kj2314 wrote:Thanks for your thoughts, choward and attax!
Got the letter in the mail today! VERY VERY excited to be accepted AND given a full-tuition scholarship! What a fantastic way to start the application cycle! However, they want a $500 non-refundable deposit by August 4 (and yes, I double checked, they do know I am applying for Fall 2015). This is crazy! I can't just go throwing around $500 when I won't have any clue about my other options for probably 6 months at LEAST. I don't want to give up my spot or my scholarship, but I also can't really afford to be giving them $500 at this point in time...
Anyone have any advice for me?
That's very obnoxious.
If it were me, I'd be tempted to write them to confirm that they've admitted me for Fall 2015 (I know you've already double checked) just to work in "in light of the position of the LSAC that . . . ."
Here's what LSAC says, not that it's in any way binding:
Seat Deposits
Many law schools use seat deposits to help keep track of their new classes. For example, a typical fee might be $200, which is credited to your first-term tuition if you actually register at the school; if you don’t register, the deposit may be forfeited or partially returned. A school may require a larger deposit around July 1, which is also credited to tuition. If you decline the offer of admission after you’ve paid your deposit, a portion of the money may be refunded, depending on the date you actually decline the offer. At some schools, you may not be refunded any of the deposit.
The official position of the Law School Admission Council is:
Except under binding early decision plans, or for academic terms beginning in the spring or summer, no law school should require an enrollment commitment of any kind, to an offer of admission or scholarship prior to April 1. Admitted applicants who have submitted a timely financial aid application should not be required to commit to enroll by having to make a nonrefundable financial commitment until notified of financial aid awards that are within the control of the law school.