International JD Students
The University of Cincinnati College of Law welcomes students into the JD program who have earned their undergraduate degrees from institutions outside the U.S. and Canada. The JD degree is required in order to practice law in the United States and will allow graduates to sit for the bar exam in any state.
International Admission Requirements
With a few exceptions, the process for international JD students is the same as for domestic students (see Admission Requirements). All applicants must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). You will be required to submit an application form, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts for each undergraduate or graduate college or university attended.
International Transcripts
Applicants who earned their undergraduate degree outside the United States or Canada must have their transcripts submitted through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service. If applicants completed any post-secondary work outside the US (including its territories) or Canada, they must use this service for the evaluation of international transcripts.
An International Credential Evaluation will be completed by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), which then will be incorporated into the applicant's Credential Assembly Service report.
Internationally educated JD applicants must register through the LSAC website. Questions can be directed to LSAC at 215-968-1001or to LSACinfo@LSAC.org.
English Language Proficiency
All applicants whose first language is not English are required to take either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. Applicants must have their TOEFL or IELTS score sent to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). LSAC’s TOEFL code for the Credential Assembly Service is 0058. The applicant’s score will then be included in the International Credential Evaluation document that will be included in the Credential Assembly Service Law School Report.
International students will automatically be exempted from the English Proficiency testing requirement if they have received a baccalaureate or higher degree from an entirely English-instructing institution. This requires that all programs at the institution are taught in English, not just the program in which the applicant earned their degree.
If you require additional English language preparation before attending law school, UC International can assist you with resources to improve your English proficiency.
Visas
International JD students will need to obtain an F-1 student visa. As part of the application process, you will be required to submit a Financial Affidavit of Support that shows that you have sufficient funding to cover your costs and living expenses during your first year of law school. Our Admissions office and the UC International office can discuss the visa application process and its requirements in more detail with you.