Create your LSAC JD account

Visit the Law School Admissions Council website to create your account and assemble your application using its Credential Assembly Services (CAS).

Take the LSAT or another accepted test

Applicants must submit scores from a standardized test. The LSAT is the preferred exam and offered multiple times through the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC).

You should take the test no later than February of the intended enrollment year, but earlier is recommended. Scores older than five years are not accepted. LSAT scores are used to determine admission and scholarship eligibility.

LSAT testing alternatives

• You can submit a GRE instead of an LSAT, but Iowa Law does not currently grant admissions scholarships to applicants without an LSAT.
• Current University of Iowa students are eligible to submit GRE, GMAT, ACT, or SAT scores instead of LSAT through the Kinnick Law Program. 

Gather letters of recommendation

Applicants must submit at least two letters of recommendation as part of their application to Iowa Law. You should ask individuals who can speak to your critical thinking skills, writing ability, and potential for success in law school. Consider references from those who supervised or evaluated your academic or professional work, like a college instructor or work supervisor.

Iowa Law uses the LSAC Letter of Recommendation Services, included with your Credential Assembly Services (CAS) subscription. Log in to your LSAC account to submit.  

Submit your transcripts

You must submit an official transcript from every college or university you have attended to LSAC through your CAS account. If you are accepted and enroll at Iowa Law, you will need to submit your official transcripts showing degree conferral to the University of Iowa Office of Admissions.

Complete your personal statement

Use your personal statement to share your story, goals, and motivations for pursuing law school. The admissions committee will use your statement to better understand why you want to pursue a JD and your strengths beyond test scores and transcripts.

Think about highlighting qualities or experiences not fully reflected in your LSAT score, undergraduate GPA, or letters of recommendation.

In crafting your narrative, consider one or more of these questions:  

• Why do you want to study law?  
• Why are you interested in Iowa Law?
• How would you contribute to our law school community? To the legal profession?
• Describe any life experiences that demonstrate your drive, determination, motivation, and leadership. 

Review your character qualifications

In addition to passing the bar exam, all U.S. jurisdictions require applicants to meet character, fitness, and other qualifications for bar admission.

Before applying to law school, it is recommended that you research the specific requirements of the jurisdiction(s) where you plan to practice. These may include background checks, disclosures, and evaluations of personal and professional conduct.