Top Law Schools

I haven't been active on TLS for a few years. Much has changed in terms of LSAT offerings and admission cycles. A few years ago, law schools in the lower Top 14, seemingly had been splitter friendly, like Georgetown or Northwestern, especially if the applicant had meaningful post graduate work experience. At least a few years ago, applicants with say, a 2.5/177 could be competitive at Georgetown.

I graduated in 2019 with a Bachelors in Paralegal Studies and Marketing. Since 2019 I have been actively working at a law firm in that capacity. My goal was law school application in the 2021-2022 cycle. While my undergraduate gpa was 3.3, my LSAC gpa was 2.9. Therefore, I need to offset the number with strong WE and competitive LSAT score.

I am not certain if a year is sufficient time to meet those LSAT expectations. I was exploring the option of taking the January 2022 LSAT and still applying in the 2021-22 cycle. I am aware that is likely fairly late in the cycle to be taking the LSAT.

With a January 2022 LSAT of perhaps 178/a 2.9 LSAT gpa/and 2-3 years of post college Work Experience can I have a shot at a couple schools in Top 14? Like Northwestern/Michigan/UVA/Georgestown?

As an extreme splitter, 1) you shouldn't get your hopes up about any particular T20 school, although high 170s could open a door or two and 2) applying in January will definitely put you at a huge disadvantage.

Also, 18 months is a looot of study before your first LSAT attempt. In your shoes I'd take the test in, say, April 2021, and then you'll have a much better idea of what your next steps should be. You can always retake.