Columbia Law School students have many different strengths, but they all share certain key qualities: They are curious and resourceful, committed to excellence, and motivated to effect change and serve as leaders in their fields.
Accordingly, the Law School takes a holistic approach when assessing applications. We look beyond the quantitative criteria of test scores and grade point averages and focus on the unique contributions each applicant can make to our community. And because diversity of all kinds deeply enriches the Columbia student body, our admissions process is designed to be inclusive, seeking applicants with varied backgrounds and life experiences, which are integral to the social and intellectual life of our community.
For regular admission: applications for the fall 2023 entering class will open on September 1, 2022, with a deadline of February 15, 2023 for regular decision applicants. Learn more about the application process and see important deadlines via the above links.
New Application Component: Video Statement
Beginning with the 2023 transfer admission cycle, Columbia Law School is launching a pilot video statement feature as part of the application process. The video statement will allow applicants to provide the Admissions Committee with additional insight into their personal strengths and academic or other achievements. Through the video statement, the Admissions Committee may understand better the motivations behind the candidates’ professional and academic goals. This is an exciting step in the admissions process because it allows applicants to personalize their candidacy in a new way and serves as an important enhancement to the holistic review process that is essential to candidate selection at Columbia Law.
For more information, please explore the application process for Regular Decision, Early Decision, and Transfers.