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Law School

Getting Started

Considering Law? This chapter is to help you explore, plan, and navigate the process of exploring your options and applying.

We recommend starting with the following chapter, Applying To Graduate And Professional School.

For personalized support, book an appointment with a Science Career Advisor at the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) on OSCARplus.

Canadian Law Schools

General application information

Ontario law school applications are administered by the Ontario Universities Law School Application Service (OLSAS). Every school has their own admissions process and requirements. Refer to each school’s website for more information. Some common requirements to expect:

  • Minimum of three years completion of an undergraduate program; preference may be given to students who have completed their degree
  • LSAT scores
  • Autobiographical sketch
  • Personal statement
  • Supplemental Application Form
  • Letters of Reference

OLSAS applications typically open mid-August with a deadline in the first week of November.

How long will law school take to complete?

The first level-law degree takes three years to complete.

Licensing to Practice in Ontario

  • Articling – Work under the supervision of a licensed lawyer for ten months.
  • Complete the Law Society of Upper Canada’s Law Practice Program (alternative to articling) – A four-month training course and a four-month work placement.
  • Complete Barrister and Solicitor examinations administered by the Law Society of Upper Canada offered three times per year.

Relevant websites

 

Need more support with deciding if Law is right for you?

Meet with a Science Career Advisor
Book a 30-minute appointment with the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) in advance through OSCARplus.

Design your future with SCIENCE 2DL3
Enrol in SCIENCE 2DL3: Design Your Science Career— an interactive career development course designed to help undergraduate students take charge of their future with creativity and confidence.

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Science Careers & Experience Guidebook Copyright © by McMaster University, Science Careers & Experience Centre is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.