Alternative Paths to Approaching Law School

When considering law school many students consider going through college to get a Bachelor’s degree in 4 years and then applying to law school. While this is typically the case, alternative timelines are available to obtain a law degree. This includes 3+3 programs or taking a gap year.

3+3 Programs

When trying to complete 2 degrees in as little time as possible, a college with a 3 + 3 program is a valuable option. Colleges with a 3+3 program allow students to complete their Bachelor’s in 3 years with direct admission to the school’s corresponding law school (typically students within a 3+3 have to score above a certain threshold on the LSAT.) Taking 6 years to complete 2 degrees instead of 7 benefits students by using what could have been funds for a 4th year of undergraduate on the 1st year of law school.

Taking a Gap Year

An option for students not set on rushing through higher education is taking a gap year between being an undergraduate and being a 1L (1st-year college student.) During this time students do many things: travel, work, or even prioritize LSAT studying. This option may be good for students who feel burnt out after completing their Bachelor’s. It also allows students to gain more life experience before applying to law school, which may work in your favor for law school applications.