Apply to the MLS Program

The MLS Application Process

Thank you for your interest in the MLS degree. The Law School will generally offer admission to a small number of applicants, likely between one and three per year, depending on the number and strength of applicants.

Applications must be submitted between December 1, 2026 and February 2, 2027 to be considered for the 2027-2028 academic year. Application materials must be submitted electronically through LSAC. Though applications may not be submitted before December 1, all applicants are encouraged to begin collecting their materials well in advance of the stated deadlines.

The following procedure describes how to apply to the MLS Program. If there are questions about the Law School or these materials please feel free to contact the Admissions Office by email. We look forward to receiving your application!

Candidates applying for admission to the MLS must submit an electronic application through LSAC and use the LSAC Credential Assembly Service. The program application is available here.

Chicago requires only the Document Assembly Service (DAS). There is no application fee, however, applicants are responsible for any fees charged by LSAC.

Applicants are required to submit, via LSAC, transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate programs attended.

All applicants must submit at least two, and no more than four, letters of recommendation via LSAC.

Candidates whose native language is not English will need to take either the TOEFL or IELTS exam. The language exam results must be from an examination taken within two years of the date of the JSD application and must meet the following minimum requirements:

TOEFL: A cumulative score of at least 104 on the examination

IELTS: A cumulative score of at least 7.5 and sub scores of at least 7.0 on each of the four parts of the examination

You are required to submit an up to date resume or CV which details your educational and professional background.

A statement (1-3 pages) describing why you wish to pursue the MLS degree and how that degree will be useful in your research.

If you answered yes to any of the Character & Fitness questions on the Application for Admission, you are required to submit an explanation along with the rest of your materials