JD Admissions

JD Nonmatriculant (Third-Year Visitor) Application Questions

How do I request an application?

The online application for fall 2024 nonmatrculant admission will be available May 1.  

The online application for spring 2025 nonmatriculant admission will be available September 15.

How many credits are required to apply as a Third-Year Visiting/Non-Matriculant candidate?

Students who have completed two full years (approximately 55 credits) and who need no more than 30 additional credits to complete requirements for graduation at other ABA approved law schools, may apply to NYU School of Law as nonmatriculated students.

What are the deadlines for Nonmatriculant (Third-Year Visitor) admission?

For fall admission, nonmatriculated candidates must file their applications by June 15 and complete their applications with supporting documentation by June 15.  For spring admission, nonmatriculant candidates must file their applications by November 1 and complete their applications with supporting documentation by November 1. 

Do you offer application fee waivers?

The Law School does not waive application fees for this program.

Do you require a standardized test score?

We do not require applicants to submit a standardized test score for Third-Year Visiting/Non-Matriculant admission.

I only need a few courses to complete my degree - can I enroll on a part time basis?

Nonmatriculant students must enroll on a full time basis.

I have to complete specific course requirements for my home school in order to meet graduation requirements. Am I assured of getting into the courses I need?

We cannot assure nonmatriculant students that they will get into specific courses such as Evidence or Corporations. We can assure your registration for a full course load for the semester, but you may have to adjust your course selections. Nonmatriculant students register for courses after all other upper class students.

Do you require a dean's certification from my home law school?

Yes, the form, including permission to enroll at NYU School of Law, should be completed by the dean of students or administrative officer who has access to official student records at the law school form which the applicant will receive a JD degree.

Do you require certification from my undergraduate institution?

No.

How many recommendations do I need to submit?

Applicants are not required to submit a recommendation, but may do so if they wish.

How long should my personal statement be?

Applicants should submit a statement addressing their reason for wishing to attend NYU School of Law as a nonmatriculant (third-year visitor). The personal statement should be double spaced and no more than 500 words. 

When can I expect to receive a decision on my application?

Candidates can expect to receive decisions no later than late July. A complete application includes the application form, an application fee, a law school transcript with all grades from all previous semesters of law school, a law school certification and a personal statement.

Am I eligible to apply for or participate in financial aid, housing, Law Review/Journals and Early Interview Week?

Nonmatriculant students are not eligible for scholarships or need-based grants, Law Review/Journals, or Early Interview Week. Nonmatriculant applicants who are offered admission to NYU School of Law are eligible to apply for on-campus housing.

I have previously applied to NYU School of Law's JD program. May I use my previous application materials?

No. If you applied to NYU School of Law previously, you may not use previous application materials.

Does having prior involvement with the criminal justice system,such as an arrest, charges, or conviction, or answering "yes" to any of the other Character and Fitness questions on the Non-Matriculant Application, preclude me from being admitted to NYU Law?

No. NYU Law strives to ensure that students in each incoming class bring with them a diversity of experience. All individuals, including those with previous criminal convictions and other prior involvement in the criminal justice system, are encouraged to apply.

Please contact your degree-granting institution for questions regarding how your answers to the Character and Fitness section of the application may affect your  admission to the bar.