Applying to the Leo Program

Syracuse University is committed to a diverse student body as an integral part of its educational program and mission. Diversity within the law student body, generated through the selection of individuals having a range of experience and interests, greatly enhances each student's legal education by encouraging a broad exchange of thoughts and ideas.

Recognizing that numerical indicators are not always the best predictors of success in law school-even when considered in combination with other factors-the College of Law admits a limited number of students each year through the Legal Education Opportunity (LEO) Program. The program's dual objectives are to recruit and admit persons who may have been deprived of equal education opportunities due to race, poverty, or other factors beyond their control; and persons with unusual accomplishments, backgrounds, and experiences that suggest traditional admission criteria may be inadequate predictors of likely success in law study.

Applicants are selected for admission through the LEO Program on the basis of grades, test score(s), and writing samples, but special weight is given to subjective factors pertinent to the program objectives.

Students admitted through the LEO Program are required to complete an intensive three-week summer program in legal methodology and legal writing before enrolling in the fall semester entering class.

Explicit application for admission through the LEO Program is not required; all applicants not regularly admitted are considered for possible LEO admission. However, candidates who believe they may qualify for admission as a LEO candidate may include a separate statement along with their admission application explaining why they believe traditional quantitative admissions criteria may be inadequate predictors of success in their circumstances. LEO candidates who are recent undergraduate or graduate students are encouraged to submit three academic letters of recommendation. Detailed resumes and samples of written work may also be helpful in evaluating potential LEO students.