stanford law school essay prompts

JD Application Process

Step by step to sls.

If you are applying for admission to Stanford Law’s JD program for Fall 2024, mark these three important dates on your calendar:

September 15, 2023  — When the application becomes available.

December 1, 2023 — The date your application must be received and deemed complete (last eligible LSAT test administration is November 2023) by SLS if you are applying for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program . We strongly suggest that applicants take the LSAT prior to the November test administration so that all application deadline requirements are met. If you opt to submit a GRE score in lieu of the LSAT, plan accordingly so that we receive your score from ETS by the stated deadline.

February 15, 2024, 11:59 PM PST — The deadline for submitting your application.

Explore these key steps in the application process — then get started.

Application Process at a Glance

The first step to admission to Stanford Law is a thoroughly completed application. It is your responsibility to make certain that all items arrive at the Office of Admissions. We will consider your application complete and proceed with an admissions review as soon as we receive all required documents. Unless stated otherwise, any updates to your application must be submitted via e-mail to the Office of Admissions at [email protected] .

• Application for Admission.  You must complete the entire application form and submit it electronically through LSAC.
• Application Fee. Your nonrefundable application fee of $85 must be submitted by credit card through LSAC. If you are unable to pay the fee, please review the 2024 SLS Application Fee Waiver Instructions , complete the Fall 2024 SLS Application Fee Waiver Form , and submit it to the Office of Admissions as soon as possible so that we may process your fee waiver request. You must submit your fee waiver request prior to submitting your SLS electronic application. Allow 5-7 business days for a decision and factor in this timing to ensure you adhere to the application deadline. Please note that our fee waiver criteria and process are distinct from that of LSAC.  
• Resume.  Stanford requires a one-to-two page resume describing your academic, extracurricular and professional activities. The resume must be submitted electronically with your electronic application. Please do not include a photo. If you have already submitted your resume and have included a photo, note that we have redacted that photo. No further action is required on your part and that original submission will not impact our review process.
• Personal Statement. Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests, and character would help you make a distinctive contribution to Stanford Law School. The personal statement must be submitted electronically with your electronic application. Your statement should be approximately two pages in length.
• Optional Essay . At Stanford Law School, we value the ability to communicate constructively across differences – even when the stakes are high or the differences significant. Please discuss a time when you encountered a viewpoint that contrasted with your own and explain how you responded. Would you do anything different if the same thing happened today? Your essay should be approximately one to two pages in length.
• Optional Short Essays. From a list of four essay questions, you may provide up to two responses of 100 to 250 words each.
• Two Letters of Recommendation.  Stanford requires that at least two and no more than four letters of recommendation be sent directly through the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Service . Letters sent directly to the Office of Admissions will not be accepted. Recommenders should be instructors who have personal knowledge of your academic work, preferably those who have known you in a seminar, small class, tutorial program or the like. If you have been out of school for a significant period you may substitute one letter from an employer or business associate. Sometimes these applicants find it difficult to obtain even one academic recommendation; in that case, you may submit two nonacademic letters. Please advise recommenders that should you choose to apply for a joint degree and/or other programs at Stanford University, the letters of recommendation may be forwarded to that program for review.
• Right of Access to Recommendations. Federal law provides a student, after enrollment, with a right of access to, among other things, letters of recommendation in the student’s file (if maintained). This right may be waived, but such a waiver may not be required as a condition for admission to, receipt of financial aid from, or receipt of any other services or benefits from Stanford Law School. Please indicate your choice by checking the appropriate box on the LSAC Letter of Recommendation form before giving them to your recommenders.
• Standardized Tests. All applicants are required to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test. If you have one or more valid LSAT scores, they must be reported as part of your application. If you also take the GRE, you may submit all valid GRE scores, but you may also choose to submit only LSAT scores. The only circumstance where you may apply without providing us with an LSAT score is if you have only taken the GRE. If you are admitted to the Law School with a GRE and, after admission, take the LSAT, the Admissions Committee will consider this new LSAT score and will re-evaluate our offer of admission. LSAT. If you choose to apply with the LSAT, you must take the LSAT no later than January 2024. This deadline is based on the time needed by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) to get your scores to us by our application deadline of February 15, 2024. LSAC will report scores directly to us. If you do not indicate the January 2024 test date on the application but plan to take that test at a later date, you should notify the Office of Admissions in order for the score to be considered. Scores received on tests taken prior to June 2018 will not be considered valid. Note that all applicants using the LSAT are required to submit at least one writing sample. This sample can either be taken at the time of the LSAT examination or at a later date. If taken at a later date, note that it may take several weeks for LSAC to process and report your writing sample so plan accordingly keeping our February deadline in mind. GRE . If you choose to apply with the GRE, you should take the exam no later than February 1, 2024. This deadline is based on the time needed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to get scores to us by our application deadline of February 15, 2024.  You must arrange with ETS to have all valid GRE scores sent directly to us. Log into your ETS account and select Stanford Law School as a recipient of GRE results using the school code 4993 . Scores received on tests taken prior to June 2018 will not be considered valid.
• Credential Assembly Service Report.  Transcripts from each college or university you have attended should be forwarded to LSAC, which will prepare and transmit a Law School Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report to Stanford Law School. To register for the CAS service, please visit LSAC . The report furnished to the school will include copies of all transcripts sent to LSAC. If you have received academic credit for coursework taken abroad while enrolled as a full-time student, and if grades for that period of study are not clearly indicated on your home transcript, you must send that foreign study transcript directly to LSAC or to Stanford Law School. All non-US/Canadian transcripts listed during registration for the Credential Assembly Service are forwarded to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), where they will be authenticated and evaluated, except in cases where it is clearly marked on the home campus transcript. This service is included in the CAS registration fee. The data is assembled into a credential evaluation document that contains AACRAO’s summary, copies of the transcripts and translations (where applicable), and will be sent to the Office of Admissions. Any updated transcripts must be sent directly to LSAC. Please note that should you choose to apply for a joint degree and/or other programs at Stanford University, the CAS report may be forwarded to that program for review.

When the documents described above have all been received, your application is considered complete. However, until the application has been finally acted upon (and until the first day of attendance, if you are accepted and enroll), you are obligated to advise the school of any changes in the information previously furnished. In particular, you should promptly report to the school any additional grades received and any other facts that would have required a different answer to the questions asked in the application. Such changes may be reported informally by e-mail to the Office of Admissions; if official verification is required, you will be so advised. You must have received, or expect to receive by the Summer of 2024, a bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent) from an approved college. All offers of admission are conditional upon graduation.

Reapplication Procedure

If you wish to reapply for admission you must submit the following:

• New application
• Application fee
• Updated resume
• Updated personal statement
• New letter of recommendation to LSAC utilizing the Letter of Recommendation and Evaluation Service
• Updated transcripts showing conferral of degree
• New LSAT scores through LSAC if available

Please note that recommendations already on file need not be duplicated. Applications for the Fall of 2021, 2022, and 2023 have been retained.

Application Status Check

To keep you apprised of your application status, we provide an online status page. To view the status of your application, please click on the link below to access our password-protected online status page. Please note that bookmarking may make it difficult to access the page.

CHECK YOUR STATUS ONLINE

The Admissions Committee does not grant interviews as part of the admissions process. However, we encourage you to visit the school and arrange to meet with a member of the admissions staff.

Notification of Acceptance

Stanford Law uses a rolling admissions process, acting upon applications throughout the admissions season as they are completed. However, some applications are held until the committee has reviewed the entire applicant pool. This second review generally occurs in April, at which time the class will be filled. (A small number of applications will be held for possible use in filling vacancies that may occur during the summer.)

The Office of Admissions will make every effort to send applicants a first response (accept, deny or wait list) by April 30.

To secure a place in the entering class, applicants accepted for admission must pay a deposit.

If you are offered admission, Stanford reserves the right to withdraw that offer of admission (even after enrolled attendance) if: 1) you show a significant drop in academic performance or fail to graduate from your current program; 2) there has been a misrepresentation in or a violation of any of the terms of the Stanford Law School (SLS) application process; 3) we learn that you have engaged in behavior prior to the first day of enrolled SLS attendance that indicates a serious lack of judgment or integrity; or 4) you reserve a place in our entering class and make an enrollment commitment or make a deposit at another law school. Stanford further reserves the right to require you to provide additional information and/or authorization for the release of information about any such matter.

Acceptance Deferral Policy

Stanford Law School grants a limited number of requests for one-year deferrals. Any admitted applicant granted and accepting deferred admission is required (1) to submit a nonrefundable deposit that will be applied to tuition; and (2) to sign a statement that deferred status is not also held at another law school, that all prior applications to other law schools have been withdrawn, and that new applications will not be made to other law schools. Persons admitted from the wait list are ineligible for deferment.

Additional Matters

International Student Visas

In order to register as students, Stanford University requires all those who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. registered permanent residents to obtain and maintain an appropriate visa status for their stay in the United States. For more information, please visit the Bechtel International Center website .

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Undocumented Applicants

Inclusion and nondiscrimination are core values held by the University and this extends to all members of our community regardless of citizenship or nationality. Therefore, SLS remains firmly committed to the principle that citizenship is not a condition for admission to any of our programs. Individuals who have been granted DACA status at the time of application are eligible to apply and matriculate at SLS. In addition, individuals who have met all other admission requirements and are otherwise undocumented are permitted to apply and matriculate at SLS.

Stanford has actively supported the DREAM Act legislation since its introduction in 2001, which would enable undocumented students to continue their education and apply for U.S. citizenship. Stanford also supports DACA, which has allowed some undocumented individuals who entered the United States as children to remain in the country without fear of deportation. Stanford is among the more than 600 colleges and universities that have signed a letter in support of DACA.

https://immigration.stanford.edu/

Nondiscrimination Policy

Stanford University admits qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or marital status to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the University. Consistent with its obligations under the law, in the administration of the University’s programs and activities, Stanford prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law; Stanford also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence. This policy applies to Stanford programs and activities both on and off-campus, including overseas programs.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding this nondiscrimination policy: Stanford’s Director of the Diversity and Access Office, Krista Martinelli, Kingscote Gardens, 419 Lagunita Drive, Suite 130, Stanford, CA 94305-8550; (650) 723-0755 (voice), (650) 723-1791 (fax),  [email protected]  (email). Stanford’s Title IX Coordinator, Stephen Chen, has been designated to handle inquiries regarding sexual harassment and sexual violence: Kingscote Gardens (2nd floor), 419 Lagunita Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, (650) 497-4955 (voice), (650) 497-9257 (fax),  [email protected]  (email).  Individuals may also file complaints directly with the Office for Civil Rights, within the United States Department of Education, by following the information on this website:   https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html

Last revised September 13, 2023 .  For the most recent policy, please visit the  Diversity and Access Office .

Campus Security

Stanford University complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. Stanford’s policies and statistics under this act are posted on the Department of Public Safety website at  https://police.stanford.edu/security-report.html . A paper copy can be obtained by calling the Stanford Department of Public Safety at (650) 723-9633 or by sending an email to [email protected].

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How to Write Strong Essays for Stanford Law School

posted on January 7, 2016

“Please attach a statement of about two pages describing important or unusual aspects of yourself not otherwise apparent in your application.”

Here is a link to the Stanford JD application page.

This prompt is wide -open, but SLS gives you one clear direction: do not reiterate what is on your resume and in other parts of your application. You don’t need to re-state what the admissions officer already knows. Essays that run through a list of your accomplishments end up sounding boastful and boring.

Now that you know what not to do, how should you approach the question?

First of all, stop and take a deep breath. A personal statement is all about telling a compelling story. (Don’t believe me? Check out SLS Dean of Admissions Faye Deal’s blog post about the personal statement.) You can do this!

Here are a few questions to start brainstorming:

• When in your life have you felt entirely engaged in an activity, project, or cause? (This is just a less cheesy way of asking what you are passionate about.)
• Why do you want to go to law school? This can be a particularly helpful starting point if you can identify a key moment when you decided to become a lawyer. (If you are unsure of the answer to this, see our post on how to know if you should go to law school!)
• Thinking back on recent college or work experiences, are there one or two moments or stories that stand out in your memory as particularly meaningful?
• What is the most challenging obstacle or setback you have encountered? What did you learn from the experience?

These do not need to be monumental events. A story about a college athlete dealing with a sports injury can be a compelling tale of perseverance and commitment. A story about learning to play an instrument as a child can be a powerful tale about navigating family dynamics. Many applicants get paralyzed by the idea that you need to stand out from a crowd of thousands of other talented, smart people. This can seem impossible, especially if you are still in college. But remember that it is not your experiences that need to stand out; it is how you describe, analyze, and reflect on those experiences. Some people will have truly unique backgrounds in military service, work experience, or public service—great! But for everyone else, the challenge is to take a common experience and talk about it with an uncommon depth of reflection.

Notice that SLS does not ask: Why do you want to go to law school?

Most applicants will end up addressing this question, either explicitly or implicitly, but this does not need to be the guiding principle of your essay. If SLS wanted every applicant to write about this topic, they would ask for it. Instead, they ask: What makes you different? What is important to you? Focus on these two things. You can write a beautiful personal statement about your love of music or the value of being part of a team or the thrill of scientific discovery. Like many schools, SLS gives you two opportunities to demonstrate your thoughtful approach to complex issues. In addition to the broad personal statement, there is an optional diversity essay: “While admission to Stanford Law School is based primarily upon superior academic achievement and potential to contribute to the legal profession, the Admissions Committee also regards the diversity of an entering class as important to the school’s educational mission. If you would like the committee to consider how factors such as your background, life and work experiences, advanced studies, extracurricular or community activities, culture, socio-economic status, sex, race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation would contribute to the diversity of the entering class and hence to your classmates’ law school experience, you may describe these factors and their relevance in a separate diversity statement.” Some people are definitely admitted without submitting the additional essay. However, it is in your best interest to use every opportunity that you have to show SLS what you can bring to the school and to the practice of law.

Do not feel as though you must be a member of an underrepresented minority to write this essay!

SLS already knows a lot of demographic information about you based on the boxes you checked on the application form. They don’t need an extra essay to know your sex, race, ethnicity, etc. They do need an extra essay to know what you have learned from your life experiences—both those stemming from your identity as well as those stemming from your decisions—and how you will share that with your classmates. Your two essays should work together to demonstrate different aspects of your personality, experiences, and goals. Try to pick different themes for the two essays to avoid appearing one-dimensional.

Finally, read over your essays and make sure they are clear , well-written , and error-free .

Most lawyers spend a great deal of their careers writing, so a key element of any law school application essay is demonstrating that you have excellent writing skills.

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How to get into stanford law school - acceptance rates + tips.

Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 10/30/23

This ultimate guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to get into Stanford Law School, admissions requirements, writing the Stanford Law essays, and more. 

Source: Stanford Law School

The prestigious Stanford Law School is one of the most sought-after institutions for future lawyers. If Stanford is your dream school, we'll outline the requirements, how to write Stanford Law essays, and how to maximize your chances of acceptance. 

Stanford Law Acceptance Rate

The Stanford Law School acceptance rate is 6.88% . Stanford Law received 5,685 applications and offered admission to 357 applicants in a recent admissions cycle. 

How Hard Is It to Get Into Stanford Law School? 

It’s very difficult to get into Stanford Law School. In comparison to the national average acceptance rate, which is 41% , Stanford Law’s acceptance rate is exceptionally low. 

However, try not to get too hung up on the acceptance rate. A polished application will always boost your chances! 

For more insight into your acceptance odds, check out our free admissions quiz below to discover your chances of getting into Stanford Law !

Stanford Law School Programs Offered 

Alongside the traditional JD program , Stanford offers numerous law degree pathways at the graduate and doctorate levels to help you advance in your career: 

Stanford Law also offers joint degrees , including JD/Master’s, JD/MD, and JD/PhD in 21 subject areas. 

Stanford Law Ranking

Stanford Law School is currently ranked #1 in Best Law Schools in the nation by U.S. News, tied with Yale. It also ranks #5 in Above the Law’s top 50 list.

Other Stanford Law rankings include: 

• #1 in Intellectual Property Law
• #2 in Criminal Law
• #3 in Constitutional Law and Contracts/Commercial Law
• #4 in Business/Corporate Law
• #5 in Health Care Law

Based on these rankings, it’s clear to see that Stanford is a top-notch law school! 

Stanford Law School Admission Statistics

To increase your chances of getting into such a prestigious school, it can be helpful to look at the average GPA and LSAT scores of incoming students. You might also need law school admissions assistance , which our counselors can help you with. Check out some Stanford Law admission stats below.

Stanford Law School Average GPA: 3.9

Stanford Law School has an average GPA of about 3.9 , according to the average GPA scores of first-year students in the 50th percentile. If your sights are set on Stanford Law, your GPA should be as close to 3.9 or 4.0 as possible for your best shot at acceptance. 

Here is some more information regarding Stanford Law’s GPA scores: 

• 25th Percentile: 3.84
• 50th Percentile: 3.92
• 75th Percentile: 3.99

Based on these three data points, we can estimate that the Stanford Law School average GPA is approximately 3.9 (although it may be slightly higher or lower depending on all student GPAs). 

If you have a lower GPA , don’t lose heart. You may still stand a chance at getting in if you put together an incredible application. 

Stanford Law School Average LSAT Score: 173

The Stanford average LSAT score is approximately 173, based on the scores of the 50th percentile of incoming students. This means that to be a competitive applicant, you’ll need to study hard for the LSAT and achieve a similar or higher score.

Most of Stanford Law’s incoming class submitted LSAT scores for consideration: 

• 25th Percentile: 170
• 50th Percentile: 173
• 75th Percentile: 176

Stanford Law GRE

According to Stanford Law’s most recent ABA information report, the 50th percentile scores of admitted students for each GRE section are as follows: 

• Verbal Reasoning: 167
• Quantitative Reasoning: 165
• Analytical Writing: 5

If you’d like to compare the GRE and the LSAT, the ETS has an online tool to predict LSAT scores based on GRE scores. Using this tool, scoring 167 on each GRE section predicts a score of 173 (Stanford’s median score) on the LSAT. 

Stanford Law School Requirements 

You can apply to Stanford Law using the LSAC application. The Stanford Law admissions requirements are as follows: 

• $85 Application Fee
• Personal Statement
• Optional Diversity Statement

Optional Short Essays

• Two Recommendation Letters: 
• LSAT/GRE Scores
• Credit Assembly Service Report (CAS)

Your application is considered complete once you've fulfilled all of these Stanford Law requirements. 

Stanford Law School Letters of Recommendation

You’ll need to submit at least two and no more than four recommendation letters with your application. Stanford prefers academic recommendations, or you can substitute them with professional recommendations if you've been out of school for a while.

Stanford highly appreciates school-specific recommendations; we suggest finding at least one recommendation meant directly for Stanford. This will show the admissions committee that you put extra effort into your application. 

Stanford Law School Personal Statement

The Stanford Law personal statement is arguably your application's most critical qualitative element. The Stanford Law essay shows why you're an excellent candidate, demonstrates your motivations and passions, and provides an opportunity for admissions committees to learn more about you. 

Stanford’s personal statement prompt for the next application cycle is: 

“Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests, and character would help you make a distinctive contribution to Stanford Law School.” 

This may be a challenging prompt to answer because of its open-endedness. 

Take a look at the tips below to help your writing be more concise, creative, and compelling. 

Brainstorm to Get Ideas 

Brainstorming is a great way to start gathering some creative ideas that can be used to tell your unique story. You might want to jot down answers to some big questions like: 

• What was a defining moment in your life so far? 
• When did you realize you wanted to become a lawyer? How did you explore your interests afterward? 
• What are you most passionate about? 
• What major obstacle have you had to overcome in your journey? How did you move past it? 
• What is your greatest personal/professional accomplishment? 
• Was there ever a time you changed your perspective based on a new situation or information? 
• What’s something not discussed in your resume or the rest of your application that’s central to your story?

Your answers can help you pull out relevant events in your life before law school that can make a compelling application narrative. 

Answer the Main Questions 

While you may not explicitly answer these questions in your personal statement, your writing should show the Stanford Law admissions committee: 

• What facilitated your interest in law/how did you cultivate your interest? 
• What’s your motivation for applying to law school?
• Why is now the right time for you to go to law school? 

Show, Don’t Tell (Experiences, Qualities) 

Think about the traits you believe a good lawyer should possess. Are they fair? Compassionate? Knowledgeable? Whatever qualities you choose, try to identify experiences where you emulate them.

It's one thing to say you have a strong commitment to justice; it's another to show it. Remember, use your experiences to demonstrate qualities found in great lawyers! 

Quality Over Quantity, But Try to Have Some Chronology

There are many directions you can take a personal statement; there really is no "correct" way to write one. However, you should emphasize quality over quantity where you can; simply rehashing your resume with one experience after another doesn't make writing compelling. 

Quality experiences can include “life-changing and impressive personal experiences such as military service, outstanding extracurricular accomplishments, meaningful employment, significant leadership and success coping with adversity.” 

At the same time, try to have some chronology to your story: some applicants like to focus mainly on the past (their background, identity, and what inspired them to go to law school) or the present (their current projects, work, educational pursuits). Stellar personal statements mix past, present, and/or future!

Relate Your Statement to Stanford Law 

Although some law schools, such as Yale Law School, say there’s no need to make your personal statement school-specific, there is no statement like that on Stanford’s website. 

Ensure you do your research on Stanford Law: your penultimate or final paragraph can be a great place to show how Stanford will help you further your career and how you hope to contribute and explore if accepted. 

Stanford Law Optional Essays

In addition to the personal statement, you have the chance to write an optional essay responding to the following prompt: 

“At Stanford Law School, we value the ability to communicate constructively across differences – even when the stakes are high or the differences significant. Please discuss a time when you encountered a viewpoint that contrasted with your own and explain how you responded. Would you do anything different if the same thing happened today?” 

For this essay, it’s important to be genuine in your answer. Reflect on your past experiences and think deeply about how they have shaped you. Be honest about things you may have done or said in the past and discuss how you’ve changed. Stanford wants to see that you are open to self-reflection and growth. 

A quality that every good lawyer should have is the ability to see other perspectives and put themselves in others’ shoes. This prompt provides you with an opportunity to demonstrate empathy, humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn. 

You’ll also have the option to write some additional short essays. If you want to maximize your chances of getting into Stanford Law, you should take advantage of this opportunity! It will help the admissions committee know more about your personality and interests. 

Stanford Law tends to change its optional essay topics annually. The recent prompts are: 

1. You are given the chance to travel back in time. Think of your destination. Where, when, and why?

2. You're given the opportunity to teach a one-day class to your fellow students at Stanford Law School. Based on your particular skills and talents, what would you teach?

3. The library in the town where you grew up has been destroyed. Choose three books to contribute to rebuilding the library's collection.

4. Music has a way of setting the tone and mood for any occasion. With this in mind, pick three songs or musical works to be playing in the background as the Admissions Committee reviews your materials.

If you’re having trouble approaching these short essays, here are some tips to help you out: 

• Keep Your Writing Concise : Less is more! Your answers should only be between 100-250 words, so choose the most important information to share. 
• Choose Topics Wisely : The topics you choose to answer should connect to your application narrative in some way. Consider the overall theme of your application!
• Be Genuine : Don’t just write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. The best writing is honest, professional, and meaningful to you. 

Stanford Law School Tuition and Scholarships

The total tuition cost for a year at Stanford Law School comes to $71,610. However, including personal expenses, fees, and other costs, law students at Stanford can expect to pay about $114,417 per year. 

For more information about Stanford Law School’s tuition and fees, take a look at this cost breakdown: 

Stanford also offers medical insurance who students who require it, although it is waivable. If you would like to use the insurance, the annual cost comes to $7,128. 

Scholarships 

If you’re concerned about being able to afford the cost of Stanford Law, then you can take advantage of Stanford’s financial aid options . You can apply for several programs, including: 

• Yellow Ribbon Program
• Graduate Family Grant Program
• Flywheel Fund for Career Choice
• Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

You also have the option to get a job on Stanford’s campus to help pay for your schooling. 

Stanford Law School Application Deadlines 

The final application deadline for Stanford Law School is February 15, 2024. You’ll need to make sure all your application materials are in order well before that date. Be sure that you apply through LSAC and register for the CAS. 

These are the important dates you should know regarding Stanford Law School’s application deadlines : 

Source: Stanford Law

Stanford Law Bar Passage Rate: 94.41%

Stanford Law School’s first-time bar passage rate is 94.41% . This is exceptionally high and speaks to why Stanford is ranked as the best law school in the U.S.! 

How to Get Into Stanford Law School: Tips to Improve Your Chances

If you’re overwhelmed by all the work it’s going to take to apply, don’t worry. Here are some tips to increase your chances of admission to Stanford Law School .

• Put Effort Into Your Essays : Stanford values your application essays because it’s a chance for them to get to know you beyond your application materials. The Stanford Law blog urges students to tell a story , not just a “statement.” Think carefully about what to share and how to say it. 
• Study Hard : You’ll need high LSAT scores and an impressive GPA to have a good chance of admission. Make sure you study hard and create good habits! 
• Build Strong Connections : Recommendation letters are a valuable addition to your application if they come from a good source. Build strong relationships with professors and legal mentors to ensure high-quality recommendations. 

Make sure to follow these tips to get into Stanford Law School, and you’ll find the application process more manageable! 

What Does Stanford Law School Look For? 

In Stanford Law School’s own words, they are a school that is “ characterized by excellence .” This means that they value academic achievement and a passion for learning very highly. 

However, Stanford does use a holistic admissions process , meaning that they’ll take all aspects of your application into account. Don’t forget

How to Get Into Stanford Law School: FAQs 

These FAQs can provide more information about the school and how to get into Stanford Law School. 

1. What GPA Do You Need to Get Into Stanford Law? 

While there is no exact GPA that you need to gain admission to Stanford Law, you should shoot for an undergraduate GPA close to 3.9 - 4.0 for a stronger profile. 

2. How Do I Get Admission Into Stanford Law School? 

While there’s no surefire way to guarantee your acceptance, a high GPA, solid test scores, and a well-written personal statement can help you gain admission to Stanford Law. 

3. What LSAT Score Do I Need for Stanford Law?

While there are no exact LSAT score cutoffs, you should aim for an LSAT score between 173-180 to be a more competitive applicant. 

4. Does Stanford Law Accept the GRE? 

Yes, Stanford Law accepts GRE scores; however, you'll also need to submit your LSAT scores if you've taken the GRE and the LSAT. 

5. How Do I Improve My Chances of Acceptance to Stanford Law?

Beyond academic excellence, good writing skills, passion, and displaying your motivation for attending law school can help improve your chances. 

6. Does Stanford Law Have Rolling Admissions?

Yes, Stanford Law has rolling admissions . While the admissions committee reviews applications as they receive them, some applications are held until they can review all applicants. The second review occurs in April, although some students may be admitted as late as the summer before the cycle starts. 

Getting Into Stanford Law is Within Your Reach

Even if Stanford Law is one of your “reach” schools, admission is within your grasp. While admission is competitive, there are ways to ensure your application reaches the top of the pile. 

Remember to spend extra time on your personal statement, complete the Stanford law essays, and ensure your application is polished to perfection. Good luck with your Stanford Law application! 

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Stanford Law Personal Statement Examples

To apply to Stanford Law, one of the most competitive law schools in the US , you’ll need to leverage everything you’ve got, and looking at Stanford Law personal statement examples will help immensely in crafting one of the most noteworthy components of your application.

In this article, we will provide a quick overview of what goes into a personal statement, what the format should be for Stanford Law, and then provide some example statements for your perusal.

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Article Contents 10 min read

What to include in a personal statement.

Unlike with other admissions essays, in which you have law school admissions essay topics , the only topic in a law school personal statement is you. What you’re going to talk about is your story, how you came to be applying to law school, and what your aspirations and dreams are.

The objective of your personal statement is to introduce yourself to the admissions committee as a unique person. This is why you focus on your story – because anybody could have a similar law school resume or transcript to yours, but only you have your specific story.

You can focus on two or three main points or events in your life, taking yourself from your first inkling of wanting to be in law, to your current condition of applying to law school, and along the way talking about accomplishments you’ve had and lessons you’ve learned. These might take the form of law school extracurriculars , jobs, courses, or other growth events in your life, but you should choose only the best – the ones that give the clearest, most impressive picture of who you are.

You want to include anything that will make you fit in with Stanford Law in particular. While you don’t need to specifically mention Stanford, you should look out for any way you can synchronize your values or ambitions with those of your chosen school.

You will be following a standard essay format. When thinking about how to write a college essay , you can’t go wrong if you focus on three main areas: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Remember how to start a college essay : with a “hook” sentence – the opening statement that grabs the reader’s attention. Use something that forces the reader to keep reading, even if they didn’t have to as part of their job.
• The rest of the introduction sets up the body of the essay. Your introduction should quickly establish what you’re going to talk about next.
• The body of the essay contains one or two main ideas – don’t go beyond this, you don’t have the space – and drives forward to the conclusion.
• The conclusion wraps up the essay. You might want to talk about your career goals and aspirations here.

The best way to approach formatting your story is chronological. Other structures might work, but a chronological story is easier to write and easier to follow as a reader.

Example No.1

We almost lost everything, and I spent a large part of my high school days not knowing if my parents would have a job tomorrow. They are entrepreneurs and small business owners, and everything seemed great until they hired an employee I’ll call “John,” who caused them no end of trouble. John put so much effort into not working that he could have been a millionaire if he put the same effort into jobs. At the end of his employment with my parents, John got injured on the job and locked our family into legal battles for almost two years.

My dad stayed up late at night, looking over the legal documents. He didn’t understand them but looking them over made him feel a lot better. I was a night owl, so I was often right there with him, and at first, he didn’t really talk to me. But, as the nights went on, he started to talk to me about the documents and what was happening with the case. I think it was his way of venting stress. But for myself, I was fascinated by the documents, and I started to read them closely.

I discovered something strange: what should have been opaque to me – all the legal jargon – didn’t seem terribly impenetrable. So, I started to look up the terms I didn’t know and make my way through the case. This improbable incident started me on my journey toward law school. The law was something I was developing a passionate interest in, that I enjoyed reading about, and that was affecting me and my family on a deeply personal level.

At some point – I don’t even know how – I managed to work up the courage to ask our lawyer if he would mind talking to me about his job and what went into it. He agreed, although I think at first, he thought I was only interested in what was going on with my family’s case. Soon, he understood that what I wanted to know was everything, and he suggested that I shadow him for a couple of days to see what a lawyer went through on a day-to-day basis. I accepted with enthusiasm.

He showed me the nitty-gritty of the daily life of a lawyer, thinking I would be frustrated by the paperwork and how slow the law moved. I wasn’t. I was fascinated from end to end. Once, while discussing case law, I offered several insights I had obtained while going through my parents’ files at home. While these insights were hardly novel and had certainly not been overlooked by our attorney, he was impressed by my acumen and told me so. He wrote me a wonderful letter of recommendation to study pre-law in college.

As I progress in my college journey, I continue to be a bit of an anomaly. While many of my peers seem to seek the heady thrills of courtroom law, I am content to sit at a desk and scrutinize documents for the optimal strategies, precedents, and data necessary to operate as a lawyer.

I had a cruel introduction to the law, but it ended in the best possible way. Not only did my parents win their case against their former employee, but I also found a vocation in life that fascinates me endlessly, and for which I have an aptitude. It is rare to receive such a fine gift as a job you are truly excited about, but I say without reservation that I cannot wait to study law and start practicing. Ultimately, I want to work in the corporate sector and handle the complex cases that come along with any employers and businesses. This is how I first came to love the study of law, and it’s what I’m most passionate about pursuing.

Want to learn how to get into law school with a low GPA? Check out this infographic:

Example No.2

Pacing back and forth during a brief recess, I wasn’t sure where I could go next. I was due back in the courtroom at any moment, and I couldn’t seem to stop sweating. Perspiration cut down my temple like condensation on a water glass. I felt like I was made of water when I should be made of stone. The jury were implacable, unreadable – a team of twelve poker players, or so it seemed. I heard the bell, mopped my brow, and strode out to my desk to meet the rest of the trial.

The cafetorium had been outfitted with a judge’s bench, and I can still remember my buddy Rod sitting up there, playing the role of the court. He had joked that he wished we were holding a mock trial based on England’s justice system because then he could wear a powdered wig.

I was taking part in an ongoing program with my school during which we staged mock trials to get to know the legal system better and learn various aspects of the law, particularly trial law, as well as how to study for and present cases. All of this was in partnership with several local law offices, which generously donated time and resources to our school so that we could get the best possible legal education.

Most of the mock trials were based on high-profile cases, but we also had more obscure or completely fabricated cases so that we could experience a trial with less knowledge and fewer biases or preconceptions concerning what would occur. In this particular case, the trial that I was getting so sweaty over, it was a fabricated case about a shooting incident, and I was acting as prosecutor.

Mr. Thompson was my advisor. He came from a law firm called Gould and Partners, and if you didn’t know him professionally, you’d think Mr. Thompson was nothing but easygoing and jovial. In court, he was an absolute pit bull. Mr. Thompson was generous with his time and with giving me access to his work. I had sat in court several times as a member of the public and watched him work. Gone was the joviality, replaced by tenacity, and although never angry or inappropriate, Mr. Thompson was always direct and powerful whenever he took the floor.

I tried to channel this energy into my own trial, and as I walked from the recess room – which was really just the cafetorium’s supply closet – I locked eyes with Mr. Thompson at our desk, who nodded. Then, I went into my closing arguments.

In the days preceding the mock trial, Mr. Thompson had looked over the case I had prepared. He grilled me, just as if I was on trial, and made sure I knew the case inside and out.

“If you’re nervous,” he told me, “Just think back to all this prep stuff – the boring stuff, for most people – and remember that it isn’t paperwork. It’s stonework. This is your foundation.”

I swear I could feel those stones beneath my feet as my shoes clicked on the linoleum. That foundation was solid, and my arguments were delivered without another bead of sweat trickling down my forehead. I knew the case backward and forward; I had learned from experience with these mock trials to prepare thoroughly. It felt good and right, and when the jury returned a guilty verdict, Mr. Thompson shook my hand.

“This feeling never goes away,” he said. “You’re made of stone now.”

I was getting snowed under between work, school, and family life. My father had recently had an invasive operation performed, and while he was recovering nicely, he was frequently on my mind during my studies. It made any additional responsibilities unfeasible for me that year.

I was taking a Victimology course, and we had been assigned group projects. Our presentation was going to be on victim statistics, both in terms of how to accurately gather data and how to read those data to best serve future victims and prevent crime. This was a huge subject, and I was at first quite grateful to have the benefit of a team to rely on. It became apparent to me, however, that I could not rely on all team members equally.

It always seems to be the case that there is one team member who just isn’t as effective in their role in the group as the others are. In this case, I had a classmate named Stacy who was habitually late to meetings and who didn’t understand the material. Working with Stacy became a large hurdle on my path to becoming a lawyer.

My journey into law started back in high school when I got involved with every kind of club that I could think of and found that I most loved our model UN, debate club, and classes on political science and civics. This led me to a series of conversations with our career counsellor, who helped me choose law as a good career path for my skillset and interests. Along the way, I have dealt with all manner of hang-ups and problems.

My first major hurdle was the sheer amount of knowledge there was on the subject, and it often felt like I would never get it all sorted out in my head. Of course, there are so many different kinds of law to go into as well, which meant that there was a tremendous amount of potential information to learn. Through these experiences, I was forced to develop better study habits and better time management skills. I’m glad I did, too, because thanks to better scheduling, I have more time to continue getting involved in all kinds of clubs and activities, like student government, which I have been in since starting my undergrad.

However, all those obstacles were nothing compared to Stacy. My main problem here was that all other obstacles were about the amount of work there was to be done. I could improve my own study habits myself. I could employ my organizational skills to narrow down my legal readings and get all the information I needed. I could even grapple with problems in student government or in the debate club because I was up against or working with people who were as passionate as I was. Although it was hard, we all wanted the same things.

However, Stacy needed a different motivator because she just wasn’t as dedicated as we were; she was contemplating switching majors and wasn’t sure she would need victimology. Once I found that out, I had a conversation with her. It was friendly, over cups of tea in the cafeteria after a team meeting. I told Stacy that I liked to stay organized, and if she wanted to, I might be able to help. I helped her work through logical possibilities, which amounted to two real choices: drop the course or give it everything she had to help us. She elected to stay the course, work harder, and help us out. She committed.

I learned something invaluable through working with Stacy. It was a strange obstacle to encounter: trying to accomplish something with someone who isn’t on my wavelength. My attempt at mediation – calm, friendly, but professional – was a new way to approach adversity for me. I hope to build on that approach going forward, as I think it will be very useful when I am trying to be part of or lead a team at a firm, or when I am in negotiations with other firms and their clients.

 Stacy and I are still friends, my dad is fully recovered, and I’m on track to head into law school with the best experiences I could possibly have, showing that I have persistence as well – a much-needed quality of fine lawyers.

Stanford says that statements should be “about 2 pages” long. While you could go a little more than 2 pages, try not to fill 3 pages completely. In fact, in this case, less is more, and you should probably aim for a little less than 2 pages. This means that your personal statement will be, on average, 600–1,000 words.

Stanford doesn’t officially say, but most essays are written double-spaced, so you can assume double-spaced.

Yes. This isn’t a spelling test, but you won’t leave a good impression with bad syntax.

It’s not necessary, but you can. The statement is focused on you, personally, not Stanford, but it’s not off-limits.

Spend a good amount of time with it. A little time each day for 2–3 weeks is good, giving you time to write, re-write, edit, proofread, or use a law essay writing service to check your work.

Not formally, but every aspect of your application is part of the complete picture you give to Stanford, so take it as seriously as you would if it was graded. You may even wish to work with a law school advisor to ensure that this crucial component of your application is the best it can be.

Law school acceptance rates place Stanford as the second most difficult school to get into, at least in the US.

Not directly. You would need to contact Stanford and ask to make the correction.

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How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for Stanford Law School

Learn how to craft a standout personal statement for Stanford Law School with our expert tips and guidance.

Posted May 12, 2023

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Table of Contents

If you're thinking about applying to law school, you probably already know that the personal statement is one of the most important components of your application. It's your chance to make a strong impression on admissions committees and showcase your unique qualifications and background. In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of writing a compelling personal statement specifically for Stanford Law School. Follow our advice, and you'll be well on your way to crafting a standout personal statement that will help you get accepted to Stanford Law School.

The Importance of a Strong Personal Statement for Law School Admissions

Your personal statement is one of the few opportunities you have to make a strong impression on law school admissions committees. It's a chance to showcase your unique qualifications, experience, and perspective. A well-crafted personal statement can set you apart from other applicants, demonstrating your commitment to the law and highlighting the skills and qualities that make you a strong candidate for law school. Admissions committees use your personal statement to evaluate your written communication skills, your legal reasoning ability, and your fit with their institution.

One important aspect to consider when writing your personal statement is the tone you use. It's important to strike a balance between being professional and personal. You want to demonstrate your passion for the law, but also show that you have the maturity and professionalism required to succeed in law school and in the legal profession.

Another key element to include in your personal statement is your future goals and aspirations. Admissions committees want to see that you have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve with your law degree and how their institution can help you reach those goals. By outlining your future plans, you can demonstrate your commitment to the field and your potential as a future lawyer.

Understanding the Stanford Law School Personal Statement Prompt

The Stanford Law School personal statement prompt asks applicants to describe how their background, achievements, and perspectives would contribute to the Stanford Law School community and legal profession. This prompt invites you to reflect on your unique experience, and explain how it makes you a good fit for Stanford Law School. In your personal statement, you should demonstrate your passion for the law, your commitment to social justice, and your ability to communicate effectively.

It is important to note that the Stanford Law School personal statement is not just a summary of your resume or academic achievements. Admissions officers are looking for a deeper understanding of who you are as a person and what motivates you to pursue a career in law. Therefore, it is recommended that you use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points and showcase your personality. Additionally, make sure to proofread your personal statement carefully and have someone else review it as well to ensure that it is clear, concise, and error-free.

Crafting a Unique Story: Tips for Choosing the Right Topic

The key to a memorable personal statement is to choose a unique topic that showcases your personality, experience, and perspective. Your topic should highlight the qualities that make you a strong candidate for law school, such as resilience, leadership, or problem-solving abilities. Think about the experiences that have shaped your personal and professional journey, and choose a topic that allows you to tell a compelling story about your background and aspirations.

One way to brainstorm potential topics is to make a list of significant moments or challenges in your life. These could be personal, academic, or professional experiences that have shaped your values and goals. Once you have a list, reflect on each item and consider how it has influenced your decision to pursue a legal education. You may find that a seemingly small moment or decision has had a profound impact on your path to law school.

Structuring Your Personal Statement: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion

Your personal statement should have a clear and logical structure. The introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide some context for your story. The body of your statement should develop your topic in detail, using examples from your experience to illustrate your qualifications and perspective. The conclusion should summarize your main points and leave the reader with a strong impression of your passion and commitment to the law.

When structuring your personal statement, it is important to keep in mind the overall message you want to convey. Your statement should not only showcase your qualifications and experience, but also highlight your unique perspective and personality. This can be achieved by incorporating personal anecdotes and reflections throughout your statement.

Additionally, it is important to tailor your personal statement to the specific law school you are applying to. Research the school's values and mission statement, and incorporate these into your statement. This will demonstrate your interest in the school and your ability to contribute to its community.

Show, Don't Tell: Using Specific Examples to Illustrate Your Qualifications

It's not enough to simply describe your qualifications and experience in generic terms. Instead, use specific examples to illustrate your skills, qualities, and achievements. This will bring your story to life and help the reader understand why you're a strong candidate for law school.

For example, instead of saying "I have strong communication skills," provide a specific example of a time when you effectively communicated with a difficult client or resolved a conflict through clear communication. This not only demonstrates your skills but also shows that you have practical experience using them.

In addition, using specific examples can also help you stand out from other applicants who may be using similar language to describe their qualifications. By providing unique and memorable examples, you can make a lasting impression on the admissions committee and increase your chances of being accepted into your desired law school.

Avoiding Common Mistakes: Tips for Editing and Proofreading Your Personal Statement

Before submitting your personal statement, make sure to proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors. Edit for clarity, concision, and flow. Try to read your statement with fresh eyes, as if you were an admissions committee member evaluating it for the first time. Get feedback from friends, family members, or writing tutors to make sure your statement is clear, engaging, and error-free.

Another important aspect to consider when editing and proofreading your personal statement is to ensure that it aligns with the requirements and expectations of the program or institution you are applying to. Take the time to research the program and its values, and tailor your statement accordingly. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills that demonstrate your fit for the program. Additionally, make sure to follow any specific formatting or length requirements provided by the institution. By doing so, you can increase your chances of standing out as a strong candidate for admission.

The Role of Diversity in Law School Admissions and How to Highlight Your Unique Perspective

Law schools value diversity, both in terms of demographic background and perspective. In your personal statement, take the opportunity to highlight the unique perspective you bring to the table, whether it be based on your cultural background, life experiences, or career goals. This will help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool and demonstrate your commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

Moreover, diversity in law school admissions is not just about meeting quotas or checking boxes. It is about creating a learning environment that reflects the real world and prepares future lawyers to serve a diverse client base. By admitting students from different backgrounds and perspectives, law schools can foster a more inclusive and equitable legal system.

However, highlighting your unique perspective in your personal statement does not mean playing up stereotypes or exoticizing your background. Instead, focus on how your experiences have shaped your values, skills, and goals, and how they align with the mission and values of the law school you are applying to. Be authentic, specific, and reflective, and show how you can contribute to the law school community and the legal profession as a whole.

Overcoming Writer's Block: Strategies for Generating Ideas and Getting Past Writer's Block

Writer's block is a common problem when writing a personal statement. If you're struggling to come up with ideas, try brainstorming, freewriting, or talking aloud about your experiences and goals. Don't worry about producing perfect prose right away - just focus on getting your ideas down on paper, and refining them later. Remember, writing is a process, and it's okay to take breaks and come back to your statement with fresh eyes.

Another strategy for overcoming writer's block is to change your environment. Sometimes a change of scenery can help stimulate your creativity and get your ideas flowing. Try writing in a different location, such as a coffee shop or park, or even just rearrange your workspace to create a new perspective.

It's also important to remember that writer's block is a natural part of the writing process. Don't be too hard on yourself if you're struggling to come up with ideas or if your writing isn't perfect. Instead, try to embrace the challenge and use it as an opportunity to grow and improve your writing skills.

The Power of Authenticity: Writing a Personal Statement That Reflects Your True Self

The most compelling personal statements are those that reflect your true self and personality. Don't try to write what you think admissions committees want to hear - instead, focus on being honest, genuine, and authentic. This will help you connect with your reader and demonstrate your commitment to your values and goals.

Standing Out in a Competitive Applicant Pool: Tips for Making Your Personal Statement Memorable

There are thousands of applicants to law school every year, so it's important to make your personal statement stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is to use memorable anecdotes, vivid description, or a unique structure to capture your reader's attention. Show your passion for the law and the difference you want to make with your legal degree.

Crafting a Strong Closing Paragraph: How to Leave a Lasting Impression on Admissions Committees

Your closing paragraph is your last chance to leave a strong impression on admissions committees. Use this opportunity to summarize your main points, reiterate your passion for the law and commitment to social justice, and leave the reader with a strong final impression. Consider using a call to action or a memorable quote to make your statement stick with the reader long after they've finished reading it.

The Dos and Don'ts of Writing a Personal Statement for Stanford Law School

To wrap up our guide, here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind as you write your personal statement for Stanford Law School. Do focus on your unique qualifications, achievements, and perspective. Do show, not tell, using specific examples to illustrate your qualifications and experience. Do edit carefully for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Don't use cliches or generic statements. Don't write what you think admissions committees want to hear - focus on being authentic and genuine. And don't forget to demonstrate your passion for the law and your commitment to making a difference in the world through your legal training.

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