Plan to take the test during the summer or fall of the year you apply, though scores from the December test will reach law schools before their deadlines. Taking the test no later than October will ensure that you receive your score before you apply early (in November) to schools that have rolling admissions.

You should plan to take the test only once. Prepare completely and do your best to achieve a good score. While it is possible to retake the LSAT if you feel your score does not represent your abilities and that you can improve it, many schools will average scores from multiple tests rather than taking the highest score.

The Law School Data Assembly Service (LSDAS) organizes and analyzes information from transcripts from each undergraduate school you have attended. The analysis enables law schools to compare academic records from undergraduate schools that use differing grading systems. The Service sends copies of your transcript(s), your LSAT score, and a copy of your writing sample from the LSAT to each school to which you apply.

Most schools will request either one or two recommendation letters. If letters are not required, it is still beneficial to submit them. The easiest way to submit letters to schools is to use the optional letter of recommendation service provided by the LSDAS, which will handle up to three letters.

Academic letters carry the most weight since they assess your performance in an academic setting and discuss your potential for doing well in law school based on previous academic work. At least one letter should be from a professor, lecturer, or teaching assistant in your academic major if possible. A letter from an employer can be helpful, especially if you work following graduation.

The dean's certification is required by some law schools to confirm that applicants have not been involved in academic or disciplinary transgressions as undergraduates. A university official is designated in each college to consult with offices responsible for judicial administration and academic integrity and to complete forms provided by schools requiring the dean’s certification.

Cornellians apply on average to nine law schools if they are seniors and seven if they are alumni. Your decision on how many schools to apply to should be based on how strong a candidate you are, how realistic your choices are, and how much time and money you have to spend on applications.

Law schools sometimes place applicants on hold or reserve prior to reaching a decision and frequently notify applicants of this status. Applications of those on hold or reserve are reconsidered at a later date, usually before the files of those who have been wait-listed, a status which means the applicant is considered a desirable candidate and may be admitted later.

Taking some time off before entering law school can be advantageous for several reasons. You can devote more time during your senior year to academics rather than applying to law school. Your entire academic record will be available to law schools, not just six or seven semesters. Many Cornellians benefit from a respite following four challenging years at Cornell. And, you can confirm your interest in law by working in a law firm or law-related organization.

Prelaw advisors in most undergraduate colleges and at Cornell Career Services in Barnes Hall can advise you on the law school application process and speak with you about your individual concerns.