A law degree carries some serious kudos, so it stands to reason that getting a place on a law course can be a bit of an artform.
We spoke to Mark Kane, deputy head of admissions at The University of Law, to get some expert advice on making your application stand out.
Choosing the right course
Your first step is to make sure your application is focused, so you’re applying to places where you’ve got a good chance of getting an offer.
First up, take a look at what’s out there. Doing your research will help you understand what each course and institution can provide.
“Thoroughly research each provider, taking into account factors which are important to you,” says Mark.
“Is there a particular strand of law that you are already passionate about, that you would like to specialise in?
“If so, try using the course search page at Ucas to see what institutions offer that particular pathway.
“Once you have a list of providers, make sure you visit their websites to read through exactly what content is covered as part of the course to see if this meets your expectations.”
For more help with this, read our article on choosing your ideal law university.
Check the entry requirements
Plenty of universities offer law courses, so you’ll find a wide range of entry requirements. Some might require you to pass the LNAT – a test that measures verbal reasoning and analysis skills.
Other universities might require you to have studied specific subjects.
If entry requirements look too steep, don’t just cross your fingers. Some providers, including The University of Law, offer four-year courses with a foundation year.
“These courses have lower entry requirements and typically do not require any specific subjects to be studied,” says Mark
“Some universities may automatically consider you for their foundation option should you not have the requirements for the main three year course.
“Therefore, when applying, do consider whether the course does have a foundation year and remember that these are excellent opportunities and routes into studying the main degree course.”
Plan your personal statement
With your courses picked, it’s time to craft your application. Your personal statement will be at the heart of this.
“The personal statement is not an exam and universities are not looking to see how much specific knowledge you already have on the subject matter,” says Mark.
“We are instead looking to see how committed you are to studying that subject matter and your reasons for wanting to study it.”
So, although showing interest is important, backing up that interest with some solid examples is key.
“It is the reasons behind where this interest and passion comes from, that we particularly want to know,” says Mark.
“Use the personal statement as an opportunity to not only convey your passion for the subject, but to demonstrate to institutions that you have thoroughly researched the courses you are applying for.”
Don’t forget any work experience that you may have, or academic experiences from outside the classroom.
“If you do have some relevant work experience or have particular instances within school or college such as being a part of a law society [or taking] a school trip to a court, please do make sure you include these,” says Mark.
Get ready for your interviews
Before making you an offer, some unis might invite you for an interview, which could be online, face-to-face, or perhaps in a group setting.
“We appreciate many applicants find interviews very daunting, [but] try not to be too nervous,” says Mark. “Institutions are not looking to catch anyone out.
“Instead, interview settings are just another method used to get to know you individually and find out about why you want to study law.”
Being prepared will help you make a good impression at any interview. Mark advises thinking about why you want to study your chosen course and being ready to discuss your experiences that have driven that choice. Think ahead, too.
“You may also be asked about your future prospects such as what you would like to do upon graduation or what you feel you can bring to the programme,” says Mark.
Having picked your courses carefully, spent time on writing a strong personal statement and potentially visited universities for interviews, you’ll be well placed to start getting some offers for law. All that remains is to decide which to accept.
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