Information for:


Seattle University School of Law

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the School of Law's admission requirements?

As a candidate for admission, you must have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university prior to your enrollment, you must have received a competitive score on the Law School Admission Test, and you must have registered with the Law School Data Assembly Service. (LSAT scores are valid for three years. Scores older than three years may be considered by petition.) For complete details on the application process, please refer to the School of Law Bulletin or the Application Process page.

When is your application deadline?

You should submit required application materials at the earliest possible date after they are available and complete your applicant file no later than March 1 (priority deadline) of the year you wish to attend. However, please realize that we use a rolling admission process; meaning, we evaluate files as they become complete.

How much is the application fee?

$60 U.S.D.

What factors are considered in the admission decision?

The Admission Committee emphasizes three factors:

  1. performance on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT);
  2. undergraduate academic performance; and
  3. personal accomplishments.
How does the Admission Committee view multiple LSAT scores?

If an applicant has more than one LSAT score, the Committee normally gives greater weight to the highest score. However, the Committee does not disregard previous scores and applicants are encouraged to discuss issues surrounding their prior performance in an addendum to their application.

Who should I ask to write my two (2) letters of recommendation?

Recommendations that focus on your academic skills (writing, analytical abilities, etc.) are especially helpful. If you have been out of an academic setting for a number of years, employers and/or other professional colleagues are often best prepared to submit recommendations on your behalf.

In what way should I submit my letters of recommendation?

Arrange to have two (2) letters of recommendation submitted on your behalf. Of particular influence are evaluations from professors or professional colleagues who can comment on your ability to analyze complex material and to speak and write with fluency, economy, and precision. Your references must be sent through the Law School Admission Council letter of recommendation service.

How do I check the status of my file?

Thank you for your application to Seattle University School of Law. In order to keep you up to date on the most current information regarding your file, you may check the status of your application weekly. Information will be updated each Tuesday. Please note that it can take up to 3 to 4 weeks for your file to complete based on the timing of the arrival of your LSDAS report and other materials. We encourage you to make sure that all appropriate transcripts, letters and fees are with LSAC.

Does the School of Law offer a part-time program?

Seattle University is proud to offer the only part-time evening program of legal education in Washington state. Created to meet the needs of working professionals, this three-and-a-half-year program meets Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Does the School of Law offer joint-degree programs?

Yes. The University offers four joint degrees that combine the Juris Doctor with either a Master of Business Administration (J.D./M.B.A), a Master of International Business (J.D./M.I.B), a Master of Science in Finance (J.D./M.S.F), or a Master of Accounting (J.D./M.A.C.). Student participants of the joint-degree program must be admitted separately to both the School of Law and the Albers School of Business and Economics and a J.D./Master of Sports Administration and Leadership (J.D./MSAL).

When does the School of Law begin accepting applications?

Application materials are available to candidates in the fall. The Admission Committee makes 90 percent of all admission decisions between January 1 and May 1. We will start accepting applications on October 1.

How much is tuition?

Tuition for the 2008-2009 academic year is $1124 per credit. For a complete breakdown of the cost of attending Seattle University School of Law, please see the Financial Aid Tuition Information page.

When do classes begin for the entering class of 2008?

Fall classes for all first-year students begin Thursday, August 21, 2008.

What are the requirements for transferring to the School of Law?

In addition to the materials required for first-year applicants, transfer applicants must submit:

  1. an official transcript that covers the entire period of attendance at the law school in which the student was previously enrolled;
  2. a letter from the dean of that law school certifying that the student is in good standing and eligible to return to study; and
  3. a class rank. The letter of good standing and class rank must cover the entire period of attendance and must be based on no less than completion of the first year.
What is the deadline for transfer applications?

While there is no official deadline, you are encouraged to submit your application before August to allow the Admission Committee enough time to make a decision in advance of the late-August start of school.

Amy Pritchard '09, and Stacey Lara-Kerr, Center for Professional Development