list of test centres can be found in your LSAC JD account once you have registered.
You should practise for the LSAT before sitting it. LSAC offer access to their LSAT Prep package via their LawHub platform, which includes official practice tests.
LSAC has more information about the LSAT, including a list of testing dates.
Skills and work experience
You do not need direct law experience to apply for law programmes. However, you should try to develop the transferable skills a lawyer is expected to have. These include:
- communication (verbal and written)
- attention to detail
- analysis, problem solving and critical thinking
- research
- leadership
- relationship building and collaboration.
You can develop these by doing things like:
- choosing modules which best develop these transferable skills
- joining a student society or club, such as the University of St Andrews Law Society
- internships and work shadowing
- part-time work, volunteering, and extra-curricular activities.
Applying
You apply through CAS on the LSAC website. LCAS sends your application to each university you want to study at.
Your application must include your:
- personal information
- academic transcript
- letters of recommendation (references)
- personal statement
- LSAT scores.