FAQs on the Waitlist Process

In an effort to address concerns you may have about the admissions process from this point forward, the Admissions Committee ('the Committee') has created responses for the following list of frequently asked questions.  We recognize the time and effort you have invested in your application and we hope this information will be helpful.  We appreciate your patience and continuing interest in Northwestern Law's unique learning community.

What does it mean to be placed on the Waitlist?

While we are unable to provide an offer of admission at this time, the Committee is impressed with your accomplishments and finds certain aspects of your application to be compelling. Therefore, we hope to revisit your candidacy at a later point in the cycle.

How do I respond to the Waitlist decision?

If you intend to remain on the Waitlist, please submit the 2024 JD Waitlist Response Form as soon as possible. For more information about the Waitlist process, please review the information and guidance in the following sections.

Alternatively, should you wish to withdraw your application from consideration, please contact us.

Are there spaces available in the entering class at this point?

We anticipate admitting some candidates who have been placed on the Waitlist. However, the applicant pool varies each year and we cannot predict exactly how many candidates will be offered admission from the Waitlist.

Is the Waitlist ranked and what are my chances for admission?

Because the Committee evaluates many criteria for admission as we develop our class each year, we do not rank candidates on the Waitlist. As such, it is impossible for the Committee to determine an individual applicant's chances for admission.

What is the timeline for the Waitlist?

We maintain the Waitlist throughout the summer months and we may make offers of admission to candidates as late as the first week of classes. 

We realize you may be balancing your Waitlist status at Northwestern Law with offers of admission at other law schools. Accordingly, we appreciate your understanding during this uncertain time.

What can I do if I am still interested in attending Northwestern Law and I wish to build my application?

Waitlisted applicants are welcome to submit certain documents. These materials will be included in the application file and will be available for the Committee to review as the admission cycle continues. 

Please submit the following documents via LSAC:

  • Additional letters of recommendation (Please note: your CAS report will hold a total of four letters.)
  • Updated official transcripts

Please submit the following documents via our Additional Application Material Submission Form:

  • Letter of continuing interest
  • Updated resume with new accomplishments
  • Notice of any job promotions, honors, or other accolades you have received since submitting your application.

May I submit additional writing samples or information about myself?  May I complete an interview?

Absolutely!  Even if you completed an online video interview for your application, we encourage you to also complete our two waitlist video interview questions, along with our two written essay questions

We curated these questions specifically for our waitlisted candidates. A member of our team will send you an invitation to the waitlist interview portal (which contains both the video and written questions) within the next two business days.

I previously interviewed.  How is the waitlist video interview different?

As we mentioned above, we have selected questions from our extensive bank of prompts. Furthermore, we have written essay questions that are tailored for candidates on the Waitlist. Completing a Waitlist Interview is: 1) an excellent way to demonstrate your interest in the Law School; and, 2) to build upon your existing application. 

Does being placed on the Waitlist impact my ability to receive a scholarship?

All scholarship awards at Northwestern Law are based upon a combination of merit and need-based criteria. Additionally, scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you are offered admission from the Waitlist, your ability to receive a scholarship will depend upon timing as well as the availability of funds.  Please visit our financial aid section for more information.

What should I do if I still have questions?

If you have remaining questions or concerns, please email your waitlist-related questions to our dedicated account: waitlist@law.northwestern.edu.  We recommend placing your name in the subject line of your message. We'll respond to your inquiries as soon as possible. 

Thank you for your continuing interest in Northwestern Law!