Admission for visiting student status is indeed based on the entire applicant profile. In reviewing applications, the Admissions Committee considers all of the information contained in your file, such as your law school transcripts to date, your undergraduate and any other graduate transcripts, LSAT/GRE performance, letter(s) of recommendation, and a statement regarding why you are seeking visiting student status at Columbia Law School.
Application Components
Apply online using the Visiting Student Application at LSAC.org. Applications are due July 15, 2025. Prepare by reviewing our Preview Application (PDF). (The 2025 preview application will be available shortly and is subject to change.) The application fee is $85.
In addition to the application form, you will need to submit:
- Personal statement/essay
- GRE or LSAT
- Letter of recommendation (one from current law school professor)
- Faculty appraisal (PDF) (additional optional form for recommenders)
- Dean’s appraisal(s)/certification(s) (PDF) (current law school) Please note that the dean's certification for visiting students must include certain specific information to be accepted. Please refer to the application instructions for additional instructions.
- Résumé
- Academic transcripts
Read through our Frequently Asked Questions for clarification on application components.
2024–2025 Admissions Dates
- May 1, 2025: Applications open — Current law students may apply to Columbia Law School as a visiting student
- July 15, 2025: Applications due