One of the most common questions we hear from prospective students is: “When should I submit my law school application?” The short answer is ... it depends! Each law school has its own deadlines and processes, and understanding these timelines is a critical step as you plan your application strategy. Below, we break down key considerations to help you decide when to hit “submit” and ensure your application makes the strongest possible impression.

Does the school offer “Early Decision” (ED)? 

ED programs allow for both early application and - as the name implies – an early admissions decision. Most ED programs are “binding”’ which means that when you are admitted through a school’s ED program, you are committed to that school and must submit your seat deposit to secure your spot. If admitted, you are required to withdraw all pending applications from other law schools. ED programs have “hard” deadlines. A hard deadline means that all your application materials must be submitted by a given date. As the name implies, “hard” deadlines are not flexible, and applications completed after that deadline will normally be deferred for consideration in the regular (non-ED) process. Early Decision programs are intended for applicants who are fully committed to attending a specific law school as their top choice. ED may not be the best option for those who wish to compare offers or rely on scholarship considerations in their decision-making.

Are there other types of hard deadlines?

Other law school admissions programs and processes may also have “hard” deadlines. Law schools without rolling admissions usually have firm “hard” deadlines and will generally not consider applications received past those dates.  Normally, a ‘deadline’ refers to the date that the full and completed application is received by the school, not necessarily the same day you submit the application. So, you need to build in sufficient time to gather all the appropriate and required documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation.  

 Additionally, admission to designated programs and/or access to scholarship funding and other financial aid may be tied to "hard" deadlines.  For example, application to the Seton Hall LEO (Legal Education Opportunities) program is required by April 1 (this is a firm “hard” deadline).  Be sure to read and understand what is expected of you.  Often, scholarship funding can become limited or even unavailable after deadlines have passed.  

What does "rolling admissions" mean? Is there a deadline?

Many law schools offer “rolling” admissions. As the name implies, rolling admissions programs admit students on a “rolling” basis. Applications are reviewed as they are submitted. Most schools with rolling admissions will have a “priority” or preferred deadline. Priority deadlines signify a date after which your opportunity for admission may be less competitive. Since rolling admissions programs admit students in a rolling process, there can be real risks associated with submitting a late application, specifically after the priority deadline.

Seton Hall Law has a rolling admissions process with a priority deadline of April 1.

The bottom line?

Apply when your application is at its strongest, but don’t lose sight of those important deadlines. Submitting earlier is usually better… but only if your materials are polished and complete. Rushing to submit before you’re ready can hurt more than help. Remember, your application is a reflection of you in the admissions process. If it feels rushed or incomplete, admissions committees are likely to notice. Just like in a job interview, you only get one chance to make a first impression-make sure your application reflects your absolute best.