3.6 engineering GPA and 175 LSAT score, what are chances at Harvard Law?

Law School
#1

I have a 3.6 GPA in engineering and a 175 LSAT score.

Do I have a pretty decent chance at Harvard? I have heard there is a .2 GPA unofficial “curve” for engineering students but I can’t be certain of course.

Also, I am graduating (obtaining my full undergraduate degree) in six semesters (3 years) and this is probably why my GPA is not a 3.9+ (something I regret doing now). How much will they care that I graduated in only 3 years? Will this provide me the extra boost for almost guaranteed admission? Or will this not even be relevant? I am told this is extremely rare, especially for an engineering major, but I’m worried it won’t even be considered.

Thanks

#2

There is no rule about Engineers or other STEM majors. That being said, employability of law grads is a minor plus factor, and having a STEM degree enhances your employability.

No Law school were care about early graduation. If anything, its a small negative. All professional schools prefer a year or two (or three) or work experience. It makes for better classroom and real life discussions/papers.

Net-net, do you have a “decent chance” at HLS? Of course. But it might be a full pay. Apply broadly and compare merit offers.

#3

I would think that you would have a good shot.

I’m not aware of any merit aid given by HLS to anyone.

#4

HLS doesn’t give merit aid but it does give needs-based aid. I second @bluebayou’s point about getting some work experience. Especially if you’re graduating in only three years. Have you had any hands-on experience with law?

#5

@masque, HLS has a accelerated admissions program for college juniors to be admitted to HLS. I think that it’s only for Harvard College, though, and you are required as part of that process to take at least a year off to work. I went to HLS, and Dean Minow is constantly speaking about how the admissions committee has been instructed to emphasize work experience between college and HLS, so I would take at least a year or two off…then apply.

#6

That is correct. None of HYS give merit aid. But that was my point: apply to some schools that do and see what they are willing to pay you to attend!