JD Program

Applications for the First-Year JD program must be submitted through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Apply now through LSAC.

A completed LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report is required for all applicants. The CAS Report includes your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores submitted through LSAC.

Northwestern accepts either the LSAT or the GRE to satisfy the standardized testing requirement.

Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended through LSAC's Credential Assembly Service.

Submit a minimum of one letter of recommendation through LSAC. You may submit up to four letters of recommendation. We encourage you to select recommenders who can speak thoughtfully about your academic ability, professional accomplishments, or potential for success in law school.

Submit a current résumé outlining your educational background, employment history, leadership experience, community involvement, research, military service, honors, and other significant activities or achievements.

The Personal Statement is a required component of the application and provides an opportunity to introduce yourself beyond your academic and professional accomplishments.

Applicants may submit optional essays to provide additional context about their experiences, interests, or circumstances. Submission of optional essays is entirely optional and is not required for your application to be considered complete.

A nonrefundable $75 application fee is required when submitting your application through LSAC. Applicants who are unable to pay the application fee may request a fee waiver before submitting their application.

Northwestern conducts virtual interviews through Kira Talent as part of the admissions process. After you submit your application through LSAC, you will receive an invitation with instructions for completing your Kira interview.