Law

In the United States, students apply for law school admission after they have received a four-year bachelor’s degree (either a B.A. or B.S.) in a major of their choice. Following diverse paths to prepare themselves for law school, successful students come from all walks of life with diverse experiences and different courses of study. Students attend law school for three to four years and, when they complete their studies, most earn a juris doctor (J.D.) degree and then take a written bar examination in the state(s) or regions(s) in which they wish to practice law.

Some common undergraduate degrees of students currently in law schools are political science, history, English, philosophy, psychology, criminal justice, and business. Many IU South Bend students also take a certificate or minor in paralegal studies, which further prepares them for law school admission and the legal profession. These, and many other majors and minors, help develop students’ analytical and communication skills, including critical thinking, reasoning, writing and oral communication—all important skills for success in law school.

To be admitted to law school, students must have a strong undergraduate cumulative grade point average and an acceptable score on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). The very best schools will only accept the top students.

Indiana University has two law schools: Indiana University School of Law-Bloomington and Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis; each has its own admissions requirements. Application forms for admission are available at:

Office of Admissions | Indiana University School of Law-Bloomington | 211 S. Indiana Avenue | Bloomington, Indiana 47405-7001

Office of Admissions | Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis | 735 West New York Street | Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5222

Students interested in law school should obtain additional information about law schools from the Pre-Law Handbook published by Bobbs-Merrill and prepared by the Association of American Law Schools and the Law School Admission Test Council.

For pre-law advising, student should call the Department of Political Science to make an appointment.