Columbia Law School Programs

The Columbia Law School LEAD Fellowship Program affords highly qualified juniors and seniors from Columbia College, Barnard College, SEAS, and General Studies the opportunity to matriculate at Columbia Law School after pursuing and completing an approved, two-year commercial or non-profit venture. Prospective students will apply in their junior or senior years and, as part of the application process, describe their plan to engage in a non-profit or entrepreneurial project or venture. Once accepted, students will pursue the approved opportunity for two years following graduation, and then begin their studies at Columbia Law School. Accepted applicants will receive a grant in support of their two-year project. LEAD Fellows can pursue other employment opportunities or graduate study in the two-year period prior to matriculating at the Law School.

Eligibility

Juniors and seniors enrolled at Barnard, Columbia College, SEAS, and General Studies are eligible to apply to the program. Competitive applicants will have a GPA of 3.8 or higher and meet the admissions criteria.

Application for Admission

Students should consult their advising dean and GS pre-law advisor as soon as they are interested in the program to discuss their candidacy. Please see below for the following application steps.

  • Students should attend any information sessions regarding the LEAD program and should refer to the LEAD Program website for the application timeline, including program information session dates.
  • Register with LSAC.org
  • Begin application for LEAD program. Applications open on April 15 through LSAC.org, and must be completed by June 15. 
  • Begin drafting Project Plan and personal statement/essay in consultation with GS pre-law advisor. Applicants are required to submit three essays, and may submit one optional essay.  Please see here for additional information.
  • Prepare resume
  • Have taken the LSAT or GRE by June 15 of the application year
  • Submit two Letters of Recommendation (up to three may be submitted)
  • Obtain Dean’s Certification from GS pre-law advisor

Please see the LEAD Program website for additional information regarding the application timeline, process, and requirements, as well as frequently asked questions.

Once Admitted

Students will be notified of acceptance by or before the end of July. Successful applicants who accept Columbia’s offer of a LEAD Fellowship are required to sign a LEAD contract and are obligated to attend the Law School after their two-year deferral period. 

Contact Information

For additional information, please contact gsgradcoaching@columbia.edu. Students may also contact admissions@law.columbia.edu for questions regarding the application process.