8+ Sample Request Letter Law School Writing Checklist
When applying to law school, a well-crafted request letter can make all the difference in showcasing your skills and passion to the admission committee. A comprehensive law school writing checklist is essential to ensure your letter stands out from the competition. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how to write a compelling request letter, along with 8+ sample letters to inspire you.
Anatomy of a Professional Letter
- Header (Name, Address): Include your name and address in the top-left corner of the page.
- Date: Write the date you’re submitting the letter.
- Recipient’s Details: Address the admission committee or the specific person reviewing your application.
- Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and express your interest in the law school.
- Main Body: Highlight your achievements, skills, and experiences that make you a strong candidate.
- Closing Paragraph: Express gratitude and reiterate your enthusiasm for the program.
- Signature: End with a professional closing and your signature.
Key Considerations Before You Write
- Research the law school and tailor your letter to their specific program.
- Show, don’t tell – use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experiences.
- Use a clear and concise writing style, avoiding jargon and overly technical language.
- Edit and proofread your letter multiple times to ensure error-free submission.
- Use a professional tone and avoid overly casual language.
Embracing Your Next Chapter
As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that your request letter is an opportunity to tell your story and showcase your unique voice. Don’t be afraid to be authentic and let your passion shine through. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll increase your chances of getting accepted into your dream law school.
Remember, it’s not just about getting accepted – it’s about embracing the next chapter of your life. Take a deep breath, stay focused, and let your words speak for themselves.
From Doubt to Success: A User’s Story
Meet Emily, a determined law school applicant who was struggling to craft the perfect request letter. With the help of our law school writing checklist, Emily was able to overcome her doubts and create a compelling letter that showcased her skills and passion. Today, Emily is thriving in her first year of law school, and she credits her success to the power of a well-written request letter.
Sample 1: Request Letter for Law School Admission
Emily J. Smith
123 Main Street
New York, NY 10001
February 10, 2023
Admissions Committee
New York Law School
40 Worth Street
New York, NY 10013
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to submit my application to New York Law School, and I am confident that my passion for justice and commitment to public service make me an ideal candidate for your esteemed program.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to intern at a non-profit organization, where I worked closely with lawyers and advocates to provide legal aid to underprivileged communities. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the law but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to use my skills for the greater good.
I am particularly drawn to New York Law School’s emphasis on social justice and its strong reputation for producing well-rounded lawyers. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the NYLS community.
Sincerely,
Emily J. Smith
Takeaway: This letter effectively showcases Emily’s passion for social justice and her commitment to public service, making her a strong candidate for the law school.
Sample 2: Request Letter for Law School Recommendation
John D. Lee
456 Elm Street
Chicago, IL 60601
March 15, 2023
Professor Rachel Johnson
University of Chicago Law School
1111 East 60th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
Dear Professor Johnson,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my law school application. As my professor in Constitutional Law, you have had the opportunity to observe my growth and development as a scholar and a critical thinker.
I am confident that your endorsement would carry significant weight in my application, and I would be grateful if you could speak to my academic achievements and personal qualities.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you further.
Sincerely,
John D. Lee
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a letter of recommendation, highlighting John’s academic achievements and personal qualities, and showcases his confidence in his professor’s endorsement.
Sample 3: Request Letter for Law School Transfer
Maria Rodriguez
789 Oak Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
April 20, 2023
Admissions Committee
University of Southern California Gould School of Law
699 Exposition Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request transfer admission to the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. After completing my first year of law school at a different institution, I have come to realize that USC’s strong reputation for academic excellence and commitment to diversity align with my goals and values.
During my first year, I had the opportunity to take courses in intellectual property law and was impressed by USC’s faculty expertise in this area. I am excited about the prospect of continuing my legal education at USC and contributing to the school’s vibrant community.
I have attached my transcripts, resume, and a personal statement, which provide a more detailed account of my academic and professional achievements.
Sincerely,
Maria Rodriguez
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests transfer admission, highlighting Maria’s reasons for transferring and her interest in USC’s academic programs, and showcases her confidence in her abilities.
Sample 4: Request Letter for Law School Scholarship
David Kim
321 Pine Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
May 10, 2023
Scholarship Committee
University of California, Hastings College of the Law
200 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to request consideration for the Hastings Merit Scholarship. As a first-generation law student, I am eager to pursue my legal education without the burden of significant debt.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I worked part-time jobs to support my family while maintaining a high GPA. I am confident that my academic achievements, combined with my commitment to public service, make me an ideal candidate for this scholarship.
I have attached my resume, transcripts, and a personal statement, which provide a more detailed account of my qualifications and goals.
Sincerely,
David Kim
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a scholarship, highlighting David’s financial need and academic achievements, and showcases his commitment to public service.
Sample 5: Request Letter for Law School Deferral
Sophia Patel
901 Cedar Street
Austin, TX 78701
June 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
The University of Texas at Austin School of Law
727 East Dean Keeton Street
Austin, TX 78705
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request a one-year deferral of my admission to the University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I need to take a gap year to address family obligations.
I am confident that this deferral will allow me to reapply with a stronger application, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the UT Law community in the future.
I have attached a personal statement, which provides a more detailed account of my circumstances and goals.
Sincerely,
Sophia Patel
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a deferral, highlighting Sophia’s personal circumstances and commitment to her goals, and showcases her confidence in her decision.
Sample 6: Request Letter for Law School Interview
Kevin Brown
567 Maple Street
Seattle, WA 98122
July 20, 2023
Admissions Committee
Seattle University School of Law
901 12th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to request an interview as part of my application to Seattle University School of Law. I am impressed by the school’s commitment to social justice and its strong reputation for producing well-rounded lawyers.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work with marginalized communities, and I am eager to continue this work through my legal education. I believe that an interview would provide an excellent opportunity for us to discuss my qualifications and goals in more detail.
I have attached my resume and a personal statement, which provide a more detailed account of my experiences and achievements.
Sincerely,
Kevin Brown
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests an interview, highlighting Kevin’s passion for social justice and his commitment to his goals, and showcases his confidence in his qualifications.
Sample 7: Request Letter for Law School Application Fee Waiver
Lauren Taylor
345 Elm Street
Boston, MA 02114
August 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Northeastern University School of Law
416 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request a fee waiver for my law school application. As a low-income applicant, I am facing significant financial burdens, and the application fee would pose a significant hardship for me.
I am confident that my academic achievements, combined with my commitment to public service, make me an ideal candidate for Northeastern University School of Law. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the NUSL community and pursue my legal education.
I have attached my resume, transcripts, and a personal statement, which provide a more detailed account of my qualifications and goals.
Sincerely,
Lauren Taylor
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a fee waiver, highlighting Lauren’s financial need and academic achievements, and showcases her commitment to public service.
Sample 8: Request Letter for Law School Reapplication
Alex Chen
678 Oak Street
Washington, D.C. 20001
September 10, 2023
Admissions Committee
Georgetown University Law Center
600 New Jersey Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to reapply to Georgetown University Law Center. After taking a gap year to work in the legal industry, I have gained valuable experience and skills that I believe would make me a stronger candidate for the program.
I am particularly drawn to Georgetown’s strong reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to social justice. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the GULC community and pursue my legal education.
I have attached my updated resume, transcripts, and a personal statement, which provide a more detailed account of my qualifications and goals.
Sincerely,
Alex Chen
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests reapplication, highlighting Alex’s valuable experience and skills, and showcases his commitment to social justice and his goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crafting a compelling request letter for law school is a crucial step in the application process. By following our law school writing checklist and using the sample letters provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating a letter that showcases your skills, passion, and commitment to the legal profession. Remember to stay focused, stay authentic, and let your voice shine through in your writing.
Good luck with your law school application, and we hope that our request letter samples have inspired you to create a winning application!