It’s easy to get started
To begin your application process with Iowa Law, create an account with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
From there, there are several steps to take before submitting your application through the LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Learn more about Iowa Law’s admissions deadlines and considerations.
Key dates and deadlines
Fall
Sept. 1: Applications open
Oct. 1: FAFSA opens
November: Last LSAT for best scholarship opportunities
Winter
December: Apply by early December for best access to scholarship opportunities
January: Last suggested LSAT for admissions
Spring
April 1: $250 first deposit due for students accepted before March 15
May 1: Application deadline
Summer
June 1: $150 second deposit due
Mid-August: Mandatory orientation before classes begin
Admissions considerations
At Iowa Law, we believe each applicant is unique. That’s why we read every application in full, looking beyond just numbers to understand your full potential.
While your GPA and LSAT scores are important, our “numbers-plus” approach means we also consider:
- Academic or professional strengths not reflected in your GPA
- Graduate-level or post-baccalaureate success
- Law-related and professional work experience
- Public service and extracurricular involvement
- Leadership roles and life experiences
- Overcoming adversity and personal growth
We’re looking for future lawyers who will thrive in law school, lead in their communities, and enrich the Iowa Law experience for everyone.
Rolling admissions timeline
We review applications year-round on a rolling basis. Here’s what to expect:
- Applications open: September 1
- Review begins: Mid-fall
- Note: Some applications may take longer or be waitlisted into late spring or summer
Timing matters: Apply early
While the final deadline is May 1, we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible—even if you haven’t taken the LSAT yet.
Applying by early December offers key advantages:
- More space available in the entering class
- Time to address any application issues
- More flexibility to weigh your options
- Greater access to scholarships
Post-graduation employment information for international students
International applicants need to be aware of post-graduation employment challenges in the U.S.
For international students coming to study in the United States on F-1 and J-1 visas, obtaining employment after graduating from law school can be very challenging. U.S. immigration laws do not provide F-1 or J-1 visa holders with long-term work authorization after graduation, and the College of Law cannot provide sponsorship for employment-based visas for our graduates.
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) are therefore advised to make careful and concrete plans for their post-graduation employment, taking into account the limitations imposed by U.S. immigration law.
The College of Law carefully reviews all applications from international students and will discuss long-term, post-graduation employment plans with any applicants who are not U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents. Your personal statement should address questions including what you intend to do with your U.S. law degree.
Meet our team
Tom Ksobiech
Ready to apply?
Make sure you have all of your materials and are ready to submit through the LSAC.