Admissions Events Calendar

Past Events

1. Check out our past programs!

   LSAC Forum in Washington D.C.
   Saturday, July 13, 2024   |   6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

   Visit our table at the Law School Admission Council's Washington D.C. Forum. Chat with one of our admissions officers and learn about our on-campus and online J.D. programs, as well as Southwestern's vibrant and inclusive campus community. Come prepared to ask questions about our honors programs, hands-on learning experiences, and other opportunities that meet your legal career goals. Information on LSAC Forums can be found on the LSAC website at https://www.lsac.org/lawschoolforums.

    

   Orange County Law School Fair and Panel
   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools
   Monday, July 18, 2024  |  5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.  PT
   In-person on the Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law Campus

   Hear from a panel of law school admissions officers as they discuss the law school admissions process. Then chat directly with representatives from a wide range of West Coast law schools during an informational fair.

    

     Online J.D. Information Session
      Tuesday, July 16, 2024   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them in the Online J.D.

    

     Online J.D. Information Session
      Monday, August 19, 2024   |   12:00 - 1:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them in the Online J.D.

    

     Online J.D. Information Session
      Monday, September 23, 2024   |   12:00 - 1:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

     Admissions 101: Your Introduction to the Law School Application Process
      Monday, September 30, 2024   |   4:00 - 5:30 p.m. PT via Zoom

   Join Dean of Admissions Lisa M. Gear for an in-depth look at the law school application process. You'll learn about each component in a law school application and receive guidance on how present a polished and professional file that highlights your accomplishments, character, and goals. Dean Gear will share insight on how each piece of the application is utilized in the review process and provide behind-the-scenes insight into Admissions Committees and their review processes. Finally, deepen your understanding of the steps you can take at each stage of the application process, from preparing for the LSAT to deciding where to go to pursue your career dreams.

    

   Open House for Prospective Students
   Tuesday, October 8, 2024   |   4:00 - 7:30 p.m. PT
   In-person on the Southwestern Law School Campus with remote attendance option

   At our October Open House, you’ll have the opportunity to tour campus, learn about the application process, participate in a mock law school class taught by one of our faculty members, and hear from a panel of current students regarding their experiences at Southwestern. Visiting law schools is one of the best ways to learn about the curriculum and opportunities available to you and to gain an understanding of the campus culture. Through the evening’s programming, you’ll discover Southwestern’s welcoming community and learn about the specific ways we support each student on their journey to becoming a proficient and ethical legal practitioner.

    

     Online J.D. Information Session
      Wednesday, October 16, 2024   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

      Admissions 101: Strategize for Success
      Monday, October 21, 2024   |   4:30 - 5:30 p.m. PT via Zoom

   Join Dean of Admissions Lisa M. Gear for a strategy session focused on steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful application cycle. Key topics include how can advocate for yourself and engage in positive interactions with admissions offices and law school staff; how to create a timeline so you're prepared for each stage of the application process; how to critically evaluate your own strengths and challenges and craft a narrative in your materials that will be compelling to reviewers; and finally, how to conduct yourself with professionalism throughout the application season. Come ready with your questions!

    

   Southwestern Law Day
   Saturday, November 2, 2024   |   10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. PT
   In-person on the Southwestern Law School Campus, 3050 Wilshire Bl., LA, CA 90010
    

   This annual prospective student event showcases the hallmarks of a Southwestern education and provides insight into our unique approach to cultivating future lawyers. We’re excited to share with you the wealth of curricular opportunities and flexible J.D. programs we offer, as well as the support we provide to all students. Through presentations from staff and faculty and personal stories from students and alumni, the day’s events will leave you inspired to carve your own path in law. Campus tours will be offered before and after the program and Admissions Officers will be present throughout the day to answer your questions. Light morning refreshments and lunch with Southwestern community members will be provided.

    

   

      Online J.D. Information Session
      Wednesday, November 6, 2024   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

     SCALE Virtual Open House
      Thursday, November 7, 2024   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom
    

   Ready to catapult your law career? Join us at the SCALE Virtual Open House for an exclusive look inside Southwestern’s two-year accelerated J.D. program! Hear directly from Dean Cristina Knolton, Senior Assistant Director Kimberly Gonzalez, and current SCALE students as they share how SCALE’s immersive training, guaranteed externships, and flexible curriculum equip you to become a profession-ready attorney in just two years.

    

      Online J.D. Information Session
      Tuesday, November 12, 2024   |   12:00 - 1:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

      Admissions 101: Behind the Scenes of the Application Review Process
      Wednesday, November 13, 2024   |   4:30 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   Join Dean of Admissions Lisa M. Gear for a behind-the-scenes look at the application review process. She’ll help you understand what qualities help make an application competitive; what admissions committee members consider when reviewing a file; what “holistic review” really means, and more. Then, you'll have a chance to review excerpts from real law school applications. You’ll be able to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses that prospective students present and come away with a better understanding of how to assess your own materials. You can then apply this newfound expertise to polish your application and get it ready for submission.

    

     Debunking SCALE Myths: The Reality of a Two-Year J.D. Program
      Thursday, December 5, 2024   |   4:00 - 5:00 p.m. PT via Zoom
    

   Can a two-year J.D. program really deliver the full law school experience? If you’ve ever wondered whether accelerating your education means sacrificing opportunities, it’s time to get the facts. Southwestern’s SCALE program is an immersive, two-year J.D. option designed for students who are ready to hit the ground running—and who want to start making an impact sooner. SCALE students aren’t just keeping up; they’re excelling, taking on leadership roles, securing coveted externships, and developing expertise through real-world opportunities. Join us for a candid conversation about how SCALE works and what makes it so effective. 

    

   Phoenix, Arizona Law School Fair and Panel
   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools
   Saturday, January 18, 2025  |  10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.  MT
   In-person at the Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott Phoenix Downtown

   Hear from a panel of law school admissions officers as they discuss the law school application and admissions process. Then chat directly with representatives from a wide range of West Coast law schools during an informational fair.

    

      SCALE Two-Year J.D. Program - Ask Me Anything with Dean Knolton
      Saturday, January 25, 2025   |   10:00 - 11:00 a.m. PT via Zoom

   Do you want to complete law school in just two years? Then this is the event for you! Join Cristina Knolton, Dean of the SCALE program, to learn how you can achieve a law degree in two years while still experiencing all the benefits of a traditional law school journey. At our SCALE Program AMA (Ask Me Anything) event, you'll get an in-depth overview of the program and hear firsthand insights on strategies for law school success. Bring your questions—our team is here to provide all the answers you need!

    

      Online J.D. Student Panel and Information Session
      Wednesday, February 5, 2025   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   Are you considering Southwestern's Online J.D. program but aren't sure how it works? What are the classes like? How do you form a study group or build a network with your classmates? Do you get to see your professors? What are the benefits of online learning versus in person?
    
   Join us on Wednesday, February 5, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. PT to hear our Online J.D. students address these questions – and more! After a brief introduction to the program from Assistant Dean Spann, Online J.D. students representing both our Part-Time and Full-Time sections will share their experiences in the program so far. Learn how these trailblazers decided to pursue one of the country’s first fully-online J.D. programs and ask them questions to help inform your own decision making.
    

    

   Live Zoom Chat during LSAC's February Digital Forum
   Thursday, February 6, 2025   |   1:00 - 4:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Southwestern Law School representatives will be available in a live Zoom chat during LSAC’s February Digital Forum. At this session, you’ll be able to speak directly with admissions officers and ask any questions you may have about Southwestern’s application process, opportunities for students, welcoming community, and variety of J.D. programs, which range from accelerated to part-time with in-person and online attendance options. We invite you to come curious and ready to learn, and we encourage you to prepare questions ahead of time to make the most of this opportunity to gain insight from our Admissions dean and directors.

    

    

      Applicants' Workshop: What's Next in the Admissions Process?
      Tuesday, February 11, 2025   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   Late winter finds law school hopefuls at various stages in their application processes. Maybe you're working on finalizing your applications and getting ready to hit submit. Or maybe you have all your applications in and are now waiting to hear back. Perhaps you even have some decisions in hand! Wherever you find yourself, you're likely wondering: what's next? How do I navigate this period and what can I do to be ready for the next stage of the process. On Tuesday, February 11, Southwestern's Dean of Admission will share her insights and answer your questions. We hope you can join us for the next installment of our Applicant Workshop series for prospective law students.

    

   Los Angeles Law School Fair and Panel
   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools
   Saturday, February 22, 2025  |  10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  PT
   In-person on the Southwestern Law School campus   |   3050 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010

   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools, and joined by ABA-accredited law school from around the country, you'll have the chance to connect with representatives from 29 different law schools. The event will begin with a panel discussion led by law school admissions officers, who will provide insights into the application and admissions process. This will be followed by a law school fair, where you can meet with admissions representatives from each participating school.

    

   Paying for Law School
   Hosted by the East Meets West Coast Law Consortium
   Monday, February 24, 2025  |  2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.  PT via Zoom

   Join the Admissions Deans from the East Meets West Coast Law Consortium with special guest LeAndra Ross from AccessLex. Discover how to finance your legal education and learn about resources offered by AccessLex, including AskEDNA!, their scholarship databank, and budget calculator.

    

   East Meets West in Los Angeles - Admissions Info Panel
   Hosted by the East Meets West Law Consortium
   Monday, February 24, 2025  |  5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.  PT
   In-person on the Southwestern Law School campus   |   3050 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010

   Four law school admissions deans share their expertise and answer your questions during an informational panel. Topics covered include the law school admissions process, application procedures and advice, information on opportunities available for students at the various schools, and more.

    

      Online J.D. Information Session
      Thursday, February 27, 2025   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

   Seattle Law School Fair and Panel
   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools
   Saturday, March 8, 2025   |   10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.   |   Graduate Seattle Hotel

   Hosted by the West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools, you'll have the chance to connect with representatives from 15 different law schools. The event will begin with a panel discussion led by law school admissions officers, who will provide insights into the application and admissions process. This will be followed by a law school fair, where you can meet with admissions representatives from each participating school.

    

      Open House for Prospective Students
      Tuesday, March 11, 2025   |   4:30 - 7:30 p.m.   |   Southwestern Law School Campus

   At our Open House, you will learn about our profession-readiness initiatives and hear how externships, clinics, and public service programs equip our students to become skilled attorneys. You’ll participate in a mock law class focused on the basics of legal research. And, you’ll be able to engage in a Q&A with our Dean of Admissions. With opportunities to take campus tours and engage with admissions officers, our March Open House is an event you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re gearing up to begin law school this fall, on the precipice of submitting your application, or planning ahead for 2026 and beyond, you’ll find the information to be invaluable in your journey to law school.

    

      Succeeding in Law: Guidance from Mentors Who Have Walked in Your Shoes
      Saturday, March 15, 2025   |   10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   A critical part of legal education is learning about the legal profession and the variety of careers you can pursue using your J.D. degree. These lessons are oftentimes even more impactful when they come from accomplished professionals who share backgrounds similar to yours, and who can mentor you as you follow the paths they once walked. At this annual event for prospective students, hear from 12 attorneys in various practice areas, participate in speed networking, and learn about Southwestern's Career Services and Externship opportunities.
   
   In the spirit of Southwestern’s 110+ year history of access and diversity, this program highlights the Armenian-American and Iranian-American legal communities in Los Angeles and is open to all who wish to gain insight into a career in law.

    

      Online J.D. Information Session
      Wednesday, April 30, 2025   |   5:00 - 6:00 p.m. PT via Zoom

   In this one hour session, program directors from our Online J.D. program will provide information about our new, fully online Full-Time Online J.D. and Part-Time Online J.D. programs. These programs allow students outside the LA area to receive the benefits of a Southwestern Law School education and follow a flexible, asynchronous learning schedule that accommodates their existing personal and professional obligations. During the event, prospective students will receive a first-hand look at the online program experience and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the opportunities available to them through the Online J.D.

    

   Navigating Legal Careers in a Changing Political Landscape: Trends & Strategies for Law Students
   Hosted by the East Meets West Coast Law Consortium
   Wednesday, May 6, 2025  |  12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.  PT via Zoom

   The legal profession is constantly evolving, and the current political climate is shaping career opportunities in new and significant ways. Hosted by five law school admissions deans, this session will explore emerging career trends, the impact of political and policy shifts on the legal field, and how to make the most of your time in law school to prepare for a dynamic job market. Our admissions deans will provide insights on career paths in both traditional and non-traditional legal roles, as well as strategies for building relevant skills and networks.