FAQs

• General Questions
• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Application Process
• Being a Student

General Questions

Is Chapman ranked on the US News & World Report Rankings? If so, what is the ranking?

Yes. Chapman is ranked in the third tier of the US News rankings. For a newer school (opened in 1995) this is a major accomplishment and we continue to take deliberate steps to continue our rise up the US News ranks, including the hiring of faculty from top law schools and the ongoing expansion of academic programs. Also of note, Chapman ranks much higher on a number of key individual factors that make up the overall US News rankings. For example, Chapman's most recent bar pass rate is in the first tier range, as is our percentage of students employed at 9 months (96%) and our student/faculty ratio (12.6:1). And, our median LSAT scores are comparable to second tier schools.

What does it mean that Chapman University School of Law is #1 in Quality of Life?

The Princeton Review’s 2007 edition of Best 170 Law Schools ranked Chapman University School of Law #1 in the category for “Best Quality of Life.” Based on students’ assessments, Chapman earned top marks for having a strong sense of community, an aesthetically pleasing campus, great location, excellent quality of life, state-of-the-art facilities, and resourceful and helpful library staff.

Some blogs claim that Chapman is on Probation with the ABA. Is that true?

No. Chapman received provisional accreditation from the ABA in 1998, and full accreditation in 2002. Since that time, Chapman was reviewed by the ABA periodically, as all new schools are, to ensure compliance with ABA standards and to offer recommendations on improvements that might be made to strengthen Chapman's program.

In February 2007, Chapman was notified that it was in full compliance with all ABA standards and that "Chapman University School of Law remains on the list of law schools approved by the American Bar Association." As a result, Chapman is on the same schedule for regular site visits by the ABA as every other fully-approved ABA law school--every seven years. Chapman's next site visit is scheduled for 2011-12. See http://www.abanet.org/legaled/accreditation/sitevisit/acvisits.html.

The list of Law Schools on probation with the ABA is available at http://www.abanet.org/legaled/approvedlawschools/approved.html.

The list of fully-approved ABA schools is available at http://www.abanet.org/legaled/approvedlawschools/alpha.html.

Does Chapman allow students to work while in law school?

During your first year of law school, we strongly advise against working. After the first year, many students balance law school, work, internships, etc. We do understand that circumstances may require that a few students work; however, students should work as few hours as possible, and the ABA prohibits students from working more than 20 hours per week while in law school. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience during the summer following their first year of law school either as a paid law clerk or as an extern.

Does Chapman offer a part-time or evening program?

A few years ago, the decision was made to end our part time evening program. Periodically, we will allow a select number of students to attend a part time day program.

Does Chapman offer any specializations?

Yes we do. We offer several. More

Do I need to choose a major/specialty in law school?

No. The juris doctorate degree is a broad degree. You will have the opportunity through required and elective courses to study many areas of the law. Some students choose to specialize in a specific area of law, but this is not required.

Can I sit in on a class/take a campus tour?

Yes. More

Can I speak to a current Chapman law student?

Yes. Provide us with your contact information and we will put you in touch with a current student. You can email us at lawadm@chapman.edu

What is the best “pre-law” curriculum for law school?

There is no single pre-law program that best prepares students for law school. Any program that requires you to think logically, analyze issues and propose possible resolutions, and develop strong writing skills will be of benefit to students in their legal studies.

Does Chapman help students with internships, career counseling, job placement, etc.?

Yes. More

When does the academic year begin/when are holiday and semester breaks, etc.?

Academic Calendar

What is the length of a typical law school class?

First-year classes normally last for 75 minutes.

Is there on-campus housing?

Typically, on-campus housing is reserved for our undergraduate students. Our students seem to find housing very easily in the area. There is very limited graduate housing. More

Who do I contact about housing?

You can contact the Law Admissions Office and we will assist you. Once you are admitted, we will provide you with a roommate matching form as well.

Do I have access to resources from the undergraduate campus?

Yes. More

Is health insurance available?

Yes. More

Scholarship

What scholarships are available?

Currently, we offer merit based scholarships to entering and continuing students.  Some need based scholarships are also available More

How are scholarship decisions made?

Scholarship decisions are made after an applicant is admitted. The decision is based on primarily LSAT and CUM GPA as calculated by LSAC. Major, degree of difficulty, etc. are often taken into consideration as well.

What are my chances of being offered a scholarship?

In past years, approximately 50-60% of the incoming class has been offered a merit based scholarship. A smaller percentage of the incoming class has been offered need based stipends. The percentages vary and are based on funding.

Financial Aid

When do I apply for financial aid?

As soon as possible after January 1, 2008 for the 2008-2009 school year. The online application can be found at www.fafsa.ed.gov. More

Can I get an application fee waiver?

Yes, if you meet the requirements. More

I haven’t received my award letter. How do I check my status?

If we have received a FAFSA, you should receive information from financial aid about one week after you have been admitted. Be sure to check that Chapman Law is listed on your FAFSA. If so, you can contact the Law Financial Aid Office to check your status. More   Here is the link for the requirements to apply…

What are the current tuition, fees, etc?

This can be found at www.chapman.edu/admission/law/tuition.asp

When is tuition due?

Tuition for first year students is due during orientation. The Business Office can answer questions about due dates and payment plans. More

How do I apply for loans?

Once you have received your award letter you can select a lender and apply online. More

I won't be working this year, how do I report changes?

You can contact the Law Financial Aid Office to report any special circumstances. More

Can I defer my current loans?

Yes, the Law Registrar reports enrollment to the National Student Loan Clearinghouse for all students after the add/drop period.

When/how are funds disbursed?

All funds are scheduled to be disbursed the first week of the term. Loans and scholarships are disbursed in two equal disbursements, half at the beginning of each term.

What are some ways to save money during law school?

Access Group has some great tips on how students can save money while attending school. More

How do I complete the loan counseling?

The Stafford loan counseling can be completed online. More
The Perkins loan counseling can be completed online. More

Application Process

Can I apply online?

Yes. We prefer that our applicants apply online by using the LSAC e-app option which will be available by September 4, 2007.

When is the application deadline?

For the Fall 2008 JD class, the deadline will be April 15, 2008. For Fall 2008 Transfer and Visitor applicants, the deadline will be July 1, 2008. For Spring 2008 Transfer and Visitor applicants November 1, 2007. More

What does “rolling admissions” mean?

At Chapman University School of Law, it means that we review applications as they become complete. The Admissions Committee begins reviewing applications and rendering decisions in December and the process will continue until our class is filled. However, for full consideration, applicants should file their application as early as possible and no later than April 15, 2008.

What factors are considered in admission e.g. how much weight is given to LSAT/GPA, etc?

The LSAT and the cumulative GPA are very important in the admissions process. There is no specific weight given to either score, nor is there a numerical index applied to the two scores. In addition to those two factors, the Admissions Committee reviews your file in it's entirety with particular attention to your writing skill, thus your LSAT writing sample and personal statement are very important. Your resume and letters of recommendation are key factors as well. The Committee is looking for applicants who are able to communicate ideas with precision, both orally and in writing, and those who have developed the ability to think creatively. Lastly, the length of time you spent in college; the difficulty of your major; the number of hours worked during your undergraduate studies, unusual achievement, honors/awards, and completion of graduate work also factor in to the admissions decision.

Should I retake the LSAT?

The ABA has changed the rule regarding the reporting of the highest of multiple LSAT scores, however, this does not change the review process. If the candidate has taken the LSAT multiple times, the Committee will review all of the LSAT scores. From an admissions perspective, the average score may be the best indication of an applicant's success. It is advisable for the applicant to explain why one score is more indicative of his or her likelihood of success.

When should I take the LSAT?

For candidates who are still in college, the ideal time would be June of the year prior to the fall. The Law School Admission Council and Chapman University School of Law has a five year limit on the length of time an applicant's score is valid.

Should I take a LSAT prep course?

The decision to take a LSAT preparation course is a personal decision. Many students benefit from group instruction and practice and others may do better preparing for the exam on their own. It is important to be familiar with the LSAT format, time constraints, and sections of the exam that may need more preparation than others depending on your individual skills. The most important factor is for an individual to feel prepared to take the test at a time that is right for them.

What if I applied to Chapman in a previous year?

You must complete a re-activation form in addition to a new application, fee, and updated personal statement, transcript, letters of recommendation and resume.

Must I register with the LSDAS?

Yes. The link to LSAT and LSDAS is http://www.lsac.org

Does Chapman grant interviews?

Unfortunately, we do not. Your required personal statement serves as an "interview on paper". A well written personal statement is your chance for the Admissions Committee to get to know you as a person and convince them of the qualities you feel will help you to make meaningful contributions to the class as well as the legal profession.

Are there “cut-off” GPA or LSAT score requirements?

No. All applications are reviewed in their entirety and each application is given full consideration. It is very important that each candidate submit all documents in a timely manner so that the Admissions Committee has the opportunity to review all aspects of your file. There are times when even a strong file can be eliminated by compelling negative factors, likewise, a marginal file might be successful because of strong personal factors.

When are application materials available?

For JD applicants, the new application will be available after September 4, 2007. You may apply by visiting our website or by the LSAC link at www.lsac.org

When will I receive my admission decision?

The Admissions Committee reviews files as they are complete. When a decision is rendered, an applicant will receive notification by U.S. postal service. Decisions are not communicated by phone or e-mail contact. There are no exceptions to that policy.

How long must my personal statement be and what should it include?

Generally, the personal statement should be 2-3 pages, double spaced. The best personal statements tell your complete story in an efficient and informative manner. Although there is no prescribed format, suggested topics may include why you want to go to law school, significant obstacles you have overcome, your achievements, what you want to accomplish with a law degree, or your interests or special skills. More

Can I send my application materials directly to Chapman?

No, you are required to submit application materials via the electronic application process at www.lsac.org

 

May I submit photos and or videos as part of my application?

Photographs, videos and other materials depicting your likeness are not accepted nor are they deemed appropriate for submission as part of the application process.

 

Does Chapman have an early admission or early decision process?

No. However, the Financial Aid Office does have a priority deadline of March 2, 2008 for the Perkins Loan and April 1, 2007 is the scholarship deadline. More

 

How long are LSAT scores valid?

Chapman University School of Law has a five year validity for LSAT scores. For the 2008 application cycle, scores will be accepted from February 2003 until fall 2008.

 

Do I have to submit letters of recommendation?

Yes. We require two letters of recommendation, however, LSDAS will accept up to three letters for Chapman School of Law. All letters of recommendation must be submitted to the Law School Admission Council. They will NOT be accepted if submitted directly to the Admissions Office. More

 

Who should write my letters of recommendation?

Ideally, someone who can write about your skill set and performance in class. It is strongly advised that students who are applying directly from their undergraduate program submit letters of recommendation from professors who have taught you. If you have been out of school for five years or more, professional letters of recommendation are appropriate.

 

Can I submit more than three letters of recommendation?

No, however, LSDAS will only accept three letters of recommendation to be part of your file, as per our policy.

 

Can I submit letters of recommendation directly to Chapman University School of Law?

No. All letters of recommendation must be submitted to the Law School Admission Council.

Can I receive my admissions decision via fax or over the phone?

No. All decision information will be communicated in writing via U.S. postal mail. No exceptions.

As a new student, can I register for my first year classes?

All 1L students are registered automatically for the first year required classes. (both semesters) You will be assigned to a specific track and those assignments are communicated to you the first day of Orientation. 2L and 3L students are responsible for registering for elective choices during the appropriate registration dates.

Student Questions

How many hours a day will I study?

The amount of time a student studies each day varies from student to student. Some students are more efficient in their studies than others. A good guide, however, is to anticipate that you will be studying two to three hours per week for every hour of class time. Students should plan on spending more time preparing when Legal Research and Writing papers are due and as the final exam period nears.

How are grades determined?

The manner in which grades are determined depends on the particular class. Some professors give graded midterms, in addition to final exams. Other professors only give final exams. Some exams contain only essay questions; others contain only multiple choice questions. Most exams, however, include both types of questions. The professors typically provide detailed information on the subject of grading very early in the semester. The final grade in Legal Research and Writing classes typically is based on the grades received on two or more assignments submitted over the course of the semester.

What extracurricular activities/clubs are available at Chapman?

More

Should I get involved in student organizations? How many and which?

Student organizations are a great way to meet other students and pursue areas of common interest. Pick one or two that are of interest to you and join in. Just make sure that you do not become so involved in student organizations that you fall behind in your studies.

How do I get involved in student organizations?

During orientation, most of the student organizations will have information available. Additionally, you may want to attend meetings for the organizations you are interested and learn more about their programs, activities,offerings, etc. during the school year.

Should I study in the library?

Where you study is a matter of personal choice. You should study in a location where you will be subject to the least distractions. For some students, that place is home. For others, the library is a great study location. More

Is there academic support available?

Yes. More

Should I work during the year? The first summer?

We encourage our students to focus on their studies their first year. We do understand that circumstances may require that a few students work, but a first year law student’s main focus and time commitment should be their classes. On the other hand, first year law students are strongly encouraged and recommended to work during the summer after their first year.
We do understand that circumstances may require that a few students work; however, students should work as few hours as possible, and the ABA prohibits students from working more than 20 hours per week while in law school. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience during the summer following their first year of law school either as a paid law clerk or as an extern.

When do I need to begin looking for a legal job?

In a sense, first year law students will begin their job search process as early as the first week of school. First year law students will receive the tools and learn the skills necessary for an effective job search during the Fall semester. As far as actually applying and mailing resumes out, first year law students will find themselves doing this activity in December. More

Will my first legal job be paid or volunteer?

Your first legal job during the summer can be either paid or volunteer. It will depend on the type of employer entity that you select. Although, most first year law students would like to be paid; the experience, connections and marketability that you gain in a volunteer position will generally far surpass the monetary gain that you did not receive.

Will I have time for social events?

Yes, but you will need to balance your studies and assignments. You will need to take breaks from time to time. It is important to take care of yourself and part of that may involve talking with friends, sports, movies, etc. As you get acclimated into your first year of studies, you will come up with a schedule that best suits your needs.

Are there other assignments besides reading?

Yes. Depending on the course and the professor, you may be assigned research projects,

How often will I get called on in class?

The frequency with which a student will be called on in class will vary from one professor to another.

What will it be like to get called on in class?

Many students find speaking in front of a group of intelligent peers to be somewhat intimidating at first. However, they typically become more comfortable with the experience over time.

What if I get called on and I don’t know the answer?

As long as a student has carefully read and thought about the assigned materials, you should not feel badly if you don’t know the answer. Some questions that a professor will ask do not have a correct answer.

How long is a normal class?

First-year classes normally last for 75 minutes.

What is the daily schedule of a law student?

First year students typically attend two to three classes each day and spend several hours studying each day in preparation for classes scheduled for the following day. At various times throughout the semester, first year students also must spend time working on assignments for their Legal Research and Writing course. Students are provided ample advance notice of these projects so your workload will remain manageable unless you leave these assignments to the last minute. No classes are scheduled during the noon hour. Students typically use this time to attend presentations, participate in student organization meetings, or socialize with friends.

What are the requirements for making law review?

Students make law review based on grades and on their writing ability as reflected in their work on certain memoranda completed in their first year. More

How do I get involved in mock trial or moot court?

Mock trial and moot court are administered by boards comprised of upper-level students who are guided by a faculty advisor. Students gain membership on a mock trial or moot court team by competing in an intra-school competition. If you are interested, you should watch for notices about these competitions. More

What type of study aides are useful?

An outline you prepare is the best study aid. However, many students find other study aids to be helpful. These materials include hornbooks, flash cards (either self-made or commercial), commercial study aids that summarize course material and/or contain sample questions and answers, and practice questions available from the Center for Computer Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI) at http://www2.cali.org/.

Should I work with a study group?

First year students are encouraged to participate during their first semester in at least one small study group led by an upper class student called an Academic Fellow. These small study groups meet for one hour each week beginning the fourth week of class. Applications for these groups will be in your orientation packet and also are available from the Director of Academic Achievement. Following their first semester, many students elect to form their own study groups. Study groups can be particularly helpful for auditory learners.

How do I find a study group?

Talk with students who have similar academic goals and abilities about forming a study group. During orientation is a great time to do this, but it can also occur after classes begin.

How often should I meet with my study group?

This is a matter of personal choice but at least once each week is preferable.

What is the function of a study group?

For some people, the best way to study is with others, bouncing ideas off each other and hearing different arguments. More

How many people should be in a study group?

Preferably three or four; no more than five.

What should I call my professors?

Unless a professor tells you otherwise, you should address him or her as Professor [Smith].

 

How long should my case briefs be and what should they include?

For each assigned case, write down the case name, the court issuing the opinion, the year of the opinion, the issue presented to the court for determination, the legally significant facts, the holding of the case, and the reason(s) for the court's decision. Your case briefs should be just that--brief.

Should I take my notes by hand or using a laptop?

You are free to take notes by hand or using a laptop. Most students prefer to use a laptop.

Should I take my exams by hand or with a laptop?

You are free to take exams by hand or with a laptop. Many professors prefer that you use a laptop so that they may more easily read your answer, and most students conclude that they can type faster than they can write.

How long are the exams?

Final exams are typically three hours.

What is included in a typical law school exam?

A typical law school exam includes essay-type questions and, in many cases, some objective questions.

What is appropriate attire for school?

Most students dress casually for class. Remember, however, that this is the beginning of your professional career. In the future, you will be asking professors and administrators for letters of recommendation and will be seeking business referrals from your fellow alums. The impressions you make will last long after law school so you may want to avoid attire that, while trendy or fashionable, may not foster the long-term image you want to create.
Also, when selecting your clothing for a given day, you should consider what events are occurring on campus. For example, the Career Services and Professional Development Office frequently hosts presentations by practicing attorneys. These events are a great opportunity for you to network and perhaps obtain a job interview, so you should wear something that will create a positive impression on the prospective employer.

How competitive is law school going to be?

Students are encouraged to focus, not on competing with one another, but instead on doing their personal best. Students also are encouraged to be supportive of and respectful to their classmates. It will make for a more positive law school experience for everyone. That said, remember that the makeup of your law school classes will differ from that of your undergraduate courses. All of the students will have done well in undergraduate school. Therefore, you will have to work harder in law school than you did in undergraduate school in order to continue to earn top marks.

What should be included in my outline?

Outlines should include the rules of law applicable to each subject covered in the course. For each rule, all elements of the rule should be included, as well as any exceptions and/or defenses to the rule. Some students also find it helpful to include a brief description of a case, statute or restatement that illustrates the rule or element of the rule. Also, include hypotheticals covered in class related to the rule or element, in addition to majority and minority views and policies underlying the rules mentioned by your professors.

Should I create my own outline or is it okay to use someone else’s?

Outlines prepared by more senior students or commercial outlines are not acceptable substitutes for making your own outlines. The analysis necessary to prepare a course outline helps you determine the rules of law applicable to the subject matter of the course, as well as determine how the rules relate to one another. If you do not go through this process, you are less likely to master the subject matter. Also, not all professors teach a subject the same way. In fact, many professors do not even teach a course the same way from one year to the next. The only way to get an outline tailored to your course is to make it yourself.

Are commercial outlines useful?

Commercial outlines and outlines prepared by other students should only be used to fill in gaps in your own outline or to assess the accuracy of your outline. The exclusive use of commercial outlines does not allow students to engage in the analytical process necessary to master the subject matter.

Are pre-prepared case briefs useful?

As is the case with commercial outlines, pre-prepared case briefs can be helpful if, after reading a case, you do not understand it. Some “canned” briefs, however, unfortunately incorrectly interpret the case. Also, in many instances, the pre-prepared briefs include information not contained in the edited versions of the cases found in your book. Therefore, you may bring out a point covered in the brief that is not covered in the version of the case contained in your book, and your professor will know that you did not do the reading but instead are relying on canned briefs.

What if I do not understand a concept?

If you do not understand something, you can review a hornbook or similar study aid. If, after consulting these materials, you still do not understand the concept, don’t wait until final exams before seeking help. Instead, seek help immediately because many concepts build on one another. Talk to your professor after class or during office hours. Another option would be to visit the Academic Fellow assigned to the class. Academic Fellows are upper level students who did very well in the course and who took the course from the same professor. Academic Fellows are available for all first-year courses and hold office hours once each week. Still another option is to see the Director of Academic Achievement. More

Will I still “have a life” during law school?

Absolutely. You will have to find a balance between law school and the rest of your life. Finding a schedule that works for you is paramount to your success. Remaining mentally, physically and emotionally healthy are very important as well as studying hard and getting good grades.

My child/spouse/significant other is in law school. What should I know?

Be patient. Give them space to study, but make sure you “Schedule” time for each other. It is important to have balance. It is key that your law student be given lots of latitude during their first year of law school. The first year is a period of significant transitions for new law students.

What are some ways to save money during law school?

Get a roommate. Bring your lunch to school. Carpool.

How important are my grades?

Grades are one factor that employers use to select potential employees, albeit a major factor in some cases. Because grades are easy to identify and compare, it is an easy way for employers to measure and identify students that they believe would be successful in the employer’s environment. Like your undergrad GPA or your LSAT scores in gaining admission to law school, it is a factor in the hiring process.

Will I get to pick which classes I want to take?

Eventually, but not your first year. Each new student is placed in a track/section. We attempt to balance the gender, age, etc.

What classes are required for the first year?

First-year students attending law school full time take Torts, Civil Procedure, Contracts, Property, Legal Research and Writing, and Criminal Law. Students attending part time typically take Torts, Contracts, Legal Research and Writing, and Professional Responsibility.

When do I need to begin studying for the bar?

The Academic Achievement Program helps students with bar exam prep. More

Can I graduate early?

Yes. Some students elect to attend classes during the summer and graduate in two and one half years instead of the traditional three years.

How accessible are the professors at Chapman?

Per the student feedback, very.

Are there tutors available?

Yes. More

Should I share information with my classmates?

Sure. You will find that you and your classmates will work together in study groups and this is often a good way to bounce arguments off of one another.