• Seton Hall University
• Pre-Professional Advising

Law schools seek well-rounded applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, critical thinking, and a clear commitment to the legal profession. At the Pre-Professional Advising Center (P-PAC), we guide students through every step of their undergraduate preparation—academics, experiential learning, and community engagement—ensuring that students are competitive applicants ready to excel in law school and beyond.

Academic Excellence

Maintaining a strong GPA is essential, as academic performance is a significant factor in law school admissions. It is important to choose a major you are passionate about, as genuine interest often translates to higher academic success. While the American Bar Association (ABA) does not recommend any specific undergraduate major, students should select courses that challenge and strengthen their skills in writing, research, and critical thinking. Law-related electives can also provide a solid foundation in legal terminology and concepts.

P-PAC works with students starting as early as their first year to develop an academic plan that aligns with law school expectations and builds a strong application portfolio.

Be sure to check out our 3 + 3 Law Programs!

LSAT Preparation

A standardized test is a critical component of the law school application process. While some law schools now accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) remains the primary and most widely accepted test for admission to ABA-accredited law schools.

• The LSAT is designed to assess essential skills for law school success, including: »

  • Reading and understanding complex texts

  • Organizing and analyzing information

  • Drawing logical inferences

  • Critical thinking

  • Evaluating arguments and reasoning

• At P-PAC, we help students navigate LSAT preparation by: »

  • Recommending a timeline to register and sit for the exam

  • Introducing students to the test format and content

  • Assisting with study strategies and planning

  • Providing access to resources, workshops, and study sessions

Additionally, LSAT scores often play a role in merit-based scholarship awards, making strategic preparation essential.

Building Relevant Experiences

Law schools look beyond grades and test scores - they value applicants who bring diverse experiences, leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to their communities and future profession.

P-PAC encourages students to engage in activities that build a robust application, such as:

• Internships (courts, law firms, government agencies, public interest organizations)
• University activities, including student government and the Mock Trial team
• Legal writing and blogging projects
• Research opportunities (especially writing-intensive)
• Community service and civic engagement
• Leadership and teamwork roles
• Shadowing legal professionals
• Externships in various legal environments

There is no single “right” activity that law schools expect. Instead, they seek applicants who are engaged, reflective, and able to balance academic responsibilities with meaningful extracurricular and professional experiences.

Your involvement will be highlighted in your resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, providing a holistic view of your qualifications and readiness for law school. P-PAC advisors work with students to ensure these experiences are thoughtfully integrated into their application narratives.