Master of Legal Studies (MLS) Admissions Process
Howdy! We hope you will join us.
Prior Degree Requirements
- Applicants for admission to the Texas A&M University School of Law MLS program must have an earned at minimum a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
- Foreign educated students must possess an equivalent degree.
MLS Options
Applicants choose from several different MLS degree options:
Timetables
- By semester:
- Fall:
- Application deadline: August 1
- Spring:
- Application deadline: January 1
- Summer (for online programs only):
- Application deadline: May 1
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with cohorts starting Fall, Spring and Summer.
- Applications and all associated paperwork must be received in a timely manner to ensure you matriculate into your preferred cohort.
- We encourage you to apply early to receive a timely admissions decision.
- The Admissions Committee will give careful consideration to timely submitted applications until reaching program capacity.
Application
Admissions Decisions
Admission decisions are based on a thorough review of each applicant’s file. While the strength of the applicant’s complete academic record figures prominently in the process, a multitude of factors are considered in ascertaining an applicant’s probability of successfully completing the program of study. While satisfying the minimum admission criteria qualifies the applicant to be considered, meeting minimum criteria for admission to the university does not guarantee admission to the program.
Application Requirements:
A completed application must include the following documents:
SUBMITTED BY THE APPLICANT:
- A completed MLS application for admission:
- Application Fee (non-refundable):
- $65 for U.S. educated applicants and $90 for foreign educated applicants. Submit a check or money order payable to Texas A&M University.
- A descriptive resume including details about:
- The applicant’s educational background, honor societies, military service, extracurricular activities, public/community service, honors and awards, publications, foreign language proficiencies, and any other significant achievements and involvements.
- The applicant’s relevant work history. Be sure to include the name of the employer or organization, location, dates of employment, position(s) held, a description of duties performed, your role in major projects, and any employer recognized achievements.
- A statement of interest (typed and double-spaced) addressing:
- The applicant’s area of interest – See options above. If opting for the General MLS, the applicant must indicate the desired area of study within the residential MLS.
- The applicant’s educational and professional experiences that have prepared him or her for advanced study.
- The applicant’s professional plans and goals following completion of the program of study.
- A statement explaining any affirmative answers to questions in the Academic and Personal Conduct section.
SUBMITTED BY OTHER INDIVIDUALS OR INSTITUTIONS:
- Two References -- Recommendations and/or Evaluations:
The School of Law requires two references attesting to the applicant’s readiness for advanced legal study. You are strongly encouraged to submit references from current or former law school professors and past or present supervisors. Personal references should be avoided. The references can either be two letters of recommendation or two completed evaluation forms or a combination thereof. The references should address your intellectual abilities, writing skills, personal qualities, and if applicable, interpersonal skills in the workplace. Please note the references should be submitted by your recommender(s) directly to Texas A&M University School of Law Admissions.
- Official academic transcripts:
Applicants must arrange to have official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended submitted directly to the School of Law. Where applicable, the transcript must reflect the conferral of an earned degree. Official electronic transcripts can be sent to distanceed@law.tamu.edu. Transcripts sent through mail should be addressed:
Attn: Office of Graduate Admissions
1515 Commerce Street
Fort Worth, TX 76102-6509
Foreign-educated applicants, those who completed their bachelor’s degree outside the U.S., its territories, or Canada, are required to submit all transcripts with an official English translation. Official translations must be prepared by a recognized translation service and include all original seals and/or signatures. Applicants currently attending a U.S. institution may arrange for their current school to submit copies of their official transcript(s) directly to the School of Law (See Page 10 of the application pdf).
- English Language Proficiency:
In addition to all other application requirements, foreign educated applicants must demonstrate their English language proficiency. Applicants should consult the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies for the most up-to-date information regarding English proficiency verification.
Your application will not be considered complete until we receive each of the items listed above.
MLS Application Submission Address
The MLS admission application and all supporting documents should be mailed to:
Texas A&M University School of Law
Office of Admissions – Master of Legal Studies Program
1515 Commerce Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102