Holistic Review
Our holistic review process moves away from the traditional process of selecting a class based on a number-crunching exercise. Each applicant’s file is scrutinized and measured against the same set of admissions criteria. This process enables Osgoode to administer an admissions policy that is fair, efficient and results in a more diverse and academically talented class of entering students.
When considering applications we look for strength in both academic and non-academic factors cited. No formula or weighting is used between these factors. Although admission decisions are made on the basis of a holistic assessment of the application, successful applicants generally have an “A-“ (3.7) cumulative GPA and an LSAT in the 80th percentile, or better. Significantly stronger results on either the LSAT or the GPA may compensate for a less competitive LSAT or GPA. These numbers are for consideration only and not a guarantee of admission.
The Admissions Committee
The Admissions Committee is comprised of faculty, staff and students and is responsible for setting assessment guidelines upon which final admission decisions will be made.
File Reading
Our approach to reading close to 3,000 applications begins with the applicant’s cumulative GPA and LSAT score. Files are also reviewed for equity and diversity considerations cited by the applicant. Applicants are then grouped and files are read accordingly.
Once the order for review has been determined, files are read in their entirety. An applicant’s academic performance (including all studies, programs and the LSAT), non-academic experience (including work, life, volunteer, extra-curricular, interests), and submissions (including the personal statement, considerations cited in personal statement, letters of reference, corroborative documentation) are all carefully considered. No formula or weighting is applied in reaching a decision.
Interviews
The Admissions Committee may on occasion, by invitation, interview an applicant in order to assist in the selection process. It should be noted applicants are primarily assessed on the basis of documentation. Applicants may not request a personal interview.
Timing
Decisions are made on a rolling basis starting in December and continue to the end of June. The majority of offers are made in January or February. As such, we encourage applicants to take the LSAT before the January test date. In addition, applicants should note that decisions may be made before final transcripts are issued.