University of Houston Law Center – Law School Frequently Asked Questions
General Admissions Questions
What do I need to apply?
You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and a current LSAT score or GRE score, the UH Law Center application, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a list of extracurricular activities and/or a resume. Applicants educated in the U.S. must also register with CAS. Exception for: 3+3 Undergraduate/Law Dual Degree Program and Houston Law Express.
When is your deadline?
The regular decision deadline is March 15 (full-time) and May 15 (evening). Early decision deadline is November 15 for both programs. Early submission is recommended.
Do you offer spring admission?
No. All entering 1L students begin in the fall.
What undergraduate major should I pick?
Any major is acceptable. Choose something you enjoy and that builds writing skills. Exception for: 3+3 Undergraduate/Law Dual Degree Program.
When should I take the LSAT?
Full-time applicants: no later than February (later considered space-available). Part-time applicants: no later than April; June considered space-available.
How long is my LSAT score valid?
Five years.
How does UHLC consider multiple LSAT scores?
We consider the highest score. All scores are reported to us by CAS.
Do I need to register with CAS?
Yes. All applicants must register with CAS. Foreign transcripts must use LSAC JD Credential Evaluation Service. LSAC.org
When should I apply?
Applications open September 1. We review completed files on a modified rolling basis.
What is the difference between early decision and regular decision?
Early decision (completed by Dec 15) receives a decision by late February. Regular decision: full-time by mid-May; evening by mid–late July. Early decision is not binding.
What if my grades or LSAT are below the median?
UHLC admits below the median. Strong personal statements, letters, and resumes help.
What is the lowest LSAT you will accept?
No minimum. Typically the lowest accepted is mid-140s. Median is 161.
What is the lowest GPA you will accept?
No minimum. Typically ~2.50 is the lowest accepted. Median is ~3.7.
Will you look at my graduate grades?
Yes, but undergraduate GPA carries more weight.
Other than grades and LSAT/GRE, what do you look for?
The personal statement is very important. Use it to demonstrate experiences, challenges, and strengths (not to restate your resume).
How long should the personal statement be?
2–3 pages, double-spaced.
Do you have provisional admissions?
No.
Does age affect my application?
No. Non-traditional applicants may highlight life experiences.
I have committed a crime. Can I take the bar?
Felony: must wait 5 years after sentence completion. More: Texas Board of Law Examiners.
Residency Questions
How many out-of-state students do you accept?
Non-resident enrollment is limited to 35%.
How tough is it to be accepted as an out-of-state student?
Residency is not considered in admission decisions.
How is residency determined?
Depends on duration of residency and employment. More info: UH Residency Requirements Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
Financial Aid & Scholarship Questions
How do I apply for financial aid?
Complete the FAFSA starting October 1 at studentaid.gov. Aid is awarded once admitted.
How do I apply for scholarships?
Automatic consideration for Dean’s Scholarships. UHLC Scholarship Information
Letters of Recommendation Questions
Are letters of recommendation required?
Yes. At least two, up to three.
How and where should letters be submitted?
Through the CAS letter of recommendation service. LSAC.org
Should the letters be sent to UHLC directly?
No. Only CAS submissions are accepted.
Notification of Status Questions
Will my file be reviewed before it is complete?
No. Review begins only after the CAS report arrives.
What if my address changes?
You must notify the admissions office.
When will I be notified?
Rolling decisions; all sent by mid-May.
If I am not accepted early decision, will my file be reviewed again?
No. Early and regular decision use the same process.
My application is waitlisted. What now?
Waitlist review runs late May–mid June and into summer. Waitlist is not ranked. LOCIs must be submitted via LSAC portal only. Additional materials may be emailed to lawadmissions@uh.edu.
Can I switch from part-time to full-time?
After completing the first-year curriculum, you may petition to change programs if space allows.
What is your deferment policy?
Case-by-case review. Submit a written request to the Assistant Dean for Admissions.
Foreign Student Questions
I am an attorney in another country. Do I need a J.D. to take the Texas bar?
Requirements depend on prior licensing, years practiced, and country. Texas Board of Law Examiners
Transfer and Visiting Student Questions
How difficult is it to transfer to UHLC?
Competitive. First-year grades, class rank, school rigor, and reasons for transfer are considered.
Can I take classes at UHLC if I am not enrolled there?
Visiting students from ABA-accredited schools may attend with permission from their home school.
Can I audit a class?
Licensed Texas attorneys may audit. Contact Student Affairs.
Joint Degree Program Questions
What joint degrees do you offer?
J.D./M.B.A., J.D./M.A. History, J.D./M.S.W., J.D./M.D. (Baylor), J.D./J.D. (Calgary), and J.D./LL.M.
How do I get into a joint degree program?
You must apply to and be admitted by both participating programs.
