Pre-Law Resources
Early OutreachThe American Indian Law Center, Inc. invites advisors, students, parents, and tribal education departments to use these tools to help clarify the law school admission process, especially for undergraduate students. AILC is proud to offer support and guidance to those embarking on the journey to law school, no matter where they are on that path. We recognize that the journey to law school can be complex and intimidating, and we aim to equip students with the knowledge, resources, and confidence they need to fulfill their aspirations. These resources are available for students early in their academic careers to cultivate interest in legal professions.
Middle & High School Pre-Law Timeline
Accessible guides for middle and high school students that outline essential legal skills and habits to cultivate before college. Includes resources.
College Pre-Law Timeline
Structured, clear guides for students and advisors outlining key milestones from early undergraduate years through the application process. Includes resources.
College Pre-Law Timeline
American Indian and Alaska Native pre-law opportunities, resources and financial support by school level.
Non-Traditional Pre-Law Students
We understand that your path to law school may be unique. The AILC is here to provide the support and resources you need for your success. Whether you have significant work experience, are returning to school after a break, balancing family responsibilities with your studies, or pursuing a career change, we encourage you to connect with AILC staff for personalized guidance and support. We can help you navigate the complexities of law school and address any questions you may have. We invite you to review the College Pre-Law Timeline as a starting point to learn what you need to complete your law school application. We are committed to helping you achieve your legal goals.
Middle School & High School Timeline
Middle School
- Discuss your goals with your parents and academic middle school advisor.
- Start reading books that interest you.
- Keep a creative or academic journal to enhance your writing skills.
- Develop your study habits by setting a consistent time for class assignments and staying organized.
- Get involved in student organizations.
- Prepare for high school by reviewing the course catalog and speaking with your academic advisor about courses that will prepare you for college.
High School
Tip: Establish a mentor who can provide academic and career advice in the legal field.
9th Grade
- Talk to your academic counselor about your career interests.
- Focus on improving your writing skills.
- Take electives that enhance your logic and analytical skills.
- Establish habits for academic success by attending class on time, completing your homework, and submitting assignments punctually.
10th Grade
- Start researching colleges and universities.
- Speak with your academic advisor about financial literacy.
- Learn about the college admission process.
11th Grade
- Research and participate in summer internships or volunteer opportunities to build your resume.
- Take the SAT or ACT, so you have the option to retake them in your senior year if needed.
12th Grade
- Concentrate on your writing, particularly your personal statement for academic scholarships.
- If you plan to attend college the semester after graduating from high school, start on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application early.
College Pre-Law Timeline
Freshman Year
- Grades count in the law school admissions process. Start your journey with good grades.
Sophomore Year
- Consider registering for formal logic and writing classes.
- Begin saving for Law School Admission Test (LSAT) prep materials.
- Build positive relationships with your professors and employers because you will need recommendation letters.
Junior Year
- Meet with your school’s pre-law advisor to discuss the law school application process.
- Order LSAT prep materials or register for a prep course. Check the Law School Admission Council’s (LSAC) Law Hub for free assistance with test prep.
- Start researching law schools.
- What are the application deadlines? How much is tuition?
- Consider attending open house events, scheduling an interview with admissions staff, or attending a law school class.
- Sign up for the June LSAT (allow yourself time to take it again before November).
- Submit your application to the Pathway to Law Workshop (sponsored by the Native American Pathway to Law Initiative).
Senior Year
- Become familiar with your LSAC JD Applicant Account. This is the same account you will use to register for the LSAT and build your law school application and profile.
- Work on your personal statement, update your resume, and draft any supplemental statements.
- Give professors and employers plenty of time to complete recommendations.
- Make sure to choose individuals who are familiar with your writing, work ethic, and ability to rise to a challenge.
- Research scholarships.
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application opens in August and can be completed via mobile app.
- Visit an LSAC law school forum.
- Submit law school applications as early as you can to be a competitive candidate. Aim for October.
- Contact the Pre-Law Summer Institute for American Indians and Alaska Natives.
American Indian & Alaska Native Pre-Law Opportunites & Resources
Middle School & High School
Pre-Law Resources
Youth Justice Alliance
(Texas and Oklahoma Residents)
Paid, four-summer legal experience for aspiring first-generation lawyers in high school.
Native Youth Community Adaptation and Leadership Congress
NYCALC develops future conservation leaders with the skills, knowledge, and tools to address environmental change and conservation challenges.
College
Pre-Law Resources
Pre-Law Summer Institute
Learn about the 8-week summer program that prepares American Indians and Alaska Natives for the rigors of law school and provides access to continued support throughout law school and the bar exam.
Native American Pathway to Law Initiative
Sign- up for the next set of pre-law advising workshops designed for Native American pre-law students and connect with mentorship opportunities.
Udall Foundation: Civility, Integrity, Consensus
Native American Congressional Internship
Make a commitment to a career related to Tribal public policy or supporting Tribal communities. This community of 12 Native American and Alaska Native college, graduate, and law students live and work in Washington, D.C., during the summer.
Law Chool Admission Council (LSAC)
Get help preparing for the law school application process! Sign up for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and find resources to help you choose a law school and prepare for the LSAT.
Max Baucus Institute
(For Montana-based colleges and universities)
Baucus Leaders – Max S. Baucus Institute
Students with an interest in environmental policy and climate issues can apply to be placed in senate and congressional offices in Washington, DC, during this paid internship.
Financial
Resources
Native Foward Scholars Fund
Scholarships for Native Students: Find the scholarship that will support you and your education.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Colleges and career schools use the FAFSA form to determine how much financial aid you’re eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
Indigenous Education, Inc.
Cobell Scholarships