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MASTERS OF STUDIES IN LAW ADMISSIONS

Deadlines

  • Domestic applicants should apply six weeks before intended date of enrollment.
  • International applicants should apply six months before intended date of enrollment.

Late applications

The University of Akron School of Law Masters of Studies in Law Program will process applications received after the suggested deadlines, however, cannot guarantee admission consideration for the intended date of enrollment.

For applicants not seeking a degree

We welcome applicants seeking non-degree admission. You should follow the same application process as those seeking a degree. Proof of an earned baccalaureate degree is required.

The University of Akron School of Law Masters of Studies in Law Program requires that all students applying for non-degree admission provide proof that they hold the equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree. Non-degree applicants may provide such proof in the form of a transcript reflecting baccalaureate degree conferral or a copy of the diploma. Letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, etc. are not required under this admission type.

Admission validity

Admission is valid for one year from the term reflected in the letter of admission. Applicants may defer admission to a later semester within the one-year timeframe unless otherwise specified in the admission letter. The offer of admission is null and void should the applicant not register within one year.

ELIGIBILITY

Are you eligible to apply to the Masters of Studies in Law?

What's required:

1. Bachelor's degree: A minimum of a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree or international equivalent from an accredited institution.

2. Transcripts: Submit official transcripts by mail from all previous institutions. International students have additional transcript requirements.

What is an official transcript? An official transcript is a university's certified statement of your academic record. The official paper transcript is printed on security sensitive paper and contains the university seal and signature of the University Registrar. The official electronic transcript is a PDF secured by a digital certificate from an approved transcript service provider. Personal copies of academic records will be considered unofficial. These copies may be submitted, pending receipt of the official transcript. If the final transcript does not reflect the degree earned (including the date awarded), certification must be provided in the form of a diploma or a letter from the Registrar certifying this information.

Domestic transcripts — The University of Akron School of Law requires an official transcript from each institution that you have attended or are currently attending. Applicants are required to submit all undergraduate, graduate, and professional academic records.

Official transcripts should be confidential and provided in a sealed envelope by the respective university/college Registrar. Official electronic transcripts from an approved transcript service provider will be accepted. Approved Third-Party Transcript Service Providers: National Student Clearing House, Parchment Exchange, and RapidRequest.

Current UA student applicants are not required to provide official transcripts from The University of Akron.

International transcripts and degrees — An official transcript (mark sheets/academic record) and degrees (diplomas) from all institutions that you have attended or are currently attending must be received by the University of Akron School of Law. Transcripts should provide a year-by-year listing of all courses taken and the grades earned. Original academic records in languages other than English must be accompanied by an exact English translation and certified by the school, U.S. embassy/consulate, or other legal certifying authority. Transcripts should be confidential and provided in a sealed envelope by the responsible university/college officer.

Official transcripts of all college level work completed outside of the U.S. may be sent to a credential evaluation service for evaluation. The transcript evaluation must be a course-by-course evaluation that identifies and describes each diploma or certificate with periods of education and equivalency of each document.

Preferred evaluation service: World Education Services (WES).

3. English language proficiency. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

  • Required scores on the TOEFL IBT (internet based test) are a 102 and 610 for the PBT (paper based test). Register for the TOEFL.
  • Required score on the IELTS is a 7.5. Register for the IELTS.
  • TOEFL/IELTS waivers will not be granted for international/non-native English speaking students.

HOW TO APPLY

Follow these instructions to apply

You may start your studies in either January (spring semester) or August (fall semester). Applications should be submitted as follows:

  1. Download and complete the MSL Application.
  2. Submit completed application with the following materials:
    1. Resume. Your resume should summarize your education, work experience, any publications and other relevant credentials and accomplishments.
    2. Personal Statement. Your personal statement should explain in detail your interest in the MSL program at The University of Akron School of Law and how the MSL will enhance your professional growth. Please also include any information that demonstrates your ability to succeed in graduate level coursework, including, but not limited to, work/life experiences. Your personal statement should not exceed two pages in length (typed and double-spaced).
    3. Official transcripts from every prior university/college attended.
    4. Two letters of recommendation (optional).
    5. English fluency. For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL/IELTS score that demonstrates English fluency. TOEFL/IELTS waivers will not be granted for international/non-native English speaking students.
    6. Standardized test scores (optional). Applicant may submit scores from previously taken GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT, or similar test, if desired.
  4. Before submitting, double check the information you have entered into the form, and make sure all attached files are correct.

  5. Application and all materials can be submitted electronically to misty@uakron.edu or by mail to the address below:

    Misty D.  Franklin, M.A.Ed.
    Director of Online Education & Masters of Studies in Law Program
    The University of Akron School of Law
    C. Blake McDowell Center, 111
    Akron, OH 44325-2901

  6. Please refrain from immediately sending follow-up email messages or making phone calls to confirm receipt of your application. Regardless of how you submit your application, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application within one week of submission.