General FAQs
Does WVU Law offer concentrations?
Yes, four areas: Energy and Sustainable Development Law, Public Interest Law, International Law, and Labor and Employment Law.
Is March 15 a hard deadline?
March 15 is the priority deadline for all required materials. Applications may be accepted after this date if seats remain.
Do I need a specific major?
No. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome.
Is there a minimum GPA or LSAT?
No. WVU Law uses a holistic review process.
How does WVU treat multiple LSAT scores?
The highest score is used.
What is the age range of students?
Typically 21-50.
Can I defer admission?
Contact the Office of Admissions at wvulaw.admissions@mail.wvu.edu. Deferrals may affect residency; scholarships do not defer.
How much does WVU Law cost?
See our Cost of Attendance page for full details.
Does WVU give preference to residents?
Yes, West Virginia residents receive preference. WVU graduates do not receive additional preference.
Waitlist FAQs
Why does WVU Law use a waitlist?
Because we review applications on a rolling basis, many admitted students do not confirm their plans until close to the deposit deadline. Some students also change their plans after depositing. The waitlist allows us to reassess applicants once we know more about the size and composition of the incoming class.
How many applicants are admitted from the waitlist?
This varies year to year and depends entirely on how many admitted students submit deposits.
How many applicants are currently on the waitlist?
The number changes annually and depends on how many students submit the Waitlist Response Form.
Is the waitlist ranked? Are there priority groups?
No. The waitlist is not ranked, and there are no priority groups. Any priority that develops is based solely on the needs of the incoming class as deposits are received.
How will I be notified of changes to my status?
If your status changes, we will notify you first by email and then by phone if needed. We may also send periodic updates about the overall status of the waitlist.
What if I need a decision by a specific date?
The earliest we can begin admitting applicants from the waitlist is after the May 1 deposit deadline. We cannot accommodate individual deadlines. If you must commit elsewhere before hearing from us, you should make the best decision for your situation.
Should I deposit at another law school while waiting to hear from WVU Law?
Yes. You should secure your place based on your current offers. Depositing at another law school will not negatively affect your consideration for admission from our waitlist.
When should I send my Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)? What should it include?
LOCI are optional and may be sent at any time. They are most helpful in April, when we begin evaluating waitlisted candidates. Your LOCI may include:
- Your interest in WVU Law
- Your motivation for pursuing a legal career
- Any meaningful updates or accomplishments
Please send LOCIs in PDF format to wvulaw.admissions@mail.wvu.edu and include your name and LSAC number.
How often should I send updates?
Updates are optional. Please make sure we have your most recent contact information, test scores, and transcripts.
Will I be considered for a merit scholarship if admitted from the waitlist?
Yes. Merit-based awards may be available depending on remaining funds. See our Financial Aid page for details.
Is there anything I should do to prepare in case I’m admitted?
If you plan to use federal loans, you should complete the FAFSA and list WVU College of Law (code 003827).
Should I visit campus to show interest?
You are welcome to visit. Schedule an in-person visit through our Visit WVU Law page.
How long will I have to decide if I’m admitted?
The timeframe depends on when the offer is made:
- Offers made in May typically come with about one week to decide.
- Later in the summer, you may have as little as two business days.
- Offers close to orientation may require an even faster response.
What if I want to reapply or transfer?
We welcome both reapplications and transfer applications. Contact the Enrollment Management Office at wvulaw.admissions@mail.wvu.eduto speak with a counselor about these options.
Can I defer admission until next year?
In most years, we are willing to discuss deferral options. Deferral decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
