Master of Science in Law: Application and Admissions
There are two great ways to learn more about the MSL application process. One is to attend one of our monthly information sessions, during which you will have the opportunity to hear from MSL program staff and students/alumni and to participate in a Q&A session. The second is to set up a personal consultation with a member of the MSL admissions team, during which we can chat about your individual situation and discuss how the MSL program can advance your career.
Attend an Information Session Schedule a Chat
The MSL has a streamlined application that requires the following:
- Statement of purpose
- Recommendation
- Video interview
- Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate programs (can be unofficial at time of application)
- Resume or CV
In addition to the above, international students must submit:
- TOEFL or IELTS score or apply for a waiver
- Live interview
The MSL does NOT require:
- Standardized test score (although applicants are welcome to submit)
- Application fee (it is free to apply to the MSL)
The MSL application gives applicants the opportunity to explain why they are interested in the MSL program and what they will bring to the MSL class if accepted. Our goal is to find students who understand what the MSL is all about and can explain why this is the program they want to attend. We are looking for students who will bring energy and purpose to their studies.
Application Timeline
2026-2027 Application Periods
Residential Fall 2027 Start: August 1, 2026 – June 1, 2027
Online Spring 2027 Start: August 1, 2026 – November 1, 2026
Online Fall 2027 Start: December 1, 2026 – June 1, 2027
With a fall start for the residential format, and both a fall and spring start for the online format, the application cycle for MSL admissions is ongoing throughout the year. The admissions committee reads applications continuously throughout each cycle. Applicants are encouraged to apply early in the cycle of their preferred start date and will usually receive an admissions decision within three weeks after their application is completed.
The admissions committee may be able to accept late applications. For details, contact msl@northwestern.edu.
| Residential Format |
|---|
|
Fall Start: Applicants for the residential fall start can apply anytime between August 1 and June 1. During this timeframe, there are three formal deadlines:
|
| Online Format |
|---|
|
Fall Start: Applicants for the online fall start can apply anytime between December 1 and June 1. During this timeframe, there are three formal deadlines:
Spring Start: Applicants for the online spring start can apply anytime between August 1 and November 1. |
FAQs
What kind of students are you looking for in the MSL Program?
We are looking for students who are interested in the intersection of law, business, and technology/STEM, who are attracted to the distinctive curriculum of the MSL program, and who want to use the MSL to launch or develop their careers. MSL students have included recent graduates and early-career professionals looking to enhance their professional marketability; students planning to study medicine after they earn the MSL degree; mid-career professionals positioning themselves to pivot in their work or take on more responsibility; accomplished executives and doctors who want to fill in knowledge gaps or better interact with C-Suite functions; entrepreneurially-minded individuals who wish to work in a startup environment, create their own companies, or launch a new product; students with a STEM background who have always had a background interest in law; and many others!
Can I get into the MSL Program if I do not have a STEM background?
The Admissions Committee takes a broad view of what it means to have a STEM background. Applicants who have studied subjects in science, engineering, technology, math, and medicine qualify. Additionally, applicants who have work experience in technology, research & development, pharma, and other STEM-related fields make good candidates. Applicants who show a real interest in the intersection of law, business, and technology also are viewed positively. Candidates from related fields like healthcare, architecture, finance, compliance, construction, entrepreneurship, quality assurance, and others fit well in the MSL program.
Having a formal degree or work experience in a STEM setting provides the requisite background. Alternatively, some students develop their interests in relevant areas through self-study or other life experiences. However you come by your interest in the MSL, you will have the opportunity to explain your fit as part of the application process.
If you are interested in the Master of Science in Law degree, but aren't sure you have the proper background, we invite you to sign up for an admissions consultation, where you can explore your fit with the MSL program.
Am I at a disadvantage for admission to the MSL program if I don’t have a background in law?
No. Your application will not be viewed negatively if you do not have a legal background — in fact, most Master of Science in Law students enter the program without a background in law. You’ll get more than enough law through your MSL study!
Are test scores required as part of the application process?
As part of the application process, students are welcome (and encouraged) to share test scores if they have taken any entrance exams (e.g. GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT), but applicants are not required to submit a test score as part of the application, and are not at a disadvantage if they don’t.
Is there an interview option as part of the application process?
Not just an option — a requirement! When submitting their applications, applicants will be guided to complete a video interview through an online portal. An application is not complete until the video interview has been submitted.
What kinds of recommendations are you looking for?
The Admissions Committee is looking for objective references who can say something meaningful about you and your fit with the MSL program. The best recommenders are current or previous academic professors or professional supervisors. It is best not to use family members, friends, or peer-level colleagues as recommenders.
How are admissions decisions communicated to applicants?
Applicants will be notified via email when their admissions decision is available, and they can view that decision in the online admissions portal.
If I’m accepted, how long will I have to decide to enroll?
Deposits are usually required within three to four weeks of the admission decision.
Information Sessions
A great way to learn about the MSL is to join one of our monthly information sessions.
Ready to apply?
Applying to the MSL program is easy: the process takes place entirely online and we are here to help you every step of the way.
Apply NowKeep exploring:
Curriculum | Careers and Professional Development | FAQs