Navigating the U.S. Law School Application Process from Puerto Rico
By Cynthia Rivera, Associate Law School Consultant
If you’re a Puerto Rican interested in coming to the mainland United States for law school, you may have a lot of questions about the process. How is applying to law school different as a Puerto Rican? Can you take the LSAT in Spanish?
In this blog post, I talk all about what you need to know as a Puerto Rican applying to law school! I am a native Puerto Rican myself, and I came to the States for both my undergraduate and law school experience. Read along to hear some of my advice!
The LSAT: Language Matters
One of the first things to consider when applying to law schools in the United States is the LSAT (Law School Admission Test).
While applicants from Puerto Rico are held to the same standards as those from the mainland, there's a unique aspect to be aware of. While the LSAT is available in Spanish for applicants within Puerto Rico, this version is solely intended for those applying to local law schools. If you're applying to a U.S.-based law school, you'll need to take the LSAT in English. It's essential to understand this distinction, as confusion often arises regarding this aspect of the admissions process.
English Proficiency Tests
Although both English and Spanish are official languages in Puerto Rico, some U.S. law schools may require applicants who have studied at a university in Puerto Rico to demonstrate proficiency in English. While not all schools impose this requirement, it's crucial to thoroughly read and follow application instructions. If English proficiency is needed, make the necessary arrangements to take the required tests.
If you’re unsure of a certain school’s requirements, don’t hesitate to reach out to their admissions office and ask!
The Application Process
Apart from these considerations, applicants from Puerto Rico follow the same application process as any other applicant.
You'll need to submit personal statements, GPA records, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, and other relevant documents. If you're currently in college, your pre-law advisor's office or Minority Affairs office can be valuable resources for guidance on the application process.
However, if you've been out of college for some time, you might face challenges as you no longer have the college's network. You can read more about being a later-in-life applicant here! Regardless of your age and experience, just note that being from Puerto Rico shouldn’t drastically change your application process.
Researching Law Schools
Beyond the application, researching law schools is crucial, especially if you plan to return to Puerto Rico after completing your law degree. Look for schools with a strong network on the island, as this can be a valuable resource for finding job opportunities post-graduation. A supportive alumni organization can make a significant difference in your career prospects.
Additionally, consider student organizations and campus support, which can be particularly helpful if you're studying outside Puerto Rico for the first time. You can check out our blog here on finding community as a Latinx student, including some organizations to look out for.
Geography matters too, as it can impact your travel expenses and your ability to go home during holidays. Factor in these considerations when choosing a law school that suits your needs and aspirations.
Final Thoughts
In summary, applying to law school from Puerto Rico doesn't differ substantially from applying from other mainland locations. While language and cultural differences may cause apprehension, it's important to recognize that this journey is entirely attainable.
Whether you decide to pursue legal studies in the United States or elsewhere, know that support and guidance are readily available. You can work with me through our private packages, where we have discounts for minority and first-generation students. I also provide services in Spanish!
If you have a specific question in mind, don’t hesitate to reach out to hello@smontgomeryconsulting.com. I look forward to hearing from you!