Frequently Asked Questions

How many externships can I do in my law school career?
The maximum length of time you may be enrolled in the Externship Program is one academic year and one summer.  

How much are grades considered in the application process?
In order to be accepted into the Program, you must be in good academic standing.  While externship supervisors certainly review grades during the interview process, they vary in terms of what credentials they are looking for in their externs.  To date, every student who has sought an externship position has received one.

Are there any pre-requisites for the Program?
Professional Responsibility is a pre- or co-requisite for the Program.

Can I do an externship for one semester only during the academic year?
You must commit to the program for a full academic year.  There are no one-semester externships.  

Can I get academic credit for my summer job or internship?
You can not receive academic credit for any paid position.  However, a non-paid position at a government, public interest, or judicial office may be eligible for academic credit through the Summer Away Externship Program.  If you think you might be interested in converting a summer position you have secured on your own into an externship, you should contact the Externship Office to determine if this is a possibility.

Since the externship placement is graded on a pass/fail basis, does this count toward the number of credits I can use as pass/fail?
No, it does not.

When do I apply for an externship?
The application processes for summer and academic year externships occur at the same time during the Spring semester, usually in February or March. 

Once I apply to the Program, how long will it be until I find out if I have been offered a position?
The entire application, interivew, and offer process occurs over about a month.  Depending on the placement, you may know if you have been offered a position almost immediately.  Others take longer to decide.  All offers must be made and accepted before the Spring registration deadline.

How do I choose between doing the 12 hours/week (3 credits/semester) or 8 hours/week (2 credits/semester) placement option during the academic year?
In many cases, externship placements will indicate a preference for the number of hours their externs work each week.  If there is no strong preference indicated, the Externship Office recommends that you enroll in the 3 credit option (12 hours/week) because you will get more ingrained in the office and more work assignments.  However, this varies based on individual circumstances. 

Is it possible for dual degree students to participate in the Program?
Yes, and the Externship Office can put you in touch with students who have done this.

Is it possible for international students to participate in the Program?
Yes, and the Externship Office can put you in touch with students who have done this.

Can I enroll in an externship and a clinic at the same time?
It is not possible to enroll in an externship and a clinic during the same semester.  However, it is possible to do an externship and a clinic while you are in law school.