8+ Sample Request Letter Law School Guide
A request letter for law school is a crucial step in your academic journey. It’s an opportunity to showcase your skills, highlight your achievements, and demonstrate your passion for the field. But, crafting a compelling request letter can be daunting, especially when you’re not sure where to start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the anatomy of a professional request letter, provide motivational tips, and offer 8+ sample letters to inspire you.
From Doubt to Success: A User’s Story
Samantha had always dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but after graduating from college, she felt lost and uncertain about her next steps. She knew she needed to take the LSAT, but she was struggling to find the motivation to prepare. That was until she stumbled upon a request letter law school guide, which helped her craft a compelling letter that showcased her strengths and achievements. With renewed confidence, Samantha applied to her top-choice law school and received an acceptance letter.
Fast forward to today, Samantha is a successful lawyer, making a difference in her community. She credits her success to that initial request letter, which helped her stand out from the competition and demonstrate her passion for the field.
Anatomy of a Professional Letter
- Header (Name, Address)
- Date
- Recipient’s Details
- Opening Paragraph
- Main Body
- Closing Paragraph
- Signature
Embracing Your Next Chapter
As you embark on this new chapter in your academic journey, remember that you’re not alone. Thousands of students have been in your shoes, and they’ve gone on to achieve greatness. You too can achieve your dreams with hard work, determination, and a well-crafted request letter.
Don’t be afraid to showcase your strengths, highlight your achievements, and demonstrate your passion for the field. Remember, this is your opportunity to tell your story and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee.
So, take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and let your voice shine through in your request letter. You got this!
Key Considerations Before You Write
- Research the law school and tailor your letter to their specific requirements and values.
- Use a clear and concise writing style, avoiding jargon and technical terms.
- Show, don’t tell – provide specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
- Proofread carefully to ensure error-free writing and formatting.
- Use active voice and a conversational tone to engage the reader.
Sample 1: Request for Admission to Law School
Emily J. Lee
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
February 10, 2023
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1557 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my strong interest in pursuing a Juris Doctor degree at Harvard Law School. With a strong academic record and a passion for social justice, I am confident that I would thrive in your esteemed institution.
In my current role as a legal intern at a non-profit organization, I have gained valuable experience in research, writing, and advocacy. I am excited to bring my skills and knowledge to a community of like-minded individuals who share my passion for creating positive change.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the Harvard Law School community.
Sincerely,
Emily J. Lee
Takeaway: This letter effectively showcases the applicant’s strong academic record, relevant work experience, and passion for social justice, making a compelling case for admission to Harvard Law School.
Sample 2: Request for Scholarship Funding
David K. Kim
456 Elm Street
Oakland, CA 94601
March 15, 2023
Scholarship Committee
Stanford Law School
559 Nathan Abbott Way
Stanford, CA 94305
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Stanford Law School Scholarship Program. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I am eager to pursue a career in law that will enable me to give back to my community.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service. I am confident that I would be an excellent fit for Stanford Law School’s vibrant community of scholars.
I would be grateful if you could consider my application for scholarship funding. Your support would enable me to pursue my dreams without the burden of financial constraints.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
David K. Kim
Takeaway: This letter effectively conveys the applicant’s personal story, highlighting their achievements and challenges, and making a strong case for scholarship funding.
Sample 3: Request for Recommendation
Sarah K. Patel
789 Oak Street
Boston, MA 02115
April 20, 2023
Professor James Smith
Department of Political Science
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Professor Smith,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to law school. As my academic advisor and mentor, I believe you are uniquely positioned to speak to my academic abilities, leadership skills, and passion for public service.
During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work with you on several research projects, and I am grateful for the guidance and support you provided. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my application.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you further.
Sincerely,
Sarah K. Patel
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a letter of recommendation, highlighting the applicant’s academic achievements and leadership skills, and demonstrating their appreciation for the professor’s guidance and support.
Sample 4: Request for Transfer Admission
Michael T. Brown
321 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
May 10, 2023
Admissions Committee
UC Berkeley School of Law
215 Boalt Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in transferring to the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. As a current student at a top-tier law school, I am eager to take advantage of the opportunities offered by UC Berkeley’s esteemed program.
During my first year of law school, I have excelled academically, earning a 3.5 GPA, and have been actively involved in extracurricular activities, including the Moot Court Team and the Environmental Law Society.
I am confident that UC Berkeley’s rigorous academic environment, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong alumni network would enable me to achieve my full potential as a lawyer.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
Michael T. Brown
Takeaway: This letter effectively highlights the applicant’s academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and career goals, making a strong case for transfer admission to UC Berkeley School of Law.
Sample 5: Request for Deferred Admission
Rachel L. Chen
901 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
June 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1557 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request deferred admission to Harvard Law School. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am unable to enroll in the upcoming academic year and would like to request a one-year deferral.
During my undergraduate studies, I demonstrated academic excellence, earning a 3.8 GPA, and was actively involved in extracurricular activities, including the Debate Team and the Community Service Club.
I am confident that Harvard Law School’s esteemed program would provide me with the ideal environment to achieve my career goals and make a positive impact in the world.
I would be grateful if you could consider my request for deferred admission. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Sincerely,
Rachel L. Chen
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests deferred admission, highlighting the applicant’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities, and demonstrating their commitment to enrolling in Harvard Law School.
Sample 6: Request for Reconsideration
Christopher J. Lee
1111 Broadway
New York, NY 10001
July 20, 2023
Admissions Committee
New York University School of Law
40 Washington Square South
New York, NY 10012
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request reconsideration of my application to New York University School of Law. Although I was initially rejected, I believe that I have new information that would strengthen my application.
Since submitting my application, I have completed a summer internship at a top-tier law firm, gaining valuable experience in corporate law. I have also taken additional coursework in business and finance, demonstrating my commitment to pursuing a career in law.
I am confident that NYU’s esteemed program would provide me with the ideal environment to achieve my career goals and make a positive impact in the world.
Thank you for considering my request for reconsideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Sincerely,
Christopher J. Lee
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests reconsideration, highlighting the applicant’s new achievements and experiences, and demonstrating their commitment to enrolling in NYU School of Law.
Sample 7: Request for Application Fee Waiver
Amanda K. Rodriguez
2222 Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90001
August 10, 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 a waiver of the application fee for the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. As a low-income student, I am unable to afford the fee and would like to request a waiver.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I have demonstrated academic excellence, earning a 3.5 GPA, and have been actively involved in extracurricular activities, including the Pre-Law Society and the Community Service Club.
I am confident that USC Gould’s esteemed program would provide me with the ideal environment to achieve my career goals and make a positive impact in the world.
Thank you for considering my request for a fee waiver. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Sincerely,
Amanda K. Rodriguez
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a fee waiver, highlighting the applicant’s financial need and academic achievements, and demonstrating their commitment to enrolling in USC Gould School of Law.
Sample 8: Request for Letter of Recommendation
Kevin M. Patel
3333 Oak Street
Chicago, IL 60601
September 15, 2023
Professor Rachel Johnson
Department of Political Science
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL 60637
Dear Professor Johnson,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to law school. As my academic advisor and mentor, I believe you are uniquely positioned to speak to my academic abilities, leadership skills, and passion for public service.
During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work with you on several research projects, and I am grateful for the guidance and support you provided. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my application.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you further.
Sincerely,
Kevin M. Patel
Takeaway: This letter effectively requests a letter of recommendation, highlighting the applicant’s academic achievements and leadership skills, and demonstrating their appreciation for the professor’s guidance and support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-crafted request letter is essential for law school admission, scholarship funding, and career advancement. By following the anatomy of a professional letter, showcasing your strengths and achievements, and demonstrating your passion for the field, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to tailor your letter to the specific requirements and values of the institution or organization you are applying to, and don’t be afraid to showcase your unique voice and perspective.
Good luck with your request letter, and we hope these samples have provided you with the inspiration and guidance you need to succeed!