Harvard Law School (HLS) is one of the most prestigious law schools in the world. With a competitive acceptance rate of around 10-15%, gaining admission requires excellent academic credentials, a strong LSAT score, and a compelling application.
If you dream of attending Harvard Law, this guide will walk you through the admission requirements, application process, and tips to increase your chances of acceptance.
1. Understand Harvard Law School Admission Requirements
Harvard Law looks for well-rounded applicants with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a commitment to law and justice.
a) GPA and Academic Excellence
Harvard Law admits students with high undergraduate GPAs, typically around 3.8 to 4.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- While no minimum GPA is required, a GPA below 3.7 makes admission highly competitive.
- A strong academic record in law-related subjects (political science, history, economics) can be an advantage.
b) LSAT or GRE Score
Applicants must submit either LSAT (Law School Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores.
- LSAT Score: Harvard Law’s median LSAT score is 173-175 (out of 180).
- GRE Score: If you choose to submit a GRE score, aim for above the 90th percentile in both the verbal and quantitative sections.
c) Work Experience & Extracurricular Activities
- Many admitted students have 2-5 years of work experience in government, law firms, or nonprofit organizations.
- Harvard values applicants who have demonstrated leadership, advocacy, public service, or research experience.
d) Letters of Recommendation
- Harvard requires two to three recommendation letters from professors or employers.
- Strong letters should highlight academic excellence, leadership, and legal aptitude.
e) Personal Statement
- A compelling personal statement should explain your motivation for studying law, career goals, and personal experiences that shaped your decision.
- Avoid generic essays—tell a unique, personal story that reflects your passion for law.
f) Diversity and Unique Backgrounds
- Harvard values diversity, so students from different ethnic, social, and professional backgrounds have an equal chance of admission.
- Unique experiences like military service, activism, or global work can strengthen your application.
2. Harvard Law School Application Process
a) Take the LSAT or GRE
- The LSAT is offered multiple times a year, and most students take it at least 6-12 months before applying.
- A high LSAT or GRE score significantly improves your chances of admission.
b) Register with LSAC & Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
- All applications go through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and CAS.
- CAS compiles your transcripts, recommendation letters, and LSAT scores into one file.
c) Prepare & Submit Your Application
Harvard accepts applications through the LSAC website. Your application includes:
✔ LSAT/GRE scores
✔ Academic transcripts
✔ Letters of recommendation
✔ Personal statement
✔ Resume (highlighting work experience and extracurriculars)
✔ Optional diversity statement
d) Application Deadlines
- Harvard’s application opens in September and closes in February.
- Early applications (before November) have a higher chance of admission.
3. How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Harvard Law
a) Aim for a High LSAT Score
- Harvard’s median LSAT is 173+, so scoring above 170 greatly improves your chances.
- Take LSAT prep courses, use practice tests, and start preparing at least 6 months in advance.
b) Maintain a Strong GPA
- If your GPA is below 3.7, compensate with a high LSAT/GRE score and strong recommendations.
- If you’re still in college, focus on achieving top grades in your remaining semesters.
c) Gain Relevant Work or Internship Experience
- Harvard favors students with real-world experience in law, government, public policy, or activism.
- Intern at law firms, courts, legal organizations, or NGOs to strengthen your resume.
d) Write a Unique & Personal Statement
- Share a compelling story about why you want to study law at Harvard.
- Highlight life-changing experiences, legal interests, and career aspirations.
- Make your essay memorable and engaging—avoid generic statements.
e) Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
- Choose recommenders who know you well and can write detailed, persuasive letters.
- Professors, mentors, or employers in law-related fields are ideal recommenders.
f) Apply Early
- Submitting your application before November increases your chances.
- Early applications show strong interest and commitment.
4. How Much Does Harvard Law School Cost?
Tuition & Fees
- Tuition: $72,000 per year
- Additional expenses (books, housing, living): $25,000+ per year
- Total cost: Approximately $100,000 per year
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Harvard Law offers need-based financial aid, including:
✔ Grants (no repayment needed)
✔ Low-interest loans
✔ Public service loan forgiveness programs for students entering government or nonprofit jobs
5. Life at Harvard Law School
a) Academic Environment
- Harvard Law has a rigorous and intellectually challenging curriculum.
- First-year students take foundational courses like Contracts, Criminal Law, and Constitutional Law.
b) Extracurricular Activities
- Harvard Law Review (prestigious student-run legal journal)
- Moot Court and Mock Trial competitions
- Legal clinics offering real-world experience
c) Networking & Career Opportunities
- Harvard Law graduates work at top law firms, government positions, and international organizations.
- 98% employment rate within 10 months of graduation.
Conclusion
Getting into Harvard Law School is highly competitive, but with a strong GPA, excellent LSAT/GRE scores, compelling essays, and relevant experience, you can increase your chances of admission.
Start preparing early, apply strategically, and highlight your unique qualities in your application. Harvard Law offers an unparalleled legal education, opening doors to top law firms, government positions, and international careers.