How We Evaluate Applications

At Yale Law School, we are looking for a talented, diverse, and exciting group of students. In order to find them, we take all the information available to us into account. This means that no one factor, such as grades or LSAT scores, will be dispositive. We consider everything—including your essays, recommendations, activities, awards, work experience, and background.

The Review Process

Each application file is first reviewed by the Dean of Admissions. The strongest files are then considered by at least three faculty file readers. Faculty rate files based on their own criteria, and the relative weight to be given to various factors is within each file reader's discretion. On the basis of the faculty ratings, we admit candidates and establish a waiting list.

LSAT Scores and GPA

We treat applications the way we treat each student: as an individual. Accordingly, we do not use a formula or index to weigh various factors, nor do we have a GPA or LSAT score cutoff.

Applicants frequently ask us about the average LSAT scores and GPAs of our students.  Please look at our Entering Class Profile for this information.