French student looking for law school

MYOS1634
Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:21:37 +0000

Why do you want to attend law school in the US? Is it to practice law for an American company based in France? For a legal specialty nor offered in France?
Why the Us and not Canada?
Because law is not ‘portable’ it’s an odd choice. It’s very costly and may not have a good ROI.
In addition, law studies in the US are very different from law studies in France : rather than memorizing the civil code and applying it to cases, you’ll use common law. Some of the skills learned in France will be applicable but you’ll start as a L1/ first year law student nevertheless.
Having the double competencies would certainly be a big plus and having a philosophy degree is great, but what’s your end game?
Nevertheless, addressing your question:
Your undergraduate average will drag you down. Most top law schools will expect a 14-15 average - and they’d prefer your having an undergraduate GPA. You’ll also need to prepare for the LSat and score in the top percentiles (top 10% or better). Internships, professional experience, and responsibilities held will also matter, and in this French students are at a disadvantage since there aren’t many positions open to them where they can be leaders or have responsibilities.
The fact you’re attending the Sorbonne will help as will your choice of a philosophy double major but your path is fraught with obstacles.
The universities you have a shot at will depend on your LSAT score.
Beware of universities outside the top 14 or, pushing it, outside the top 25.
It may make sense to try and get a Master’s in philosophy from the US so that you have an American GPA to present, assulrit’d be better than your current 12.