The Law School Waitlist

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This course will teach you all the important information there is to know about being put on a law school's waitlist.

Objective: Get accepted off the waitlist and into the law school.

Getting waitlisted for law school isn’t the end of the world. Don’t fret. There’s still hope that you’ll soon be heading to the law school of your choice. But the chances of this happening are much, much higher if you’re proactive than if you just cross your fingers and hope for the best. Use the time after getting waitlisted to update and improve your application and to show the law school that accepting you is the right choice.

• Explain to the admissions committee why this school is your first choice. Be specific. Outline exactly why the school’s particular program appeals to you and why you’re a good fit for what the school wants and offers.
• Update your application with any new information that boosts your candidacy. If your grades have improved since you initially applied, send the school your new grades. If you’ve retaken the LSAT, send your improved scores. Also provide information on any new activities or leadership roles you’ve taken on, as well as any honors you’ve received since you submitted your application. This will show the school your continued desire to excel and enhance your application.
• Submit any new letters of recommendation you can get your hands on. If you have any connections at the law school, get them to put in a good word for you. The more people who support your candidacy, the better.
• Contact the person from the law school who interviewed you to ask for advice on what you can do to improve your chances of acceptance.
• If possible, sit in on some classes and talk to current students at the school. You want to learn as much about the school as you can to better understand what it looks for in its applicants.

Assume that all the other waitlisted applicants are bolstering their applications. If you really want to go to that school, you better keep up with—and surpass—the competition.