The University of Maine School of Law utilizes the following criteria to evaluate all applicants.
The threshold consideration is academic readiness. It is assessed through the following:
- Undergraduate performance
- A challenging course of study
- LSAT and timed writing sample
- Personal statement and supporting addenda
- Letters of recommendation.
Should the candidate meet those criteria, the following are considered:
- Professional experience and achievement
- Life Experience
- Writing ability
- Trend of undergraduate grades.
In addition, we are deeply committed to creating a diverse community of scholars and students. Therefore, diversity is an overarching priority for the admissions committee. Socio-economic status, career background, overcoming adversity, and other experiences that will enrich classroom discussions are all considered. This diversity is a critical factor in student growth.
The Admissions Committee relies upon the criteria below to assess applicants to Maine Law:
- Academic readiness, as demonstrated in your undergraduate and graduate course of study, your LSAT exam, your timed writing sample, addenda, and personal statement, and your attention to detail throughout your application.
- Maine Law Community Impact, as demonstrated through your personal statement, addenda to your personal statement, letters of recommendation, and interactions with the members of the Maine Law community.
- Motivation, as demonstrated through your personal statement, addenda to your personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Applicants who have been disqualified previously from legal study for academic reasons must have an “affirmative showing that the prior disqualification does not indicate a lack of capacity to complete its program of legal education and be admitted to the bar.”