As one of the most prestigious law schools in the world, Harvard Law School (HLS) attracts thousands of applicants each year. With an acceptance rate of around 12%, getting into HLS is a challenging and competitive process. However, with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible to increase your chances of getting accepted. In this article, we will provide 8 pro tips for getting into Harvard Law, along with expert insights and real-world examples.
Understanding the Admissions Process
Before we dive into the tips, it’s essential to understand the admissions process at Harvard Law. The admissions committee reviews each application holistically, considering factors such as academic performance, Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores, work experience, and personal statements. The committee looks for applicants who demonstrate a strong potential for success in law school and a commitment to the legal profession. Academic excellence is a crucial factor, but it’s not the only consideration. The committee also values diversity and unique experiences that can enrich the learning environment at HLS.
Achieving Academic Excellence
To be a competitive applicant, you need to have an outstanding academic record. This means earning a high Grade Point Average (GPA) and scoring well on the LSAT. The average GPA of admitted students at HLS is around 3.8, and the average LSAT score is around 170. To achieve these scores, you need to develop a study plan that includes taking challenging courses, seeking academic support when needed, and preparing thoroughly for the LSAT. You can use the following table to get an idea of the average GPA and LSAT scores of admitted students at HLS:
| Year | Average GPA | Average LSAT Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 3.78 | 169 |
| 2019 | 3.79 | 170 |
| 2018 | 3.77 | 168 |
Developing a Strong Personal Statement
A personal statement is a critical component of your law school application. It’s an opportunity to tell your story, share your experiences, and demonstrate your passion for the law. A strong personal statement should be well-written, engaging, and authentic. It should also provide insight into your motivations for pursuing a career in law and your goals for the future. Here are some tips for writing a strong personal statement:
- Start with a strong opening that grabs the reader's attention
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points
- Show, don't tell, when it comes to your skills and experiences
- Use clear and concise language
- Edit and proofread carefully to ensure error-free writing
Highlighting Your Unique Experiences
Harvard Law values diversity and unique experiences that can enrich the learning environment. If you have a non-traditional background or experiences that set you apart from other applicants, be sure to highlight them in your application. This could include work experience in a related field, community service or volunteer work, or personal achievements that demonstrate your skills and character. Use the following example to get an idea of how to highlight your unique experiences:
For example, if you have worked as a paralegal for several years, you could highlight your experience in your personal statement by describing your responsibilities, the skills you developed, and the impact you made on your clients. You could also use this experience to demonstrate your commitment to the legal profession and your potential for success in law school.
Preparing for the LSAT
The LSAT is a critical component of the law school application process. It’s a standardized test that measures your reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning skills. To prepare for the LSAT, you need to develop a study plan that includes taking practice tests, reviewing test materials, and seeking help when needed. Here are some tips for preparing for the LSAT:
- Take a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses
- Develop a study plan that includes regular practice and review
- Use official test materials and practice tests to prepare
- Seek help from a tutor or study group if you need it
- Stay calm and focused on test day
Managing Your Time Effectively
Applying to law school can be a time-consuming and stressful process. To manage your time effectively, you need to develop a schedule that includes time for studying, working, and relaxing. You should also prioritize your tasks and focus on the most critical components of your application. Use the following example to get an idea of how to manage your time effectively:
For example, if you have a full-time job and are applying to law school, you could allocate specific times of the day for studying and working on your application. You could also use a planner or calendar to stay organized and on track.
What is the average GPA of admitted students at Harvard Law?
+The average GPA of admitted students at Harvard Law is around 3.8.
How can I prepare for the LSAT?
+To prepare for the LSAT, you should develop a study plan that includes taking practice tests, reviewing test materials, and seeking help when needed. You can use official test materials and practice tests to prepare, and consider seeking help from a tutor or study group if you need it.
What are the most critical components of a law school application?
+The most critical components of a law school application include your academic record, LSAT score, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. You should also highlight your unique experiences and skills, and demonstrate your commitment to the legal profession.
