Is December Too Late to Apply to Law School? (2023)
By Sydney Montgomery, Founder & Executive Director
Today, I’m here to tackle the burning question on everyone's mind: Is December too late to apply to law school?
I've been in the law school admissions consulting game for nine years, and let me tell you, applying in December is not a death sentence for your dreams of legal greatness. I've seen countless students secure spots in prestigious schools like Harvard and Yale with scholarships, all by applying around this time.
Yes, there's a lot of noise on the internet insisting you've missed the boat, but I'm here to ease your worries. The truth is, it depends on various factors. So, let's unpack this together.
The LSAT-GPA
Timing in law school admissions is a dance, and your LSAT score and GPA are your partners. If you're below the median for either, applying early in the cycle is your best bet. Law schools operate on a rolling basis, and the competition gets stiffer as the cycle progresses. However, if your scores are stellar, fear not – you're still a strong candidate even in December.
Here's where the lawyerly answer comes into play: it depends. If your LSAT score is in the 170s and you're eyeing mid-tier schools, you're in good shape. Confidence is key; submit a compelling application with stellar essays, and you might just find yourself with a golden ticket.
But what if you're toeing the median line? Well, you can still apply, but be aware it might affect your scholarship potential. Law school admissions isn't a black-and-white realm; it's a nuanced dance of context and circumstances.
Priorities in Focus
Let's talk priorities. Why do you want to start law school in the fall? Is it a family move, a scholarship deadline, or simply an emotional desire? If you're content with your life but feel the societal pressure to start law school ASAP, think twice. Age is just a number, and waiting could mean more scholarship dollars and better opportunities.
Applying Early Decision
If your heart is set on a school with an Early Decision (ED) program, especially one with a December or January deadline, consider it a strategic move. ED programs, though binding, offer a different dynamic, and schools wouldn't have these deadlines if they weren't keen on applicants like you.
If you aren’t applying ED, you should still take a look at a school’s ED I and ED II deadlines. If they have an ED II deadline in December or January, that’s an easy way to tell that they still want students to apply during these months.
Do Your Research
Know your schools. Some, like Yale, operate differently. Applying early might not give you an edge. Harvard, with staggered release dates, adds another layer. Understanding each school's nuances is crucial in making informed decisions.
I can't stress this enough: quality matters more than speed. Rushing a lackluster application in September won't do you any favors. Submitting a well-crafted application in December with polished essays and stellar recommendations can be your ticket to success.
2023-2024: A Unique Application Cycle
This year, the law school admissions cycle is moving slower. Various factors, from LSAT disruptions to the Supreme Court ruling, have contributed. It's not as dire as some might claim, but it's a reminder to be diligent. Don't procrastinate until February, but know that December is still a perfectly reasonable time to submit.
Final Thoughts and a Holiday Wish
There are a lot of different factors to consider when applying in December or January. The biggest takeaway from this blog should be that it is not too late depending on who you are as an applicant. Make sure to do your research and spend the time needed on your applications without a rushed product.
If you’re hoping to submit in the winter, we currently have two packages available to help you get a strong application together quickly! We offer discounts for first-generation, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ applicants, and more, as well as LSAC Fee Waiver Holders.
As we wrap up another insightful blog, I want to wish you all a fantastic holiday season – whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or simply the joy of a new year. Remember, the boat is still waiting for you, and the destination is yours to choose.