Apply to the Advanced Standing J.D. Program

To apply, an applicant will need to set-up an account through the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) and register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS).

• An in-person foreign law degree from an international accredited insititution is required prior to enrollment with MSU Law. As part of the CAS, an official copy of all transcripts will need to be sent to LSAC.
• In accordance with institutional procedures and for timely Transfer Credit Evaluation, you must arrange for the College of Law to receive an official transcript by June 1 of our first year showing all foreign law degree credits. Failure to meet this requirement by the date may result in administrative withdrawal. The College may, at its discretion, create an earlier deadline for administrative or University reasons. If you are taking summer coursework, it is imperative to notify the MSU College of Law Office of Admissions.
• In accordance with accreditation requirements, you must arrange for the College of Law to receive final official transcripts by October 1 of your first year showing conferral of your bachelor’s degree. Failure to meet this requirement by that date will result in administrative withdrawal. The College may, at its discretion, create an earlier deadline for administrative or University reasons. If you are taking summer classes to finish your bachelor’s degree, please fill out and return this Verification of Pending Graduation form (PDF) to the Office of Admissions.

• 2-3 pages, double-spaced, 1" margins, 12-point font.
• Personal statements may address any topic, but provide the Application Committee an opportunity to learn more about you as an applicant. The following questions may be helpful when preparing your personal statement Creating Your Best Personal Statement »
  • What motivates you to pursue a legal education?
  • What personal or professional goals have you established for yourself?
  • In what ways have your life experiences prepared you to succeed in law school?
  • In what ways have you encountered and overcome instances of adversity, and how might such experiences contribute to your effectiveness as an attorney?
  • In what ways might you contribute to diversity within the MSU Law student body and the legal profession?
  • Are there particular reasons you have for applying to Michigan State University College of Law?

Top Resume Tips »

• Consideration will be given to bar licensed practitioners with years practiced. 

• Two required, up to four accepted. No required designated source; however preference is at minimum one academic letter of recommendation and one professional letter of recommendation.
• Recommendation should be submitted through LSAC’s Letter of Recommendation Service. Getting Strong Recommendations »