JD Transfer Admissions

Each year, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law welcomes a select group of transfer students from other ABA-accredited law schools. They find a welcoming community and ways to participate in a wide range of programs and experiential learning opportunities, including the choice to enroll in one of our eight clinics, working on one of five law journals, and competing in numerous moot court contests. The Spring 2026 application is available December 1-31 and the Fall 2026 application is available May 1-June 22.

Students admitted with advanced standing also have full access to counseling and programs provided by our Career Development Office, such as:

• the fall On-Campus Interview Program, which typically hosts about 50 employers (students must be enrolled by July 15 to participate in the August session) and resume collections;
• spring semester Opportunity Forum, which hosts about 20 public sector employers;
• numerous programs on topics such as alternative careers, solo and small-firm practice, and applying to judicial clerkships;
• assignment to individual advisor who works with students throughout their time at Moritz and to when students find a post-graduation job – from helping with the cover letter and resume to interview preparation to providing job resources and networking opportunities; and
• access to an online interview and job posting system and a variety of videos and podcasts featuring job search strategies, advice, and other job resources.

The Application Process

We consider a range of factors in the admission process, including academic achievement and evidence of a student’s ability to contribute positively to the profession and impact the intellectual life of the college.

In assessing an applicant’s potential for success, primary consideration is given to applicant’s academic performance during his or her first year. We also review undergraduate transcripts and LSAT scores. Consideration is given to letters of recommendation, especially those from a 1L professor and about extracurricular activities, leadership abilities, multicultural experiences, public service activities, work experience, life experience, and contributions to diversity.

In general, applicants should be ranked in the upper-third of their law school class and have quantifiable credentials comparable to those of the Ohio State law students with whom they would be competing.

A transfer applicant is responsible for making certain that the following items are submitted in order for their application to be considered complete:

• The completed application and application fee of $60 (submitted electronically through LSAC)
• Official transcripts of all work completed at all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended and the law school attended sent directly to LSAC
• A current CAS report sent from the Law School Admission Council
• An official letter from the law school attended certifying good standing and class rank sent to lawadmit@osu.edu 
• A letter of recommendation from a law professor who has taught the applicant in class
• A resume including honors, awards, activities, and work experience
• A brief statement (one page or less) giving the reason for transfer to the Moritz College of Law

Applications received by the published deadlines will be reviewed for regular admission*. Regular transfer application decisions are made on a rolling basis. 

*If you complete the application and submit materials by the deadlines, but are waiting for final grades from your institution, we will review your application as soon as those final grades are received.