Thank you for your interest in applying to the William S. Richardson School of Law. The Admissions Office is here to assist you with any questions you may have regarding our law school.
Students at the William S. Richardson School of Law are chosen from among the brightest and most impressive applicants in the state of Hawai'i, across the nation, and throughout the world. Successful applicants demonstrate traits such as tenacity, leadership, and commitment. Graduates of the William S. Richardson School of Law have a strong tradition of leadership, and service in the legal profession and in the larger community. Admission is highly competitive, with approximately 12 applicants for each of the 90 seats in the first year class.
The Admissions Committee, comprised of faculty members and student body representatives, strives to select those applicants who demonstrate superior academic and professional promise and who are most likely to make a contribution to the community, to the academic environment, and to the diversity of the school. Significant attention is given to the results of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the applicant's undergraduate academic record. In addition to academic excellence, other factors help distinguish candidates. These additional factors may include: writing ability, extracurricular and/or public service, additional academic work beyond the bachelor's degree, volunteer or professional experience, and letters of recommendation.
Additional information on admissions criteria is available in The ABA-LSAC Official Guide to American Bar Association (ABA) Approved Law Schools, which may be ordered through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) or (215) 968-1001.
The University of Hawai'i offers a three-year, full-time course of study. Evening, summer, or part-time programs are not offered. Applicants for admission to the professional curriculum of the School of Law, leading to the degree of Juris Doctor, must have received a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university or college of approved standing before they begin their work at the School of Law.
