Applying To Uci Law School: A Comprehensive Guide

UC Irvine Law School seeks to admit multi-dimensional applicants who show the potential to thrive in their classrooms and enrich the legal profession. The school offers three rigorous degree programs: the Juris Doctor (JD) degree program, the Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree program, and the Graduate Tax Program. The Juris Doctor program provides a world-class education to traditional law students, while the Master of Laws degree program educates lawyers, judges, government officials, and others about the legal system and practice of law in the US. The Graduate Tax Program offers an innovative curriculum that instils students with the doctrinal depth and practical skills needed to practice tax law.

To apply to the JD program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit their transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, personal statement, and other supporting documents. They must also take either the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) and submit valid test results. The LL.M. program requires applicants to have a home-country law degree and demonstrate English language fluency. The application process involves submitting a resume, verification of the law degree, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency test scores if applicable.

Application Requirements

To apply to the University of California, Irvine (UCI) School of Law, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A completed application form: Applicants must adhere to all instructions and answer all questions. The application is available through the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) website.
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts: Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended are required, except for study abroad transcripts from foreign universities.
• Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Law School Report (CAS Report): All applicants must register for and utilise the LSAC's CAS. The CAS houses transcripts, letters of recommendation, and LSAT scores.
• Standardised test scores: Applicants must submit official score reports for either the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Records Examination (GRE). LSAT results are sent directly to UCI Law as part of the CAS Report. GRE results are sent directly to UCI from the Educational Testing Service (ETS). UCI Law accepts scores up to five years after the test date and will consider the highest score if a test is retaken.
• Letters of recommendation: A minimum of two and a maximum of three letters are required. Academic letters are preferred, but professional letters are also accepted.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A resume detailing work history, volunteer experience, extracurricular activities, awards, honours, certificates, and publications is required.
• Personal statement: A 750-word essay sharing meaningful experiences, skills, motivations, and aspirations is required.
• "Why UCI Law?" essay: A 750-word essay explaining your interest in UCI Law and why you chose it over other law schools is mandatory.
• Optional essays: Applicants can submit an Inclusive Excellence Essay (500-word limit) and an Addendum (500-word limit) to provide additional information about their candidacy.
• Character & Fitness/Conduct Statement: An affirmative answer to any character and fitness questions on the application requires a detailed explanation and supporting documentation.
• Bachelor's degree: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education listed on the U.S. Department of Education database. The degree must be earned prior to the beginning of the law school semester.

It is important to note that UCI Law has a holistic review process and encourages applicants to share their authentic stories and showcase their multidimensionality. The school seeks applicants with strong academic credentials, compelling personal statements, and robust extracurricular involvement.

Bachelor's Degree

To apply to UCI Law School, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education. This institution must be listed on the U.S. Department of Education database. Additionally, you must have completed six semesters (or nine quarters) and be on track to have your degree conferred before your first semester at law school begins.

Your bachelor's degree is one of many requirements for your application to UCI Law School. You must also submit:

• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended
• A Credential Assembly Service Law School Report (CAS Report)
• Official score reports for all standardized tests (LSAT and/or GRE)
• A minimum of two letters of recommendation (no more than three)
• A resume or Curriculum Vitae
• A 750-word Personal Statement
• A 750-word "Why UCI Law?" essay
• A Character & Fitness/Conduct Statement (if applicable)

It is important to note that UCI Law School does not charge an application fee. However, there may be fees associated with other aspects of your application, such as the CAS Report.

Standardized Test Scores

LSAT or GRE Requirement:

UCI Law School mandates that all applicants must take and submit scores for either the LSAT or the GRE as part of their application. This requirement is non-negotiable, and the school will not waive it under any circumstances. The choice between the LSAT and GRE depends on the applicant's preference, as UCI Law School accepts both types of scores. However, applicants are advised to select one exam, and submitting scores for both exams is unnecessary.

Score Submission Process:

When applying, applicants must include official score reports for their chosen standardized test (LSAT or GRE). These scores are an essential component of the application and will be carefully evaluated by the Admissions Committee. The LSAT scores are automatically reported by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) as part of the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report included with the application. For the GRE, applicants must submit all valid scores from the past five years directly to UCI Law School through the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Score Considerations:

The Admissions Committee at UCI Law School takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications. While standardized test scores are crucial, they are considered alongside other factors such as undergraduate academic performance, rigor of study, work experience, graduate study, economic or educational disadvantage, and community involvement. The committee aims to create a diverse and intellectually vibrant student body, so other aspects of an applicant's profile are also given due consideration.

Score Range and Competitive Scores:

UCI Law School's average LSAT score range is between 164 and 169. Prospective applicants aiming to enhance their chances of admission should strive for scores within or above this range. An LSAT score of 167 or higher is considered highly competitive. For the GRE, there is no specific score range provided, but applicants are encouraged to aim for scores that demonstrate strong analytical and logical reasoning abilities, which are critical for success in law school.

Retaking Standardized Tests:

If an applicant has taken the LSAT or GRE multiple times, the Admissions Committee will consider all scores but will use the highest score for the final decision. Applicants are encouraged to address any significant discrepancies in scores or explain extenuating circumstances in an addendum to their application. Retaking the chosen standardized test can be beneficial for applicants aiming to improve their scores and increase their competitiveness for UCI Law School.

Letters of Recommendation

To apply to UCI Law School, you will need a minimum of two and a maximum of three letters of recommendation. These should be written by someone who can evaluate your academic performance, such as a college professor, or your professional performance, such as a current or former supervisor, client, or co-worker. The Admissions Committee discourages purely personal references.

If you have been out of college for several years, you can still submit professional letters of recommendation from supervisors and colleagues who are familiar with your aptitude and ability to overcome challenges.

Your letters of recommendation must be included in your Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report. You must register for the CAS and submit your transcripts and letters of recommendation through this service.

Personal Statement

UC Irvine Law School seeks to admit multi-dimensional applicants who show the potential to thrive in their classrooms and enrich the legal profession. The school is interested in applicants who are committed to making the world a better place.

The personal statement is an important part of the application process. It should be a maximum of 750 words, formatted to 8-1/2 x 11 inches, double-spaced, with 12-point font and one-inch margins. Your name, LSAC number, and statement type should be included at the top of each page.

• Share your authentic self and your unique story: UC Irvine Law School encourages applicants to be genuine in their applications. They want to know about your experiences, passions, and motivations for pursuing a career in law. Reflect on your personal journey, the challenges you've overcome, and how these experiences have shaped your goals and aspirations.
• Demonstrate a strong fit with the school: Highlight why UC Irvine Law School is the right choice for you. Show that you have researched the school's values, programs, and opportunities, and explain how these align with your interests and goals. Discuss specific courses, clinics, or faculty members that resonate with you and explain how the school will help you achieve your aspirations.
• Showcase your strengths and achievements: While it's important to be humble, your personal statement is also an opportunity to showcase your strengths, accomplishments, and the impact you've had in your community or previous roles. Discuss any significant awards, honours, or extracurricular activities that have contributed to your growth and development.
• Connect your experiences to your future goals: Reflect on how your past experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a legal career. Explain how your unique background, skills, and perspectives will contribute to your success in law school and your future career. Discuss your short-term and long-term goals and explain how UC Irvine Law School will help you achieve them.
• Demonstrate strong writing skills: Your personal statement should showcase your ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively. Use a professional tone, pay attention to grammar and syntax, and ensure your essay is well-organised and easy to follow.

Remember, the personal statement is your chance to make a strong impression on the admissions committee. Be authentic, passionate, and clear in your writing, and take the time to carefully review and edit your statement before submitting it.

Frequently asked questions