By: Tori Barnaskas

Timing is everything. I know that sometimes plans change or life gets in the way, but when it comes to the law school application process, it’s important to be as on top of it as possible.

Application deadlines exist for a reason. SULS releases decisions on a rolling basis, so the earlier you get your application in, the earlier you will receive your decision. That being said, don’t rush to submit your application if you’re not confident in it. Make sure it’s what you want it to be and shows off the best version of you. Different programs have different deadlines, so be sure you’re checking those closely.

Every applicant must submit either an LSAT or GRE score with their application. Test dates for the GRE are relatively frequent, but LSAT test dates are not. Registration for LSAT tests close about 6 weeks in advance, so it’s important to plan out when you will be taking it. Keep an eye on the score release dates, as well. LSAT scores are usually released about 3 weeks after the exam, but that means your score might be released after an application deadline.

Deposit deadlines are a big one. If you request an extension, which isn’t always guaranteed, I would strongly encourage you to do so at least three days prior to the deadline. If you email us asking if you can still pay three days or three months after your deadline, we will likely not have the space anymore in our class. If you ask for an extension at 11:59 pm the day your deposit is due, unfortunately you will have missed it. We in admissions sleep at night, just like you!

I don’t say these things to try to scare you or turn you away. I say these things because you’re applying to a professional school and it’s up to you to be aware of the various deadlines that lie ahead, not only in this process but once you actually enroll in law school.

Tori Barnaskas is the Director of Admission at Suffolk University Law School. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of New Hampshire and recently earned her Master of Education in the Administration of Higher Education degree from Suffolk University. Learn more about applying to Suffolk Law here: https://www.suffolk.edu/law/admission/apply