LOCI

[moshei24]

Hi!

I recently got back my February LSAT score (170). I had gotten a 165 in October and cancelled in December. My pre-law advisor said I should write LOCI to schools that aren't sure things. So basically most of the T14's I applied to.

Should I write them? Do you have any advice on how I should write them?

I applied at the end of January, so is it too soon?

Thanks,
Moshe

[Anne Chaconas]

I would heed the advice of your pre-law advisor and write LOCIs. However, I would also wait at least 6 weeks from the date you submitted your apps; most schools take an average of 6-8 weeks to get admissions decisions sent out, and you don't want to appear to be flooding them with info.

In the LOCI, talk about why the school is a good match for you. Do some research and look for a specific program or student organization that is unique to the school that would help further your career goals. Make sure that any information referenced is in keeping with the theme and positioning of the rest of your application. In addition to telling the school why they are one of your top choices, you should also tell them why the school should want you. You need to tell schools why they should choose you over everyone else it is considering.

In addition, let the Admissions Committee know of new information in your file. Make sure to edit the information, though, and only tell the Committee something they don't actually already know.

SIDE NOTE: Carefully read through the material a school has sent you. If they have requested that you don't contact them until they give you an admissions decision, then don't send anything.

A few additional tips:

► LOCIs should be about a page long, and not more. Remember, this is to reiterate interest, not to resend the application.

► Address it to an actual person (this might be hard given that you have not received any notification; however, call them and ask who you should address it to, if anyone).

► Send it via “snail mail,” unless the school specifies otherwise. Again, call to see what their preference is.

Good luck!

[moshei24]

Thank you!

And thank you for taking the time to answer all the questions I've asked over the past year. You're always so timely about it, and I really appreciate it!

[Anne Chaconas]

You are most welcome! I hope you found the answers useful. Best of luck in law school!