Applying
Duke Law School attracts many of the best and brightest applicants from across the country and around the world, and admission is highly competitive. Most of our applicants have graduated at the top of their undergraduate classes and possess a clear record of achievement in other areas, such as community service, business, graduate study, or extra-curricular activities.
Duke Law School seeks a broad diversity of students in terms of general background, geographic history and undergraduate institutions attended. We take special care when evaluating applications to achieve a representative balance from all groups, taking into account careful consideration of all of the information we seek of our applicants.
Applicants are encouraged to submit applications no later than January 1. Applicants may apply for one degree program only, and that choice must be indicated on the application. The application review process begins on October 1 and continues until the class is full. In recent years, most offers of admission were made prior to March 1, meaning that applicants who present a completed file for admission by mid-January have a distinct advantage. Applicants who take the LSAT no later than June and complete their application by November 1 will qualify for early admission consideration.
To receive an admissions viewbook, which also contains the application, please request a brochure. Word and PDF versions of the application are also available. (Adobe PDF Reader software is required to view and print PDF format.)
Alternatively, you may complete an online application and submit the two-page form electronically. Please note that this online application does not allow you to partially complete the form and return later to make revisions.
You may also use the LSACD to submit material. This method will allow you to print out and submit a paper copy or you may use the LSAC online clearinghouse. Please note that we must receive the hard copy material from LSAC before we will consider material as received.
No matter the application option you choose, please read carefully the application procedures from our website or hard copy brochure. If you choose to submit your application electronically, you will be required to print out and submit additional material separately. Include your name and ssn on all material submitted. If you have any questions, please email admissions@law.duke.edu.
LLM and SJD Degree Application Options
Duke Law also offers SJD and one-year LLM programs for international lawyers.
Transfer/Visitor Student Policy
Each year, depending upon availability, Duke Law School accepts a limited number of transfer/visitor students. Most successful applicants rank in the top one-quarter of their class at a law school with membership in the Association of American Law Schools. Transfer students must complete two years of study at Duke Law School. The deadline for transfer applications is July 1. Submit your request via email for a transfer/visitor application.
Visiting Duke Law School
We welcome applicants to visit the Law School, to experience a class, mingle with students and faculty and tour the campus and surrounding area. Student-guided tours are available during most of the fall and spring semesters. Self-guided tours are available year round. To schedule your visit, please contact us at 919-613-7020, or admissions@law.duke.edu. No tours or visitation will be offered on weekends or holidays.
Fall Semester Tours mid September - mid November
Spring Semester Tours
late January - mid April
