Can you ask a law school to reconsider your application?
Asked by: Erika Weissnat | Last update: July 25, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (46 votes)
If your heart is set on a law school that rejects you, it is not worth protesting or asking for a reevaluation. “Working the refs” could come across as unprofessional. Rather, take the disappointment in stride and consider reapplying the following year.
Can you apply again if you get rejected from law school?
It will not count against you to you reapply to a law school that previously rejected or deferred you, as long as your application shows positive changes, additions, and growth. This can be in the form of additional course work and improved grades or continuous employment or internship experience.
Can you ask a college to reconsider your application?
Yes, you can appeal a college rejection, but only if you have new information, extenuating circumstances, or if there was a mistake in your application.
What are valid reasons to defer law school?
Most schools review deferral requests on a case-by-case basis. However, U.S. News states unexpected circumstances that make it difficult for a student to attend law school immediately or once-in-a-lifetime academic or professional opportunities are the two main reasons to defer law school.
Can you appeal a rejection from a law school?
Some schools will accept appeals, but they very rarely result in admission. An appeal is really only appropriate if you have new and very compelling information to offer that wasn't included on your initial application.
You Don’t Need To Apply Early Decision To Law School (2021) | S. Montgomery Consulting
Is it worth reapplying to law school?
The rank of your school can matter, but ultimately what matters is how you use your law school experience and legal education. Reapplying to law school can be a great way to propel your future career, but also know that there are many paths to the same goal. You will get there if you are committed.
What to do if you don't get accepted into law school?
Consider waiting another year.
Remember, you don't have to go to law school next year. If the decision just doesn't feel right, given your options, then consider waiting another year. This time will allow you to earn some money and experience, potentially re-take the LSAT if needed, and apply again next year.
Should you list other law schools you're applying to?
Good lawyers know the difference between answering truthfully and showing all your cards. Unless an application specifically asks for every school to which you are applying, consider including only nearby or similarly ranked law schools.
Can you negotiate with law schools?
While some schools state openly negotiations are not an option (do not even try at these schools), many will entertain a dialogue to assist students with a financially feasible way to pay for school.
What is a good reason to defer admission?
Health reasons: If you're dealing with a health issue or need time to recover from an illness or injury, deferring could be the best option to ensure you're in optimal health when you begin your college journey.
How do you ask to reconsider your application?
Use a professional tone: Keep a professional tone to help sell your argument and show you have objective and legitimate reasons for requesting your reconsideration. A clerical mistake or a misunderstanding about your qualifications are good reasons to request a reconsideration.
What percent of college appeals are successful?
It's important, however, to understand that the success rate for appeals is generally low, hovering around 1-2%. Colleges have a limited number of spots available, and their initial decision-making process is thorough.
Can you apply again if you get rejected from a college?
Yes. While students certainly can ask a university to reconsider, these are rarely, if ever, successful in changing an admission decision. Many counselors only recommend that students appeal their decision if an important piece of information was missing from their application.
Do law schools reject quickly?
In rare cases, some applicants may receive an answer within a few weeks, but the process typically takes 2–4 months. If your application is placed on hold or if you are placed on a wait list then it may take several additional months to receive a final decision.
Can you reapply to law school after being academically dismissed?
A law school may admit or readmit a student who has been disqualified previously for academic reasons upon an affirmative showing that the student possesses the requisite ability and that the prior disqualification does not indicate a lack of capacity to complete the course of study at the admitting school.
How many times do people apply to law school?
On average, students will apply to between 5 and 15 law schools each cycle; your application cycle may vary based on your scores and dream schools, but it is a good idea to have at least 5 applications sent out.
What LSAT score will get me a scholarship?
Needs-based scholarships don't require a high LSAT score. However, to be considered for a merit-based scholarship, it's wise to have a score close to 170.
Is it worth going to a low ranked law school?
Graduates of lower-ranked law schools are hardly doomed to scratch out a living. Earning a law degree from any reputable program is an impressive achievement. Read the bios for any major law firm and you will see many successful lawyers who attended low-ranked schools.
Should you make a seat deposit at a law school before you request a scholarship reconsideration?
Making a seat deposit does not preclude scholarship negotiations. While it indicates your commitment, your circumstances may change. For example, you may receive new admission offers or other tempting professional opportunities.
Should I tell a law school they are my first choice?
If the school is your first choice and you would attend if admitted, say so.
What is a good number of law schools to apply to?
Your best bet is to apply to a minimum of two reach schools, two match schools, and three safeties. A reach is a law school whose students' average LSAT and GPA scores are higher than yours. Don't be discouraged from applying, but based on the numbers alone your chances are not outstanding.
Does it really matter what law school I go to?
School rankings matter because they matter to employers. There are always exceptions to the rule, but generally, students at higher-ranked schools have better post-graduate outcomes.
Does reapplying to law school hurt your chances?
However, the school will not hold an earlier decision against you. Whether they offered you admission and you did not accept their offer or you applied but did not get in, your reapplication will be reviewed without prejudice for previous applications and decisions.
What is the lowest GPA a law school will accept?
What Is the Lowest GPA For Law School? Since the majority of law schools require a GPA of 3.0 or higher, anything below a 3.0 is considered very low. Some of the absolute lowest GPA requirements for schools are 2.80.
How likely am I to get into law school?
The median acceptance rate for law schools is 41%.