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Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What are the primary goals of the program?
Since its inception, the program has remained focused on three main goals: (1) to familiarize prospective law students with the application process and admissions requirements; (2) to provide participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in a demanding law school environment and learn the skills necessary to succeed in that environment; and (3) to expose the students to the variety of career opportunities afforded by the juris doctor degree.
Where can I get an application?
The 2010 application will be available in electronic form on our Web site in late August. You will be able to submit your application and additional documents online.
When can I apply?
Applications are accepted between October 1, 2009, and March 26, 2010. Applications must be submitted (or postmarked, if mailing) by Friday, March 26, to be considered timely. (A “postmark” is a cancellation mark stamped on mail by postal officials; which indicates the date and time of mailing.)
What must I include with my application?
In addition to a completed application, applicants are required to submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement and a current official transcript. Recommendation letters and official transcripts may be mailed separately from the application; however, to ensure delivery, it is best to mail everything together.
Eligibility
Who is eligible to participate in the program?
College students enrolled at two-and four-year institutions, in all majors and from all backgrounds, are invited to apply following their freshman year. Because one purpose of the program is to help students direct their remaining time in college to best prepare for law school, freshmen, sophomores and juniors are given preference in the admissions process.
If I am a senior in college, but will not graduate until fall 2010, am I eligible to participate?
Yes. The program is open to all students who will not have earned a bachelor’s degree prior to the start of the program.
Are you looking for anything specific with regard to the resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation?
The personal statement is reviewed for the following: reason(s) for wanting to participate in the program, demonstrable interest in law and any personal hardships overcame. It is also viewed as a sample of writing ability. The resume is reviewed for a demonstrable interest in law, extracurricular activities, community service and leadership abilities. Letters of recommendation are reviewed based on the capacity in which the recommender knows the applicant as well as the overall strength of the recommendation.
Are there any minimum requirements to participate, such as GPA or SAT/ACT scores?
Although there are no specific criteria for participation in the program, we evaluate each file to ultimately arrive at a diverse and outstanding group of students. Each applicant is evaluated based on his/her personal statement and resume, UGPA and transcript, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. For the 2009 summer program, the average applicant had a 3.43 GPA, 1164 SAT score, and 25 ACT score.
Do you require an official transcript, or will an unofficial one suffice?
We require an official, sealed copy of your transcript. Transcripts are evaluated based on the rigor of coursework taken by the student and for his/her overall progress made throughout enrollment. It is probably best to request an official transcript from your school early so that there is ample time for it to be delivered.
Tuition, Room and Board
Are there any costs associated with the program?
Florida State Law provides free room and board in residence-hall accommodations, course materials and a $500 stipend to all participants. However, participants are responsible for arranging and paying for travel to and from Tallahassee. Even if participants have other living arrangements in Tallahassee, we encourage them to consider lodging with the other participants and share in the special bonding experience. Payment cannot be accepted for participation in the program.
How many students will be selected to participate?
The 2010 summer program class will range from 60-65 students. For the 2009 summer program, we received nearly 600 applications for approximately 65 available seats. Applications were received from students from 189 institutions, 37 states and two foreign countries.
Are admissions done on a rolling basis, and when will I be notified that I have been accepted into the program?
All admissions decisions will be made at the same time. Generally, we begin reviewing applications toward the end of March, and will inform applicants of our decisions by mid-April.
Can I continue to work and/or take classes while participating in the summer program?
During the program, you may not be enrolled in summer classes or involved in outside work. You are expected to be in attendance and to participate in all classes and activities. Students who miss more than three sessions without prior permission will be dismissed from the program and will forfeit their $500 stipend.
I would like to take the LSAT in June, 2010. Is this possible if I am admitted to the program?
Each year, a few participants elect to take the June LSAT, and they are given an excused absence to do so. Often, the exam is administered at Florida State Law, which makes it very convenient. If you are chosen for the program, it should not be a problem for you to sit for the June LSAT.