Apply for the First-Year J.D. Program

 We understand that applying to law school can be a daunting task. Here is what you need to know:

Requirements for Admission:

1. Applicants must have received a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before enrolling at William & Mary Law.
2. Applicants must take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) no later than February 2010. William & Mary will accept reportable LSAT scores within the past five years.
3. Applicants must register with the Credential Assembly Service (LSDAS).

Deadlines:

We accept applications between September 1, 2009 and March 1, 2010 for enrollment in August 2010. We will process applications received after March 1, 2010, but your chance of receiving an offer of admission may be significantly decreased.

Steps for Applying:

(1) Complete the Application
Applicants may use one of the following methods to submit their application:
• LSDAS Electronic Application or single school e-application; or
• Download the application from the William & Mary Law School website.

(2) Submit the Application Fee
Submit a $50 (U.S. dollars) nonrefundable application fee by March 1, 2010. If applying by mail, include a check or money order payable to the College of William & Mary. If applying electronically, make a credit or debit card payment through LSAC.

(3) Submit a Personal Statement and Optional Essays
Submit a personal statement with the application (Question 33) and, if you choose, optional essays (Questions 34 and 35). Question 35 references an optional essay for applicants who have a special interest in one of our many fellowships.

(4) Register for the LSAT/LSDAS
Register for the Credential Assembly Service (LSDAS) and arrange to have your undergraduate and graduate transcripts sent by February 1, 2010 to LSDAS from all colleges and universities attended. Applicants must take the LSAT no later than February of 2010 and have a reportable score on record with LSDAS. The LSDAS code for William & Mary is 5115.

(5) Obtain Letters of Recommendation
Obtain at least two letters of recommendation and submit by any of the following methods: Use the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service included in the LSDAS subscription; or obtain letters of recommendation in sealed envelopes and submit with the application or recommenders may send their letters directly to the Admission Office. A composite recommendation or letters processed by prelaw advisors or career services offices may be sent directly to: William & Mary Law School Admission Office, P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg, Virginia 23187-8795.

(6) Apply for Need-Based Financial Aid
Applicants for need-based scholarships and/or educational loans must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . The suggested deadline is February 15, 2010. The FAFSA Title IV code for William & Mary is 003705. All admitted applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships awarded by the Law School using the criteria submitted to complete the application for admission. No additional information is required.

(7) Apply for Virginia In-State Tuition Privileges
Applicants claiming entitlement to in-state educational privileges must complete the Virginia Application for In-State Tuition Privileges and mail to the Office of the University Registrar as printed on the form. For more information, visit the University Registrar's website.

Checklist:

1. Completed and signed application form or electronic certification if applying  electronically;
2. $50 nonrefundable application fee payable to the College of William & Mary or paid by credit or debit card to LSAC if applying electronically;
3. Personal statement and optional essays (if any);
4. LSAT score report sent by LSAC with transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work;
5. Two letters of recommendation; and
6. Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Privileges if you claim Virginia domicile for tuition purposes.

Note: A Dean's Certification is not required for first-year applicants.