Apply Now: April 30 Deadline for Fall 2012
Michigan State University College of Law welcomes applications for the Fall 2012 incoming class through Monday, April 30, 2012.
MSU Law’s Admissions Committee, which includes 10 faculty members and the Student Bar Association vice president, reviews applications in coordination with Assistant Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Charles Roboski. Application packets are reviewed in the order in which they are complete, with all supporting documents. Decisions are usually made within three to five weeks from that point.
The Law College’s selective admissions process is designed to identify individuals who have the potential to excel in law school and the practice of law. The Admission Committee considers many variables in addition to applicants’ undergraduate grade point averages and Law School Admission Test scores. To support the faculty’s commitment to a broad inquiry into the role and function of law in society, MSU Law seeks to enroll students who bring diverse personal and professional experiences and perspectives to the classroom.
“The admissions process is very difficult for us, because there are so many people with such amazing potential to choose from,” said Professor Brian Kalt, chair of the Admissions Committee. “I can tell you that we like applicants who have researched us and are applying here because they are excited about one of our great programs. The Geoffrey Fieger Trial Practice Institute, our great clinical programs, our D.C. externship program . . . I could go on and on and list 20 more; there is something here for just about everyone.”
The Law College’s upward trajectory is reflected in its growing pool of applicants. In late January, the Law College announced a 6% increase in applications as compared to the same time last year. The increase also compares favorably to national and regional data. “MSU Law’s application volume is especially noteworthy, considering the national trend is a 16% decline over the same timeframe,” said Dean Roboski.
The personal statement provides one important way for applicants to distinguish themselves from other candidates. “Your personal statement is a critical piece of your application packet,” says Dean Roboski. “Your statement can offer important insights about your life experiences and goals, your particular interest in MSU Law, and your motivation for pursuing a legal education. We want to know how your unique background and experiences will contribute to the richness of an MSU Law legal education.”
For more information about the MSU Law admissions process and upcoming events for prospective students, www.law.msu.edu/admissions.