Preparing for Law School

Overview

Prepare for law school by pursuing a challenging undergraduate program and making sure you've completed our checklist for applying. Visit the Taking the LSAT and Applying to Law School pages for a detailed guide.

Can I Major in Prelaw?

KU has no officially prescribed prelaw major or program. This position is consistent with advice from law school deans and is reiterated by the American Bar Association.

Students are encouraged to pursue a challenging undergraduate program that fosters critical thinking, logical reasoning and effective writing.

Your academic efforts should be enriched by extracurricular activities that promote awareness of a broad range of social issues, develop your leadership skills and challenge you to creatively and collaboratively solve problems.

Though you cannot major in prelaw, KU does offer the Legal Education Accelerated Degree Program (L.E.A.D.) where students within the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences can earn both a B.A. and a J.D. degree in six years instead of seven. Learn about the L.E.A.D. Program eligibility and more on the L.E.A.D Program website: college.ku.edu/lead-program.

What Do I Need to Do to Apply to Law School? 

Applicants are required to:

• Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university prior to entering law school
• Have taken the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
• Register with the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
• Complete the application for the law schools you’d like to attend. Application requirements could include:
  • Filling out the application
  • Uploading a personal statement
  • Submitting at least two letters of recommendation
  • Designating if you have character and fitness issues