About Pre-Law Advising
Welcome to the Pre-Law resources page for UNC Chapel Hill students! Our Pre-Law advising program offers support for every step of your journey to law school, from exploring legal careers to navigating the application process.
Here, you’ll find self-service tools and resources to help you make informed decisions and actively prepare for law school, including information on UNC’s law-related clubs, essential skills for aspiring law students, LSAT prep, and guidance on crafting a strong application.
With our range of self-directed resources and hands-on support, you’ll be well-equipped to build a compelling law school application and a successful path to a legal career.
Exploring Pre-Law
To help you get started on your journey to law school, here are essential resources that offer valuable insights into legal careers and the application process:
Law School Admission Council (LSAC): Access comprehensive information on law school admissions, including an application timeline, LSAT resources, and the LSAC Law School Admission Guide.
Vault Law Guide: An in-depth guide to legal careers, specialties, and what to expect from different paths within the field of law.
These resources are designed to help you build foundational knowledge, explore various legal paths, and start your journey toward a successful law school application. Please make sure that you’ve reviewed these resources prior to meeting with our Pre-Law Advisor.
Want to receive our Pre-Law monthly newsletter?
Simply add “Legal & Law Enforcement” as an industry of interest to your Handshake profile to be added to our listserv.
In the “Looking For” section at the top of your profile, click the Pencil icon to add interests.
Then in the “Industries” section, search for Legal & Law Enforcement. Don’t forget to click “Save” when you’re done!
Top Priorities for Pre-Law Undergraduates
Regardless of your major, you can successfully prepare for law school by focusing on a few key priorities. Law schools seek well-rounded candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, so the choice of major is less important than developing strong analytical, research, and communication skills.
- Academic Excellence: Strive for high GPA in challenging coursework.
- Relevant Skills Development: Highlight critical thinking, research, writing, and public speaking.
- Hint: Peruse the UNC Course Catalogue to help identify classes that can help you build these skills — they don’t have to be law-related to be useful!
- Experiential Learning: Internships, research assistantships, and job shadowing.
- Networking: Connect with alumni and professionals in law.
- Early LSAT Prep and Planning: Begin early preparation and familiarize yourself with timelines.
Top 10 Skills for Pre-Law Students
Developing key skills can help you excel in law school and beyond. Here are the top skills for aspiring law students, from analytical thinking and research proficiency to resilience and problem-solving, with each skill offering a strong foundation for success in the legal field.
Explore Essential Pre-Law Skills
The ability to critically evaluate complex information, identify patterns, and form logical conclusions is essential for interpreting cases, legal precedents, and arguments.
Strong research skills are key for uncovering and synthesizing relevant information from legal documents, statutes, and case law to build compelling arguments.
Clear and persuasive communication, both in writing and speaking, is crucial for drafting legal briefs, presenting arguments, and engaging with clients and colleagues effectively.
Balancing rigorous academic coursework, internships, and personal commitments requires excellent time management and organizational skills to meet deadlines and maintain productivity.
Law students and lawyers must navigate complex ethical dilemmas and adhere to a strong moral compass while advocating for justice and fairness.
Law often involves teamwork, whether working on cases, participating in moot court, or collaborating with colleagues. Effective teamwork ensures the best outcomes for clients and projects.
Meticulous attention to detail is critical for reviewing contracts, analyzing legal documents, and avoiding costly errors in arguments or filings.
The ability to adapt to challenges, overcome setbacks, and remain focused in high-pressure situations is key to thriving in law school and legal practice.
Confident and persuasive public speaking skills are essential for presenting cases in court, delivering arguments, and participating in debates or mock trials.
Lawyers often resolve complex issues for their clients. Developing innovative solutions while considering legal, ethical, and practical implications is vital for success.
UNC-Chapel Hill Pre-Law Clubs & Organizations
Getting involved in pre-law clubs and organizations is a great way to explore your interest in law, develop relevant skills, and build connections with peers who share similar career goals. Below are links to active pre-law groups at UNC you can join through Heel Life, including the UNC Pre-Law Club, Mock Trial Team, UNC Debate Team, PAD: Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Co-Ed Fraternity, and more.
Year-By-Year Checklists
Planning for law school doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting to explore legal careers or getting ready to apply, our year-by-year checklists help you stay on track with personalized goals, practical steps, and UNC-specific resources.
Each checklist includes five key action items tailored to your stage—plus tips on how to gain experience, build legal skills, and connect with the UNC community.
Pre-Law FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is “pre-law” at UNC Chapel Hill?
Pre-law is not a major or program of study. It’s an advising track for students who are considering law school after graduation. You can pursue any major and still be “pre-law.”
What majors do law schools prefer?
Law schools do not prefer any specific major. Instead, they look for rigorous coursework, strong writing and analytical skills, and a record of academic success—regardless of discipline.
When should I start preparing for law school?
It’s never too early to explore the field of law! Most students begin actively preparing in their junior or senior year, but many start researching earlier. Use our Year-by-Year checklists above for ideas on how to get started!
Should I take a gap year before law school?
Taking one or more gap years is a common choice, but it’s not required. Many students benefit from time to gain work experience, build financial stability, or clarify their career goals. Others choose to apply directly from undergrad. Law schools admit strong candidates from both pathways—what matters most is that your application reflects readiness, purpose, and experience that supports your decision to pursue law.
What experiences should I pursue to strengthen my application?
Law schools value:
- Meaningful employment and/or public service work
- Research, writing, and critical thinking experience
- Internships in legal or advocacy settings
- Leadership roles and community engagement
Do I need to take the LSAT?
Most U.S. law schools require the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). However, some schools now also accept the GRE. Check each law school’s policy before deciding which test to take.
What is a competitive LSAT score?
The LSAT is scored from 120–180. A score of 160+ is often considered competitive for many schools, while 170+ is typical for top-14 (T14) programs. But your score goal should align with the schools you’re interested in.
What GPA do I need for law school?
There’s no universal cutoff, but a strong GPA (3.5+) is important, especially for competitive programs.
How do I connect with UNC alumni in the legal field?
Use:
- Career fairs and law school info sessions
- Student organizations with alumni panels
Where can I get help with my personal statement?
We offer support through:
- University Career Center Pre-Law Advising Appointments (via Handshake)
How do I request letters of recommendation?
Ask professors or professionals who know your work well and can speak to your writing, research, and analytical abilities. Request letters early (at least 6–8 weeks in advance).
Can I study abroad and still be pre-law?
Yes! Study abroad experiences can strengthen your global awareness and communication skills—both valued by law schools.
Pre-Law Appointments for Application Support
UNC Chapel Hill offers personalized coaching to guide you through each step of the law school application process, with appointments available for LSAT strategies, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and more. Please review this page before your appointment to familiarize yourself with key resources and preparation steps; this will allow us to maximize our time together by focusing on your specific goals and unique path to law school.
What to Expect in Your Coaching Appointment:
Personalized Planning: We’ll discuss your individual goals, timelines, and strategies tailored to your unique strengths and experiences.
Targeted Feedback: Come prepared to dive into specific areas, whether it’s refining your personal statement, identifying schools that align with your profile, or creating a focused LSAT study plan.
Actionable Next Steps: Each session will end with a clear set of actions to keep you on track.
LSAT Prep Resources
Preparing for the LSAT is a critical step in your law school journey, and starting 6-12 months in advance can set you up for success. Below are recommended resources, courses, and practice tools to help you create a study plan and build confidence for test day.