Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?
We strongly encourage you to use the Law School Admission Council service and apply electronically at lsac.org. You can request a paper application by contacting us via email (lawadmissions@fordham.edu) or by calling our office (212-636-6810).

When are applications accepted?
Our application opens on September 15 and closes on March 15. Please note that we are rolling admissions and review files as completed.

How much is the application fee?
The application processing fee is $70.

Can I receive an application fee waiver?
Fee waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis. Please submit your request directly to our office by email (lawadmissions@fordham.edu).

Transfer and visitor applicants are ineligible for an application fee waiver.

Can I apply to the full-time day and part-time evening programs at the same time?
No. You can apply to only one program per admissions cycle. If your original application is declined, you may submit a written request to be reconsidered for the alternate program.

What LSAT scores qualify me for consideration?
All applicants are required to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Candidates applying for admission to the 2020 entering class as regular applicants may submit LSAT scores earned on or after June 2015 but no later than March 2020.

Does Fordham have an early action program?
Fordham has an early action program for the full-time day and part-time evening programs; however, it is not binding. To qualify for early action consideration, you must submit your completed application, including your valid LSAT score, by October 15. You will be notified by December 15 as long as your file is completed and ready for review. To guarantee a decision by December 15, you must take the LSAT by the September 2019 test date.

Does Fordham have spring enrollment start?
No. We enroll for a fall semester start only.

Is a personal statement required?
Yes. It can be written on a topic of your choice and should not exceed two pages, double-spaced.

Do you require letters of recommendation?
Yes. We require at least two letters, which should be sent along with your application via lsac.org.

When can I expect to be notified about my application?
Fordham makes decisions on a rolling basis. The committee endeavors to notify applicants of decisions within six to eight weeks after the completion of the application. Applications received on or around University calendar breaks will take additional processing time.

What are the median LSAT and GPA for admitted students?
Our 2018 entering full-time students had a median LSAT of 164 and a GPA of 3.6. Our 2018 part-time students had a median LSAT of 161 and a GPA of 3.48.

Does Fordham offer applicant interviews?
No. Due to our large applicant pool, we are unable to offer evaluative interviews. However, the Office of Admissions has an open-door policy where applicants can stop in anytime during normal business hours to meet with an available Admissions Officer.

Where can I find the bar admissions requirements?
In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.

How does the application reconsideration process work?
If you receive an unfavorable decision on your application, you can request a reconsideration. Please submit your request in writing via email (lawadmissions@fordham.edu) and indicate the division for which you would like to be reconsidered. The reconsideration process will begin in June, with notification usually sent the first week of August.

Does Fordham accept transfer and visiting students?
Yes. Applications for transfer and visiting students may be submitted from March 15 to June 30. Transfer and visiting applications are considered starting at the end of June, and applicants will typically receive a decision by the first week of August. Students wishing to visit for the spring semester must submit their application by December 15. Transfer or visiting student applicants should visit our website (law.fordham.edu/admissions) for detailed application instructions.

Does Fordham offer tours of the Law School campus?
Yes. We offer self-guided tours during normal business hours throughout the year (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.) as well as guided tours starting in late September when school is in session. For more information on the visitation schedule, please see our calendar on the admissions home page (law.fordham.edu/admissions).

Does Fordham offer housing to students?
Yes. Students may apply for rooms in McMahon Hall on the Lincoln Center campus. The Law School also has access to apartments on the west side of Manhattan. Please visit the web page on Residential Life (law.fordham.edu/gradhousing) for more information.