How to Get Into Law School With a Low GPA

Can You Get Into Law School With a Low GPA?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to gain admission to law school with a low GPA. While academic performance is important, law schools—especially those with holistic admissions—also consider other factors such as LSAT scores, personal statements, professional experience, and recommendation letters.

What Is a "Low GPA" for Law School?

A GPA below 3.0 is typically seen as low, especially when compared to the median GPAs of top law schools, which range from 3.6 to 3.9. However, some ABA-accredited schools regularly accept students with GPAs in the 2.5 to 3.2 range—especially when applicants compensate with stronger elements elsewhere in their application.

Why GPA Isn’t the Whole Story

Law schools understand that numbers don't always tell the full story. Personal challenges, nontraditional academic paths, or initial academic struggles can all impact GPA. The key is demonstrating growth, potential, and motivation through the rest of the application.

10-Step Guide: How to Get Into Law School With a Low GPA

1. Score Above Average on the LSAT

The LSAT is the single most influential factor in your application after your GPA—and for applicants with a low GPA, it becomes even more critical. A high LSAT score (generally 160+) can significantly offset a GPA below 3.3.

Action Tip:

• Take official LSAT practice tests weekly
• Use analytics to track weak sections
• Consider professional LSAT prep tutoring for accountability

2. Craft a Focused, Strategic Personal Statement

Your personal statement should highlight your reasons for pursuing law and demonstrate how your experiences have prepared you for legal education. If you struggled academically, use your statement to frame your development and growth—without turning it into an apology.

Action Tip:

• Focus on your goals and what you bring to a law school cohort
• Emphasize skills like leadership, problem-solving, and communication
• Use a professional tone and proofread thoroughly

Here are more tips on how to make your law school application stand out!

3. Use a Law School Addendum to Explain Key Issues (If Necessary)

A law school addendum is an optional short statement that explains extenuating circumstances (e.g., illness, family responsibilities, traumatic events) that affected your academic performance.

Action Tip:

• Keep the tone factual, not emotional
• Avoid blame or excuses
• End on a note of resilience and improved performance

4. Highlight an Upward Grade Trend

Admissions committees appreciate evidence of academic improvement. If your later years in undergrad show a strong trend (e.g., moving from a 2.5 to a 3.6 GPA), be sure to emphasize that in your resume, personal statement, or addendum.

5. Choose Strong Academic & Professional Recommenders

Letters of recommendation can validate your potential. Choose individuals—especially faculty or supervisors—who can speak in detail about your growth, work ethic, analytical thinking, or ability to succeed in a rigorous environment.

Action Tip:

• Provide each recommender with your resume and a brief outline of your goals
• Give them 4-6 weeks' notice
• Follow up with a thank-you message and update on your progress

6. Get Relevant Experience in Legal or Policy Work

Law-related experience demonstrates commitment to the field and reinforces your suitability, even if academics weren’t your strongest area.

Examples include:

• Internships at law firms
• Paralegal work
• Volunteering for legal aid organizations
• Roles in compliance, public policy, or advocacy

Action Tip:

Use this experience in your resume and statement to show how you’ve already started building the foundation for a legal career.

7. Consider Graduate-Level Coursework

Completing post-baccalaureate coursework or enrolling in a graduate program (e.g., public policy, political science, criminal justice) with strong academic performance can signal that you're academically prepared for law school.

Action Tip:

Choose writing- or analysis-heavy courses that mirror law school rigor. Aim for a 3.7 GPA or above in any new academic program.

8. Apply to Law Schools With Holistic Admissions

Not all law schools weigh GPA and LSAT equally. Some schools use a holistic approach to admissions, placing more value on professional maturity, service, and character.

Examples of holistic-review law schools:

• CUNY School of Law
• Thomas Jefferson School of Law
• Appalachian School of Law
• New England Law | Boston

Action Tip:

Check ABA 509 reports to review median GPA/LSAT stats before applying. Reach out to admissions officers for clarity on what they prioritize.

9. Submit Applications Early in the Cycle

Most law schools use rolling admissions, which means that seats are filled as applications are received. Submitting early—ideally by November—gives your application a better shot.

Action Tip:

Create a timeline to complete all application materials at least 6 weeks before your earliest deadline. Use a checklist to track school-specific requirements.

10. Apply Strategically to a Range of Schools

Applying broadly increases your odds of admission. This means applying to more than just the easiest law schools to get into. Be sure to categorize your schools into:

• Reach schools – where your GPA/LSAT are below median
• Target schools – where your stats are within the median range
• Safety schools – where you exceed the median

Action Tip:

Use LSAC’s Official Guide or check law school acceptance rates to build a realistic list.

Final Thoughts

A low GPA may present a challenge, but it does not disqualify an applicant from law school. By leveraging a high LSAT score, strategically crafting application materials, gaining relevant experience, and targeting the right programs, applicants can significantly improve their chances of admission.

The key is to present a cohesive and compelling narrative of readiness, growth, and commitment to the legal profession—supported by objective accomplishments and a thoughtful application strategy.

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To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting