Test-Optional Admission for Select JD Candidates
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GW Law has a long tradition of enrolling experientially diverse students. In recognition of the exceptional promise of select applicants, we have established a limited test-optional admissions process.
The Test-Optional Admissions pathway allows select JD applicants to be considered for admission without submitting an LSAT, GRE, GMAT, or JD-Next score. This option is designed for candidates whose academic and professional backgrounds demonstrate strong potential for success in law school without reliance on standardized testing.
Eligibility for Test-Optional Review
Test-optional candidates must not have taken the LSAT within the past five years. Applicants who apply through the test-optional process and subsequently register for the LSAT, GRE, GMAT, and/or JD-Next must notify the Admissions Office immediately. Failure to do so will nullify the admission decision.
The requirement to submit a test score (LSAT, GRE, GMAT, or JD-Next) is waived for select candidates who meet one of the following criteria:
- Full-time, professional employment of at least four years by the point of enrollment
- Military service
- Patent Bar passage
- A doctoral program (such as a PhD or MD)
- Social entrepreneurship (submit social entrepreneurship request)
- GW Law LLM student
Application Components
- A resume
- A two-page personal statement
- All official academic transcripts
- At least one letter of recommendation via Credential Assembly Service (CAS)
Applications must be submitted electronically through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). All applicants must register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and send their official transcripts to LSAC.
Timeline for Test-Optional Applicants
Application Deadline: March 1 (Rolling Admissions)
Contact the Admissions Office (admissions
law [dot] gwu [dot] edu (admissions[at]law[dot]gwu[dot]edu)) with any questions.