As state policies in certain states make higher education more accessible and affordable for undocumented students, many have gone to pursue graduate and professional degrees. One such option is a law degree, also known as the Juris Doctor (J.D.), which typically takes three years to complete.
Immigrants Rising published a new resource in September 2021, Law School Resource Guide for Undocumented Students: Getting to Law School, that compiles the experiences and advice of undocumented individuals who have gone through the law school process. The guide provides an overview of the application. admissions, and financial aid processes for law school, with a focus on immigration-specific considerations. It was developed by bringing together the shared experiences and knowledge of many immigrant and first-generation students, including undocumented and DACA recipient students.
Table of Contents (within the resource):
- Introduction;
- Overview of the Application Process;
- Frequently Asked Questions;
- Deciding Whether to Attend Law School;
- Application Components;
- LSAT;
- GPA & Undergraduate Major;
- Personal & Diversity Statements;
- Resume, Work & Extracurricular Activities;
- Letters of Recommendation;
- Credential Assembly Service (CAS) & Application Fees;
- Character & Fitness Statements;
- Optional GPA/LSAT Addendum;
- Financial Aid & Scholarships;
- Choosing Which Law Schools To Apply To (And Attend);
- Pre-Law Programs Open to Individuals Regardless of Immigration Status;
- Acknowledgements;
- About Us.
Find more resources here for institutions seeking to recruit, enroll, and support undocumented graduate and professional students, as well as for undocumented students seeking to pursue graduate or advanced degrees.
