Application Process

Important Websites

Before You Apply

How do I apply to Western Law? 
Through the Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS). (Please note the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) offered through LSAC is for American law school applications.)

When can I create an account with OLSAS?
From mid-to-late August until November 1 – the application deadline for first-year applicants – or May 1 – the application deadline for upper-year applicants and Western’s internal combined-degree applicants. Applications take time. Plan to complete your applications at least a week before the deadline.

Where do I find all the details about how to apply?
Visit the OLSAS Application Guide. Read the general instructions in detail and then the specific requirements for the law schools you’re interested in. Policies and procedures vary from school to school and can change year to year.   

Is there any extra help available? 
The OLSAS application includes multiple Help boxes at every step in the application. Take advantage of this assistance and read the instructions carefully.    

How do I submit supporting documents related to my application?
Upload them in your OLSAS account using the Secure Applicant Messaging tool (SAM). Only submit material we are requesting. Do not submit documents to us directly.

What if some of my materials arrive late (e.g., reference letters, foreign transcripts)?
It is your responsibility to ensure all documents reach OLSAS by the application deadline. Start early and keep in touch with your referees with friendly reminders if necessary. We are willing to receive some documents late (determined on a case-by-case basis) provided you can demonstrate you were conscientious about securing their arrival on time.

What if I miss the application deadline or I am locked out of the system when submitting my application?
You will need to submit a request for permission to file your application late. Our late application policy may be found here: Late Applications 

Discretionary Categories

I qualify as an Access applicant.  What kind of supporting documentation must I provide?
This varies depending on the access claim. You are in the best position to know what documentation might be available for the issue you are discussing (e.g., a letter from your physician for a health issue; a psychoeducational report to verify a learning disability; an obituary to substantiate a death in the family). However, we are happy to help if you are uncertain. To receive more specific advice please contact us at lawapp@uwo.ca or 519-661-3347.

What counts as five years of “non-university” experience (for Mature applicants)?
If you can calculate 5 years (60 months) of time spent away from university since you graduated high school up until the time you would start classes in September, you will qualify as a mature applicant. The 5 years need not be consecutive. For most candidates it is time spent working, but it can include any non-university experience.

I qualify as an Indigenous applicant.  What must I provide to substantiate this?
Western has an affirmation process for Indigenous candidates.  Visit our Applicant Categories website – under the Indigenous section – to learn more. You must complete the affirmation process before we review your application. 

I heard discretionary category applications are reviewed after General category applications.  Is that true?
No, they are reviewed at the same time. We are looking for the strongest candidates in every category of admission.  

Combined-Degree Applicants (Undergraduate)

What are some advantages of applying to Western Law as an HBA/JD or BESc/JD student?
1. We set aside spots in our first-year class for qualified combined-degree candidates.
2. You complete two degrees in six years instead of the seven years it would otherwise take, thus saving time and money.
3. The last LSAT score accepted for fall admission is June.

Where can I find information about how to apply?
Visit our Combined Degree Programs webpage and the Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS).

Is the grading curve that applied in my undergraduate program considered?
Yes.

Is the heavier course load I took in my undergraduate program considered?
Yes.

After You Apply

How will I know that you received my application?
You will receive an acknowledgement email from Western Law near the end of November (or end of May for internal combined-degree applicants and upper-year applicants). Ensure your email account is configured so that Western email does not land in your spam or junk folder. When you receive our acknowledgment email, follow the instructions in it to activate your Western identity. This is an important step in our application process. 

I have tried to activate my Student Center account but am having problems. What can I do?
Visit the Student Center Access Guide online and follow the instructions. If you need additional help, contact the Western Technology Services Helpdesk at 519-661-3800.

How are first-year applications reviewed?
We review applications on a rolling basis beginning in late November. Complete applications with the most competitive LSAT scores and grades are reviewed first.

When are offers of admission made?
From mid-December to mid-March, after which we wait until admitted students respond to their offers (on or before the April 1 the deadline set by OLSAS). After April 1, additional offers are made on a smaller scale on a rolling basis until the class is filled. Internal combined-degree applicants receive offers in June and July.

My application status in the Student Center still says “Applied.” What does this mean?
Your application is in the queue for review; is currently with an Admissions Committee member; or has already been reviewed but a final decision has not yet been made (either positively or negatively) until the strength of the balance of applications can be assessed. 

Can I call to inquire about the status of my application?
Reviewing thousands of applications thoroughly takes time. Calling about the status of your application will not speed things up. We don’t provide updates or decisions over the phone. When our admission decision is made, you will receive an email directing you to your Western Student Center to view the decision. We know it is difficult to wait and appreciate your patience.

If I do not receive an offer of admission, when will I find out?
Likely between February and June (or July for internal combined-degree applicants).

Are spots set aside for any category of applicant?
We set aside seats for Western internal combined-degree applicants (HBA/JD and BESc/JD) who apply by May 1. Other than that, we have no caps or quotas for any applicant categories.